Pope Francis consistently speaks out against war in Ukraine

 

Smoke rises over the western Ukrainian city of Lviv following a Russian airstrike  (AFP or licensors)

POPE

• POPE FRANCIS
• APPEAL
• REGINA CÆLI
• WAR
• PEACE

Pope Francis appeals for reconciliation to prevail over war

On the day after Easter, Pope Francis appeals for the reconciliation and peace of Christ to prevail over every mindset of war and division.

By Devin Watkins

After praying the Easter season Marian prayer of the Regina Coeli with pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis recalled the reconciliation worked by Christ in His death and Resurrection.

The Pope urged Christians to overcome any mentality that seeks recourse to division and war with the power of Christ’s proclamation of reconciliation.

He prayed that the grace of the Risen Lord might give comfort to all those who are suffering.

“May no one be abandoned. May fights, wars, and conflicts give way to understanding and reconciliation. This word must be highlighted always—Reconciliation. Because what Christ did on Calvary and in His Resurrection was to reconcile us with the God the Father and amongst ourselves: Reconciliation!”

Human plans give way to God

The Pope added that God has won the decisive battle against the spirit of evil.

And he prayed that we might be “won over by Him, let our human plans give way, and convert ourselves to His plans for peace and justice.”

Pope Francis then thanked everyone who has sent him Easter greetings, and said he is “especially grateful for the prayers.”

“I ask God, through the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, to reward each one of you with His gifts.”