"Even today, our thoughts are drawn to Israel and Palestine. The death toll is rising, and the situation in Gaza is dire. Please do everything you can to prevent a humanitarian disaster." This is what Pope Francis said at the close of yesterday's general audience in the Vatican. "The possibility of escalation is concerning," the pontiff continued, "especially since many war fronts are already open around the world. Let the firearms fall silent! May the people's and the children's plea for peace be heard! War, brothers and sisters, does not solve problems; it just sows death and destruction, fuels hatred, and multiplies vengeance. War obliterates the future. I implore Christians to take only one side in this conflict: the side of peace; but not with just words, but with prayer, or entire dedication." As a result, Francis has decided to "proclaim, on Friday, October 27, a day of fasting and prayer, of penance, to which I invite the sisters and brothers of the various Christian confessions, those of other religions, and those who care about world peace to join, in whatever way they deem appropriate. That evening, at 6 p.m., we will spend an hour at St. Peter's in penance, praying for peace in our days and peace in the world. I implore each specific church to partake in this endeavor by organizing analogous endeavors that enlist the People of God".
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