The Archdiocese of Manila has issued a directive for all daily Masses to include special prayer intentions for peace in the Middle East, as hostilities in the region continue to escalate. This mandate, detailed in Circular 2026-23, took effect on March 1, 2026, and calls for the faithful to fervently offer prayers and sacrifices.
Archdiocese Calls for Divine Intervention
In its circular, the archdiocese emphasized the need for prayers to ensure that "the voice of peace may be heard" and the biblical prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled. The church is urging congregations to seek God's intervention to "purify the world of all violence, greed, and misuse of power." Additionally, prayers are being offered for those suffering due to war, with hopes that peace will be granted to them swiftly.
Support for Overseas Filipino Workers
The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-Ecmi) has joined this spiritual initiative. Bishop Ruperto Santos, Vice Chairman of CBCP-Ecmi, released a statement assuring overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the Middle East that they are included in the prayers of religious leaders.
Bishop Santos addressed OFWs directly, stating: "At this critical moment, I, together with your chaplains, wish to speak to our dear Filipino seafarers and migrants, who are in the Middle East and in neighboring regions. We hold you close in our prayers."
A Unified Call to Action
The bishop further encouraged the faithful to unite in prayer for their countrymen affected by the crisis. He stressed the importance of vigilance and hope, saying: "Let us not be indifferent. Let us remain vigilant in prayer and steadfast in hope. May our voices rise to heaven, pleading for an end to violence and the coming of lasting peace."
This move by the Archdiocese of Manila highlights the church's role in addressing global conflicts through spiritual means, while also providing solace and support to the Filipino community abroad during these turbulent times.
