GAYLORD, MICHIGAN — Bishop Walter A. Hurley, Apostolic Administrator for the Diocese of Gaylord, has announced that the Diocese of Gaylord will be joining Pope Francis call to offer our fasting and abstinence on Ash Wednesday for the people of Ukraine:
“As you know, earlier today Russia began its invasion of Ukraine. Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has condemned the decision, calling it ‘diabolical senselessness of violence.’ My heart goes out to all those whose lives are affected by these acts of violence which have caused irreparable damage and an unnecessary loss of so many lives.
“Our Holy Father has asked that we offer our fasting and abstinence on Ash Wednesday for the people of Ukraine. ‘I encourage believers in a special way to devote themselves intensely to prayer and fasting on that day. May the Queen of Peace protect the world from the folly of war.’ Let us join together with our Holy Father in praying for an end to armed conflict and a return to peace.”
Bishop Hurley has also called for Masses in the Dioceses of Gaylord to be offered for the intention of peace in Ukraine as permitted by the Liturgical Calendar. These Masses should follow the Mass for Preservation of Peace and Justice or the Mass in Time of War or Civil Disturbance as outlined in the Masses for Various needs and Occasions section of the Roman Missal.
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