In a solemn Eucharistic adoration prayer vigil for peace held at St. Peter’s Basilica on Friday, Pope Francis consecrated the Church and the world to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This spiritual event took place amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict in the Holy Land, with the Pope invoking the Virgin Mary as the Queen of Peace and Mother of Mercy.

Pope Francis fervently implored the Virgin Mary to intercede for the world, which is currently mired in danger and turmoil, and to help in converting those who fuel and foment conflicts. He prayed, "Mother of God and Our Mother, we come before you and seek refuge in your Immaculate Heart."

The Pope's prayer was part of a worldwide day of fasting, prayer, and penance for peace, which he called for due to the escalating war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

During the vigil, Pope Francis presided over the prayer of the sorrowful mysteries of the Rosary, the Litany of Loreto, and Exposition and Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament. The congregation, joined by the Pope, implored the Lord Jesus to console those who suffer, enlighten those who govern, break the plots of war, dissolve hatred, strengthen hope, reconcile hearts, protect the poor, and welcome those who have died.

Pope Francis delivered a heartfelt reflection on the Virgin Mary's humility and strength during her son’s crucifixion, saying, "When on Calvary a sword pierced your heart… you kept alive the hope of Easter through the night of sorrow."

He went on to request the Virgin Mary's intervention in the world's conflicts, saying, "Now, Mother, once more take the initiative for us, in these times rent by conflicts and laid waste by the fire of arms. Teach us to cherish and care for life — each and every human life — and to repudiate the folly of war, which sows death and eliminates the future."

Although Pope Francis did not specifically mention Israel, Gaza, or the Holy Land by name in his prayer, he earnestly asked the Virgin Mary to "grant that glimmers of light illuminate the dark night of conflict."

In conclusion, Pope Francis urged the Virgin Mary to inspire the leaders of nations to seek the paths of peace and to reconcile children seduced by evil and blinded by power and hate. He implored, "Mother, Queen of Peace, pour forth into our hearts God’s gift of harmony."

The vigil concluded with the congregation singing the Eucharistic hymn, "Tantum Ergo," and the Divine Praises, followed by the Blessed Sacrament being placed back in the Tabernacle, while the choir sang Psalm 117: "Praise the Lord, all you nations. Extol him, all you peoples. His mercy for us is strong; the faithfulness of the Lord is forever."