A coalition of Christian charities and aid agencies, working in partnership with ecumenical church leaders, has organised a dedicated Day of Prayer for Peace on Sunday, 21 September. The initiative coincides with the UN International Day of Peace and aims to unite communities in a shared call for reconciliation and healing.
The Bishop of Southwark, Christopher Chessun, the Lead Bishop for the Holy Land said: “In the face of all that is happening in Gaza, I appeal for the full recognition of our common humanity and for respect for the value and dignity of every human life. Christians cannot remain silent – we must speak out for the rights and freedoms of both Israelis and Palestinians and we must be diligent in prayer for the peoples of the Holy Land.”
Supporting this effort, the Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem, Dr Hosam Naoum, has written a prayer, available for use in churches. It prays for an immediate end to the war, the release of all hostages, help for those suffering hunger and starvation in Gaza and beyond, and the resumption of negotiations for a just and lasting peace (full text below).
Prayer resources and other information is available on the websites of the ecumenical groups Churches Together in England and Churches Together in Britain and Ireland. Churches are encouraged to share their prayers with #PrayforPeace on social media channels.
A Prayer for the Holy Land
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.
The Most Reverend Dr Hosam E. Naoum, Anglican Archbishop in Jerusalem
August, 2025