Roman Diocese declares February 24 a day of fasting and prayer for peace in Ukraine

This is reported by the RCC website.

On this occasion, a Holy Mass will also be held in the Basilica of St. John on the Lateran.

"February 24 marks one year since the beginning of the conflict in Ukraine, the tragedy of the war caused by the Russian invasion. Twelve intense months of suffering, the development of which we follow in an increasingly threatening spiral. Unfortunately, in addition to seeing no glimmer of light for a cessation of hostilities, we are concerned about the public debate in which weapons are offered as the only means to restore peace.

We, as believers, cannot accept this: we do not want to accept the lack of solutions for true peace. Nor should we deceive ourselves that the path to peace and reconciliation is easy. And yet we ask the Lord for this peace. We want to build it in our daily lives, with our small and big deeds," reads the letter addressed to the clergy and consecrated persons of the Roman Diocese.

The cardinal expressed gratitude to all those who are committed to the path to peace and accept, protect, and support the victims of the war in Ukraine.

"February 24 is a symbolic date, and we want to live it in a special way; it is not a holiday or an anniversary. Still, I feel the need to invite all of you to spend this day fasting and praying together. I call on communities to unite and ask the Lord for the gift of peace and strengthen our actions as peacemakers," Cardinal De Donatis concludes.