The “prayer for universal peace” pronounced today by the president of the Focolare Movement in Assisi, at the tomb of St Francis, echoes the words of Pope Francis. The full version is attached. “We ask you, with the faith that moves mountains, that there be a ceasefire in the war, and that dialogue will be victorious ‘in seeking the paths to peace’ between Russia and Ukraine. We ask for the grace that every ongoing conflict, especially the most forgotten ones, can end. This deeply felt invocation is at the heart of the “prayer for universal peace”, pronounced this morning in Assisi by Margaret Karram, President of the Focolare Movement. In the crypt of St Francis, in the Lower Basilica, she was joined by the General Council of the Movement, gathered in the “city of peace” for a few days of retreat. “We are here on behalf of all the members of the Movement: Christians of various Churches, believers of various religions, people who consider themselves as brothers and sisters in one human family.” Margaret Karram continued: “We make our own the cry of pain and the despair of peoples who are currently suffering because of violence, conflicts, and wars.” “Grant us the grace to welcome one another, to forgive one another and live as one human family. Grant that we may love other people’s countries as our own! God of mercy and harmony, make us ‘instruments of Your peace’.” One week before Pope Francis consecrates Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary (on 25th March) this plea is part of a collective prayer for peace throughout the world and supports the extensive network of solidarity to which members of the Movement also belong. Focolare communities are present in over 180 countries, including many places where there are still conflicts and wars.
Stefania Tanesini
0 Comments