WASHINGTON – Reacting to the military strike on Holy Family Church in Gaza Thursday morning, Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, joined the prayers of Pope Leo XIV for those killed and to those injured and emphasized the need for immediate ceasefire and dialogue for peace.

“With the Holy Father, the Catholic bishops of the United States are deeply saddened to learn about the deaths and injuries at Holy Family Church in Gaza caused by a military strike. Our first concern, naturally, goes out to Father Gabriele Romanelli and all his parishioners, most especially to the families of those killed. Our prayers are for them during these tragic times. With the Holy Father, we also continue to pray and advocate for dialogue and an immediate ceasefire. [Wednesday] was the memorial of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, through her intercession, may there be peace in Gaza.“