God of all peoples and places,
You are our shelter when the world trembles,
Our peace when fear overwhelms,
Our strength when justice feels far away.
Today we lift to you the people of Syria and Iran,
Of Lebanon, of Gaza, of Palestine_
all those whose lives are shaken by bombs, grief, and fear.
We remember the lives lost near St Elie Church in Damascus, the wounded, the broken-hearted,
And those who now cry out from under rubble and despair.
Pour out your Spirit of peace,
The same Spirit that fell on Pentecost and gave voice to hope.
Steady the hearts of leaders, soften the grip of power,
And awaken in us a hunger for justice that protects life.
We pray for our sisters and brothers in the Middle East –
Orthodox, Catholic, Protestant – and all people of faith.
May they know your comfort, your nearness, your light.
Help us as your Church, O God,
To pray without ceasing,
To speak truth with grace,
And to weave peace wherever we are planted.
In Jesus’ name, the Prince of Peace, we pray.
Amen.
Pescila Magdalin.
Columban Interreligious Dialogue Coordinator.
