Prayer for Peace, Protection and a Ceasefire in the Middle East

In these days of escalating violence in the Middle East, we are invited to stand together in prayer. We pray as sisters and brothers, holding before God the suffering of all who are affected.

Let us pray for peace and for an immediate ceasefire – for the silencing of weapons and the protection of life.

God of everlasting peace,

We cry out to you for all who are caught in fear, violence and uncertainty.

Protect lives and homes.

Be near to those who mourn, to those who are injured, to those who are displaced.

We pray especially for children, for the elderly, for all who have no shelter and no safe place.

Comfort those who grieve.

Strengthen those who care for the wounded.

We ask for wisdom and courage for those who make decisions.

Turn hearts away from revenge and destruction.

Open paths toward justice, dignity and lasting peace.

God of the suffering and the afraid,

stay close to all who feel powerless.

May your Spirit sustain hope where despair is growing.

In your mercy,

hear our prayer.

Amen.