The Catholic Defender: Prayer in Times of Armed Conflict

For Those Serving and Protection: Prayers commend service members to divine care, asking for strength, courage in trials, protection from harm, and a safe return home. The full texts of these traditional prayers can be found in the referenced resources.

 Intercessions ask for the grace of conversion for those who have taken up arms, guiding them toward peaceful dialogue and constructive collaboration. 

Psalm 91 (The Soldier’s Psalm): Frequently turned to for shelter, divine protection, and deliverance from terror during conflict.

O God, author and giver of peace, in whose image and likeness each of us has been created with a human dignity worthy of respect on earth and destined for eternal glory, Listen to the cry that rises from every corner of this fragile earth, from our human family torn by violent conflict:

Give peace in our time, O good and gracious God, that peace which, as your son Jesus Christ told us and as we have experienced in these days, is a peace which the world cannot give.

To world leaders grant the wisdom to see beyond the boundaries of race, religion, and nation to that common humanity that makes us all your children and brothers and sisters to one another.

To those who have taken up arms in anger or revenge or even in the cause of justice grant the grace of conversion to the path of peaceful dialogue and constructive collaboration.

To the innocent who live in the shadow of war and terror, especially the frightened children, be a shelter and strength, their haven and hope.

And to those who have already lost their lives as victims of human cruelty and chemical warfare, open wide your arms and enfold them all in the embrace of your compassion, healing, and everlasting life.

Grant this through Jesus Christ, your son, our Lord. Mary, Mother of all and Queen of peace, pray for us.

Pope John Paul II's Prayer for Peace

Lord Jesus Christ, who are called the Prince of Peace, who are yourself our peace and reconciliation, who so often said, "Peace to you," grant us peace.Make all men and women witnesses of truth, justice,and brotherly love.

Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace.Enlighten our rulers that they mayguarantee and defend the great gift of peace.

May all peoples on the earthbecome as brothers and sisters.May longed for peace blossom forthand reign always over us all.