Pope speaks with Israeli President after Bondi massacre

The Israeli president initiated the call on December 17, the day members of the Jewish community would light the fourth Hanukkah candle and as Christians drew closer to their celebration of Christmas, the Vatican press office said.

“During the conversation, in light of the recent terrorist attack in Sydney, the Holy Father reiterated the Catholic Church’s firm condemnation of all forms of antisemitism, which, throughout the world, continues to sow fear in Jewish communities and in society as a whole,” the Vatican statement said.

Without naming Gaza, the Vatican press office also said that Pope Leo “renewed his appeal for perseverance in the various ongoing peace processes in the region, and emphasised the urgency of intensifying and continuing efforts in the area of humanitarian aid”.

Pope Leo had held a meeting with President Herzog at the Vatican in early September.

After the attack on members of the Jewish community celebrating Hanukkah on Sydney’s Bondi Beach on December 14, Pope Leo offered prayers for the victims and condemned all expressions of antisemitism.

“Enough with these forms of antisemitic violence! We must eradicate hatred from our hearts,” the Pope said.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, sent a message of condolence to Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP.

“With renewed hope that those tempted to violence will undergo conversion and seek the path of peace and solidarity, His Holiness prays for the healing of those still recovering as well as consolation for those grieving the loss of a loved one,” said the telegram Cardinal Parolin sent in the Pope’s name.

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Pope, Israeli president speak by phone about Sydney attack, peace in Gaza (By Cindy Wooden/Catholic News Service)