Prayer Service on the Vigil of the Opening of the 73rd. Session

of the United Nations Assembly held at the Church of the Holy Family

A beautiful gathering of Dignitaries, Ambassadors, Faith-based NGO representatives, and many other peace loving members associated with the UN, assembled to offer their gratitude to God for all that was accomplished within the last year, and to seek blessings of the Divine for the year ahead. This annual service is offered by the Permanent Observer Mission of the Holy See to the UN.

The Revered Archbishop Auza greeted everyone and this was followed by various prayers: A Prayer for Peace, a Prayer for Our Earth, and a Prayer for Refugees and Migrants.  H.E. Secretary General Antonio Guterres and the newly appointed President of the 73rd. General Assembly, H.E. Ms. Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces, shared thoughts of peace and solidarity. Meditation was led by H.E. Archbishop Luis Castro Quiroga, I.M.C. of Colombia and prayers were read out in the six official languages of the UN.

With H.E. Archbishop Auza and NGO members

The service culminated with a warm reception for all guests.

It was humbling to see the Secretary General, the President, and so many dignitaries coming together to seek blessings from the Universal One before starting the new year. My sincere wish is that they all reflect on these auspicious moments before making decisions and delivering speeches. This can bring clarity on how best to move forward.