As the Franciscan Network of the Mediterranean, we join the initiative of a day of prayer, fasting, and penance called by the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, for the upcoming October 7, one year after “the Holy Land, and beyond, was plunged into a vortex of violence and hatred never seen or experienced before.”
We pray for Lebanon, “the land of cedars, cradle of an ancient and industrious civilization, is today marked by violence and the threat of a conflict that could assume larger proportions. The concrete risk is a true extension of the war that would further inflame the Middle East” (Cfr.: https://www.diocesiassisi.it/spirito-di-assisi-preghiera-per-il-libano/)
As RFMed, we believe that the destiny of peoples is not in the hands of the lords of war but in those of the God of mercy, who has only plans for peace. Therefore, we unite and call upon all men and women of faith to join us in this day so that together we may implore peace.
Prayer for Peace
Lord our God,
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
and Father of all humanity,
who in the cross of Your Son
and through the gift of His own life,
at great cost, willed to destroy
the wall of enmity and hostility
that separates peoples and makes us enemies:
send into our hearts
the gift of the Holy Spirit,
that He may purify us from all feelings
of violence, hatred, and vengeance,
enlighten us to understand
the inalienable dignity
of every human person,
and inflame us until we are consumed
for a world pacified and reconciled
in truth and justice,
in love and freedom.
Almighty and eternal God,
in Your hands are the hopes of humanity
and the rights of every people:
assist with Your wisdom those who govern us,
so that, with Your help,
they may become sensitive to the sufferings of the poor
and those who bear the consequences
of violence and war;
may they promote in our region
and throughout the world
the common good and lasting peace.
Virgin Mary, Mother of Hope,
obtain the gift of peace
for the Holy Land that gave you birth
and for the whole world. Amen.
Source: https://www.custodia.org/en/news/7-october-custody-joins-day-prayer-peace
