Prayer service for Iraq set at Mater Dolorosa

In response to the continued tragedies in Iraq, parishioners in the San Gabriel area are gathering at Mater Dolorosa Retreat Center on Sept. 14, 2-5 p.m., to pray the “Way of the Cross” at the Sierra Madre Center grounds.

The service is organized by the Women’s Cornerstone Ministry at St. Philip the Apostle Church in collaboration with Mater Dolorosa and the Holy Cross Province of the Congregation of the Passion. The prayer service is just one suggestion from the local retreat team in response to the unfolding violent Iraqi situation where thousands of families — Christians and other minorities — are fleeing in harsh conditions.

“Let’s try to focus on Iraq that day in churches and at home with our families,” ministry leaders wrote in an email. “We believe that God is calling us forth to speak out about the current day atrocities and ask for peace."

Mater Dolorosa is located at 700 N. Sunnyside Ave., in Sierra Madre. For more information, call (626) 355-7188.