The Archbishop of Delhi has come out with a circular, asking the Christians to offer prayers and observe a day of fast on every Friday for the nation ahead of the general elections.
In the circular addressed to all parish priests and religious institutions in the Archdiocese of Delhi, Archbishop Anil Joseph Thomas Couto said, “We are witnessing a turbulent political atmosphere which poses a threat to the democratic principles enshrined in our Constitution and the secular fabric of our nation,” while urging the Christians to pray for the political leaders of the country as the general elections are nearing.
“As we look forward towards 2019 when we will have new government let us begin a prayer campaign for our country from May 13, 2018 which marks the anniversary of the apparition of the Blessed Mother at Fatima, consecrating ourselves and our nation to the Immaculate Heart,” the circular read.
Further he asked the faithful to forego at least one meal on Fridays. “I request that we observe a day of fast every Friday of the week by forgoing at least one meal and offering our penance and all our sacrifices for our spiritual renewal and that of our nation.”
“Moreover, I earnestly request that we organize an hour of Eucharistic adoration every Friday at a convenient time in all our parishes, religious houses and institution specifically praying for our nation.
During this Adoration the enclosed Prayer may be recited,” read the circular.