Archbishop of Goa and Daman appeals for peace in Israel and Palestine

Archbishop Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão has appealed to Christians to pray and fast on October 27 for peace between Israel and Palestine. He noted that the Pope called on all Christians to pray and fast for peace on October 27.

Panaji, Oct 20: In a world marred by conflict and suffering, the ongoing strife in Israel and Palestine stands as a stark reminder of the urgent need for peace in our world. In response to this crisis, Archbishop of Goa and Daman Filipe Neri Cardinal Ferrão has appealed to Christians to pray and fast on October 27 for peace between Israel and Palestine.

A Call to Prayer and Fasting

In a communication released in Panaji, Archbishop Ferrão expressed his deep concern for the humanitarian situation in Palestine and Israel. He noted that Pope Francis has been consistently voicing his concern and calling on all parties to lay down their weapons. Archbishop Ferrão echoed the Pope's call, urging Christians to pray and fast for peace on October 27.

The Archbishop also encouraged people of other Christian denominations, other religions, and all those who advocate for peace to participate in this global spiritual exercise as they see fit. He emphasized that prayer and penance can play a vital role in bringing about peace.

A Global Effort for Peace

Archbishop Ferrão urged parish priests, chaplains, heads of institutions, and religious communities to organize at least an hour of prayer for peace in Israel and Palestine on October 27. He also encouraged individuals and families to join in this global spiritual exercise.

The Archbishop's appeal comes in response to the recent war between Israel and Hamas, which erupted after the latter's deadly incursion on October 7. The Gaza Health Ministry has reported that 3,785 people have been killed in Gaza since the war began, the majority of whom are women, children, and older adults. Nearly 12,500 were injured, and another 1,300 people are believed buried under rubble. In Israel, more than 1,400 people have been killed, mostly civilians slain during Hamas' deadly incursion.

Archbishop Ferrão's appeal for prayer and fasting is a powerful reminder of the importance of peace and the need for all people of faith to come together in solidarity with those suffering in Israel and Palestine. As the world continues to grapple with conflict and violence, let us heed the Archbishop's call and join in prayer for a peaceful resolution to this and all other conflicts.