Fr. Stephen Banjare sscc, participated in an online prayer service via Zoom, organized by the Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) Commission on October 1, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. Rome time. JPIC is a joint commission of the Union of Superiors General (USG) and the International Union of Superiors General (UISG).
Every year, JPIC organizes a prayer service during the Season of Creation, focusing on a different theme. This year, the theme was “Living Water,” inspired by the Book of the Prophet Ezekiel 47:7–12. The prayer service was entitled:
“A Bowl of Tears: One Water, One Humanity, One Creation.”
The prayer service was simple yet powerful. It invited us to become more aware of the value of water in our lives and of its profound connection with the Creator and creation.
During the prayer service, we reflected on the different meanings and dimensions of water. Water connects us. The abundance of water can signify tears of joy, while the scarcity of water can bring tears of sorrow. We were reminded that the protection of water is the protection of life itself.
The participants were invited to reflect on the following questions:
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“In what ways can we turn the tears of sorrow into tears of joy?”
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“If water connects us, how should we live differently?”
We were also invited to share our reflections and thoughts in the chat room, allowing participants from different parts of the world to contribute their experiences and insights.
Hundreds of participants from around the world took part in this meaningful prayer service. It was a beautiful opportunity to pray together, reflect on the gift of water, and renew our commitment to caring for one water, one humanity, and one creation.
The prayer service concluded at approximately 3:20 p.m. Rome time.
10/03/2026