Along with Pope Leo XIV and other world leaders, the Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference has expressed grave concern over the growing violence in the Middle East.
"In this season of Lent, Pope Leo has encouraged us to pray for peace, to "fast from words and acts of hatred and conflict", and to rediscover the peace Christ provides," Archbishop Timothy Costelloe said.
The Australian Catholic Bishops' Conference joins Pope Leo XIV and other world leaders in expressing deep concern about the escalating violence in the Middle East.
The loss of life, the fear and uncertainty felt by ordinary people, and the destabilisation of an already fragile region all weigh heavily on our hearts.
As Pope Leo stated this week, we are "faced with the possibility of a tragedy of enormous proportions".
His appeal is one that we wholeheartedly support: that all parties "assume the moral responsibility to stop the spiral of violence before it becomes an irreparable abyss".
Violence only exacerbates suffering; war is not the solution and is always a defeat for humanity.
The current hostilities have already caused significant harm.
As Pope Leo reminded us, "May diplomacy regain its role and promote the good of peoples, peoples who yearn for peaceful coexistence based on justice."
We are also mindful of the Australians who are currently in the region, including those serving in peacekeeping and humanitarian roles. This is a stressful time for their families, friends, and communities. We assure them of our prayers and pastoral concerns.
Above all, we pray for the innocent: those who have already been killed, those who have been injured or traumatised, families who have been separated or displaced, and communities that are fearful.
We also pray for leaders at all levels, asking that their decisions be based on respect for human dignity, the common good, and solidarity with the suffering.
We invite all people of faith and goodwill in Australia to join us in praying for peace and healing in a region that has suffered far too long.
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