09/07/2015 English

This week marks one year since Israel’s massive military offensive in Gaza.  Little has changed there: only a small fraction of the pledged money for Gaza from around the world has been received, reconstruction efforts have been painfully slow under the blockade, and Gaza’s unemployment rate is the highest in the world.  God of Mercy, we pray that the international community will not accept this humanitarian crisis and will protect the people of Gaza, where more than half of the population is under 18 years old.  Lord in your mercy…
 A 17-year-old youth from Qalandia refugee camp was shot and killed last week by an Israeli soldier during a clash near Ramallah as he was climbing the separation barrier to pray in Jerusalem.  More than a decade ago his two brothers, both children, were also killed in the second Intifada.  God of mercy, we pray that the young victims of this senseless occupation will stir the conscience of more Israelis to seek peace with justice and human rights for all.  Lord in your mercy…
 Last week the United Church of Christ (UCC) overwhelmingly voted to support boycott and divestment from companies that profit from Israel’s occupation of the West Bank and Gaza Strip.  Lord, we lift our gratitude for those who act upon the injustices in the world.  We also pray that other churches will resurrect the prophetic and courageously speak truth to power so that the God of love, justice and peace will be glorified.  Lord in your mercy… Lord, we pray for our Sabeel Nazareth programs this week, including a women’s meeting and a youth trip to the Hasbani River.  Lord in your mercy…
 
We pray alongside the World Council of Churches for the countries of Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela.  Lord in your mercy… 
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