The Archdiocese of Manila asked Masses to include peace in the West Asia and the world among the Prayers of the Faithful in its Holy Week celebrations.
As millions of Filipinos flock to churches in observance of their most important liturgical calendar, the country’s most important church district asked its clergy and the faithful to pray for peace.
In a Holy Week circular, chancellor Rev. Fr. Carmelo P. Arada Jr. said Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula requested that the intention be included in the Liturgy Prayer of the Faithful throughout the Holy Week.
“We earnestly pray for peace in the Middle East and the world. May God purify the world of all violence, greed, and misuse of power that bring suffering and death to many. Let us pray to the Lord,” the first part of the suggested intention says.
“We pray for those who suffer because of the scourge of war that peace may be granted to them soon, and may every people live in tranquility and freedom. Let us pray to the Lord,” the second part adds.
The Prayer of the Faithful, also known as the Universal Prayer or General Intercessions takes place at the end of the Liturgy of the Word, the first major part of the Roman Catholic Mass where parts of the Holy Scriptures are read and before the beginning of the Liturgy of the Eucharist.
The Prayer of the Liturgy allows the congregation to pray for, among others, the world and its difficulties.
Fr. Arada said the special prayer was requested by Most Reverend Paolo Cardinal Martinelli, the Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia.
Cardinal Martinelli asked Catholics to “remain united in prayer for peace.”
“I invite you all to pray the rosary every day for peace and reconciliation. During all Holy Masses, let us pray for peace and the security of all people in this region,” Martinelli reportedly implored.
Over 80 per cent of Filipinos are Catholics, numbering to around 89 million and including a vast majority of their 2.4 compatriots in the Middle East.
The Philippines is currently on a four-and-a-half day holiday to observe the Holy Week to commemorate the final days of Jesus Christ’s earthly life, including his triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, crucifixion on Good Friday, and resurrection on Easter Sunday.
Easter Sunday is considered the holiest and important day for Christians throughout the world. # (Raymund B. Villanueva)
