As we commemorated the tragic events of August 6 and 9, 1945, when atomic bombs were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan, we reflected on the devastating impact of these attacks, which resulted in the deaths of over 200,000 people. Despite the passage of time, the threat of nuclear weapons remains an urgent concern, with approximately 12,100 nuclear warheads still in existence today.
This prayer vigil brought together people of faith for prayerful reflection and a shared commitment to peace. As we remember the suffering of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, we continue to pray that world leaders will take decisive action to end the manufacturing of these weapons of mass destruction and address the ongoing consequences of the arms race.
The PowerPoint slides are available here (please consider the environment before printing the slides). Additionally, we have prepared a resource guide that includes readings, videos, and suggested actions for those who wish to learn more about nuclear disarmament and work toward a world free from the violence of nuclear weapons. You can access the resource guide here.
We co-hosted this prayer service with the Franciscan Peace Center of the Sisters of St. Francis of Clinton, Iowa, joined by co-sponsors from 15 other women religious communities and justice teams. We were honored to have over 1000 individuals register, with many more joining in groups across the country. Thank you for your continued prayers and commitment to building a more peaceful and just world for all.