Loyola University Holds Prayer For Peace In Syria Ahead Of President Obama's Address
BALTIMORE (WJZ)— A college community is coming together in prayer.
Christie Ileto has more on what students at Loyola University are doing.
The prayer vigil coincides with Pope Francis' vigil in Rome, where he's asking people of all faiths to pray urgently.
Praying for peace in Syria, Loyola students and community members gathered at the campus' 9/11 Memorial Garden Saturday.
"I think that it is really important that students and those really removed from Syria and the area in general, that we do our part for praying for peace," said student Caroline Mills.
The vigil comes while debate continues on whether the U.S. and its allies should stop Syria for what they call a chemical weapons attack that's killed thousands of Syrian civilians.
Students here aren't the only ones praying for peace. Pope Francis led 70,000 people in prayer Saturday, even going online to extend his petitions.
"He's asking people to pray and to fast and to think about a world where dialogue takes the place of conflict," a priest said.
President Barack Obama is urging our nation's lawmakers and allies not to turn a blind eye.
"Not only must the president convince Congress but he must convince the public," said Congressman Elijah Cummings.
But Cummings says his constituents are against military action.
In the meantime, students and the Loyola community stand as one in prayer, petitioning for the bloodshed to stop.
"Through prayer, no matter where you are in the world, you can reach each other," Mills said.
To help Loyola campus ministries help refugees in the Syrian conflict, click here.
