“Francis’ immediate goal is a stop to the killing,” explains Gerry, which motivates the pope’s advocacy for a ceasefire, entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and the release of all hostages being held by Hamas.

The pastor at a Greek Orthodox church in Gaza organized a hurried baptism celebration for nine children after two unbaptized children were killed in an I.D.F. missile strike on the compound on Oct. 20.

How will the Catholic response to a rise in antisemitism around the world, following the deadliest day for the Jews since the Holocaust, be viewed in 50 years? Will it have been enough?

Since the most recent conflict started, Hezbollah has launched rockets into Israel, provoking counterattacks targeting Hezbollah positions that have been established in the hills around these usually quiet Christian agricultural villages along the border.

The rule of international law, and even more, a basic commitment to human dignity, both demand something more than the meeting of terror with terror.

As the first session of the Synod on Synodality in Rome draws to a close, the members have released a Letter to the People of God. The letter is the first of two documents expected from the synod before it concludes its business in Rome on Oct. 29.