The World Council of Churches invites member churches, faith-based communities, and civil society organizations around the world to join for a week of prayer for just peace for all in Palestine and Israel. Congregations and individuals around the globe who share the hope of justice shall unite during the week to take peaceful actions, together, to create a common international public witness. 

The devastating situation of Palestinians in Gaza after so many months of war reminds us of the need for people of good faith to work harder and pray harder for peace—a lasting peace, so that these wars are not a repetitive scene. 

The Gospel of Matthew (Matthew 25:35-40) reminds us:

For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.

World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel 2024 is a reminder for us all to visit, to feed, and to provide the necessities for the people Jesus called “the least of my brothers and sisters.” At the same time, it is time to reflect on what we do towards this conflict and how we contribute positively or negatively “as if we are doing it to Jesus.”  

“God of love and justice, send your spirit of love and reconciliation into our hearts, so we have the courage to uphold the sanctity of life, see the beauty of all human beings created in your image and overcome all hate,” reads a prayer card. “God of reconciliation, send your spirit of wisdom and prudence into the hearts of those in power that a just and sustainable peace with room for a good life for both Palestinians and Israelis may become possible.” (WCC)

Click here to read the material published by the World Council of Churches to accompany the World Week of Peace

November 2022: Sunset over the Jerusalem old city and east Jerusalem. Photo: Albin Hillert/WCC