Pope Francis has called for a day of prayer, fasting, and penance for peace in the Holy Land during these tumultuous times to be held on Friday, October 27. He has called for “a day of penance to which I invite sisters and brothers of the various Christian denominations, those belonging to other religions, and all those who have at heart the cause of peace in the world, to join in as they see fit.”
In response to the Holy Father’s appeal, Bishop Malesic is asking that every diocesan parish, school, and institution encourage prayer, fasting and penance in some form on Friday. Visit St. John Cathedral’s webpage for some peace prayers.
The Catholic News Agency also has 7 Suggested Ways to Pray and Fast:
- Attend Mass
- Make a Holy Hour
- Pray the Rosary
- Fast (from food, coffee, social media – anything that you consider important to you)
- Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet
- Read the Bible
- Give Alms – If you are in a position to help those suffering in the Middle East financially, there are several organizations accepting donations in order to help with critical relief. Catholic Relief Services, Aid to the Church in Need, Caritas International, and World Central Kitchen to name a few.