As the conflict between Israel and Hamas enters its third week, Pope Francis has issued a call to all devout Christians to observe a day of fasting and prayer for peace in the Middle East on Friday, October 27.
This plea was reiterated in an October 24 letter to the diocese, which encompasses parishes in Israel, Palestine, Jordan, and Cyprus, by Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, the Latin patriarch of Jerusalem.
In his letter, Pizzaballa described the past fortnight as "one of the most difficult and painful periods in our recent times and history." He stated, "For over two weeks now, we have been inundated with images of horrors, which have reawakened ancient traumas, opened new wounds, and made pain, frustration and anger explode within all of us."
Pizzaballa noted that the world perceives the Holy Land as a constant source of wars and divisions. However, he expressed gratitude for the global solidarity shown during a day of prayer and fasting for peace, which was observed following an October 17 request. He further welcomed the Pope's call for another day of prayer and fasting, stating that it would be celebrated with conviction.
Pizzaballa emphasized the importance of prayer and penance during these trying times, expressing gratitude to the Holy Father for his call to action. "It is perhaps the main thing we Christians can do at this time: Pray, do penance, intercede. For this, we thank the Holy Father from the bottom of our hearts," he said.
During his October 18 general audience, Pope Francis announced his decision to call for a day of fasting and prayer on October 27. He invited Christians of various denominations, followers of other religions, and all those who champion the cause of peace to participate. He also announced an hour of prayer in a spirit of penance to implore peace at St. Peter's Basilica on the evening of October 27. "I ask all the particular churches to participate by arranging similar activities involving the People of God," he said.
Pope Francis described the situation in Gaza as "desperate," and urged for all possible measures to be taken to prevent a humanitarian disaster. He emphasized that war only breeds death, destruction, hatred, and revenge. He urged believers to take a stand for peace, not just in words, but through prayer and total dedication.
Other faith leaders echoed the call for peace in the Holy Land and stressed the importance of unity. Don Shenk, executive director of The Tide Ministry in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, told Fox News Digital that the conflicts are a direct affront to everything that Christ represents. He emphasized that peace can only be achieved when we acknowledge and submit to God's authority.
Jeff King, President of the D.C.-based organization International Christian Concern, expressed his heartbreak and confusion at the situation in Israel and Gaza. He encouraged those of faith to look to the Lord for a solution. He reminded believers of Jesus's words in the Bible, that they would endure much trouble, but also to have courage.
Tim Wildmon, President of the American Family Association (AFA) in Tupelo, Mississippi, shared that his personal family, church family, and the AFA family are praying for wisdom, courage, and unity in Israel. He encouraged the nation to join in prayer for the safety of Israeli families and for God's wisdom to guide the leadership of Israel in protecting their nation and people.
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