March 17, 2022

 Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

 In response to the Holy Father’s announcement that he will consecrate Ukraine and Russia to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on March 25, the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord, I invite all Catholics of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati to pray for the intention of a swift and peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine.

 Please join me in praying a Rosary novena over the nine days beginning today, March 17, and culminating on March 25 at 11:30 a.m. Mass at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Peter in Chains. During this Mass, we will be spiritually united to Pope Francis and Catholics around the world in asking for our Blessed Mother’s intercession for the end of this tragic conflict. Mass will be followed by the public recitation of the Rosary, and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will be available until Benediction at 5:00 p.m.

For all who are unable to come to the Cathedral Basilica, please offer your daily prayers and, if possible, participation at Mass in your parish for these intentions on March 25.

May the Immaculate Heart of Mary, through her powerful intercession, lead to the conversion of hearts and minds and peace throughout the world, especially at this time in Ukraine.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Dennis M. Schnurr

Archbishop of Cincinnati

Prayer for Ukraine

God of infinite mercy and peace, we pray for the people of Ukraine who are experiencing fear, violence and death. We entrust all their families to You, and we pray that they may not yield to discouragement or despair but be heralds of hope. Blessed Virgin Mary, Our Lady of Zarvaniza, spread your maternal mantle over all people of goodwill who live in the great nation of Ukraine. We pray in this moment of crisis that people throughout the world may reach out in solidarity to our brothers and sisters in need through prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Bring peace to all troubled hearts. We ask this through our Lord, Jesus Christ. Amen.