NEWS RELEASE
March 2, 2026
Bishop David J. Bonnar Echoes Pope Leo in Call for Peace
As part of the “Apostleship of Prayer” recognized by Pope Pius IX in 1849, adopted by Pope Leo XIII in 1890, and renamed the “Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network” in 2017 by Pope Francis, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, continues the tradition of inviting the faithful throughout the world to pray for a particular intention every month. The prayer intention for March 2026 is as follows:
“For disarmament and peace. Let us pray that nations move toward effective disarmament, particularly nuclear disarmament, and that world leaders choose the path of dialogue and diplomacy instead of violence.”
Considering the tragic events unfolding in recent days in Iran and throughout the Middle East—not to mention the fears, uncertainties, devastating actions and consequences that are being felt by people of good will throughout the world, which have already have resulted in loss of life—this papal intention has a particular timeliness and gripping poignancy.
I urge our clergy, religious, and faithful and all people of faith in the six counties of the Diocese of Youngstown to pray Pope Leo XIV’s prayer intention for March 2026 frequently. As families gather around the table each night and offer a prayer before dinner, I encourage the use of this prayer. At the same time, I ask that all our parishes say this prayer as part of the Universal Prayers of the Faithful at each Holy Mass.
Prayer can move mountains and change hearts. May our collective voice of prayer uttered aloud or in silence, alone or with others, make a difference so that world leaders will choose peace over war and life over death. May we strive every day to be instruments of that peace to one another in word and deed.
Sincerely in Christ,
Most Reverend David J. Bonnar, Bishop of Youngstown
