I want to make my own the following words Pope Francis offered during his General Audience remarks on Wednesday, February 23:
My heart aches greatly at the worsening situation in Ukraine. Despite the diplomatic efforts of the last few weeks, increasingly alarming scenarios are opening up. Like me, many people worldwide are feeling anguish and concern. Once again, the peace of all is threatened by partisan interests. I want to appeal to those with political responsibility to examine their consciences seriously before God, who is the God of peace and not of war; who is the Father of all, not just of some, who wants us to be brothers and not enemies. I pray that all the parties involved refrain from any action that would cause even more suffering to the people, destabilizing coexistence between nations and bringing international law into disrepute.
And now, I would like to appeal to everyone, believers and non-believers alike. Jesus taught us that the diabolical senselessness of violence is answered with God's weapons, prayer, and fasting. I invite everyone to make next March 2, Ash Wednesday, a Day of Fasting for Peace. I especially encourage believers to dedicate themselves intensely to prayer and fasting on that day.
May the Queen of Peace preserve the world from the madness of war.
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