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INTENTION : |
For disarmament and peace.
Let us pray that nations move towards effective disarmament, particularly nuclear disarmament, and that world leaders choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy instead of violence.
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FOCUS
There is no need to clarify the importance that Pope Francis has given to prayer for peace (cf January 2020: For the promotion of world peace, April 2023: For a culture of peace and non-violence). In countless ways and constantly, he invites us to a transformation that allows us to open our eyes to the reality of war, which only generates more deaths and destroys the social fabric, sometimes irreparably. The arms industry continues to grow, leading to increased access at all levels, from families and neighbourhoods to cities and nations. Even more serious is the threat of large- scale destruction due to nuclear technology. The focus of this intention is, on one hand, to effectively implement a total ceasefire and disarmament programmes. That is, to move from declarations to actions. And, on the other hand, to make a conscious and consistent choice for the path of dialogue and diplomacy, especially among those responsible for leading our peoples.
ATTITUDE OF THE HEART
Renounce weapons and confrontation in favour of dialogue.
Become instruments of peace. True peace is born from a reconciled heart. Sowing peace in the world begins by living peace in everyday life. The disarmament that transforms nations begins with inner disarmament. (cf Step 3, The Way of the Heart - Choosing paths of life. Rejecting what leads to death).
OTHER DAILY ATTITUDES TO LIVE THIS PRAYER INTENTION
1. Disarm your language:
Watch your words each day: avoid aggressive phrases, sarcasm, mockery, or destructive criticism.
2. Choose dialogue:
In a conflict, seek understanding instead of imposing your point of view.
3. Renounce small daily acts of violence:
Examine attitudes like impatience, contempt, or harsh judgment.
4. Be informed and pray for world peace:
Choose one region in conflict and pray for it throughout the week.
5. Act justly in concrete situations:
Peace is not only the absence of war, but the fruit of just relationships.
MONTHLY PRAYER
Lord of Life,
you shaped every human being in your image and likeness.
We believe you created us for communion, not for war,
for fraternity, not for destruction.
You who greeted your disciples saying, "Peace be with you,"
grant us the gift of your peace
and the strength to make it a reality in history.
Today we lift up our prayer for peace in the world,
asking that nations renounce weapons
and choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy.
Disarm our hearts of hatred, resentment, and indifference,
so we may become instruments of reconciliation.
Help us understand that
true security does not come from control fueled by fear,
but from trust, justice, and solidarity among peoples.
Lord, enlighten the leaders of the nations,
so they may have the courage to abandon projects of death,
halt the arms race,
and place the lives of the most vulnerable at the centre.
May the nuclear threat never again dictate the future of humanity.
Holy Spirit,
make us faithful and creative builders of daily peace:
in our hearts, our families,
our communities, and our cities.
May every kind word, every gesture of reconciliation,
and every choice for dialogue be seeds of a new world. Amen.
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