Pope Francis prays for children suffering in Ukraine

Pope Francis urges everyone to remember and pray for the children of Ukraine, as he meets with young people assisted by the Vatican’s “Santa Marta” Pediatric Dispensary.

By Devin Watkins

As Christmas approaches next Sunday, Pope Francis recalled the many children of Ukraine who will be unable to celebrate the birth of Christ in peace and security.

Meeting with children assisted by the Vatican’s “Santa Marta” Pediatric Dispensary on Sunday, as well as their parents and volunteer staff, the Pope urged everyone to pray for peace in Ukraine.

“We must not forget the children of Ukraine,” he said. “So many children are suffering from war, and in other parts of the world they also suffer from injustice.”

He pointed to a Ukrainian flag in the Paul VI Hall, where the audience took place, and noted the word “peace” written on it.

“If the Lord gives us this joy to celebrate Christmas like this, all together, in peace, let us also think of those who suffer and let us pray together for them.”

Children present the Pope with a birthday cake

Prayer for suffering Ukrainians

Separately, at the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square, Pope Francis again prayed for peace in Ukraine and for all those suffering from the ongoing war.

“We ask the Virgin Mary… to touch the hearts of those who can put a stop to the war in Ukraine. Let us not forget the suffering of those people, especially of children, the elderly, and those who are ill. Let us pray, pray [for them]!”