A lit white taper candle is in foreground with another a little further back and out of focused. There is the backdrop of a sanctuary and a paint of The Divine Mercy

Day of Prayer and Fasting for Peace

Wednesday 25th October 2023

Pope Francis has called on Christians throughout the world to come together to pray for peace in our world.

As news continues to spread of the devastating conflict in the Middle East, Pope Francis has shared his sorrow at the situation in Palestine and Israel, calling on all parties to lay down their weapons.

Sharing his concern for the humanitarian situation in Gaza, Pope Francis pleads that “everything possible must be done to avoid a humanitarian catastrophe.”

Speaking at his weekly General Audience on 18 October, the Holy Father said: “The world already witnesses so many open war fronts.

“Lay down weapons and heed the cries for peace.

“War solves no problems. It only sows death and destruction, increases hatred, multiplies revenge. War erases the future, it erases the future.”

With these words, Pope Francis invited people across the world to join him on Friday 27 October for a day of prayer, fasting, and penance for peace.

He will be leading an hour of prayer at 5pm UK time in St Peter’s Square, with the goal of invoking peace for the world.

Prayers for Peace

Lord Jesus Christ, who are called the Prince of Peace, who are Yourself our peace and reconciliation, who so often said, “Peace to you” – please grant us peace.

Make all men and women witnesses of truth, justice and brotherly love. Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace. Enlighten our rulers that they may guarantee and defend the great gift of peace.

May all peoples on the earth become as brothers and sisters.

May longed-for peace blossom forth and reign always over us all.

Amen.

(Prayer for Peace from St John Paul II)