Pray for peace in the Holy Land
People in parishes throughout the Church of Ireland are being encouraged to pray for a just and lasting peace in Gaza and the wider region of the Holy Land later this month.
Archbishop John McDowell and Archbishop Michael Jackson are urging everyone in each parish and church community to join together in prayer and consider a time of fasting on Sunday 21 September 2025 – this is the UN International Day of Peace.
Archbishop McDowell remarked: “Is there to be no end to the innocent suffering – of the people of Gaza, of the hostages held by Hamas, of the families of the hostages and the families of the dead and maimed in Gaza, of the little children? For how much longer can the protagonists remain deaf to the heart-rending cries of suffering and the urging of so many around the world to turn their minds to peace? I would urge those in positions of authority to bring about a ceasefire in Gaza to search their hearts, and for all the people of God to pray for an end to the killing.”
Archbishop Jackson added: “Throughout this conflict my concern has always been for the victims of cruelty, warfare and intimidation. I renew my plea for an immediate ceasefire and for the respect due to human beings – by virtue of their very existence and lives – to be afforded by all involved. This plea includes a call for ceasing to kill civilians, medical professionals and aid workers, photographers and journalists, and ceasing hostage-taking; and for Palestinians living in the occupied territories to be humanely treated and protected at all times. All of this is what is expected of parties to conflict under the Geneva Conventions. We must also ensure that the people of Gaza be given access to plentiful and appropriate food – to stop the spread of famine – and water, and medical supplies and services.”
The Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem, the Most Revd Dr Hosam Naoum, has written A Prayer for the Holy Land (as outlined below) and the archbishops are asking that it be used during church services on the day:
A Prayer for the Holy Land for 21 September 2025
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 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.
Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI) is also supporting its member Churches and partners in a call to prayer and public witness on 21 September. The day falls within the World Council of Churches World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel (from 20 to 26 September), and CTBI suggests a number of prayer points for the Sunday:
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
More resources are available on the CTBI website at THIS LINK.