Here are some important law-and-religion news stories from around the web:

• The State of Washington has agreed to withdraw its challenge to the seal of confession. 
  • Listen to Legal Spirits: Confession and the Constitution for more background on the case.  
• Israel and Hamas have reached the first stage of a cease-fire and hostage release agreement.  
• Pope Leo has urged United States bishops to defend and support immigrants in response to the Trump administration’s immigration policies.  
• Police arrested a man found with hundreds of explosives outside of a church holding a Mass in honor of the Supreme Court. Authorities allege he had written a manifesto expressing hostility toward the Court and ICE. 
• On Tuesday, the Supreme Court heard oral arguments on whether to strike down state bans on conversion therapy.