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In response to the increasing tension and subsequent invasion of the Ukraine  by Russia, and before concluding his general audience, Pope Francis on Wednesday called on believers and nonbelievers to combat the “diabolical insistence, the diabolical senselessness of violence” with prayer and fasting.  

He then added this appeal: “I invite everyone to make March 2, Ash Wednesday, a day of fasting for peace. 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.” 

Rev. John M. Quinn, bishop of the Diocese of Winona-Rochester, also urged the faithful of the Diocese to join in this day of fasting and prayer.

“I too invite everyone to fast on  Ash Wednesday for peace,” Quinn said. “We know that Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace, and it is only through him that true peace will be experienced on earth. Therefore, I ask you all, as we begin the solemn season of  Lent, please beg the Prince of Peace to spare us from violence, in particular, for the people of the  Ukraine.”