The President of the Polish Bishops’ calls for prayers and help for Syria

15-12-2016
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A prayer for peace in Syria and its inclusion in the program of Caritas „Rodzina Rodzinie” (Family for Family) has been called for by Archbishop Stanislaw Gądecki, President of the Polish Bishops’ Conference, who personally supports one of the Syrian families). The Archbishop also thanked the Poles for their commitment to helping the Syrians through the Pontifical Foundation „Aid to the Church in Need”.

We are publishing the entire text of his message here:

Statement of the President of the Polish Episcopate on the situation in Syria

In the context of the tragic events of the war that have escalated in Syria, I recall the cry for peace of Pope Francis, who recently said: „I appeal to the commitment of all, because they face a choice of civilization: no to destruction, yes to peace, yes to the people of Aleppo and Syria” (Angelus, 11.12.2016).

Especially during the period of preparation for Christmas, let us remember to pray for all the victims of the Syrian conflict, starting with the innocent children who are being killed or have to flee from the war.

In this context, I am grateful to those who support, with their prayer and sacrifice, the activities of the Papal Foundation „Aid to the Church in Need” that runs the camps for refugees Syrian, rents apartments, provides medical assistance and food parcels to thousands of people who are under its care. At the same time, I encourage you to participate in the initiatives of Caritas Poland, especially in the „Rodzina Rodzinie” (Family for Family) that serves seriously injured Syrian families (see www.rodzinarodzinie.caritas.pl).

May we not falter in our commitment to helping those in need, in the spirit of Christ’s words: „Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Mt 25:40).

Archbishop Stanisław Gądecki
Archbishop of Poznan
President of the Polish Bishops’ Conference