Bishop Vásquez is asking the faithful of the Diocese of Austin to join Pope Francis in marking this coming Ash Wednesday as a day for prayer and fasting not only for the beginning of Lent, but also, for the end of war in Ukraine. Bishop Vásquez explains, “I join our Holy Father in petitioning all people to pray for an end to the war and aggression in Ukraine! And may our brothers and sisters who are experiencing upheaval know the loving presence and protection of the Mother of God in their suffering.”
Here is the press release from Archbishop Gomez, President of the USCCB:
U.S. Bishops’ President Echoes Pope Francis’ Call for Prayer and Fasting for Ukraine
February 24, 2022
WASHINGTON - Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued a statement on Ukraine:
“On behalf of my brother bishops, I echo the Holy Father’s call for prayer and fasting to end the war in Ukraine. In times of trouble, we call on the tender mercy of God ... to guide our feet to the way of peace (Lk 1:78-79). May our prayers, joined with those of people around the world, help guide those waging war to end the meaningless suffering and restore peace. Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray for us.”
https://www.usccb.org/news/2022/us-bishops-president-echoes-pope-francis-call-prayer-and-fasting-ukraine