the goan I network
PANAJI
Responding to the request of Pope Francis, Archbishop of Goa and Daman Filipe Neri Ferrao has appealed to the Catholic community to observe a day of fast and prayers on February 23 for peace in the entire world.
In a circular to all priests, consecrated persons and lay faithful in the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, Archbishop Ferrao said the Season of Lent impels the Catholics to show genuine concern for others, especially the poorest and the weakest members of our human family.
“Observing the ongoing socio-politic tensions and violence prevailing in many countries of the world, our Holy Father, Pope Francis has invited us to pray to God for the change of hearts, especially of those who are involved in these conflicts and of those who have power in these violence-ridden parts of the globe,” stated the Archbishop.
Archbishop Ferrao said the Pope, while requesting for prayers for countries reeling under violence, has mentioned the names of two countries in particular, the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. “He (Pope Francis) has proposed that February 23, Friday of the first week of Lent, be observed as a Day of Prayer and Fasting for peace in the entire world, particularly in places affected by political tensions and violence,” he said.
“I appeal to all our Parish Priests, Chaplains, Rectors of Shrines and Superiors of the various communities of Consecrated Persons present in our Archdiocese, in Solidarity with the Holy Father’s call, to set aside this day for Prayer and Fasting, keeping the above intention in mind,” Archbishop Ferrao added.
“May this Lent, which is a special time to show solidarity and concern for others, bring us all closer to God and closer to one another,” he further added.
