By Joseph Tulloch

Today, Monday, marks the one-year anniversary since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. In honor of this day, Catholics globally are observing a special day dedicated to prayer and fasting for peace, following the Pope’s recent call to action.

Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Pierbattista Pizzaballa, initiated a similar plea for peace a few days earlier, which was echoed by the Pope. This message has resonated with various Catholic organizations worldwide, including the Focolare Movement and the Order of Friars Minor.

Fr. Piotr Zelazko, serving the Hebrew-speaking Catholic community in Israel, shared that parishioners are actively participating in prayer and fasting for peace. Despite the ongoing pain from the war, he highlighted their unwavering faith in a vision of peace and healing.

A Call for Conversion and Forgiveness

In Patriarch Pizzaballa’s original statement urging a day of prayer, he emphasized the Christian duty to pursue peace by rejecting hatred and promoting goodwill for all. He urged individuals to support those in need, contribute to alleviating suffering, and advocate for peace, reconciliation, and unity.

The importance of prayer, penance, and forgiveness in the quest for peace was underscored, emphasizing the need for personal reflection and spiritual growth.

Acts of Charity and Sacrifice

Even in the midst of other events, such as the ongoing Synod on Synodality in Rome, efforts to support peace in the Middle East have not gone unnoticed. Cardinal Krajewski announced plans to collect donations for the Catholic parish in Gaza during the Synod, aligning with the Pope’s call for solidarity and prayer.

As Cardinal Krajewski emphasized, true prayer and fasting must be accompanied by acts of charity that require sacrifice. Giving to those in need demonstrates a commitment to peace and unity, embodying the spirit of the day dedicated to promoting peace in the Middle East.