Bishop of Raphoe Alan McGuckian stresses 'terrifying' times in the Middle East

The Bishop of Raphoe Alan McGuckian SJ has urged local parishioners to pray for Holy Land.

Palestinian officials said on Friday 11,078 Gaza residents had been killed in air and artillery strikes from Israel in response to an attack on Isreal by Hamas on October 7.

“I ask for your continued prayers for peace in the Holy Land as we continue to see the horrific impact of war, terror, death and destruction in Israel and Palestine,” Bishop McGuckian said in a statement circulated to parishioners attending Mass across the Diocese of Raphoe this weekend.

“Let us pray particularly for those who have been taken hostage, those who have been killed, those who have been injured, and are being driven from their homes. We also pray that people in positions of power and authority receive the wisdom to guide them into ways of peace and justice.

“In solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land you might also consider giving to Trócaire. Two years ago I witnessed first-hand the outstanding work of Trócaire and their partners in providing aid and advocating for the human rights of the people in Gaza and the West Bank. On the Trócaire website there are good guidelines for ways to help and advocate for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

“May our brothers and sisters in the Holy Land, through our prayers and solidarity, know our desire to remain close to them at this most difficult, terrifying, and testing of times. Our Lady, Queen of Peace, Pray for us.”