Sabeel Wave of Prayer: Week of Aug. 11, 2025
August 6 and 9 of this year marked 80 years since the United States dropped two atomic bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, killing between 150,000 and 246,000 people, most of whom were civilians. On the anniversary, hundreds of protesters in Japan came to protest, carrying messages of “No Nuke, Stop War” and “Free Gaza! No more genocide.” The Environmental Quality Authority in Palestine reported in November 2024 that at least 85.000 tons of bombs, which is over 6 Hiroshima atomic bombs, have been dropped on Gaza since the beginning of the war.
Holy God, we remember with sorrow the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, where unimaginable loss and suffering scarred generations. We mourn the lives taken and the continuing legacy of violence that still haunts our world. We pray for the continued strength to choose peace, to reject violence, and to stand with all who cry out for justice and dignity.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Last week, the Israeli government approved a plan to permanently occupy Gaza City, which would involve the forcible removal of Palestinians already displaced multiple times into concentration zones in the south.
Holy God, the hunger, displacement, and killing of our people weighs heavy on our hearts. We no longer have words to describe this ongoing cruelty, which is an affront to your call for justice and mercy. Lord, give the people of Gaza your daily bread, and do not forsake them. We pray for protection over the vulnerable, strength for the weary, and courage for leaders and people of conscience to stop this evil.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
August 6 was the feast of the Transfiguration. For many Christians around the world, this date commemorates the moment when Jesus revealed his divine glory to Peter, James and John atop Mount Tabor.
Beloved Christ, we thank you for the ways you continue to reveal yourself to us. In the depths of darkness, keep us faithful to your presence and promise that you affirmed on Mount Tabor. Through your Transfiguration, teach us to lift our gaze and not succumb to despair. May we be agents of your hope in a world in dire need of hope; instruments of your peace in a world in dire need of peace.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
On August 17, Voices from the Holy Land (VFHL) is hosting a film salon on Palestinian Prisoners, Hostages & Detainees, with a Q&A discussion featuring Arab Barghouthi, Hind Shraydeh, Sahar Francis, and Steve Tamari. FOSNA board member Mary Segal will also be joining to share information on FOSNA’s Friends of Palestinian Detainees project, which connects church congregations with Palestinian detainees and their families. Registration for the event can be found on FOSNA’s website (fosna.org).
Liberator Christ, you know the suffering of the incarcerated and all who are held without justice. Lord, we ask that your presence is felt with all who are imprisoned and their families and loved ones. Bless the efforts of all who shine a light into places of darkness. We pray that the Holy Spirit stir hearts to action and deepen compassion during this gathering. May freedom soon come to all who suffer in this troubled land.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Sabeel is saddened to learn of the recent passing of Dr. Elizabeth (Betsy) Barlow. In 1998, Betsy became the first Chair of the Steering Committee for Friends of Sabeel North America. Under her leadership, FOSNA became a leading voice in U.S. churches calling for a fresh look at the Palestinian narrative and adopting resolutions at the local and national levels. Her decades of service to the Palestinian cause have served as a model for others to “go and do likewise.” Betsy was well loved by many of Sabeel’s founders and friends. A memorial service for her will be held on August 23rd at St. Timothys Episcopal Church in Richland, Michigan.
Gracious God, we give thanks for the life of Dr. Elizabeth Barlow, whose faithful leadership and tireless work for justice uplifted the voices of the Palestinian people and inspired many to follow her example. May her legacy continue to guide and challenge us as we walk this path of nonviolent resistance. Comfort all who mourn her passing. May Betsy rest in your eternal peace.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Sabeel Jerusalem has been honored to welcome delegations again this month, who are coming to show solidarity and learn from our local communities. Sabeel has also been busy with their programs, including online programs such as Kumi Now and Thursday Service as well as local programs hosted in its Old City Hub.
Holy God, amidst such suffering, we give thanks for your presence in the gatherings taking place at Sabeel Jerusalem. May every act of witness strengthen the call for justice, and every shared prayer draw us closer to one another and to you. We pray for the continued safety of the Sabeel staff and family, and may your Holy Spirit continue to sustain this sacred work and let it bear fruit across borders.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
We join the World Council of Churches in their prayers for the people of Cameroon, Central African Republic, and Equatorial Guinea.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer