The International Forum of Catholic Action (FIAC) has launched the “One Minute for Peace” initiative again this year, inviting people worldwide to pray on Monday, June 8, at 1:00 p.m. local time for an end to wars and for peace. The event’s motto is “We want peace! Towards an unarmed and disarming peace,” echoing Pope Leo XIV’s constant call to ask God for the gift of peace for all.
Organizers ask each person, wherever they are — at home, work, school, or university — to stop activities for 60 seconds and pray for this intention amid a world “convulsed by so many conflicts.” There are three ways to take part. First, spread the message on social media, news outlets, and institutional channels. Second, mobilize communities, work groups, students, and families to act collectively on Monday, June 8 at 1:00 p.m. In some places, church and cathedral bells will ring. The third way is to pray during that minute, each according to their own religious tradition.
The campaign began in 2014 after a historic prayer meeting for peace at the Vatican convened by Pope Francis. Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I, then Israeli President Shimon Peres, and Palestinian National Authority President Mahmoud Abbas attended. Ahead of the event, the International Congress Pax et Bonum (Peace and Good), promoted by FIAC, the “Giuseppe Toniolo” Institute of International Peace Law, and Italian Catholic Action, will be held in Rome on Sunday, June 7. The meeting will address international law and fraternity inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi, marking the 800th anniversary of the founder of the Franciscans’ death.