MANILA, Philippines — The Diocese of Antipolo will begin holding a Weekly Holy Hour for Peace every Thursday starting June 26, 2025, in response to the ongoing violence in the Middle East, Bishop Ruperto Santos announced in a pastoral letter dated June 24.

The special weekly devotion is intended to unite the faithful in prayer for peace, particularly in light of the intensifying conflict between Israel and Iran, which has left hundreds dead and thousands injured—many of them civilians.

“While the Diocese of Antipolo is geographically distant from these battle-scarred places, our Christian duty binds us to the global Body of Christ. The pain of one is the concern of all. And prayer is our most potent act of peace-building,” Bishop Santos said.

He called on clergy, religious communities, and lay members to actively participate in the Holy Hour and encouraged parish priests and liturgical ministries to lead their communities in this diocesan-wide act of intercession.

Santos stressed that prayer is a vital step toward encouraging global leaders to pursue dialogue, forgiveness, and peaceful resolution.

The bishop’s call comes amid global concerns over the humanitarian impact of the Middle East crisis, as well as its economic implications—including rising oil prices that could drive up the cost of goods and services worldwide.

Earlier, Pope Leo XIV also urged calm and dialogue between Israel and Iran to de-escalate tensions and promote peace and unity. (PNA)