Pope Francis has called for Europe to be more creative in the way that we respond to wars around the world.
The Holy Father has said that there is “a need for more prayer, for conversion, and an end to the conflict.”
The Bishops of Ireland are encouraging the faithful to follow in prayer the request of the Holy Father so “that during the month of October, the Rosary be dedicated to peace and reconciliation around the world.”
Bishops also ask that a dedicated prayer for peace be included by parishes in the Prayer of the Faithful during the celebration of Mass in October.
On Saturday 11 November, at 11.00am, coinciding with the end of the First World War, cathedrals and parish churches are invited to ring church bells as a call for peace and an end to war.
Blessed are the Peacemakers
We pray to You O Lord, through the intercession of Your Most Pure Mother Mary,
Give to the people suffering war and conflict the gift of peace, for you have given us all else:
A peace that all of us share in the passion and wisdom that is the Lord Jesus Christ.
The peace of the Sabbath, and the peace that knows no evening.
Stir up in the hearts and the minds of our leaders and politicians a longing for peace,
That brings real joy and our hearts will be restless no more.Amen