Holy One, 

Who hears the groans of creation and the cries of our hearts, how you must long for a moment of silence. Silence reflecting peace in the world. Silence reflecting our unconditional love for each other. Silence reflecting healing in the world. Instead, the din of our petitions is ever present, our tear drops like the rush of waterfalls are heard in a world where destruction and violence escalate and spreads. 

We weep with the victims and survivors of recent attacks and killings in Lebanon as we continue to grieve the violence and loss in Gaza and the West Bank. We also remember other areas in the world where suffering continues and peace with justice is absent. We pray for their healing, for the injured, and for the comfort of those who mourn. We pray for an end to the infliction of terror and fear. 

We pray peace as we advocate for justice. Our cries, our prayers, and our tears join with the multitudes globally seeking an end to war and violence. 

God our Creator, bring peace among your people and upon the earth. Amen.

Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, General Minister and President/Chief Executive Officer – United Church of Christ

Learn more about the People’s Prayers for Peace, share a prayer of your own, and read other prayers.