Peace! We join our Holy Father Pope Francis in an urgent plea for peace in Iraq. Many Catholics, Christians and other religious minorities are suffering brutal, inhumane persecution and death at the hands of Islamic extremists of the Islamic State (ISIS). The Bishops of the United States have asked that Sunday August 17 be set aside as a special day of prayer for peace in Iraq. You can access more information by clicking here.
We are also aware of the terrible persecution faced by Christians in Africa, the Ukraine and other areas of the Middle East. Jesus said there are some spirits that can only be cast out by prayer and fasting (Mk 9:29). May we not only hold these intentions in prayer, but in solidarity with those under persecution may we also fast and speak the truth about the atrocities occurring in Iraq and around the world. Let us pray that world leaders take appropriate measures to bring about peace and prevent further destruction, persecution and murder of innocent men, women and children. Like St. Francis in his own time, may we be true instruments of peace rooted in Christ Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
To read Pope Francis’ August 13, 2014 letter to the U.N. on the situation in Iraq, click here.
To learn more about the dire situation in Iraq, click here.