The Call to Service: Pope Francis Urges Unity and Prayer for Peace
Amidst the turmoil and violence that plagues our world, Pope Francis has issued a powerful message to the Christian community, urging them to “put themselves at the service of humanity.” In a time where war and devastation continue to wreak havoc on entire nations, the Pope’s words resonate deeply, calling for unity and compassion in the face of adversity.
By Joseph Tulloch
Pope Francis has called for a day of prayer and fasting on the 7th of October, marking the one-year anniversary of the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war.
“In this dramatic hour of our history,” the Pope said, “while the winds of war and the fires of violence continue to devastate entire peoples and nations,” the Christian community is reminded of its call to “put itself at the service of humanity”.
The Pope made these remarks after the Mass in St. Peter’s Square for the opening of the second session of the General Assembly of the Synod. He invited all the synod members to join him on a visit to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major on October 6th, where he will “address a heartfelt petition to the Virgin” for peace.
“Let us walk together,” the Pope urged. “Let us listen to the Lord. And let us be led by the breeze of the Spirit.”
A History of Prayer and Unity
Days of fasting and prayer for regions in conflict have been a recurring theme throughout Pope Francis’ papacy. Just six months after his election, on September 7, 2013, the Pope called for prayers for peace in Syria, gathering thousands in St. Peter’s Square.
In subsequent years, he continued to advocate for prayer and fasting in conflict zones such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, Lebanon, Afghanistan, Ukraine, and Russia. The Pope’s unwavering commitment to promoting unity and compassion in the face of violence serves as a beacon of hope for many.
