April 18th, 2024
On the 13th of April, Iran launched hundreds of drones and missiles towards Israel after vowing retaliation for a deadly Israeli strike on its consulate in the Syrian capital Damascus. Although nearly all the missiles and drones were intercepted, a 7-year-old girl, Amina al-Hassouni, was severely injured by missile shrapnel and an airbase in Israel was lightly damaged. Many fear that Israel’s future response to Iran’s attack will escalate to an all-out regional war.
• God of peace, many of us are fearful of a potential regional war. We ask that you heal the wounds of Amina and comfort her family with your presence. Lord, urge those in decision making positions to move quickly to lay the foundations for a comprehensive just peace in the region. Illuminate that the pivotal step towards achieving this requires putting an end to Palestinian suffering.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
Hundreds of armed Israeli settlers stormed villages in the West Bank over the weekend, setting fire to several homes and cars, killing at least two people, and injuring many in one of the largest attacks by settlers this year. This attack was carried out in the pretext of revenge after a 14-year-old settler was found dead in the West Bank. Raids by Israeli settlers and soldiers against West Bank towns and villages have increased since October 7, killing hundreds of Palestinians.
• God of justice, we lament over all those who have been killed by violence and hate. Lord, our land is filled with the blood of so many. Help us understand the root problem of these tragedies and resist it. Hold each person and system accountable for the injustice occurring in the West Bank and be with all who are mourning and afraid.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
In the beginning of April, a group of Israeli settlers accompanied by Israeli police officers entered the Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem’s Old City, known as the Cows’ Garden, and began assaulting Armenians and vandalizing their property. This incident is part of a series of events where Israeli police and settler groups have assaulted Jerusalem’s Armenians. Armenian community members say losing the Cows’ Garden would pose an existential threat to their community and would irrevocably damage Jerusalem’s diverse character.
• God of inclusivity, the beauty of our people is akin to a colorful mosaic. The more supremacy and exclusivity reign in our land, the more our vibrant society is erased. Intervene and halt the bullying of Israeli police, settlers, and municipality who pose an existential threat to the Armenian community. Give joy and unwavering resolve to the Palestinian Armenians as they resist their own erasure.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
This week, Sabeel will host its yearly community Easter egg hunt in Beit Sahour, bringing together children from orphanages and the margins of society. Scheduled for mid-April to coincide with both Western and Eastern Easter celebrations, the event has a range of delightful activities for all participants.
• God of joy, we thank you for all children who teach us to delight in your creation and have joy despite our realities. Lord, we pray that the Sabeel Easter egg hunt will provide moments of laughter and happiness to these kids who have experienced so much sadness and pain. Lord, we remember your words, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Mattthew 18:3).
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
Last week, Layan Nasir, a member of the Anglican Church in Beirzeit, was arrested, along with several others, by Israeli forces in the early hours of the morning. Following Layan’s arrest, the Archbishop of Canterbury has called for her swift release. Nasir was previously arrested on the 7th of July 2021, during which Israeli forces stormed her home where she was handcuffed, blinded, and transported to Ofer military camp for interrogation. The Israeli military court has placed Layan under a 4-month administrative dentation which means she has not been charged with any crime and her detention can be renewed indefinitely.
• Heavenly Father, we are worried for your precious daughter Layan and all others arrested with her. We come to you in prayer because “The Lord hears the needy and does not despise his captive people” (Psalm 69:33). Lord, protect Layan and all those in detention. Comfort their families with your presence. Lord, deliver our oppressors who imprison themselves with hatred.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
Germany is facing charges at the top United Nations court for allegedly “facilitating the commission of genocide” against Palestinians in Gaza in coordination with its military and political ally, Israel. Nicaragua presented its case before the International Court of Justice (ICJ) on the 8th of April, demanding judges impose emergency measures to stop Germany from providing Israel with weapons and other assistance.
• Righteous God, we come before you are seeking justice. We know that righteousness and peace must be grounded in truth. Lord, we pray for all countries who are funding and supplying the Israeli military operation in Gaza to repent publicly, work for an immediate ceasefire, and give reparations to the victims of their crimes. Lord, remind us that all should be humble before God, even nations and empires.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
• We Join with the World Council of Churches in their prayer for the countries of Belarus, Moldova, Russia, and Ukraine.
Lord in your mercy… hear our prayer
