Pope prays for world peace as we enter Holy Week

Image: Vatican Media Divisione Foto

Source: Vatican Media

Pope Francis presided over the Palm Sunday Mass with pilgrims in St Peter's Square. Cardinal Claudio Gugerotti was the main celebrant. Instead of delivering a homily after the Gospel, or having someone read for him, the Holy Father remained seated and bowed his head for two minutes of silent prayer.

At the conclusion of the Mass, Pope Francis offered prayers for peace in the world. He invited everyone to pray for "martyred Ukraine" as the country suffers heavy Russian bombardment. "Please let us not forget martyred Ukraine, and let us also think of Gaza which is suffering greatly, along with other places of war." He said: "so many people are without electricity due to intense attacks against infrastructure, which, besides causing death and suffering, raise the risk of an even-greater humanitarian catastrophe." The Pope also offered his assurance of prayer for "the victims of the vile terrorist attack carried out the other evening in Moscow... May the Lord welcome them in His peace and comfort their families," he said.

The Holy Father then prayed that God might instil peace in the hearts of all people. "May He convert the hearts of those who plan, organize, and carry out these inhuman actions, which offend God, who commanded: 'Thou shalt not kill'," he said.

The Pope then invited Christians to enter Holy Week by entrusting our journey toward Easter to the Blessed Virgin Mary.

"Let us learn from her to draw near to Jesus in these days of Holy Week, so that we may arrive at the joy of the Resurrection."