Pope Francis entrusts war-torn Ukraine and Holy Land to St. Joseph

By Deborah Castellano Lubov

"To St Joseph, we commend the war-torn peoples of Ukraine and the Holy Land, Palestine, and Israel, who suffer so greatly from the horror of war."

This was the latest appeal of Pope Francis for an end to the wars plaguing the world, one day after the Church celebrated the Feast of St. Joseph on 19 March.

Throughout his pontificate, the Holy Father has had a special place in his heart for the spouse of the Blessed Mother, having also dedicated a special Year of St. Joseph between 1 January 2020 and 8 December 2021.

'Negotiate to end the war'

"Let us never forget," the Pope reiterated, "war is always a defeat. One cannot go on in war."

"We must make every effort," he insisted, "to negotiate to end the war."

Inviting everyone to pray for this intention, Pope Francis concluded by imparting his blessing to all.

Pope Francis at General Audience