March 1, 2022
Our hearts are heavy for our Ukrainian sisters and brothers who are suffering the devastating impact of violent conflict, those who are seeking refuge, and those who are requesting prayers for peace. As tensions mount between Ukraine and Russia, we pray that conflict will end, and that calm will prevail.
We ask that you join us in Pope Francis’ call for a worldwide day of prayer and fasting for peace in Ukraine on Ash Wednesday, March 2. Appealing to “everyone, believers and non-believers alike,” Pope Francis said, “Jesus taught us that the diabolical evil of violence is answered with the weapons of God, with prayer and fasting.”
In a show of support for our dear neighbors of Ukraine, the Congregation held a prayer service and public witness along Route 65 on Ash Wednesday. Together, we proclaimed the Gospel message that “all are one.”
A prayer for peace in Ukraine, written by Father Damian Howard, SJ, Provincial for the Jesuits in Britain:
Heavenly Father,
Your will for your people is peace, not war.
Pour out on our world, especially in Eastern Europe,
your Spirit of compassion and solidarity.
Grant all those who believe in you the strength
to be close to those who suffer
and the courage to resolve their differences and conflicts
in truth and without resort to arms.
Be with the widow, the orphan, the refugee and the peacemaker.
Bind us all into the peace of your Kingdom.
Through Christ our Lord,
Amen.