A Ukrainian soldier on the border with the Donetsk People's Republic (Photo: Andriy Andriyenko / SIPA-USA / Mondadori Portfolio)

Russia-Ukraine: Day of prayer for peace

We join the Pope's heartfelt appeal in response to the tensions between Russia and Ukraine, and his proposal for a day of prayer on Wednesday, January 26: "Every political action and initiative may serve human brotherhood, rather than partisan interests.”

The escalation has been ongoing for weeks, with Russia massing troops on the border with Ukraine and the former Soviet republic preparing for the worst. A very dangerous tug-of-war at the gates of Europe that has placed the NATO states on the front line in an attempt to prevent a Russian invasion.
At the end of last Sunday's Angelus, Pope Francis expressed great concern about "a peace at risk" that could lead to serious consequences within and beyond European borders:

"I am following with concern the increase of tensions that threaten to inflict a new blow to the peace in Ukraine, and call into question the security of the European continent, with wider repercussions. I make a heartfelt appeal to all people of good will, that they may raise prayers to God Almighty, that every political action and initiative may serve human brotherhood, rather than partisan interests. Those who pursue their own interests, to the detriment of others, disregard their human vocation, as we were all created as brothers and sisters. For this reason, and with concern, given the current tensions, I propose that next Wednesday, 26 January be a day of prayer for peace."