Cardinal Vincent Nichols, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of England and Wales has issued a call for Catholics to pray for peace in the Holy Land.
On 13th October, Cardinal Nichols said
“A week into the terrible conflict in Israel and Gaza, I urge Catholics to sustain their prayers for peace. The horrific atrocities committed by Hamas in Israel warrant every condemnation. We continue to hold in our prayers those who were killed, the injured, those held hostage, their families and communities.
‘The situation facing the millions of civilians in Gaza also calls for effective humanitarian relief. We pray too for those killed, injured and displaced there.
‘At home I appeal for restraint and the total avoidance of hateful language and action, as the impact of this conflict is felt in communities here.”
Previously the Cardinal had asked catholics to pray the rosary for peace saying
” Having visited Gaza on two occasions, my heart goes out to it’s people who will now bear the consequences of the attack on Israel by Hamas militants. Violence is never a solution. Retribution is never a contribution to peace”
The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, is calling for a day of fasting, abstinence and prayer for peace and reconciliation. The Cardinal, President of the Assembly of the Catholic Ordinaries in the Holy Land has requested that all parishes make Tuesday, October 17 a day of prayer for peace. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa has stated that he fears the war between Gaza and Israel will be a very long war.
The Catholic Agency For Overseas Development, CAFOD have urged prayers for the conflict in the Middle East:
Let us pray for the many people whose lives have been torn apart by conflict in Gaza and Israel.
We remember especially those who have died, those who are grieving, the injured and those now without food, shelter or medical supplies.
We pray also for those who have the power to bring peace. May they be touched by a spirit of compassion and kindness.
Lord hear us.