Cebu Archbishop issues prayer for 'peace, solidarity with the poor' amid Middle East conflict

Cebu Archbishop Alberto "Abet" Uy has issued a special prayer or "Oratio Imperata for Peace and Solidarity with the Poor" through his social media accounts.

Archbishop Uy called on all parishes to recite the prayer "daily at every Holy Mass and every family to pray each day at home."

The prayer is available in English and Cebuano. There are no other details posted.

But the petition mentions, armed conflict and the rising cost of fuel, which is being felt by Filipino consumers.

"As the world faces conflict and rising costs of fuel, we feel the burden upon our daily lives, especially the poor and the vulnerable," states part of the prayer.

The prayer also seeks for patience to those who are struggling, generosity to those who are in better circumstances, and "Grant wisdom to leaders, that they may choose peace over war, dialogue over violence, and the good of all over selfish gain."

The following is the prayer in English:

Oratio Imperata for Peace and Solidarity with the Poor

Heavenly Father,

Creator of all and loving Provider,

we come before You in this time of uncertainty and need.

As the world faces conflict and rising costs of fuel,

we feel the burden upon our daily lives,

especially the poor and the vulnerable.

Grant patience to those who are struggling,

that they may endure their hardships with hope.

Grant generosity to those who are in better circumstances,

that they may share their blessings with compassion.

Grant wisdom to leaders,

that they may choose peace over war,

dialogue over violence,

and the good of all over selfish gain.

Teach us to be responsible stewards of Your creation,

to use resources wisely,

to avoid waste,

and to care for one another in charity and solidarity.

Strengthen our faith in Your providence,

that even in times of crisis,

we may trust that You will not abandon Your people.

May the Santo Niño guide and protect us,

and may Mary, Our Lady of Guadalupe, intercede for us,

that peace may reign and hope may endure.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

— BAP, GMA Integrated News