English 11/05/2017

Sabeel Wave of Prayer
May 11^th 2017

UNESCO - United Nations’ Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization – has endorsed a contentious resolution referring to Israel as the “occupying power” of Jerusalem. The agreement reaffirms the religious importance of the Holy City for Christianity, Islam and Judaism. The resolution said “all legislative and administrative measures and actions taken by Israel, the occupying power, which have altered or purport to alter the character and status of the Holy City of Jerusalem” will be “null and void and must be rescinded forthwith.”

·         Lord, we pray that UN bodies, such as UNESCO, will continue to comply with the United Nations’ Charter and its relevant resolutions. Only that, will bring to an end the evil Israeli military occupation of Palestine. May all the peoples of the land soon enjoy freedom and safety.
Lord in your mercy… 

On Sunday, the Israeli Ministerial Committee for Legislation voted for the controversial Jewish State bill, which anchors in law, Israel’s status as a Jewish state. This bill will legitimize discrimination against the non-Jewish citizens of Israel who form more than 20% of its population.

·         Lord, you have taught us numerous times, to stand against the unjust laws and fight for the values of democracy and equality. We pray that all the citizens of Israel will overcome racism and seek true equality regardless of ethnicity, religion, colour and gender.
Lord in your mercy…

Last week, thousands of people gathered in Nelson Mandela Square in Ramallah to show support for the Palestinian prisoner hunger strikers. Nelson Mandela is viewed internationally as an icon against racism and an advocate for human rights. This week, many Palestinians and Internationals, including Church leaders and activists, plan to join a three day hunger strike as a show of solidarity with the Palestinian prisoners’ demands.

·         Lord, we continue to pray for the steadfastness of the Palestinian prisoners as they hunger for their rightful demands. We also pray for our people not to be led into the temptation of arms and continue the commitment to nonviolent resistance.
Lord in your mercy…

Israeli authorities demolished four Palestinian homes in three separate neighborhoods of occupied East Jerusalem last week for lacking nearly-impossible to obtain construction permits

·         Lord, we pray for the families as they become homeless. God, give us hope to overcome the discriminatory policies of the Israeli occupation and remain stead fast in our city Jerusalem.
Lord in your mercy…

·         We join the World Council of Churches in praying for the countries of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Lord in your mercy…