The icon is known as Our Lady of the People: "I invite you to join spiritually with this prayer of mine."
Pope Francis prayed for peace in Ukraine this January 11 before an icon that is much beloved in the region.
The icon of Our Lady of the People, dear to Ukrainians and Belarusians, was on the stage of Paul VI Hall during the general audience today.
Pope Francis urged the faithful not to forget "martyred Ukraine, always in our hearts."
"To this people who are experiencing cruel suffering we express our affection, our closeness and our prayers." After these words, the Pontiff paused a few moments in silence before the icon, "praying for that dear country and for peace. I invite you to join spiritually with this prayer of mine."
