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Are you fasting and doing penance to end the war? Pope’s questions for each of us

Prayer Vigil for Priests
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Kathleen N. Hattrup - published on 03/20/22
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Pope Francis says that Christians must not look the other way, living carefree as if the war is distant ...

Echoing the requests of Our Lady of Fatima, Pope Francis is asking the faithful what we are personally doing about the war in Ukraine.

On March 18, the Holy Father received in audience participants in the international conference “Educating for democracy in a fragmented world,” promoted by the Pontifical Foundation Gravissimum Educationis. While his talk was about today's twofold threat to democracy, he began his reflection considering the war.

"We are used to hearing news of wars, but far away. Syria, Yemen ... the usual. Now the war has come closer, it is on our doorstep, practically. And this makes us think about the 'savagery' of human nature, how far we are capable of going," he said.

Since he was addressing people involved in education, he noted especially the toll on youth.

Don't look away

The Pope said the Gospel's directive is simple: to not look the other way.

The Christian who looks the other way is a Christian with a pagan attitude, he said.

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