Archdiocese joins pope in asking for prayer, fasting on 1-year mark of Israel-Hamas war
The Archdiocese of Agana is joining Pope Francis in calling for a day of prayer and fasting on Oct. 7, the one-year anniversary of the Israel-Hamas war.
On Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas launched a massive surprise attack on Israel, killing 1,205 people, mostly civilians.
Hamas took 251 hostages back to Gaza, some of whom were later killed. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared war on Hamas.
In the months since, more than 41,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, the Associated Press quoted the Gaza Health Ministry as saying.
And in recent weeks, Israel has expanded its targeting of Hezbollah and its stronghold in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah began firing rockets into Israel almost immediately after Hamas attacked Israel in October 2023, as a show of support for Palestinians.
"In this dramatic hour of our history," the pope said, "while the winds of war and the fires of violence continue to devastate entire peoples and nations," the Christian community is reminded of its call to "put itself at the service of humanity," the Vatican News reported earlier last week.
The pope spoke after Mass in St. Peter's Square for the opening of the second session of the General Assembly of the Synod.
Guam's Archbishop Ryan P. Jimenez is currently in Rome, representing the Archdiocese of Agana and the region as the president of the Episcopal Conference of the Pacific.
Archdiocesan vicar general, Father Romeo Convocar, has invited Catholics on Guam to join in prayer and fasting.
"Please respond to the Holy Father's plea for peace," Convocar said in a statement. "Pray to Our Lord for an end to the Israel-Hamas war and for peace to prevail in all places of conflict. War brings intense suffering and destruction that most of us cannot comprehend."
Convocar added, "Numerous Catholics here already faithfully pray during many parts of their day and make sacrifices such as fasting. Please pray and for those who are able, fast from food even if for part of the day or sacrifice other things in your life."
