Dear Parishioners,
Ukraine
The Monitor has published a
request from our bishop for prayers for Ukraine:
Bishop O'Connell: A call to prayer for peace in Ukraine
On Sunday, January 23, our Holy Father spoke after the Angelus about the current situation in the Ukraine:
I am following with concern the increase of tensions that threaten to inflict a new blow to the peace in Ukraine, and call into question the security of the European continent, with wider repercussions. I make a heartfelt appeal to all people of good will, that they may raise prayers to God Almighty, that every political action and initiative may serve human brotherhood, rather than partisan interests. Those who pursue their own interests, to the detriment of others, disregard their human vocation, as we were all created as brothers and sisters. For this reason, and with concern, given the current tensions, I propose that next Wednesday, 26 January be a day of prayer for peace.
I ask that all parishes in the Diocese of Trenton include in the Prayer of the Faithful at Mass on Wednesday, January 26, a special petition for “peace in the Ukraine,” encouraging the faithful to pray for this intention requested by Pope Francis.
Additionally, there is a huge humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. People near the frontline often lack the basics—clean water, food, clothes, medicine. Heal the wounds. Help the victims of this senseless invasion. Donations can be sent to:
https://ukrarcheparchy.us/donate.
More About Ukraine
The National Catholic Register reports:
George Weigel opines:
Pope St. John Paul II worked for a transformation of culture in order to bring down communism in Eastern Europe. That transformation needs to continue. And we could use a transformation of our culture for somewhat different reasons. All these transformations may seem impossible to us, but they are possible for God. So, I invite you to pray for peace in Ukraine and Russia as well as our country and all the countries around the world.
God love you,
Fr. Jim