The USCCB President’s message underscores the moral imperative to seek justice and reconciliation in praying for an end to the violence in the Holy Land
Newsroom (09/09/2025, Gaudium Press ) Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), has urged Catholics and all people of goodwill to join Pope Leo XIV in praying for an end to the violence in the Holy Land. Reflecting the Church’s commitment to human dignity and reconciliation, Archbishop Broglio emphasized the shared values of peace and respect for life that unite Islam, Judaism, and Christianity.
“Islam, Judaism, and Christianity all share the same message of peace and respect for human life and dignity. This is the foundation for peace,” Archbishop Broglio said in a statement addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. His words echo Pope Leo XIV’s recent appeal during a meeting with the President of Israel, where the Holy Father expressed hope for resumed negotiations, the release of hostages, and a permanent ceasefire to halt the suffering and loss of life.
Archbishop Broglio’s statement comes in response to the devastating events that began with the October 7th massacre and the subsequent destruction in Gaza. He called for a comprehensive approach to peace, one that not only seeks an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages but also addresses deeper issues fueling the conflict. “All people of goodwill must actively pursue a peace that will ensure the massacre of October 7th and the subsequent destruction and suffering that followed in Gaza will never occur again,” he said.
The archbishop stressed the need to end the expansion of settlements and reject proposals for forced deportation, affirming the Palestinian people’s right to autonomy. He urged the Israeli government, the people of Gaza, and the international community to work collaboratively toward a lasting resolution. Central to this vision is the restoration of life-saving humanitarian aid to those affected by the conflict.
Grounded in the Catholic Church’s teaching on the sanctity of human life and the call to be peacemakers, Archbishop Broglio’s message underscores the moral imperative to seek justice and reconciliation. By invoking the shared values of the Abrahamic faiths, he points to a path forward rooted in dialogue, mutual respect, and a commitment to the common good.
As Catholics across the United States heed this call to prayer, they are also invited to advocate for policies and actions that promote peace in the Holy Land. The Church’s stance reflects a broader commitment to fostering unity and healing in a region long torn by division, offering a hopeful vision for a future where all people can live in dignity and security.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from USCCB
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