Pope Backs Prayer Campaign for Ecuador's Unity

QUITO, Ecuador, JUNE 14, 2004 (Zenit.org).- John Paul II encouraged the campaign of prayer for the unity of Ecuador.

"A Prayer for Ecuador" is the initiative of the country's episcopal conference and is being organized by the National Council of the Laity. The recitation of the same prayer is being promoted in all Masses, religious events, families, workplaces, schools and universities.

A papal message, published by Andinanoticias, confirmed that the Holy Father "cordially greets all the organizers and participants of this important campaign, carried out to unite all the Ecuadorian people in a prayer to the Almighty for their country."

The message, sent to Ecuador by Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Angelo Sodano, highlights the fact that "prayer is a privileged means for participation in the quest for unity."

The Holy Father invites all to put prayer at the center of their lives, as it is "the source of all longing to transform the world from its very heart."

Lastly, the Pontiff encourages "the commitment to justice, forgiveness and fraternal charity among all Ecuadorians."

Among other things, the prayer asks for forgiveness "for our indifference, egoism and corruption, for allowing health and culture to be enjoyed only by a few, for not giving children and youths a good education."

"We commit ourselves to follow in your Way, Truth and Life. We Ecuadorians not only want to develop materially, but to recover values, truth, justice and morality," the prayer stresses.

"Most Merciful God, strengthen the wills and illuminate the minds of those who govern and of all those who work for our homeland, that we might respect one another and find ways to solve our people's" problems, it continues.

The campaign ends next Sunday with a procession and special Masses.