Message from the Bishop: “I invite the congregations and people of the Episcopal Diocese of New Hampshire to pray often and fervently that the emerging possibility of a lasting and just peace in the lands of Israel and Palestine will become a reality. Please let us enter into a spirit of hope, however tender, that hearts and minds that were hardened will be made more supple and open the prospect of a solution where the dignity and flourishing of all human beings are respected and cherished.”
Prayer:
O God of peace, we know that you hear the cry of the people of Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank, and all places torn by violence and hatred. We believe that in Jesus, there is no place where earth sorrows are more deeply felt than in heaven. Hear our cry for peace. Give courage to those who work tirelessly for a cessation of all violence. Give a sense of your abundance to those on each side of this conflict who will be asked to give, surrender and heal. Help them release the impulse of retribution and revenge. We thank you for those who have led your people to this hopeful moment. We hold our breath in anticipation. Send the gentle winds of the Holy Spirit to guide us to what we have not known before; for in Jesus Christ you can make all things new and can dry the tears of those who weep.