13th of March 2025
Israeli occupation forces continue their military operations in the West Bank, carrying out mass arrests and demolishing homes. Meanwhile, extremist settlers persist in their violent actions across the region, such as stealing 800 sheep near Jericho and injuring Palestinians in Masafer Yatta, all without intervention from the Israeli Army.
God of justice, in this season of Lent, as we grieve the destruction in the West Bank, we remember Christ’s journey to the cross and his call to stand with the oppressed. As homes are demolished and lives are stolen, stir hearts to act. Holy Spirit, lead us in repentance from complicity and into the work of love and liberation. May we walk the path of the cross in solidarity with the suffering, trusting in your power to bring healing and justice to the broken.
Lord, in your mercy… hear our prayer.
Last week, a large fire broke out in a Gaza warehouse storing food supplies, further worsening the humanitarian crisis after Israel halted all aid to Gaza.
God of compassion, our hearts are heavy with the weight of injustice and suffering. We grieve the silence of the world in the face of such need and the fear of collapse as peace hangs in the balance. We pray for the people of Gaza who continue to lack food, shelter, and security. Stir in the hearts of all leaders the courage to confront this injustice and act with wisdom, justice and mercy. Provide sustenance to the hungry, protection to the vulnerable, and a path to lasting peace.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
The Palestine Institute for Biodiversity and Sustainability at Bethlehem University warns of dangerously low rainfall, currently at only 48-49% of the seasonal average. With no significant rainfall expected in the coming weeks, this shortfall will likely persist. While climate change is a global crisis, its effects in Palestine are worsened by colonial policies that deprive local communities of water access. The severe drought will have devastating consequences for rainfed agriculture, groundwater recharge, and water availability this summer, further exacerbating water injustice as settlers consume the vast majority of resources, leaving Palestinians with less than 7% of the water supply.
God of Mercy, our earth is dry, our wells are low, and our fields thirst for your life-giving water. In your grace, open the heavens and let the rains fall upon this land, renewing the earth and sustaining all who depend on it. Grant relief to those who suffer from water scarcity, and restore justice where resources have been taken unjustly. May your rain be a sign of hope, reminding us of your faithfulness and the promise of renewal.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer.
From late March to April, Rev. Munther Isaac will travel across the United States for a speaking tour on his new book, Christ in the Rubble. He will speak at universities, seminaries, churches, and other institutions. More information about his tour dates can be found on his Facebook.
God of wisdom, we lift up Rev. Munther Isaac as he embarks on his journey to share your truth and justice. Guide his ministry with courage and clarity. Holy Spirit, stir within us a prophetic imagination to dismantle the theologies of empire that distort your gospel. Help us to find Christ in the rubble not only in Palestine but in the ruins of injustice wherever they may be, so that we may embody the hope of resurrection through creative acts of resistance, love, and solidarity.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
March 8 was International Women’s Day. In honor of Women’s Day, Sabeel partnered with local businesses to host a successful yoga and sound healing session. We plan to continue offering weekly yoga classes with Studio Sukuon every Saturday.
God who created all in your image, we give thanks for the strength, resilience, and leadership of women everywhere. May women in the world be honored, empowered, and supported in their work for justice and peace. Bless initiatives that promote healing, well-being, and community, and may this be a world where all people, regardless of gender, live with dignity and freedom.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
We join the World Council of Churches in their prayers for Ireland and the United Kingdom: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
