As the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens by the day, among the most vulnerable civilians within the strip are newborn babies and their mothers.

Pope Francis calls for an end to the Israel-Hamas war. Israel has continued a constant bombing of Gaza since the conflict started on Oct. 7 in retaliation for the attack by Hamas in southern Israel.

“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.