WCC News: Global prayer will commemorate World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel

WCC News: Global prayer will commemorate World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel

A global ecumenical prayer on 18 September will commemorate the World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel, being observed this year from 16-23 September. The World Council of Churches (WCC) is inviting online or in-person participation for people to pray, advocate, and stand in solidarity with people in the Holy Land.

The global prayer will explore the theme of the 2023 World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel, “No place to lay my head,” a theme that reflects the challenge for Palestinian families as well as other people facing difficulties to a uniting home.

WCC general secretary Rev. Prof. Dr Jerry Pillay will open the prayer with a greeting. His Beatitude Patriarch Theophilus III of Jerusalem will share a reflection. 

During the World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel, which includes the International Day of Prayer for Peace on 21 September, church organizations, congregations, and people of faith are encouraged to bear a common witness by participating in worship services, educational events, and acts of support in favor of peace and justice for Palestinians and Israelis.

Congregations and individuals around the globe who share the hope of justice will unite during the week to take peaceful actions, together, to create a common international public witness. 

Watch the Global Prayer live on 18 September, 9:00 am Eastern US time at www.oikoumene.org/live

Learn more about the World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel