Pope Francis’ invitation to pray, fast and do penance for peace in Syria was taken seriously on September 7, 2013. On the vigil of Our Blessed Mother Mary’s birthday, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity joined others who put into action the Holy Father’s request in personal and communal ways.
To meet a Franciscan Sister praying for peace is what a follower of Francis is called to do every day. St. Bonaventure said of St. Francis: At the beginning and end of every sermon he (Francis) announced peace; in every greeting he wished for peace; in every contemplation he sighed for ecstatic peace…”
Responding to Pope Francis’ particular September 7th invitation, the Diocese of Green Bay announced a special evening gathering at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral. Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity joined families, young adults, priests, parish leaders, Franciscan Sisters of the Holy Cross, Franciscan Friars of the Assumption BVM Province, etc, in praying for peace in Syria, the Middle East and throughout the world. All of us were encouraged to look beyond ourselves and our own needs, and thus sent to “go, proclaim peace” in our very lives.
