Tag: World Peace

#faith

Pope Leo XIV Calls for Global Day of Prayer and Fasting for World Peace

Tanisha Cardozo

August 22, 2025 — In a heartfelt and urgent call for global unity, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has invited the entire Universal Church to dedicate Friday, August 22 — the Feast of the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary — as a solemn day of prayer, fasting, and penance for world peace.

Responding to this call, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI) has extended the invitation to all the faithful, clergy, religious, and people of goodwill across India.

“Our world is currently grappling with the devastating effects of war, violence, and hatred,” said CBCI President Archbishop Andrews Thazhath. “The cries of the poor and the innocent rise unceasingly.”

He continued, “As we prepare to celebrate the Feast of the Queenship of Mary, the Holy Father has asked us to pray and fast with intention and urgency. On behalf of the CBCI, I request every parish and religious community to organize at least one hour of Eucharistic Adoration, praying for peace and reconciliation among all nations.”

Additionally, families are encouraged to pray the Holy Rosary together, entrusting their hopes and prayers to Mary, Queen of Peace, whose intercession remains powerful and timeless.

This day of spiritual solidarity comes at a time when conflict and division continue to afflict many regions across the globe. In coming together in prayer and fasting, the Church hopes to invoke healing, understanding, and unity.

The CBCI’s appeal transcends religious lines, welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds to join in this collective intention for peace.

Music

Goan Instruments Resonate at Concert for World Peace

allycaralgoa

The ‘Sur Jahan’ concert, held at the Kala Academy in Panaji, was a mesmerizing celebration of music and culture, featuring Goa’s traditional instrument, the Ghumat. The event, organized by Amitava Bhattacharya of Bangla Natak in association with the Department of Art and Culture, aimed to promote world peace through music.

The concert showcased an eclectic mix of performances, including The Ghumat Project by acclaimed Goan percussionist Carlos Gonsalves, Folkcorn from the Netherlands, and Habib Khan Langa & team from Rajasthan. Gonsalves’ project, ‘Taking Ghumot to the world’, featured a unique blend of indigenous and western instruments, including the Ghumat, Dhol, Dub, Tasha, Shamel, Kasale, Zanz, Madhalem, drum set, and acoustic guitar, accompanied by Goan traditional folk vocals.

The audience was enthralled by Gonsalves’ ingenuity in incorporating Goa’s traditional percussions into the performance. His interactive approach, engaging the audience in rhythmic clapping, added to the electric atmosphere. The troupe’s vibrant costumes, designed by noted Goan fashion designer Verma D’Mello, showcased the rich cultural heritage of Goa.

The concert was a testament to the power of music in promoting unity and peace. The organizers and performers expressed their gratitude to the music lovers of Goa who came together to make the event a memorable success.