Pope Francis recalls suffering in Ukraine and Holy Land

By Deborah Castellano Lubov

"Lent begins today; let us prepare to journey through this season as an opportunity for conversion and inner renewal, in listening to the Word of God, in caring for our brothers and sisters who are in great need."

With these remarks, Pope Francis began his latest appeal for closeness to all those suffering from wars, as he concluded his weekly General Audience in the Vatican on Wednesday morning.

"May we never forget martyred Ukraine, Palestine, and Israel, who suffer so much," he said, adding, "Let us pray for these brothers and sisters who suffer from war."

The Pope invited everyone to "continue in this process of conversion," in "listening to the Word of God," and in "caring for our needy brothers and sisters."

"Let us continue our help and intensify prayer, especially to ask for the gift of peace in the world," the Pope said.

Pope Francis also thanked Polish Catholics who organized and are participating in a fundraiser held in all Polish churches on Ash Wednesday to help Ukraine.

"In the face of so many wars, let us not close our hearts to those in need," he said. "May prayer, fasting and almsgiving be the way to build peace."