Archbishop Aquila Calls the Faithful to Pray for Peace and Urges Immediate De-Escalation of Violence

We are reminded by Jesus’s words in the Gospel: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). At this critical moment, I urge leaders on all sides to exercise prudence, restraint, and mostly a renewed commitment to peace grounded in the dignity of the human being. The path of vengeance leads only to further suffering; fueling hatred of neighbor which is not the way of the Gospel! The path of peace, though difficult, is the only road that secures a future for generations to come. 

Archbishop Aquila Calls the Faithful to Pray for Peace

Editor’s Note: Archbishop Emeritus Samuel J. Aquila released this statement to the faithful of the Archdiocese of Denver amid the news of the U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran.

Public Statement on the Conflict with Iran 

February 28, 2026

Prot. N. AB 2026-0132 A

Sisters and Brothers in Christ, 

As news reaches us of the Operation Epic Fury attack on Iran and subsequent retaliatory strikes, I join with Catholics in the Archdiocese of Denver and with all people of faith in expressing deep sorrow and grave concern over this dangerous escalation of violence. 

While the Church recognizes that nations possess the right to legitimate self-defense under the strict moral conditions articulated in the just war tradition, she also insists that the use of force must always be a last resort, guided by moral restraint, proportionality, and a sincere commitment to protect innocent life (CCC 2309). Any action that endangers civilians or fuels broader regional instability must weigh heavily on the consciences of leaders and decision-makers. The dignity of human life must always come first! 

Let us entrust this grave situation to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace. May she obtain for the world the gift of true and lasting peace, rooted in justice, mercy, and respect for human dignity. 

We are reminded by Jesus’s words in the Gospel: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). At this critical moment, I urge leaders on all sides to exercise prudence, restraint, and mostly a renewed commitment to peace grounded in the dignity of the human being. The path of vengeance leads only to further suffering; fueling hatred of neighbor which is not the way of the Gospel! The path of peace, though difficult, is the only road that secures a future for generations to come. 

I ask the faithful throughout the Archdiocese to pray fervently: 

• For an immediate de-escalation of violence. 
• For growth in the virtue of charity towards one neighbor. 
• For the protection of innocent civilians, especially families, children, and the elderly. 
• For leaders in the region and throughout the world, they may be guided by the first premise, the respect of the dignity of the human being, in pursuing peace. 
• For people of goodwill in the Middle East and beyond, that they may not lose hope, and that their efforts for reconciliation and a just society may bear lasting fruit. 
• And for the protection and preservation of holy places throughout the region. 

Let us entrust this grave situation to the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Peace. May she obtain for the world the gift of true and lasting peace, rooted in justice, mercy, and respect for human dignity. 

In Christ our Peace,  

Most Reverend Samuel J. Aquila 

Archbishop Emeritus of Denver 

Apostolic Administrator 

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