Today fighting has resumed between Israel and Hamas after a temporary ceasefire ended. In response, Emma Crick de Boom, our Reconciliation Enabler, writes about how we might pray.
As I read and listen to the history behind the violence and the lived stories happening right now as we speak …words escape.
Following the news or hearing updates by charities who are working with people in the live context, a devastating reality becomes apparent where no person or community of people can thrive amidst the violence.
I wonder how we can pray in a way that does not exclude or deny the other’s full humanity.
I have found that joining in prayer with those who are actually in the Holy Land has helped give shape and nuance to what is complex, or at least it makes a start.
If it’s helpful to you, I invite you to pray with me the words that are offered by Archbishop Hosam Naoum of Jerusalem:
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.
The Church of England have created a resource page on their website, for parishes and individuals seeking to better understand the Church’s response to the war and guidance on how they can how help through prayer, giving or action.
Please note: this page is not intended to be a comprehensive resource on the war in Gaza or the wider issues shaping the Israel-Palestinian conflict.