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To bring an end to the war: initiatives and prayers for peace Live for universal brotherhood at all costs

Mar 23, 2003

For Peace in Iraq

 

Act for peace “That which, together with the Pope, we hoped would never happen has happened: the war in Iraq.” With these words Chiara began her message to the people of the Focolare Movement inviting everyone to take action for peace: “When he was informed of the attack on Iraq the Holy Father, after having the week before explored every possible avenue to save peace, he retreated in prayer, anguished. Our knowledge of the facts and the Pope’s example urge us now in every nation where the Movement is present, to foster initiatives in favor of peace, and not just in Christian circles.” Chiara suggested in particular that the Movement’s members and supporters in particular increase the initiatives of prayer for peace “because we call on God’s help in a matter -war – where the prince of Evil is at work: prayer, therefore, pilgrimages, liturgical events, coming together to pray the rosary.” A passionate call “at all costs” for universal brotherhood In a message sent to the participants at a gathering for Muslim families of the Focolare Movement which began on March 26 in Algeria, Chiara wrote: “It is a difficult time for international relations. Such times require an extra measure of faith in the merciful love of the One God, a passionate effort at living for universal brotherhood, no matter what the cost, a more generous and more complete concentration of our life in the values of our Ideal of unity: an Ideal of mutual love, acceptance and solidarity that prepare the dawn of a united world. I know that many voices around us push us in the opposite direction, but we know and believe that justice can really live only where there is mutual love, that love that comes from God. My wish for you is that your time together may be the source of an enriching spiritual experience that will help you grow both in your love for one another and in the example of faith that you offer to your communities. A family that lives in accordance with God’s will is like a beacon of light that illuminates the pathways of humanity and its interactions. I am there with you with my whole heart.”

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