Archbishop Paul Coakley, president of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, recently issued a national call to prayer for peace in light of ongoing and deepening unrest in our country, especially surrounding immigration related matters.
Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, D.D., Archbishop of Philadelphia, is inviting and strongly encouraging all clergy, consecrated religious, and lay faithful throughout the five-county Archdiocese of Philadelphia to join in observing this Day of Prayer for Peace at the Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul.
Archbishop Pérez will be the principal celebrant and homilist at the Holy Mass offered for the intention of peace throughout the country. Following Mass, all are invited to attend a Holy Hour for the intention of peace. Following the Holy Hour, the Most Blessed Sacrament will be exposed for adoration in the Basilica until 5:00 p.m. with Benediction at 5:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 24, 2026
12:05 p.m.
Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul
18th Street and Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Philadelphia, PA 19103
In addition, all parishes, religious communities, schools and institutions are encouraged to arrange for local opportunities to pray for peace throughout the nation in conjunction with the Archdiocesan Day of Prayer for Peace.
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Editor’s Note: The 12:05 p.m. Mass with Archbishop Pérez will be streamed live via the Archdiocesan Vimeo Channel here.
In July 2025, Archbishop Pérez issued a pastoral letter calling on Catholics to unite in support of the migrant community and advocate for comprehensive immigration reform. The Archbishop also issued a statement in January 2025, regarding the need for balanced, compassionate, and comprehensive immigration reform.
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