Church of Ireland parishes are being urged to unite in prayer and fasting for peace in Gaza and the wider Holy Land on Sunday 21st September, the UN International Day of Peace.
The Primate of All Ireland, Archbishop John McDowell, and the Archbishop of Dublin, Michael Jackson, have issued a joint appeal for every parish to take part.
Archbishop McDowell said: “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?," he continued.
Archbishop Mcdowell went on to say that he 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.
"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 composed A Prayer for the Holy Land, which the Irish archbishops are asking parishes to use during services on 21st September.
The prayer calls on God to “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.”
The initiative is supported by Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI), which is joining member churches in a call to prayer and public witness.
It coincides with the World Council of Churches’ Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel (20–26 September).
CTBI has suggested prayer points including an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, unfettered humanitarian access, an end to violence in Israel and Palestine, the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees and a meaningful peace process.