Overview

• The appeal came at the close of his weekly general audience at the Vatican after his return from Castel Gandolfo.
• He asked the faithful to fast and pray on Friday, Aug. 22, for peace and justice in areas afflicted by war, naming the Middle East and Ukraine.
• The Vatican underscored the tie to the liturgical commemoration of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary that falls that day.
• His call was delivered in person during the audience and amplified on his social media accounts.
• Leo, the first U.S.-born pope, has pressed for ceasefires and dialogue in Gaza and Ukraine, and he received a Ping-Pong table gift at the audience.