Jerusalem Patriarch Condemns Hamas Attack, Israeli Bombing

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, has penned a lengthy letter to his diocese condemning both the Hamas surprise attack earlier this month as well as Israel’s ongoing bombing campaign of Gaza. As he has in the past, Pizzaballa said peace requires granting Palestine a clear national standing and urged both sides to cease hostilities. He also offered a lengthy spiritual reflection on passages of the Gospel, telling faithful to have the courage to let feelings of anger, hatred and resentment be replaced by prayer, forgiveness and a desire for peace.