Pope Leo XIV talks to visitors during his weekly general audience in the Paul VI Audience Hall at the Vatican Aug. 20, 2025. (CNS photo/Lola Gomez)

By CatholicPhilly Staff • Posted August 21, 2025

Pope Leo XIV has invited all the faithful to take part in a day of prayer and fasting for peace on Friday, Aug. 22, the commemoration of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

In his weekly general audience, the Holy Father recalled the world’s many current conflict zones, especially Ukraine and the Middle East.

The sacrifices of prayer and fasting are offered to implore the Lord “to grant us peace and justice, and to wipe away the tears of those who suffer because of ongoing armed conflicts,” Pope Leo said.

He called for “a peace that is disarmed and disarming – for the whole world.” He prayed that Mary, the Queen of Peace, may “intercede so that peoples may find the path of peace.”