Pope Francis has called for a day of prayer and fasting today, October 7th, the one-year anniversary of the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war.
“In this dramatic hour of our history,” the Pope said, “while the winds of war and the fires of violence continue to devastate entire peoples and nations, the Christian Community is reminded of its call to put itself at the service of humanity.”
Pray for peace
- Pray for an immediate ceasefire, an end to the violence, and the release of all hostages.
- Pray for world leaders with influence in the region to make wise decisions that lead to lasting peace.
- Pray that God’s peace would fill the hearts and minds of everyone who is suffering as a result of this conflict.
Pray for safety
- Pray for all civilians – that God would protect them from harm, particularly the most vulnerable, including children, older people, and people with disabilities.
- Pray for humanitarian workers – for protection for those who are working to provide humanitarian assistance and medical supplies.
- Pray for the safe distribution of food, water, sanitary items, medical supplies and fuel.
- Pray for people forced to flee their homes. Pray for safe places to stay and that they will be able to return home.
Pray for strength
- Pray for church leaders – for wisdom and strength to lead people through fear and uncertainty. Pray for bravery as they guide their communities and offer loving support.
- Pray for faith leaders and communities across the region – that they would stand firm, and for unity, connection and mutual understanding so that they can help bring people together and show kindness.
- Pray for everyone in Israel, Gaza, Lebanon and neighboring countries – that God would strengthen them as they support schools and hospitals, and as they provide food and essentials to families who have been displaced.
Pray for hope
- Pray for those who are terrified, mourning and suffering. Ask God to save them from despair – for the trauma and violence they’ve experienced not to overshadow hope.
- Pray that people across the Middle East wouldn’t lose hope – that peace is possible.
Pray for healing
- Pray for people who have been traumatized or injured; ask God to heal their physical and emotional wounds and bring them deep comfort.
- Pray for hospitals and medical staff – for strength as they continue to provide life-saving services to all those affected. Ask God to provide all the resources and equipment they need to treat the sick and injured.
A Prayer for the Middle East
Dear God,
We cry out to you on behalf of the people seriously affected by the conflict in the Middle East. Our hearts break at the devastation and suffering that we see, and we know it breaks yours, too.
We ask that you would stretch out your mighty hand to bring an end to this war.
We cry out for people who have been injured or traumatized, who have lost loved ones or their homes. Please provide everything they need and be their comfort, their hope, their healer, and their safe refuge.
We pray for your peace to reign. We look to you as our Savior and the hope of the world.
Amen.
Thanks to Tearfund for sharing this prayer for peace.
Please pray today for the people in the Middle East and for peace.
GOD CARES ABOUT THOSE IN NEED, AND SO SHOULD GOD’S FAMILY!
Please share and invite others to pray today.
