US bishops asks prayer, fasting for peace in Syria on Friday, September 13

September 12, 2013

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is asking Catholics to pray, fast, and abstain from meat on Friday September 13 “for lasting peace in Syria, the Middle East, and the entire world - that all human life may be respected and cherished.”

The US bishops have called the faithful to fasting and prayer each Friday during the Year of Faith. This week’s proposed day of prayer and fasting comes a week after a separate worldwide observance, called by Pope Francis, to pray and fast on September 7 for peace in Syria.

In a reflection that accompanies the announcement of the weekly intention, the USCCB calls attention to the Pope’s for a day of prayer, noting that the Pontiff asked the faithful to “dedicate ourselves each day” to prayer for peace.

In December 2012, the US bishops announced a call to prayer and penance whose “overall focus is to invite Catholics to pray for rebuilding a culture favorable to life and marriage and for increased protections of religious liberty. Campaign components include monthly Eucharistic holy hours in cathedrals and parishes, daily family rosary, special Prayers of the Faithful at all Masses, fasting and abstinence on Fridays, and the second observance of a Fortnight for Freedom.”

The Friday prayer and fasting intentions change weekly; the links below describe how to receive the intentions in advance, typically on the afternoon of the previous day.

 

---

For all current news, visit our News home page.

---

 
Further information:

• Call To Prayer Friday Fast - Intentions And Reflections (USCCB)
• Call to Prayer: Pledge to Fast (USCCB)