Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. – Mt. 5:9
Eighty years ago, the world witnessed an unspeakable tragedy with the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. In mere moments, tens of thousands of lives were lost, and generations of suffering and trauma followed. Today, we pause to remember the innocent victims, to mourn with those who still carry the scars of that devastation, and to stand in prayerful solidarity with the people of Japan.
On this solemn anniversary we recommit ourselves to the work of peace – peace rooted not in fear, but in justice, reconciliation and the shared hope for a world free of nuclear weapons. We honor the witness of the hibakusha, the survivors who have courageously shared their stories, and we join our voices to theirs in calling for an end to the proliferation of arms that threaten all humanity.
May this anniversary stir our consciences and awaken a renewed commitment to dialogue, diplomacy and the building of a global culture of peace. May the memory of Hiroshima and Nagasaki lead us, not to despair, but to action – so that no people, anywhere, will ever again endure such devastation.
Note: Cardinal Robert McElroy, Archbishop of Washington, is a participant in the official U.S. Catholic “Pilgrimage of Peace” for the observance of the anniversaries. The Catholic Standard, through OSV News, is covering the visit.