Pope announces Aug. 22 as the day for prayer and fasting, calling for peace in Ukraine and the Holy Land
Pope Leo XIV Calls for Day of Prayer and Fasting for Peace and Justice
Pope Leo XIV has requested all Catholics to spend August 22 in fasting and prayer, asking the Lord for peace and justice, and to alleviate the suffering of those affected by armed conflicts. The pope made this appeal during his general audience on August 20, 2025, following his stay at Castel Gandolfo.
The day of prayer and fasting coincides with the church's celebration of the feast of the Queenship of Mary on August 22. Pope Leo XIV expressed a desire for Mary, the queen of peace, to intercede so that people may find the path of peace.
During his stay at Castel Gandolfo, Pope Leo XIV expressed joy at his time spent there, referring to it as a grace. He also expressed concern over ongoing wars in the Holy Land, Ukraine, and other regions of the world. The pope has spoken with some leaders, but did not specify which ones.
Pope Leo XIV marked his 100th day as pope on August 16. He considers his papacy a blessing from God and is grateful for the reception he has received. As he returns to the Vatican, he expressed hope regarding new diplomatic moves aimed at ending Russia's war on Ukraine, but stated that much work still needs to be done.
The pope has called for a day of prayer and fasting on August 22, specifically focusing on Ukraine and the Holy Land. He also expressed hope for new diplomatic moves aimed at ending conflicts in these regions. However, the article does not provide any new information about the pope's stance on these ongoing conflicts.
Pope Leo XIV was speaking to reporters the night before his general audience, as he was greeting people who gathered outside the Villa Barberini in Castel Gandolfo. Despite a question about speaking with U.S. President Donald Trump, the pope did not respond.
As he returns to the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV expressed a need for continued hard work, prayer, and seeking a way forward regarding the ongoing conflicts. The pope's call for a day of prayer and fasting serves as a reminder for all Catholics to join in seeking peace and justice for those affected by armed conflicts around the world.
