Bishop Philip writes…
Pope Leo XIV has been calling on all of us to pray for peace in those regions of the world affected by conflict, including Ukraine, the Middle East, and other areas where there are wars. Speaking after the recitation of the Angelus prayer in St Peter’s Square, the Pope turned his attention to the ongoing suffering in Ukraine, noting that “even in these days, Ukraine continues to be struck by relentless attacks, leaving entire populations exposed to the cold of winter. .. I follow what is happening with sorrow, I am close to those who suffer, and I pray for them,” he said, and he noted that the prolonged conflict causes “ever more serious consequences for civilians, widens the rift between peoples and pushes a just and lasting peace further away.” Let us mount again our prayers for an end to this conflict.
Meanwhile, welcome to this e-News for Tuesday 3rd February 2026. Remembering that we are just a couple of weeks’ away now from Lent – Ash Wednesday is 18th February – let us give some thought to which Lenten works of prayer, fasting and charity we wish to undertake. Have a blessed week ahead.
With all good wishes and an assurance of my prayers,
In Corde Iesu
+Philip
Bishop of Portsmouth
[Image: Getty Images]
