Manila: The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Manila (RCAM) on Sunday urged the faithful to engage in prayerful intercession for peace amid the heightened tensions in the Middle East following attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran over the weekend, which led to retaliatory airstrikes.
According to Philippines News Agency, Manila Archbishop Cardinal Jose Advincula has appealed to the clergy, communities of consecrated persons, and lay collaborators within the archdiocese to offer prayers for global peace. The circular order, signed by Chancellor Fr. Carmelo Arada Jr., specified, "His Eminence Jose F. Cardinal Advincula requests that we pray the additional intentions in the Prayer of the Faithful during all our daily Masses starting today, 1 March 2026."
The call for prayer emphasizes a plea for the purification of the world from violence, greed, and misuse of power, which cause suffering and death. The faithful are encouraged to pray for those affected by war, hoping for peace, tranquility, and freedom for all people.
Fr. Arada further urged the faithful to pray the rosary daily for "peace and reconciliation" and to continue praying for the security of everyone in the Middle East during all Masses. The Apostolic Vicar of Southern Arabia, His Excellency Most Reverend Paolo Martinelli, OFM Cap, has also issued an appeal for united prayer for peace amid the escalating situation.
Additionally, Antipolo Bishop Ruperto Santos, vice chair of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People, called upon the people to pray for peace. He specifically addressed Filipino seafarers and migrants in the Middle East, urging them to prioritize safety by staying in their homes and places of work, avoiding unnecessary travel, and adhering to guidance from Embassy officials and authorities.
Bishop Santos underscored the global implications of the conflict, stressing that it threatens not only the stability of the Middle East but also the peace of the world. He highlighted the broader impact on people of all faiths, stating that war results in the loss of innocent lives, the fracturing of families, and the fostering of hatred instead of love.
