As the world watches in dismay after the horror of the Hamas terrorist attacks on the people of Israel, we stand in solidarity with our Jewish brothers and sisters here in Fairfield County, many of whom have family and friends directly affected by these unspeakable acts. The images of brutal and senseless death and destruction shake us to the core and challenge our common humanity.
We ask for prayers for the people of Israel, for all families who have lost loved ones in this crisis, and for the hostages taken during the terrorist attacks. The uncertainty about their fate inflicts further trauma on families and escalates the violence. As people of faith, we must join in one voice to condemn these acts, to console all who are suffering, and to pray for peace.
As we vigorously defend Israel’s right to self-defense against these terrorist acts that indiscriminately threaten civilian populations, we also resolutely urge all parties to move forward with a plan that works toward a just, long-term and swift solution that recognizes and respects the rights and legitimacy of all in the Holy Land.
In an impassioned plea for peace, our Holy Father, Pope Francis has said, “Please stop the attacks and the weapons, and understand that terrorism and war do not lead to any solution, but only to the death and suffering of so many innocent people. War is always a defeat! Every war is a defeat!”
Even in this darkest hour, we must not lose hope that a sustainable peace can be achieved and that we can move away from violence in this and other conflicts across the globe.
