Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 24) – The Philippine Catholic Church has set Oct. 27 as a day of prayer, fasting and penance for peace amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and the militant group Hamas.
“We encourage our communities to organize prayer initiatives for this intention like the Mass for Peace, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament/Holy Hour, the praying of the holy rosary, or any other celebrations of the Word of God,” the Archdiocese of Manila said in a circular.
It called on dioceses to dedicate the day to pray for the people affected by the war, after Pope Francis expressed his concern during his general audience on Oct. 18.
“Lay down weapons and heed the cries for peace from the poor, the people, and the innocent children,” Pope Francis told the faithful.
“I urged believers to take just one side in this conflict: that of peace. But not with words — with prayer, with total dedication,” he added.
I have decided to declare Friday, 27 October, a day of fasting, penance and prayer for #peace. I invite the various Christian confessions, members of other religious, and all who hold the cause of peace in the world at heart to participate.
— Pope Francis (@Pontifex) October 18, 2023
As of Oct. 17, more than 1,400 deaths were logged in Israel and more than 3,000 casualties were recorded in Gaza.
The Department of Foreign Affairs confirmed that four overseas Filipino workers were killed in the war.
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