The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops called for prayers for peace in the Middle East and an end to the Israel-Hamas war in a statement issued the day before the start of Holy Week. The statement emphasized the connection to hope and the significance of Christ’s suffering and resurrection during this time. Signed by USCCB President Archbishop Timothy Broglio and Bishop Elias Zaidan, the bishops urged Catholics and people of good will to renew their prayers for an end to the conflict, which has resulted in the deaths of thousands and the displacement of many more.
As Holy Week began, religious leaders called for a day of fasting in light of the devastation caused by the Israel-Hamas war. The bishops highlighted the importance of seeking an end to the violence and emphasized Pope Francis’ words advocating for negotiation and peace. They stressed the necessity of a cease-fire, the release of hostages, and the protection of civilians. The bishops called for humanitarian aid to reach those in dire need and expressed their rootedness in the hope of the resurrection as they prayed for a just and lasting peace in the Holy Land.
Throughout the conflict, the USCCB has consistently issued statements advocating for peace, prayer, fasting, and the release of hostages held by Hamas. The conference has condemned the deaths of innocent civilians and called for an end to the violence plaguing the region. The bishops highlighted the suffering and loss experienced by the people in the Middle East and urged all people of good will to join in prayer for a resolution to the war that has caused so much devastation and heartache.
The bishops’ plea for peace and justice in the Holy Land comes at a time when tensions in the region are high and the lives of many are at risk. They emphasized the need for negotiations and dialogue to bring about an end to the conflict and prevent further loss of life. The bishops invoked the spirit of Holy Week and the hope of the resurrection as they called for prayers and fasting to bring about a resolution to the violence and suffering that have plagued the region for far too long.
In the midst of the violence and destruction in the Holy Land, the bishops appealed to the faithful to stand in solidarity with the people of the region and to advocate for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. They called for a renewed commitment to prayer and fasting as a means of seeking God’s intervention in the situation and urged all people of good will to join them in their efforts to bring about peace and justice in the Middle East. The bishops emphasized the importance of compassion and solidarity in the face of suffering and loss, calling on all people to work together for a just and lasting peace in the region.
The bishops’ statement reflects a profound commitment to the values of peace, justice, and solidarity in the face of conflict and suffering. They highlighted the importance of prayer, fasting, and advocacy as means of seeking God’s intervention in the situation and bringing about an end to the violence and bloodshed in the Holy Land. The bishops’ call for peace and justice resonates with the teachings of the Church and the values of compassion and solidarity that are central to the Christian faith.
