VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis led the world’s Catholic bishops on Friday evening as they prayed for peace between Russia and Ukraine. The Pope presided at a service in St. Peter’s Basilica, entrusting the protection of all humanity, “especially Russia and Ukraine,” to Mary, who Christians believe is the Mother of God. Since Russia invaded its neighbor on Feb. 24 in what it called a “special military operation,” the Pope has implicitly criticized Moscow. But on Friday, he used the words Russia and Russians as part of his prayer and homily. The Pope mentioning Russia on Friday’s prayer was welcomed by some Church traditionalists who otherwise generally oppose Pope Francis.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer March 27, 2022 06:07 UTC