Tuesday, January 28, 2025
Arabic Wave of Prayer, 27th - 30th of January 2025
French Wave of Prayer, 27th - 30th of January 2025
Monday, January 27, 2025
Spanish Wave of Prayer, 27th - 30th of January 2025
English wave of prayer Jan 27th - 31st
- Israel began the “Iron Wall” operation on Jenin Refugee Camp. Already, dozens of Palestinians have been killed including children and women.
God, we are shaken by the reports coming out of Jenin, a city which continues to experience violence. We do not know the extent of the suffering in Jenin, but we trust you know every name, every tear, and every plea. Deliver us from the many forms of oppression. Console us through liberation, heal us through justice, and humble the rulers of the world that are responsible for the continued suffering and dehumanization of lives.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
- War is now transferring to the West Bank. People in the West Bank have been living in fear of an unpredictable and worsening situation. The Israeli military has erected almost 900 checkpoints and gates throughout the West Bank, completely controlling the right of movement. As Palestinian cities are cut off from one another, settlers are also burning towns and committing violence, now further emboldened by U.S. President Trump’s lifting of sanctions on West Bank settlers and groups
God of life, we grieve the complicity of nations and leaders that have made violence against Palestinians normal. We cry out for your intervention as people face settler attacks, home demolitions, and settler colonial violence. Illuminate to the world about the horrors, unhidden and hidden, happening in the West Bank. As we keep our hearts and minds on the West Bank, protect us from the desire for revenge and give us the wisdom to seek healing through the end of occupation, siege, massacres, starvation, hostages, and any other form oppression.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
- Just one day after the ceasefire went into effect, Israeli forces shot and killed a 15-year-old Palestinian child in southern Gaza. His name is Zakariya Hameed Yahya Barbakh. When someone attempted to retrieve his lifeless body, they too were met with bullets. He is one of two Palestinian children killed on the first day after ceasefire.
God of Justice, have mercy on the family of Zakariya and comfort them as they mourn. Lord, help us keep our eyes on Gaza amidst this fragile ceasefire, and humble the arrogant who believe they can act with impunity against international law and human rights.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
- Sabeel is hosting its first events of the year at its newly established center in the Old City of Jerusalem. One of these events will take place next Saturday, 1st February, featuring Move Within, which will host a Yoga and Pilates class from 10:30 AM to 12:45 PM. Through these events, we hope to bring the East Jerusalem community together and foster joy, even amidst challenges.
God of Hope, we thank each staff member and volunteer of Sabeel who are working against impossible odds. Strengthen our faith when we feel weak, protect us from harm, and help us operate as one body in Christ. Continue to help us find new nonviolent ways of resisting and uplifting our community.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
- At the end of this month, UNRWA will officially be forced to close its offices in Jerusalem due to Israeli actions against it. The refugee status of many Palestinians in refugee camps in Jerusalem and the West Bank, which number around 800,000, are at risk. Many will fall below the poverty line, and with the lack of education and healthcare services, violence will only worsen.
Dear God, we remember your days as a refugee who dwelled among the oppressed of your time. We come to you in fear that the most marginalized in the refugee camps will suffer even more due to the closing of UNRWA. Help us to understand that the situation of Palestinian refugees is tied to the entire Palestinian struggle for freedom and justice. Make your presence known in the refugee camps amidst unbearable violence and help us bring down the systems and decision makers that cause displacement and torment.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
- The 27th of January marks the international day in memory of the victims of the Holocaust. This day commemorates the victims of the Holocaust, which resulted in the genocide of one third of the Jewish people, along with countless members of other minorities by Nazi Germany between 1933 and 1945.
Loving God, we come to you in remembrance of the victims of Holocaust who were massacred, displaced, and murdered due to racism and extremist ideologies. Help us remember and recognize the sanctity of each human life, that all people are made in your image. Help us in resisting extremism and raising our voices for love to triumph over evil. We pray that genocide, hatred, and systems of oppression all around the world will cease.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
We join with the World Council of Churches in their prayers for the countries of Cyprus, Greece, and Türkiye.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Sunday, January 26, 2025
German Wave of Prayer, 27th - 30th of January 2025
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
French Wave of Prayer, 20th - 23rd of January 2025
Monday, January 20, 2025
Arabic Wave of Prayer, 20th - 23rd of January 2025
English wave of prayer Jan 20th - 24th
Armenians around the world are celebrating Christmas this week, coinciding with the time when many Christians are celebrating Epiphany.
Loving God, we pray for peace and justice in our world, that wars may cease and healing may come to those who suffer. Bless our brothers and sisters in the Armenian Church and all Christian communities. Unite us in faith and love, that we may be instruments of Your peace. May we work together to reflect Your kingdom of justice, mercy, and reconciliation.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Israel and Hamas announced a ceasefire agreement, with phase 1 of a “partial ceasefire” to be implemented this week.
God who is Faithful and Just, we give thanks for your presence among the people of Gaza and people all over the world. We lift up news of this ceasefire, praying that it will be implemented and that the killing will stop. With this ceasefire, illuminate to the world that the fight for liberation is not over, not while the systemic dehumanization of our people continues. Holy Spirit, continue to open our hearts and minds and help us collectively resist extremism and settler-colonial occupation.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Last week, Israeli forces in the West Bank bombed a home in Jenin refugee camp, killing over 6 Palestinians and wounding others including children.
God who walks alongside the oppressed, we ask for your presence in Jenin in the midst of despair and destruction. Bring comfort to the grieving, healing to the wounded, and strength to those who refuse to abandon hope. We cry out against the systems of violence, oppression and complicity that deepen the suffering of the vulnerable. Grant us the courage to stand in solidarity with the people of Jenin and all who suffer under occupation. May we be agents of your peace, bearers of your light, and voices for truth in a world shrouded by injustice.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Monday, January 20th is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the United States. Sabeel reaffirms its commitment to practicing solidarity across borders and to fight for the liberation of all. In the spirit of solidarity, Sabeel highlights the work of our partner Community Renewal Society in the United States who is hosting their 2025 Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Faith in Action Assembly. This event aims to honor Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy and renew a shared commitment to justice.
Holy God, we lift up the legacy of your late servant Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and for those who have followed in his path of nonviolent resistance. We give thanks, especially for our black siblings who have stood in solidarity with the Palestinian people in their fight for justice and equality. In our gratitude, oh Lord, help us recommit ourselves to standing with the oppressed around the world. We lift up Rev. Dr. King’s words that “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” Guide us so that we can continue to move the arc toward your liberatory love.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
In the West Bank, Israel has denied medical care and treatment to a 21 year old Palestinian detainee who is suffering from cancer and malnutrition. Currently, there are 10,400 Palestinians in Israeli prisons, not including those detained from Gaza during the last 15 months of war, and many have faced illness and malnutrition due to the neglect and torture by Israeli authorities.
God who dwells among all the captives, we lift up our hearts for those who are suffering under oppression, especially the 21-year-old Palestinian detainee denied medical care. We pray for all imprisoned unjustly, those afflicted by illness, malnutrition, and neglect. You are the God who sees and sustains; we know your Spirit is at work even now, shaking the walls of prisons and calling forth justice in the face of cruelty. We pray with faith that liberation will come, that the oppressed will rise, and that freedom will reign. Until that day, embolden us to be co-workers in the struggle for justice.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
We join the World Council of Churches in their prayers for the countries of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Arabic Wave of Prayer, 13th - 16th of January 2025
Monday, January 13, 2025
French Wave of Prayer, 13th - 16th of January 2025
English wave of prayers Jan 13th -17
Sabeel is hosting two international delegations this month and is anticipating 1-2 delegations each month for the coming year. The delegations to be planned are comprised of a diverse variety of activists, professionals, and leaders. Like past pilgrimages and delegations in 2024, Sabeel’s goals with international delegations are to shed light on the current reality in the Holy Land and to encourage participants in creative advocacy for justice and peace.
Lord of justice and truth, we lift Sabeel’s upcoming delegations, praying for safe travels and transformative experiences for all participants. May these pilgrimages ignite a movement for change and inspire us to be prophetic agents of your love. Grant wisdom and strength to the staff at Sabeel as they continue to be servants of your will and to walk humbly with you.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Later this month, Sabeel’s friend and partner Save The ArQ will be on the East Coast of the United States on an advocacy tour to save the Armenian Quarter in Jerusalem. Launched in May 2023, Save the ArQ is dedicated to preserving and protecting the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem. The movement was initiated after the discovery of a controversial 98-year lease signed by the Armenian Patriarchate with a company named Xana Gardens without following the internal laws of the Church. Armenian community claims that this lease threatens the treasured and historic Armenian Quarter.
Gracious God, we pray for the success of Save The ArQ’s advocacy tour in the United States as they work to protect the historic Armenian Quarter and the diversity of Jerusalem. Strengthen their voices as they proclaim justice and expose corruption. May their advocacy awaken hearts and stir leaders to act with righteousness. Let this work serve as a testimony to the power of truth and the steadfastness to protect what is holy and just.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Israel recently admitted, under international pressure, to detaining Dr. Hussam Abu Safiyyah, director of Kamal Adwan Hospital, who was abducted by Israeli forces on December 27, 2024. Reports indicate he is being held and tortured at the notorious Sde Teiman camp. During his detention, Dr. Hussam’s mother passed away from a heart attack, as Israel continues to withhold updates on his condition. Palestinians have highlighted the targeting of healthcare workers by Israeli forces, including the imprisonment of Ahmed Muhanna, director of Al-Awda Hospital in northern Gaza, who has been held for over a year.
Dear God, we cry out to you for Dr. Hussam Abu Safiyyah and all who endure imprisonment, torture, and oppression. Comfort them in their trials, and bring justice to their situation. Lord, protect all healthcare workers who risk their lives to serve others and be present with the people of Gaza. Holy Spirit, guide us to keep our eyes and hearts open so that we may never be complacent in the face of oppression, but rather, be strengthened in our resolve to act against injustice.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Across the West Bank, settlers continue to wreak havoc across towns. Last week alone, settlers committed several arson attacks across villages east of Hebron, a farm in Ramallah, and Palestinians’ tents and livestock east of Bethlehem. Meanwhile, the Israeli military continues to abduct Palestinians in the West Bank and kill and injure Palestinian civilians. Just last week, two children aged 8 and 10 were killed by the Israeli military in Tubas.
Holy God, we cannot keep track of the deaths and lives lost due to the injustice and cruelty carried out in the West Bank. We grieve the havoc wrought by settlers and the suffering inflicted upon innocent lives. We lament the loss of children in Tubas and all in the Holy Land whose futures are stolen by oppression and tyranny. Amidst this violence, help us to see your life-giving presence in the West Bank and ignite in the world a resolve to denounce injustice and work for liberation.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
For the last month, Jenin Refugee Camp in the West Bank has been under siege and assault by the Palestinian Authority who seek to weed out armed groups in coordination with Israel. Since the start of the assault on Jenin, innocent civilians have been killed by the PA, including 21-year old female journalist Shatha al-Sabbagh. Shatha was killed in the same refugee camp where journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was assassinated by the Israeli regime in 2022.
Holy God, we grieve the violence and oppression that besieges our people. We lift before you in prayer for the family of Shatha al-Sabbagh. We lament that her death echoes the loss of Shireen Abu Akleh, another truth-teller taken from us too soon. May their sacrifice not be forgotten but illuminate new ways of solidarity and action across the world. Grant strength to those living amidst fear and destruction, and peace to the families who mourn. Heal the wounds of this broken community, and let your spirit of justice and compassion move through those with power to bring an end to this suffering. May Jenin and all of our lands know freedom, dignity, and peace in their land.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
We join with the World Council of Churches in their prayers for the countries of Iran, Iraq, and Syria.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
Sunday, January 12, 2025
German Wave of Prayer, 13th - 16th of January 2025
Tuesday, January 7, 2025
French Wave of Prayer, 6th - 9th of January 2025
Monday, January 6, 2025
Arabic Wave of Prayer, 6th - 9th of January 2025
English wave of prayer Jan 6th - 9th
- This week, instead of a normal Kumi Now Session, we begin our 2025 program with an invitation to complete a feedback survey on Kumi. The feedback of our friends around the world is important for helping us improve the Kumi experience and community. You can complete the survey with this link.Sabeel will host an optional session around 6:30 PM Palestine time (UTC+2) on Tuesday for those who want to complete the survey together and discuss actions or other thoughts. Sabeel aims to be back next Tuesday with a regular Kumi Now Session at the usual time, 6 PM Palestine.
God of Justice, we thank you for the global community of Kumi Now, united in the pursuit of justice and peace. As we use this week for reflection, we pray for wisdom and openness as feedback is gathered. May the voices of participants guide this program to greater impact and inclusivity. Bless the upcoming conversations and sessions, that they may be filled with thoughtful dialogue and shared commitment to action. We ask for your guidance as Sabeel continues its work, striving always to reflect your revolutionary love and justice in the world.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
- Sabeel’s friend and partner, Professor Mazin Qumsiyeh, was recently nominated for the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. He was nominated by Nobel Peace Laureate Mairead Corrigan. A renowned scientist and activist from Beit Sahour, Professor Qumsiyeh has led numerous initiatives for justice, including founding the Palestine Right to Return Coalition and the Wheels of Justice Bus Tour, which reached thousands across the U.S. His environmental efforts include creating Palestine’s National Biodiversity Strategy and empowering youth through conservation and peace education. Sabeel celebrates this recognition of Professor Qumsiyeh’s inspiring work for justice and peace. Learn more at qumsiyeh.org and palestinenature.org.
Gracious Creator, we lift our hearts in gratitude for the work of Professor Mazin Qumsiyeh, a tireless advocate for peace, justice, and the care of your creation. We ask for your sustaining grace, protection, and courage upon him and all who labor for peace. May his nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize shine a light on the urgent need for justice in our world and inspire others to join in this holy work. Grant us the courage to walk with Mazin in the path of nonviolence, advocacy for the oppressed, and caretaking of your earth.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
- On Wednesday, the Palestinian Authority suspended Al Jazeera in the occupied West Bank for what they described as broadcasting “inciting material and reports that were deceiving and stirring strife” in the country. The decision came after Fatah, the Palestinian faction which dominates the PA, banned Al Jazeera from reporting from the governorates of Jenin, Tubas and Qalqilya in the occupied West Bank, citing its coverage of clashes between the Palestinian security forces and Palestinian armed groups in the area.
We come before you in sorrow and humility, recognizing the deep challenges within our own community. We lift in prayer the suspension of Al Jazeera in the occupied West Bank, a decision that silences the press. We lament the divisions that persist and the ways empire distort justice and peace. Grant us the courage to confront the forces of oppression and hate within and around us. May truth and accountability guide the actions of all leaders, and may the Holy Spirit inspire reconciliation and unity among those seeking freedom.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer
- Last week, the Israeli government committed $150 million from its budget to shape international perceptions amid Gaza genocide for 2025. Israeli propaganda has been used to whitewash its war crimes and discredit those who criticize and expose the government’s policies against Palestinians.
God of Justice and Compassion, we come before you burdened by the misuse of power and the distortion of truth. As resources are committed to controlling narratives and silencing the cries of the oppressed, we pray for courage to confront lies and amplify the voices of those suffering in Gaza and beyond. Lord, we ask for your wisdom to guide those who seek to expose injustice and advocate for peace. Strengthen their resolve and protect them from harm. As we fight to uplift the truth tellers and confront the lies of empire, deliver us from the temptation of overcoming evil with evil.
Lord, in your mercy…hear our prayer.
- On Saturday, Israeli forces killed at least 70 Palestinians in 30 separate attacks across the Gaza Strip. At the same time, U.S. President Joe Biden proposed an $8 billion arms sale for Israel just two weeks before leaving office.
Holy God, in our lament and despair, we decry the evil of empire that perpetuates such violence, injustice, and suffering. Oh Lord, we cry to you; do not let our eyes stray from the unimaginable pain and loss but help us see your presence incarnated in Gaza. Emmanuel, born among the rubble, you stand with the oppressed and brokenhearted. We ask for your divine justice to prevail and for your light to touch the people of Gaza. Renew our commitment to stand with them, to speak truth to power, and to work for the day when all people can live in peace and security.
Lord, in your mercy…hear our prayer.
- On Monday 6th January, Eastern Orthodox Christians around the world celebrate Christmas by the Julian calendar.
Loving God, we ask for blessings on our Eastern Orthodox brothers and sisters in celebrating the birth of Christ, the Light of the World. As they gather in reverence, may we remember that Christ, born among the rubble, calls us to stand in solidarity with those suffering. We also ask for your guidance in the New Year as Sabeel and Friends of Sabeel worldwide continue their important work. Renew our hearts with the light of your boundless love and a commitment to bring justice and healing to a weary world, especially for those in your place of birth.
Lord, in your mercy…hear our prayer.
We join the World Council of Churches in their prayers for the countries of Egypt, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine.
Lord in your mercy…hear our prayer.