Fr. Francesco Patton OFM, the Custos of the Holy Land, has addressed a letter to the friars of the Custody, urging them to dedicate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on August 15th to prayer for peace in the Middle East and around the globe. This appeal follows a similar call from Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa on August 10th, who invited everyone to earnestly pray for reconciliation and peace, entrusting these prayers to the intercession of the Blessed Mother on this Feast.

The Franciscan friars of the Custody of the Holy Land are responsible for safeguarding the holy sites in the region, providing pastoral care, and offering social and educational services. Their presence dates back to the early 13th century, when Saint Francis of Assisi visited the Middle East.

In his letter, Fr. Patton acknowledges the current challenging times and highlights a "hopeful sign" of progress: the resumption of talks for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the liberation of political prisoners. Notably, these talks are scheduled to occur on the same day as the Assumption of Mary, which Fr. Patton sees as a symbol of hope and consolation for believers.

Fr. Patton calls for a special dedication of the Assumption celebrations to intense prayer for peace. He references the Book of Revelation, which describes the celestial battle between the Woman about to give birth and the infernal dragon, supported by St. Michael the Archangel. He emphasizes that this day should be marked by fervent prayer, including the prayer formula endorsed by Cardinal Pizzaballa, which will be used by the Cardinal himself.

Text of the “Supplication for peace to Our Lady assumed into Heaven”

O most glorious Mother of God,
raised above the choirs of angels,
pray for us with Saint Michael the Archangel
and with all the angelic powers of heaven and with all the saints,
to your most holy and beloved Son, our Lord and master.

Obtain for this Holy Land, for all His children and for all humanity
the gift of reconciliation and peace.
May your prophecy be fulfilled:
the proud are scattered in the imaginations of their hearts;
the mighty are overthrown from their thrones,
and finally, the humble are raised;
Let the hungry be filled with good things,
the peaceful be recognized as children of God
and that the meek may receive the earth as a gift.

May Jesus Christ, your Son, grant us this,
He who exalted you today above the choirs of angels,
who crowned you with the diadem of the Kingdom,
and has placed you on the throne of eternal splendour.
To him be honour and glory forever. Amen.