At the end of the Angelus, Pope Francis publicly thanked those who prayed with him on the day of prayer, fasting, and penance for peace in the world.
“Let us not give up,” Pope Francis said. “We continue to pray for Ukraine, also for the grave situation in Palestine and Israel and other warring regions.”
The pope joined the chorus of international voices calling for a ceasefire to allow humanitarian aid to continue to be provided to Palestinian civilians.
“In Gaza, in particular, that space be left to ensure humanitarian aid and that hostages be released immediately,” Pope Francis said. “Let no one give up on the possibility of a ceasefire.”
The pope also asked for prayers for the victims of the hurricane in Mexico, which has left dozens dead and caused widespread chaos and destruction.