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Pray for peace on 21 September
Join us in prayer on 21 September to coincide with UN World Peace Day and the global call to prayer from the World Council of Churches.
We're witnessing the devastating escalation of violence in Gaza and the West Bank urging us to respond with clarity, compassion, and conviction.
Along with faith-based organisations CAFOD, Embrace the Middle East, Tearfund, Sabeel Kairos, All We Can, Quakers in Britain, Reconciling Leaders Network and Difference, we're inviting churches and church leaders to act together in response to the escalating crisis in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory. Their action is being supported by the Church of England, Churches Together England, Churches Together in Britain and Ireland, Cytûn: Churches Together in Wales, Church in Wales, Union of Welsh Independents, Baptist Union of Wales and Presbyterian Church of Wales.
As Christian agencies rooted in faith and justice, we believe the gravity of this moment demands a visible, united Christian witness—one that speaks to our shared commitment to peace, reconciliation, and the dignity of all people.
We stand in solidarity with those affected by the violence in the Middle East and amplify the call for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages and a meaningful peace process.
Discover resources for you and your church.
What can your church do on 21 September?
Please include a prayer for peace in your services on or around 21 September. There are also a number of other ways you can get involved:
- Consider holding a minute’s silence in your service
- Use the prayer below from Archbishop Hosam of Jerusalem
- Get involved with the #FastforGaza action
- Share this call to prayer within your networks and with other churches
- Encourage your congregation to consider their prophetic witness — we have plenty of church resources to help with this
- Consider drawing a Red Line for Gaza at your church
- Join with other faith leaders to amplify the call for justice and reconciliation
A Prayer for the Holy Land for 21 September
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.
Written by The Most Reverend Dr. Hosam E. Naoum, Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem
Read the prayer in Welsh
