The escalation of violence in the war in the Holy Land weighs heavily on our minds and hearts, and those of all people of good will. There is fear that other countries will be drawn into this conflict and that it could result in a world war. Pope Francis said last Sunday after praying the Angelus, "War, any war that there is in the world -- I also think of the tormented Ukraine -- is a defeat…" "War is always a defeat; it is a destruction of human fraternity." He pleaded, “Brothers, Stop! Stop!" Later in the day, the pope spoke with President Biden in a 20-minute phone call to discuss "situations of conflict in the world" and "the need to prevent escalation in the region and to work toward a durable peace in the Middle East." Pope Francis called for prayer, fasting and penance – imploring God for peace in the world.

It’s heart breaking and sometimes horrifying to view scenes of death and destruction occurring in so many conflicts going on in our world at this time. People are desperate to flee from the violence while many others are dealing with great suffering and pain from wounds they have incurred in the midst of it. There is a constant need for food, medicine and other basic necessities to help alleviate the humanitarian crises that results from war. Not as obvious, but just as tragic, is the unseen mental and emotional harm caused by such violence that often leaves scars that will be borne for a lifetime.

Please join me in this prayer for an end to all wars and for those affected by war.

Dear God, I pray for all persons suffering from war. Relieve their pain, bless them and keep them in your loving care and protection. Grant them healing and strength to endure such great anguish and hardship. Transform the minds and hearts of those who perpetuate violence and oppression. Grant wisdom to the leaders so that they will advance efforts toward peace; may they not be compromised by self-interest and blind indifference. Prevent any kind of escalation that could result in a world war.

We ask all of this through the intercession of Our Blessed Mother Mary and in the name of Her Son Jesus, our Lord, in the power of the Holy Spirit, God, now and forever.

Amen.

God bless you!

Fr. Bob

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