Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua, Archbishop of Philadelphia, is asking the faithful of the Archdiocese to pray for peace in the violence-torn Middle East.

Cardinal Bevilacqua said, "I am deeply disturbed by the escalation of violence in the Middle East. The renewed tension and fighting on both sides is cause for genuine concern for the entire world. I am particularly distressed for the loss of innocent life and the victims of senseless violence.

It is with great sadness that I learned of the brutal act of terrorism against the United States Naval Destroyer, the USS Cole, refueling in Yemen on the morning of October 12. I ask the faithful of the Archdiocese to pray for the American sailors who were killed and those who are missing. My prayers are with their families. I also ask all people of good will to pray for peace and a quick termination to the bloodshed and killing throughout this part of the world.

We cannot give up hope for a lasting peace in the Middle East. I pray that the Palestinian and Israeli people will call an immediate cease-fire and return to the negotiating table, so that their differences can be addressed and resolved."