World Day of Peace: 21 September 2024

2024 has seen the highest number of countries engaged in conflict since World War II. Now more than ever the profound call of St Francis ‘to be instruments of peace’ is needed in our world fraught with division and conflict. The World Day of Peace invites us to reflect deeply on the wisdom of peacemakers who have dedicated their lives to fostering peace and reconciliation.

In his encyclical Fratelli Tutti, Pope Francis writes, "we are all brothers and sisters," calling us to a renewed sense of fraternity and friendship. He urges us to move beyond mere tolerance and to embrace a love that transcends borders and divisions.

"We need to think of ourselves more and more as a single family dwelling in a common home," he writes, challenging us to break down the walls that separate us and to build bridges of understanding and solidarity.

Sr Joan Chittister, a tireless advocate for peace and justice, echoes this call in her work. She speaks powerfully about the need for courage in the pursuit of peace. "Peace is not the product of terror or fear," she says. "Peace is not the silence of cemeteries. Peace is not the result of violent repression. Peace is the generous, tranquil contribution of all to the good of all. Peace is dynamism. Peace is generosity. It is right and it is duty." Sr Joan's words remind us that true peace is active, requiring our generous and ongoing contribution to the common good.

On the World Day of Peace, let us pray for the grace to be true instruments of peace. May the wisdom inspire us to live with courage, generosity, and a deep commitment to the common good. And may we always remember that peace begins with each one of us, as we open our hearts to the transforming power of God's love.

Reflection questions

How can I seek to cultivate a heart of compassion and understanding in my personal and professional relationships?

How can I assist justice and reconciliation flourishing in my community?

Prayer for Peace

Loving God, source of all peace,

We thank you for the call to be peacemakers in our world.

Help us to see all people as our brothers and sisters, and to work tirelessly for justice and reconciliation.

Fill our hearts with your love, that we may be true instruments of your peace, bringing hope and healing to a broken world.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.