The Second Session of the Synod Rome
Pope Francis’ opening address and request to the Synod participants:
Brothers and sisters, we begin anew our synodal path with an eye toward the world, since the Christian community is always at the service of humanity in order to announce the joy of the Gospel. In such a dramatic time in our history, when the winds of war and the flames of violence continue to devastate entire peoples and nations, there is need for this message.
In order to invoke the intercession of Mary Most Holy for the gift of peace, I will recite the holy rosary and make a heartfelt plea to the Virgin in the Basilica of Saint Mary Major this coming Sunday. If possible, I ask all members of the Synod to join me for this occasion.
The following day, 7 October, I ask everyone to participate in a day of prayer and fasting for peace in the world.
Let us walk together. Let us listen to the Lord and allow him to guide us by the "breath" of the Spirit.
Our holy Father Pope Francis has extended his request to include all of us to fast and pray for the peace Christ won for us to be manifest in the strive-stridden places of our world today.
