Pope Leo, whose role in advocating for peace in Gaza has become notably stark since Israel struck the territory's only Catholic church last week, told Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on Monday that he opposed any forced displacement of Palestinians.

"Sadly, this act adds to the continuous military attacks against the civilian population and places of worship in Gaza."

Is it ever acceptable for a sanctuary to turn into an arena of destruction? The July 17 attack on Gaza’s Holy Family Catholic Church, the sole Catholic parish in the enclave, has left not only broken walls but a deep sense of loss and indignation within faith groups around the world.