Pope Francis Renews Plea for Peace: ‘Pray and Do Penance for Peace’

Pope Francis has once again called for global peace, urging the faithful to pray and do penance for an end to war and suffering in conflict-ridden nations.

Speaking at his General Audience on Wednesday, the pope departed from his prepared remarks to issue an impassioned appeal.

“I think of all those countries that are at war,” he said. “Sisters, brothers, let us pray for peace. Let us all do our part.”

A Call to Reject Violence

The pontiff stressed the fundamental purpose of human life, declaring, “We are not born to kill but to help people grow. May we find pathways of peace.” He encouraged all present to incorporate prayers for peace into their daily spiritual lives.

As he has done consistently since the war in Ukraine began, Pope Francis made a special mention of the suffering endured by the Ukrainian people. “How much it suffers!” he lamented.

Highlighting Global Conflicts

Expanding his appeal beyond Ukraine, the pope also drew attention to other war-torn regions, listing Palestine, Israel, Myanmar, North Kivu, and South Sudan among the areas in desperate need of peace.

Bringing his message to a close, Pope Francis implored once more: “Please, pray for peace. Do penance for peace.”

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-02/pope-asks-catholics-to-pray-every-day-for-peace.html

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