Pope Francis Marks Epiphany with Midday Prayer, Calls for Peace
On the feast of Epiphany, January 6, Pope Francis led a midday prayer in St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City, before a vast gathering of the faithful. Following the prayer, he delivered a message and led various intercessions. The following day, January 7, he extended his greetings to members of the Eastern Churches celebrating their Christmas season and their respective feasts of the Epiphany.
Pope Francis expressed his closeness to people in various countries affected by conflict, particularly in Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, and Myanmar. He renewed his call for peace, praying, "Lord Jesus, King of Peace, grant us peace and serenity."
He also conveyed his greetings to missionaries, especially children and young people, around the world, urging them to continue their mission with unity and perseverance. The Pope also sent his greetings to those who participated in the historical and folklore procession that marked the Epiphany in Rome.
Pope Francis’ Epiphany celebration was a poignant reminder of the universal message of peace and unity that the season brings, as well as a call to action for all to work towards a more peaceful world.
