Statement on Standing for Peace, Rooted in Goodness

As Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, U.S. East-West Province, we are called to proclaim God’s goodness and stand with those who suffer. This Easter season, our hearts are united with all who long for peace. 

We stand in solidarity with Archbishop Paul S. Coakley and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in their urgent appeal for a ceasefire and negotiated end to the conflict with Iran. We echo the words of Pope Leo XIV, who this Palm Sunday drew a sobering line between Christ’s own suffering and that of people caught in the crossfire of war. He reminds us that Jesus is the “King of Peace, who rejects war, whom no one can use to justify war.” 

Saint Julie Billiart trusted in a God who is good beyond all telling. That goodness we proclaim now, in the face of conflict, fear and uncertainty. Every human life, on every side of every border, bears the image of God and deserves dignity and peace. 

We pray for world leaders, that they choose dialogue over destruction. We pray for the people of Iran and all nations touched by this conflict, that they may know safety and healing. And we commit ourselves to be peacemakers and call upon all who share our mission, to pray with persistence and to act with compassion.  

May the peace of the Risen Lord be with the world. Alleluia.