Our call to respond to those suffering in the Holy Land

A message from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M.

As is so often the case, our sisters and brothers in need in our own country and throughout the world depend upon our love and generosity, prompted by our Catholic faith, and turn to us for help in times of crisis. Such is now the case in Israel. I offer some ways to respond.

First, foremost and always, we need to pray. In this month of the Rosary, pray this most effective prayer that our Blessed Mother will intercede with her Divine Son for the people affected by the current war. Pray for peace. The Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, has also made this request on behalf of the bishops in Israel:

We ask that on Tuesday, October 17, the Feast of St. Ignatius of Antioch, everyone hold a day of fasting, abstinence and prayer. Let us organize prayer times with Eucharistic adoration and with the recitation of the Rosary to Our Blessed Virgin Mary. … This is the way we all come together despite everything, and unite collectively in prayer, to deliver to God the Father our thirst for peace, justice and reconciliation.

Second, please respond in charity to the extent that you are willing and able to Catholic Relief Services at this link: support.crs.org/donate/holy-land-conflict.

Thank you. Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray for us!