MILWAUKEE — People all around the world joined together on Friday to hold a special prayer service for Ukraine and Russia. 

Archbishop Jerome E. Listecki joined Pope Francis and other Roman Catholic Bishops all across the globe in consecrating Russia and Ukraine to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. 

In the Catholic church, consecration means being set aside for a holy purpose. In this case, they prayed for the end of the war between the countries.

“What will happen in the consecration is there will be an entrustment to the blessed Virgin,” said Listecki. 

Historically speaking, the Pope’s renewal of the consecration came in response to the war in Ukraine and at the request of the Blessed Virgin Mary made in 1917.

Pope St. John Paul II consecrated the entire Catholic church and world to Mary three times during his time as pope. 

This call was made by Pope Francis as a plea to join together and pray for those enduring violence. 

“It is the pope who is calling us to take that responsibility to understand our own sinfulness,” said Listecki. 

Many people, such as Lisa Tau, gathered at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Milwaukee.  She waited patiently for the church doors to open. 

“To be supporting them through prayer and being successful today with this consecration is very exciting,” said Tau. 

Ukraine’s Catholic bishops requested Pope Francis do the consecration, amid the invasion of their country. 

Those who weren’t able to attend the mass were encouraged to pray the rosary from home.