Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, issued a statement on Ukraine:
On behalf of my brother bishops, I echo the Holy Father’s call for prayer and fasting to end the war in Ukraine. In times of trouble, we call on the tender mercy of God … to guide our feet to the way of peace (Lk 1:78-79).
May our prayers, joined with those of people around the world, help guide those waging war to end the meaningless suffering and restore peace.
Our Lady, Queen of Peace, pray for us.
Pope Francis announced that Ash Wednesday would be a day of fasting for peace in Ukraine at this week’s general audience, the day before Russia crossed into Ukraine.
From his Twitter account, it was also announced.