- Christians urged to pray for peace on 21 Sept
- Resources available here
The Bishop of Southwark, The Rt Revd Christopher Chessun, has called on all churches to unite in prayer and public witness for the peoples of the Holy Land on 21 September – the UN’s International Day of Peace.
“I note with serious concern the recent report by the UN Independent Commission of Inquiry that holds that there are reasonable grounds to conclude that Israeli authorities and Israeli security forces have committed – and are continuing to commit – genocide against the Palestinians in Gaza,” Bishop Christopher said. “It is imperative that the Israeli authorities cease such activity immediately and look to implement an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza. They must also allow for the full and unimpeded access of humanitarian aid at scale throughout the Gaza Strip. I pray that our own government will take seriously the UN’s report and act accordingly. I appeal for the full recognition of our common humanity and for respect for the value and dignity of every human life.
“In the face of the UN’s report, Christians cannot remain silent – we must speak out for the rights and freedoms of both Israelis and Palestinians and we must be diligent in prayer for the peoples of the Holy Land.”
The Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem, The Most Revd Dr Hosam Naoum, has written a special prayer for the day:
Gracious Father,
whose blessed Son Jesus Christ came down from heaven
to be the true bread which gives life to the world:
In your mercy, provide for all those in Gaza and beyond
who suffer from hunger and starvation,
that they may be given both physical bread to nourish their bodies
and heavenly bread to sustain their souls.
By the power of your Spirit,
bring a speedy end to this cruel war,
the release of all captives, care for the sick and wounded,
comfort for those who have lost loved-ones,
and the opening of a pathway for a just and lasting peace
here in 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 forever.
Amen.
