O God of all justice and peace, we cry out to you in the midst of the pain and trauma of violence and fear which prevails in the Holy Land. Be with those who need you in these days of suffering; we pray for people of all faiths – Jews, Muslims and Christians and for all people of the land. While we pray to you, O Lord, for an end to violence and the establishment of peace, we also call to you to bring justice and equity to the peoples. Guide us into your kingdom where all people are treated with dignity and honour as your children – for to all of us you are our Heavenly Father. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.
We see images and hear stories from the unfolding violence in Israel and Palestine. Our heads are full and our hearts are heavy.
We watch the unfolding brutality and violence, sectarianism and hatred.
Lord, have mercy.
We choose not to turn away but to turn to You as we pray the words of Simon Peter, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life.”
Jesus, You love these places and these people. Speak Your words of eternal life over them today.
Make Your presence known.
Creator of this earth, a world with no guns or bombs or borders, You walked these lands with compassion and grace. Prince of peace, would You walk there again today.
We echo the words of psalmists and prophets: hear the cries of orphans and widows; swiftly bring justice and healing.
Heal these lands.
You died and rose from the dusty earth outside Jerusalem. Today, may Your shed blood bring healing. May Your resurrection power bring life.
We dare to hope to see new images and hear new stories of transformation. Hatred to hospitality, swords to ploughshares and mourning to dancing.
Hear our prayers.
May Your kingdom come, in Israel and Palestine as it is in Heaven.