Pope Francis has called on believers around the world to unite in a day of prayer and fasting on the 7th of October, the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary. This solemn appeal comes in the context of escalating conflicts in the Middle East, Ukraine and various regions suffering from violence and instability. The day is dedicated to pleading for peace and divine intervention for those caught up in the turmoil of war.

At the end of the solemn Mass in St. Peter's Square for the opening of the second session of the General Assembly of the Synod, the Pope urged everyone to unite in this spiritual action: ‘I ask everyone to live this day of prayer and fasting for peace in the world’. The Holy Father stressed the importance of raising our voices to God, especially in times of suffering and conflict.

On the 6th of October he will go to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore to pray the Rosary, extending the invitation to the members of the Synod and to all the faithful. This moment of unity is meant to represent the Church's collective commitment to peace.

Pope Francis' call to prayer and fasting is a constant in his pontificate, having organised similar days for countries such as Syria, Lebanon, South Sudan and Ukraine. In these moments of crisis, prayer becomes a powerful instrument of hope and healing.

A special appeal to all sisters of the world: let us join this global movement. Together we can lift our hearts in prayer, becoming instruments of peace for a world torn apart by conflict.