Cardinal Brady asks for prayers for peace in Syria
- ‘I ask the Catholic faithful of Ireland to remember the suffering of Syrian children and their families at Masses this weekend’ – Cardinal Seán Brady
The latest devastating images of death and destruction from the conflict in Syria powerfully illustrate the futility of what Pope Francis has described as ‘increasing violence in a war between brothers’. This violence offers no hope for the future. Its consequences are evident in the deserted streets lined with empty shells of buildings which should be full of human life. The overwhelming suffering inflicted on families and communities in Syria cannot be allowed to continue. This is not only a tragedy for Syria, but for the whole world. The international community has a vital role to play in protecting innocent civilians from violent attacks, particularly those which involve the use of chemical weapons deemed wholly unethical and unacceptable.
Pope Francis has emphasised the need to raise our voices ‘so the sound of weapons stops’. The millions of Syrians who have been displaced from their homes, who grieve the loss of their loved ones and fear for their future desperately need our support and prayers at this time. I invite the Catholic faithful of Ireland to remember the suffering of Syrian children and their families at Masses this weekend, and I ask that we all fast and pray for a speedy end to this appalling conflict and that humanitarian aid may reach those in need as soon as possible.
Notes to Editors
- Cardinal Seán Brady is Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of All Ireland
- Suggested prayers of Intercessions for Syria (source www.dublindiocese.ie):
Let us pray for all who are refugees from their own country or separated from their families because of war especially the displaced people of Syria: that they will know our love and support for them by our practical help and assistance.
Let us pray for those who work for peace and justice throughout the world: that their ministry of mediation will help those engaged in conflict to listen to each other and find a resolution.
Let us pray for all communities and nations where there is division and hatred especially in Syria: ‘that enemies may speak to each other, adversaries join hands and peoples seek to meet together’.
- In his address following the Angelus prayer in Saint Peter’s Square on Sunday 1 September, His Holiness, Pope Francis, proclaimed Saturday 7 September, a day of prayer and fasting for peace in Syria, the Middle East, and throughout the world. During his address Pope Francis expressed deep worry and concern for conflicts throughout the world, especially in Syria, and for the devastation, suffering, and pain inflicted upon civilians and the unarmed. He condemned the use of chemical weapons outright.
- The Dominican Community and people in the Black Abbey, Kilkenny, tomorrow Saturday in union with those gathering in Saint Peter’s Square, will hold an evening of Adoration, Prayer, Fasting and Vigil, beginning at 6.00pm. Vigil Mass is at 6.10pm following which a liturgy for peace will be held. All people of good will are welcome to join in this initiative of Pope Francis as we remember all those affected by the horrific events unfolding in Syria. The evening will conclude at 11.00pm coinciding with the close of the Vigil in Rome.
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678
