Statement from Bishop David Zubik: Day of Prayer for Peace for Ukraine

As Russian troops mass on the border of Ukraine, our Holy Father Pope Francis has called all people to pray for peace on Wednesday, January 26, 2022.

I ask everyone, those of our faith tradition and beyond, to lift their prayers for peace. Pray that God may guide the work of the diplomats and change the hearts of those who seek domination and violence in a land that has already suffered inexpressible horrors over the past century.

As human beings, we are all sisters and brothers to each other.  We bear the sacred image of God, having been created in His image and likeness, and are called to love and help one another.  As Pope Francis reminds us, we must first and always work for peace, justice and reconciliation.

I ask that prayers for peace be included in all Masses this Wednesday, January 26.  In addition, I call on all who can do so to pause for one minute at Noon in silent prayer for peace.

May Mary, the Mother of God, to whom the Ukrainian people have deep devotion, hold them in her embrace of love, mercy and protection.