Pope Declares October 27 to be a Day of Fasting, Penance and Prayer for Peace in the World
A Day of Prayer, Fasting, and Penance for Peace
We invite all parishioners to join us on October 27, 2023 in observing a special day of prayer, fasting, and penance, as called for by Pope Francis. This day is a response to the Israel-Hamas war and a call for peace in the world. This invitation has been extended to people of all Christian denominations, other religions, and all those who have a heart for the cause of peace.
We will be holding Adoration on that Friday from 11:15 am to 12:15 pm, providing a great opportunity to observe this special day. During this time, we will be in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament, offering our prayers and intentions for peace.
The central event of the day will be an hour of prayer at 6 p.m. in St. Peter's Square (12 pm EST), where the faithful will join the pope to participate in "an hour of prayer in a spirit of penance to implore peace in our time, peace in this world.” We encourage you to join us in spirit during this time, offering your own prayers for peace.
How to Participate
Prayer: Set aside time on October 27 to pray for peace in the world. You can offer your own prayers, recite the rosary, or participate in the hour of prayer at 6 p.m. in St. Peter's Square.
Fasting: Consider fasting on this day as a sign of solidarity with those who suffer from war and as a way to focus your prayers. You can choose to fast from food, or you can fast from other things that may distract you from the importance of this day.
Penance: Take this opportunity to reflect on your own actions and seek forgiveness for any ways in which you may have contributed to conflict or division. Consider participating in the Sacrament of Reconciliation as a way to receive God's mercy and to be reconciled with others.
A Call for Peace
As we come together in prayer, fasting, and penance, let us remember the words of Pope Francis: "War does not solve any problems, it only sows death and destruction. It increases hatred, and multiplies revenge. War erases the future.”