Pope Francis entrusts the world’s worries to Mary Queen of Peace on the Feast of the Assumption
During the Angelus on the Solemnity of the Assumption, Pope Francis offered prayers for those suffering in conflict zones around the world. He specifically mentioned the grave humanitarian crisis in Gaza and remembered the peoples of Ukraine, the Middle East, Sudan, and Myanmar, entrusting their sorrow to Mary Queen of Peace.
Following the recitation of the Angelus prayer on the Feast of the Assumption, Pope Francis turned his thoughts to the turmoil in various parts of the world due to conflicts and wars. He mentioned the peoples of Ukraine, the Middle East, Palestine, Israel, Sudan, and Myanmar, praying for consolation and a future of serenity and harmony through the intercession of Mary Queen of Peace.
Praying for peace in Gaza
Pope Francis expressed deep concern for the people of Gaza facing a catastrophic humanitarian crisis. He called for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and aid for the exhausted population. The Pope emphasized the need for negotiations to prevent any escalation of the conflict, stating that war always signifies a defeat.
“I continue to follow with concern the very serious humanitarian situation in Gaza, and I call once again for a ceasefire on all fronts, for the release of hostages, and for aid to the exhausted population. I encourage everyone to make every effort to ensure that the conflict does not escalate and to pursue paths of negotiation so that this tragedy ends soon! Let us not forget: war is a defeat.”
Prayers for a peaceful future
On the Feast of the Assumption, Father Francesco Patton, the Custos of the Holy Land, led a Mass at the Mount of Olives in Jerusalem, echoing Pope Francis’s calls for an end to conflicts. He prayed for peace and reconciliation in the region, entrusted to the Blessed Mother on her special day. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa of Jerusalem invited everyone to pray for peace and reconciliation on this significant day, especially as ceasefire negotiations were ongoing in Gaza.
Devastating toll in Gaza
The health ministry in Gaza reported a heartbreaking death toll of over 40 thousand Palestinians due to the Israeli military offensive. Over 92,400 people have been wounded since the conflict began in October, with many children reported missing and potentially trapped in the rubble. Aid agencies continue to provide support and relief to the affected population.
