Mar George Cardinal Alencherry emphasized the importance of peace and opposing conflicts, particularly the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. The Major Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church expresses his views in a letter stating that Christians have a duty to pray for peace and actively work towards it, supporting those affected by war, especially women and children. The text also notes that Pope Francis expressed deep sorrow for ongoing conflicts, called for an end to wars, and urged a day of fasting and prayer on October 27, 2023, to promote lasting peace and harmony among nations.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine continues for weeks. This conflict, like any other war, cannot be accepted by Christians. Peace must prevail under any circumstances. The reason is, in any war, no one wins, everyone suffers defeat. Therefore, in any situation of war, efforts must be made to avoid it. Because true peace is a gift from God. It is the duty of Christians to pray for peace and work towards establishing peace. Peace is a divine gift. It is given to those who have a peaceful mind. Christ, who came to this world, lived, died, and rose again, left this peace to His disciples. He said, "Peace be with you." This peace is what humanity always needs.
In the current situation of war, it is our responsibility to pray for peace, along with the efforts to establish peace. We must support those who are involved in the war, both in prayers and in practical ways. We should extend our support to women and children who are the victims of the conflict. We have a moral obligation to help those who are suffering due to the use of weapons. We must work to alleviate the sufferings of all affected people, including widows and orphans. It is our duty to support those who are involved in the war and also to help the helpless, including women and children, who are suffering due to the conflicts. Our support should be available to all those affected by the war, irrespective of their backgrounds. In this way, we share our responsibility with them. It is our responsibility to help all those affected by the war and to pray for them. Our prayers and efforts should be directed towards bringing peace to everyone.
On October 22, 2023, during the midday prayer on the occasion of the World Day of Prayer for Peace, Pope Francis expressed his heartfelt sorrow for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and around the world due to war. With deep concern for the sufferings experienced by all due to the violence of war, he joined in solidarity with the families of the victims, including the wounded and those who lost their lives. Pope Francis also included in his prayers all the refugees and those displaced because of the conflict in Ukraine and other war-torn regions. He appealed for an end to all wars that cause destruction and loss of human lives, emphasizing the importance of peace and human solidarity. He called for a day of fasting and prayer on October 27, 2023, for the cause of peace in the world. Let us all unite in prayers and fasting for lasting peace and harmony among nations.