The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has announced a nine-day period of prayer and reflection, beginning Saturday, June 21st, in response to the ongoing violence and killings in Benue State and other parts of the country.
The initiative follows recent statements condemning the escalating unrest and aims to foster peace and offer support to victims.
The CBCN expressed profound sorrow over the continued bloodshed, highlighting the urgency for prayer and collective action.
The nine-day prayer period will include daily recitation of the Rosary and a special prayer for Nigeria, culminating in a Holy Mass on Sunday, June 29th, the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul.
This Mass will be offered across all dioceses and parishes to pray for peace, healing, and the comfort of those affected by the violence.
In addition to the prayer initiative, the CBCN confirmed that emergency aid has already been provided to affected communities and a delegation will soon visit to offer solidarity and support.
The Bishops appealed to all Catholics and people of goodwill across Nigeria to participate in the nine-day prayer period,
The Bishops also urged a unified effort to address the escalating crisis, and the statement concluded with a plea for divine intervention and lasting peace in the Nation
By Sunny A. David, Awka
