Pope issues a strong plea for an end to attacks on civilians

A destroyed school in Ukraine. Photo: hrw.org

On January 5, Pope Francis addressed pilgrims with a plea for continued prayers for peace, calling particular attention to Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Syria, Myanmar, and Sudan, according to Vatican News.

The pontiff urged the international community to act “with firmness to ensure that humanitarian law is respected” during conflicts. He condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure.

“No more striking civilians! No more striking schools or hospitals! No more striking workplaces!” he declared.

Pope Francis concluded his remarks with a reminder that war never brings victory.

“Let us not forget,” he said, “that war is always a defeat, always!”

As previously reported by the UOJ, the head of the UGCC believes that a unified structure of the UGCC and OCU will be the result of the unifying efforts of Rome and the Phanar.

Read also

UOC Primate blesses special prayer rule for Great Lent

Metropolitan Onuphry blessed to pray for peace in Ukraine during Great Lent.

In Britain, Christians are no longer majority

According to a Pew Research Center study, the share of Christians in the United Kingdom has fallen below 50%.

His Beatitude Onuphry addresses flock before Great Lent

The Primate of the UOC blessed the faithful for the upcoming Great Lent.

Lavra Reserve complains to UNESCO about heating and power outage

International experts studied possible threats to the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra – from missile strikes to power and heating outages.

Konotop Eparchy Administration is under repair after shelling

The replacement of the windows damaged as a result of the shelling in the Church of All Saints and the building of the Konotop Eparchy has become possible thanks to donations from believers.

Priests and laity of Rivne Eparchy donate blood for children with cancer

In Rivne, the UOC clergy and laity have donated blood for children undergoing treatment for cancer.