Pentecost 2024: Pope Francis asks to pray so that the Holy Spirit leads rulers to end wars

Pope Francis, in his message after Regina Caeli on May 19, urged Catholics to direct their prayers to the Holy Spirit, asking him to instill harmony and grant rulers the courage necessary to promote dialogue and end wars.

“Today, the Solemnity of Pentecost, let us pray to the Holy Spirit, Love of the Father and the Son, to create harmony in hearts, harmony in families, harmony in society, harmony in the entire world” and harmony among Christians in the different confessions, he told the Holy Father this Sunday.

Next, he asked that the Holy Spirit “give rulers the courage to carry out gestures of dialogue that lead to an end to wars, the many wars of today.”

“Let’s think about Ukraine: my thoughts go especially to the city of Kharkiv, which suffered an attack two days ago. Let us think of the Holy Land, of Palestine, of Israel. Let us think of so many places where there is war: may the Spirit lead those responsible for nations and all of us to open doors of peace,” he said.

Thanks to the people of Verona

Later, Pope Francis expressed his gratitude and affection towards those who received him during his recent visit to Verona on May 18, highlighting the hospitality and affection received during his stay in the city.

“The Veronese have done very well,” he expressed, recognizing the hospitality and affection received during his stay. In particular, the Pope extended his gratitude to the detainees of the Verona prison, highlighting their testimony of life, humanity and hope.

“To all the penitentiary staff and, in particular, to the director, Dr. Francesca Gioieni, my sincere gratitude goes,” he said.

Finally, the Pope closed his message with his characteristic request for prayers and wishing everyone a happy Sunday.