These days, we have been following the sad news of the escalation of war and violence in Lebanon and the Holy Land. We worry about our loved ones back home and often feel hopeless and helpless.

I call on all of our parishes to offer the Divine Liturgies this Sunday for Peace in Lebanon and the Holy Land.

I urge every parishioner and friend to pray for the end of violence and everlasting peace. May all leaders always, “speak words of peace, think of peace, and work for peace” (Anaphora of St. John Chrysostom).

+A. Elias Zaidan

Bishop of the Eparchy of Our Lady of Lebanon of Los Angeles