On the one-year anniversary of the violence in the Holy Land, Pope Francis expresses deep solidarity with the region’s suffering Catholics. In a heartfelt message, he condemns the failure of global efforts for peace and urges all to pray and fast for an end to the conflict, emphasizing that love and dialogue are the true paths to healing.

In a letter dated October 7, 2024, Pope Francis reaches out to the Catholics of the Holy Land on the solemn anniversary of the violence that has torn through the region. Reflecting on the past year of suffering, he acknowledges the ongoing bloodshed and grief, lamenting the failure of the international community to bring an end to the violence. The Pope writes:

“Anger is growing, along with the desire for revenge, while it seems that few people care about what is most needed and most desired: dialogue and peace.”

He reiterates that “War is a defeat. Weapons do not build the future but destroy it. Violence never brings peace.” The Holy Father urges everyone to remember the lessons of history, which have so often shown that conflict only leads to further destruction.

Despite the darkness surrounding them, Pope Francis expresses profound gratitude to the Catholics of the Holy Land. He calls them a “small, defenceless flock” who remain in their lands, thirsting for peace and praying amid the chaos. To them, he offers words of encouragement:

“Planted in your sacred lands, become sprouts of hope. Let the light of your faith lead you to testify to love amid words of hatred, to encounter amid growing confrontation, to unity amid increasing hostility.”

Pope Francis speaks as a father to his children, urging them to continue sowing “seeds of peace” in the face of overwhelming adversity. He asks them to be “witnesses to the power of a non-violent peace.”

To all Christians, the Pope calls for a Day of Prayer and Fasting, highlighting these as the true “weapons of love” that can change the course of history. Through prayer and fasting, we can fight the spirit of evil that fuels war and suffering.

The Pope also extends his heartfelt closeness to all who are suffering in the Middle East:

“I am close to you, I am with you.”

He offers special prayers for the people of Gaza, for mothers grieving the loss of their children, for those living in fear of violence, and for all those who, in the midst of war, continue to seek peace and justice. He encourages them to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” echoing the teachings of Jesus.

Finally, Pope Francis expresses his gratitude to the “sons and daughters of peace” who are working tirelessly to assist those suffering in the war and to the bishops, priests, and laypeople offering comfort and hope.

“May Our Lady, Queen of Peace, watch over you. May Saint Joseph, Patron of the Church, protect you.”

Let us join together in prayer for peace, for healing, and for the light of hope to shine in the darkest corners of the world. –

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