By Matters India Reporter
Panaji, Oct 24, 2023: Taking a cue from Pope Francis, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao, archbishop of Goa and Daman, has invited the priests, Religious and lay people in the western Indian archdiocese to observe October 27 as a day of prayer, penance and fasting for peace.
In his circular from Rome, the cardinal said, “Dearly beloved, In a world marred by conflict and suffering, the ongoing strife in Israel and Palestine stands as a stark reminder of the urgent need for peace in our world. We are witnessing a crisis that is claiming countless lives and causing immeasurable pain. Our Holy Father Francis is constantly voicing his concern for the humanitarian situation in Palestine and Israel, calling on all parties to lay down their weapons.”
Earlier on October 18, speaking at his General Audience Pope Francis implored: “Lay down weapons and heed the cries for peace from the poor, the people, and the innocent children. War solves no problems. It only sows death and destruction and increases hatred. War erases the future!”
And the pontiff called on all Christians to pray and fast for peace October 27. He also encouraged people of other Christian denominations, other religions and all those who advocate for peace to participate as they see fit. The Pope announced that the central event would be an hour of prayer at 6 pm in St. Peter’s Square, with the goal of invoking peace for the world.
“I invite all the particular Churches to take part by organizing similar initiatives which involve the people of God,” Pope Francis concluded.
Cardinal Ferrao’s letter says prayer and penance can play a vital role in the world’s attempt to bring peace. “While we encourage individuals and families to join in this global spiritual exercise, we urge our parish priests, chaplains, heads of institutions and of Religious communities to organize for the people under their care at least an hour of prayer for this intention.” The cardinal said.
He wants his people to come together as a community, to fervently pray for peace, especially in Israel and Palestine. “Let us collectively undertake acts of penance to commit ourselves to the pursuit of reconciliation and peace. Our combined efforts, aided by God’s grace, can bring hope and healing to a land that has long yearned for peace,” he added.
The Cardinal points out “the ongoing strife in Israel and Palestine stands as a stark reminder of the urgent need for peace in our world.” True, we need to pray for peace in the world.
Charity begins at home. So, the need for peace must be felt within the Indian Church that is witnessing CORRUPTION, CASTEISM, CLERICAL SEXUAL ABUSE, MALE CHAUVENISM, OPPRESSION OF THE LAITY. The list can be endless.
The Prelates and the Clergy need to undergo continuous introspection and must have the openness to change the “exploitative structures” in the church at various levels.
Prayer and fasting is laudable. What about action on the ground? Forget world peace. Let us be agents of peace in our families, neighbourhood, workplace, social milieu etc. Give peace a chance
It’s a great initiative by Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao. Prayers can work great miracles.