Christians are being called to be part of prayer and public witness for peace in the Holy Land, on World Peace Day, Sunday September 21.
The ecumenical initiative is supported by the Church of England as part of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI).
A CTBI spokesperson 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 global Church, urging us to respond with clarity, compassion, and conviction.
“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 are calling on churches across Britain to pray for peace on Sunday 21st September, coinciding with UN World Peace Day and the global call to prayer from the World Council of Churches.”
Suggestions include:
Praying for peace in services on or around Sunday September 21
Prayers could focus on
An immediate ceasefire in Gaza.
Unfettered access to humanitarian relief.
An end to violence in Israel and Palestine.
The release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees.
A meaningful peace process.
Holding a minute’s silence in services
Joining Christians around the world taking part in the #FastforGaza
Using this prayer, written by the Most Revd Hosam Naoum, Archbishop in Jerusalem:
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
Picture: Bishop Graham celebrating communion in a cave on the Tent of Nations farm near Bethlehem earlier this year.