Chisom Umejiaku
Pope Leo XIV has declared Friday, August 22, 2025, as a global day of fasting and prayer, urging Catholics and people of goodwill to intercede for peace and justice in Ukraine, Gaza, and across the Middle East.
The pontiff made the appeal on Wednesday, August 20, during his first weekly General Audience since returning to the Vatican from his summer retreat in Castel Gandolfo.
He linked the observance to the feast of the Queenship of Mary, asking the faithful to unite in prayer “that the Lord may grant peace and justice and dry the tears of those suffering from armed conflict.”
The call reflects Pope Leo XIV’s consistent advocacy for peace in regions torn by violence.
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Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and the escalation of the Gaza conflict in October 2023, he has repeatedly urged ceasefires, humanitarian corridors, and dialogue as alternatives to warfare.
Friday’s observance is also expected to draw international attention to the Vatican’s diplomatic role at a time of heightened global tension.
The Pope’s latest initiative comes as the Church prepares for two major events: the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope, which is expected to bring millions of pilgrims to Rome, and the canonization of Carlo Acutis, set for September 7, making him the Catholic Church’s first millennial saint.