A Melkite Greek Catholic church in Derdghaya, Lebanon, was struck by an Israeli missile on October 9th, killing at least eight people. The church, which was sheltering displaced civilians, was completely destroyed, along with a priest's house and a three-story parish building.
Pope Francis condemned the attack, calling for an immediate ceasefire and expressing solidarity with the Lebanese people. In a series of tweets, he emphasized the right of all nations to exist in peace and security and urged an end to the violence.
Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, praised Pope Francis for his leadership and compassion. In a letter published in L'Osservatore Romano, he noted that the Pope has been the only world leader to recognize the human suffering of all in the region.
The Patriarch called for a response of love and forgiveness in the face of hatred and mistrust. He emphasized the importance of building relationships and trust, even in the midst of conflict. He urged Catholics to reject the logic of evil and hatred and to strive for peace and justice.