Catholic bishops in India have called on the faithful to observe a week of prayer and fasting for peace as violence and instability escalate in the Middle East.
In a circular issued March 3, Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrão, president of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI), urged Catholics across the country to unite in prayer as hostilities involving Iran and neighboring countries deepen concerns about regional stability.
The appeal asks dioceses and parishes to observe Sunday, March 8, as a Day of Prayer for Peace, with special intentions offered during the celebration of the Eucharist.
“In this hour of uncertainty, we commend them in a special way to the Lord’s protection,” the message said, referring to the large number of Indians living and working in the Middle East.
The circular expressed deep concern over the growing violence in the region and the suffering caused by war and instability, noting that such conflicts “deeply wound the human family.”
Church leaders also highlighted the vulnerability of Indian migrant workers in the region, many of whom support families back home and contribute significantly to both the Church and the nation.
As part of the initiative, Catholics have been encouraged to pray the Holy Rosary daily from March 8 to March 14, invoking the intercession of Our Lady, Queen of Peace, for reconciliation, dialogue, and a just resolution to the tensions.
Cardinal Ferrão also invited the faithful to observe a day of fasting and prayer on Friday, March 13, offering their sacrifice for world peace and for the safety of all those affected by violence and conflict.
Parishes across India have also been asked to include special intentions in the Prayer of the Faithful during Masses on March 8, seeking the cessation of hostilities, protection of innocent lives, and wisdom and restraint among world leaders.
The appeal, issued from the CCBI General Secretariat in New Delhi, calls on the faithful to entrust the troubled situation to God’s mercy and to respond through prayer, penance, and solidarity in the hope that hostilities may cease and peace may prevail.
