By CatholicPhilly Staff • Posted March 6, 2026

Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez issued a March 6 statement encouraging Catholics across the Archdiocese of Philadelphia to pray for peace as renewed conflict in the Middle East has “produced concern and worry in our hearts.” 

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Dear Sisters and Brothers,

The recent outbreak of additional military conflict in the Middle East has produced concern and worry in our hearts.

I am strongly encouraging each parish in our local Church to respond in a hopeful manner by offering petitions at all Masses this weekend for a number of related intentions.

In a special way prayers are to be lifted up for the people of the Middle East, for the protection and safety of all those serving in our country’s Armed Forces, for the comfort of their families, for those mourning the loss of a loved one, and for a lasting peace that respects human dignity.

I invite all people of good will to amplify this prayerful initiative in their homes and with their families. The petitions being shared with our parishes are below.

May God bless you abundantly and grant us peace.

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D.
Archbishop of Philadelphia

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INTENTIONS FOR THE UNIVERSAL PRAYER
FOR THE MILITARY CONFLICT IN THE MIDDLE EAST

For peace all over the earth, especially in the Middle East,
that this sign of the favor of the Lord will promote true justice
for the oppressed, victims of destruction and those who live in fear.

Let us pray to the Lord/Lord, hear our prayer.

For the people of all nations engaged in military conflict, especially in the Middle East,
that they will soon know real freedom and true peace
for the benefit of their own countries and for the whole world.

Let us pray to the Lord/Lord, hear our prayer.

For peace and concord among all peoples, especially in the Middle East,
that this will be promoted by those who govern nations
with evident effects in the lives of those torn apart by terror and war.

Let us pray to the Lord/Lord, hear our prayer.

For the safety of our nation’s armed forces and their families around the world,
especially as the military conflict in the Middle East continues,
that they may know the abiding support of our prayers for them and for peace.

Let us pray to the Lord/Lord, hear our prayer.

For an end to violence and war everywhere, especially in the Middle East,
that this may be the work of all people for the sake of all people
with the encouragement and example of those who work and pray for peace.

Let us pray to the Lord/Lord, hear our prayer.