Ottawa, Ontario – The Permanent Council of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB) has issued a Statement Calling the Catholic Faithful to Prayer for Peace in the Middle East. The statement affirms that we cannot remain indifferent to an armed conflict that risks escalating into a prolonged war.
“Faced with rising tensions and the risk of escalating war, we invite the People of God in Canada to pray for peace. Let us ask the Lord to increase the thirst for justice, reconciliation, and true peace in the world. Let us pray that the leaders involved in this armed conflict will allow the light of wisdom and dialogue to guide their decisions. Where fear and anger threaten to overwhelm hearts, may the Holy Spirit inspire gestures of openness, reconciliation, and peace” – excerpt from the Statement.
The Statement encourages all Catholics to draw upon the message of the Gospel by becoming peacemakers, cultivating solidarity with people affected by war, and sustaining hope for a better world.
Read the full statement:
Statement by the Permanent Council: Calling the Catholic Faithful to Prayer for Peace in the Middle East
Quick Facts
The Permanent Council is the second-highest governing body of the Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops (CCCB), after the Plenary Assembly of Bishops. It currently comprises 14 Bishops from across Canada, including both ex officio members and those elected by the Plenary Assembly.
Additional Resources
Episcopal Commission for Justice and Peace
Peace and Security Documents
Catechism of the Catholic Church: Safeguarding Peace