Pope calls for Day of Prayer for Peace in Ukraine

Jan 24th, 2022

Source: Vatican News

Pope Francis has called for Wednesday 26 January to be a Day of Prayer for Peace.

At the conclusion of Sunday's midday Angelus, Pope Francis expressed his concerns over the increasing tensions that threaten to overturn chances for peace in Ukraine and over security on the European continent in general, given the wider repercussions of any conflict. He said, "I am following with concern the increase of tensions that threaten to inflict a new blow to peace in Ukraine and call into question the security of the European Continent; therefore, I propose that Wednesday, 26 January be a Day of Prayer for Peace."

He said, "I make a heartfelt appeal to all people of good will to raise prayers to Almighty God that all political actions and initiatives may be at the service of human solidarity rather than partisan interests." The Pope added his view that those who pursue their own objectives to the detriment of others, scorn their own vocation as human beings, as we have all been created brothers and sisters.

On Sunday, Pope Francis encouraged everyone to pray for peace and that dialogue and negotiation may prevail in resolving the situation.

The Catholic Bishops of Poland and Ukraine have issued a joint appeal for dialogue and understanding to avoid the danger of war. They join Pope Francis in his call for prayers for peace. www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-01/bishops-ukraine-poland-appeal-peace-russia.html
The 1.3-million-strong Ukrainian Catholic community in Canada is following the latest developments with growing concern. In a statement released on 23 January, the Greek-Catholic Bishops of Canada assured Ukrainian people of their prayers and support: "You should know that we remain united with you even more now during these threatening times," the statement reads. www.vaticannews.va/en/church/news/2022-01/ukrainian-catholic-bishops-in-canada-urge-prayers-for-ukraine.html

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of England and Wales website offers prayers in Ukrainian: www.cbcew.org.uk/pope-calls-for-a-day-of-prayer-for-peace-over-ukraine-situation

Anglican Pacifist Fellowship Vigil

In response to Pope Francis' call for a day of prayer for peace in the Ukraine on 26 January, the Anglican Pacifist Fellowship will be holding an online peace vigil at 8pm that evening, via Zoom. All are welcome.

Topic: Peace prayers for Ukraine

Time: 26 January 2022 8-9pm

Join Zoom Meeting: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88000663962?pwd=RURsTnRBV1VnK0ozbXI2WGJ1WU9hQT09

Meeting ID: 880 0066 3962

Passcode: 748654