Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (JD)

Udupi, Mar 8: In the wake of the escalating tensions in the Middle East, particularly involving Iran and neighbouring countries, special prayers for peace were offered in churches across the Udupi diocese on Sunday, March 8, following a directive issued by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference.

During the Sunday morning Mass, priests in churches across the diocese offered special prayers seeking peace in the conflict-affected regions. In several churches, Eucharistic Adoration was also held prior to the Mass. The faithful prayed that the fear of war would subside and that God would guide world leaders to work towards establishing peace in the Middle East and Gulf nations.

Priests emphasized that wars often result in the loss of innocent lives, leaving families with deep and lasting grief. They also pointed out that the explosives used in war lead to severe environmental destruction. In their message, they urged global leaders to pursue dialogue instead of conflict and to actively work towards building peace.

Special prayers were held in several churches including Mother of Sorrows Church in Udupi led by Fr Charles Menezes, Milagres Cathedral in Kallianpur led by Msgr Ferdinand Gonsalves, Holy Rosary Church in Kundapur led by Fr Paul Rego, and St Lawrence Basilica in Karkala led by Fr Alban D’Souza.

In his message, the Apostolic Administrator of the Udupi diocese, Dr Gerald Isaac Lobo, stated that war cannot be the only solution to every crisis. He noted that the humanitarian suffering caused by war and instability leaves deep wounds on the global human family. He also expressed concern for the safety of Indian citizens working and residing in several Middle Eastern countries. Many of them work abroad to support their families and contribute significantly to the Church and the development of the nation. He said that in these uncertain times, ensuring their safety and security is the responsibility of authorities, and prayed that God would inspire world leaders to take appropriate steps.

Diocesan public relations officer Fr Denis D’Sa, in his message, said that every human being seeks peace, harmony, and happiness in life. However, the fear of war in the Middle East in recent days has created anxiety among people, especially those with family members living in Gulf countries. Following the directive of the diocesan leadership, churches observed a special day of prayer for peace. During the Holy Mass, special prayers highlighting the importance of peace and harmony were offered. He emphasized that human life is sacred and its protection is everyone’s responsibility. He urged world leaders to work towards peace through dialogue rather than violence.

The diocese has also appealed to the faithful to pray the Holy Rosary daily for peace from March 8 to 14. March 13 has been designated as a day of fasting and prayer, during which people are encouraged to offer sacrifices for world peace and for the safety of those suffering due to violence. Through these prayers, the Church hopes that hatred will diminish, violence will cease, and peace will prevail across the world.