• Prayer for Peace in Unity with the Pope 

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  • On Sunday, 1st September 2013, whilst reciting the Angelus, we all heard the Pope’s heartfelt prayer for world peace, especially for the current situation prevailing in Syria.

    During this moment of prayer, the Pope designated Saturday 7th September, the eve of the feast on which we celebrate the birth of Mary, Mother of Peace, as a day of fasting and prayer for peace in Syria, the Middle East and the whole world.  For this reason, we should heed this request for prayer.

    In addition to this, on Saturday, in St Peter’s Square, the Pope will lead a prayer vigil between 7pm and midnight.  We appeal to all those who are able, to follow this vigil, which will also be broadcast  on RTK and Radju Marija. 

    In addition to the Pope’s request for prayer, the Maltese Episcopal Conference recommends that in both diocese of Malta and Gozo, the following initiatives are taken:

    •  On Friday 6th September, the first Friday of the month, evening mass will be that for peace and justice, followed by adoration offered for the Pope’s intention (reflections for the moment of adoration will be circulated by the Interdiocesan Liturgical Commission). 

    In those parishes where this adoration is normally held on Thursdays, the mass for peace and justice may be celebrated on the 5th September);

    • On these days, the Rosary is recited for the same intention;
    • In all hospitals, homes and Homes for the Elderly, where the Eucharist is received, sick and infirm persons are encouraged to offer their suffering and pray for the same intention;
    • Communities of Consecrated Life and members of Catholic Associations are to pray for the same intention during their meetings;
    • The following prayer is to be included in the prayers of the Faithful during all masses celebrated on Saturday evening and Sunday:

    For world peace, particularly in Syria and the Middle East.  Through the intercession of Mary, our Mother, we ask God to endow the leaders of all nations with His wisdom, so that they may seek to bring peace among peoples.  Free the world from all wars and conflicts which lead to nothing but destruction, and instill in the hearts of all people, love and justice, which leads to unity and peace. For this we pray.

    ✠ MARIO GRECH                                                  ✠ PAUL CREMONA O.P.

         Bishop of Gozo                                                         Archbishop of Malta

         President of the Episcopal Conference

    ✠ CHARLES J. SCICLUNA                                            

         Auxiliary Bishop and Vicar General of Malta