Churches across Britain are being asked to return together in prayer for the Middle East because the war between Israel and Gaza shows no signs of ending.
Sunday 21 September has been designated because the day of prayer for peace within the Middle East and a call to public witness “for justice and reconciliation” within the region.
The day of prayer is timed to coincide with the UN’s International Day of Peace and is being spearheaded by plenty of Christian charities and aid agencies working within the Middle East, including Embrace and Christian Aid.
They said: “We are witnessing the devastating escalation of violence in Gaza and the West Bank.
“The cries of Palestinian church leaders for peace and solidarity have echoed across the worldwide Church, urging us to reply with clarity, compassion, and conviction.
“As Christian agencies rooted in faith and justice, we consider the gravity of this moment demands a visual, united Christian witness — one which speaks to our shared commitment to peace, reconciliation, and the dignity of all people.”
Churches are being asked to carry a minute’s silence and take part the #FastForGaza – a weekly fast in solidarity with the people of Gaza who’re facing extreme hunger and devastation.
The day of prayer has the support of Churches Together in England, Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, and the Church of England, which is encouraging all of its parishes to become involved.
The Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem, Dr Hosam Naoum, has written a prayer to be used on the day that prays for a direct end to the war and an enduring peace, in addition to the discharge of all captives and help for those experiencing hunger.
A Prayer for the Holy Land
Gracious Father, whose blessed Son Jesus Christ got here down from heaven to be the true bread which supplies life to the world: In your mercy, provide for all those in Gaza and beyond that suffer from hunger and starvation, that they could be given each physical bread to nourish their bodies and heavenly bread to sustain their souls. By the ability of your Spirit, bring a speedy end to this cruel war, the discharge of all captives, take care of the sick and wounded, comfort for individuals who have lost loved-ones, and the opening of a pathway for a just and lasting peace here within the very homeland where your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, ministered during his earthly life; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and ceaselessly.
Amen.
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