On Easter, Pope Leo XIV encouraged everyone to join him in a prayer vigil for peace on Saturday, April 11. The staff of America unites our fervent prayer for peace in Iran and throughout the world with those of the Holy Father and all who seek an end to conflict.

Lord Jesus Christ, in your public ministry, 
you brought peace to a troubled world.

In your Beatitudes,
you declared all peacemakers blessed.

And after your Resurrection, 
you offered your frightened disciples the gift of peace.

Hear our prayers for peace today.

For those who have died or lost loved ones, especially those made widows and orphans by war, that they might have consolation in their mourning and protection from further harm.

For the people of Iran, whose hopes for justice and peace have so often been denied, that the “good of the people as a whole” may prevail over oppression from within and destruction from afar.

For U.S. political leaders, that they might have the courage to speak peace into a culture where violence pervades—and that those who govern with threats and brutality might experience a conversion of heart.

For soldiers and military leaders, that they may find consolation in you, the Lord of Hosts, when they find themselves in harm’s way.

For leaders of all nations, that they may hear your call to the table of dialogue and fellowship, working to seek solutions in cooperation rather than conflict.

For all religious leaders, that their words may encourage others to seek peace, and their actions may embody it.

For the families who have been displaced by war, that they may find strength and solace in one another as they seek to rebuild their lives.

For aid organizations seeking to alleviate the wounds of war, that their efforts may be encouraged, and their work reach those most in need.

For diplomats, that they remain hopeful that their tireless work to build a “disarmed and disarming peace” will bear fruit in ways seen and unseen. 

And for all who are filled with hatred, may the peace of Christ permeate every hardened heart, turn swords to ploughshares, enemies to allies.