A message from Archbishop Eamon Martin
Dear Father, Deacon, Sister, Brother,
The President of the Episcopal Conference of Europe has written to me to request that the Church in Ireland, along with the Church across Europe, participate in a day of prayer for Ukraine, as a sign of solidarity and closeness with our European neighbour.
As a gesture of solidarity for Ukraine, stricken by the war that has already lasted many months, it is proposed that a day of prayer be held throughout the whole continent. The date that has been chosen is 14 September, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, which is celebrated in a particularly solemn way in the Eastern Rite.
I invite you, therefore, to include a prayer for peace in Ukraine during your Masses on 14 September and to provide an opportunity for silent Eucharistic Adoration on that day also.
Let us continue to keep the people of Ukraine in our prayers.
With every blessing and kindest regards,
Yours sincerely,
Most Rev Eamon Martin
Apostolic Administrator
Prayer for Peace in Ukraine
Loving God, we pray for the people of Ukraine, for all those suffering or afraid, that you will be close to them and protect them.
We pray for world leaders, for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices.
We pray for the world that in this moment of crisis, we may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need.
May we walk in your ways so that peace and justice become a reality for the people of Ukraine and for all the world.
Amen
Prayer for Ukraine
(composed by Bishop Kenneth Nowakowski)
Almighty and Great God,
accept our gratitude for your boundless mercy towards us.
Hear the supplication of our afflicted hearts for the land and people of Ukraine,
as they confront foreign aggression and invasion.
Open the eyes of those who have been overtaken
by a spirit of deception and violence, that they be horrified by their works.
Grant victory over the powers of evil that have arisen and bless Ukraine with your gifts of liberty, peace, tranquillity, and good fortune.
We implore you, O Merciful God,
look with grace upon those who courageously defend their land. Remember the mothers and fathers, the innocent children,
widows and orphans, the disabled and helpless,
those seeking shelter and refuge,
who reach out to you and to their fellow human beings looking for mercy and compassion.
Bless the hearts of those who have already shown great generosity and solidarity, and those who prepare to receive their Ukrainian brothers and sisters in Ukraine’s greatest time of need.
Bring us together as your children, your creation,
and instil in us your strength, wisdom and understanding.
May you be praised and glorified,
now and forever, and to the ages of ages. Amen.