Pope Francis: 'May Mary guide the destiny of Europe and the world'

Pope Francis prays for Mary to guide the destiny of Europe and the world, help us put Christ and the Gospel first, and reiterates that his thoughts are always with war-torn Ukraine and its suffering people.

Aug 19, 2022

By Deborah Castellano Lubov
"May the Black Madonna help guide the destiny of Europe and the world."

The Holy Father expressed this prayer during his Wednesday General Audience in the Vatican when addressing Polish-speaking faithful and pilgrims present.

The Pope remembered the thousands of pilgrims making a pilgrimage to the shrine of Jasna Góra in recent days, praying for peace and reconciliation in the world. He recalled that among them are many Ukrainians "who have found in your country a hospitable home."

Never forget Ukraine
Pope Francis said his thoughts always go toward war-torn Ukraine.

As the war continues to wage on after the Russian invasion of its neighbour, the Holy Father repeated his appeal not to forget that suffering people nor grow accustomed to the war.

The Pope has made countless appeals for the country and has offered to do anything possible to help bring an end to the war.

He has expressed repeatedly his interest in going to both Moscow and Kyiv and has reiterated the Holy See's availability to help with mediation.--Vatican News