Each Thursday at noon in Jerusalem, Sabeel holds a Communion service that is open to the community. It is a time to join together to celebrate the Eucharist, to discuss how the scriptures apply to our lives today, and to pray for the specific needs of this region. Following the 2006 Sabeel International Conference, the Friends of Sabeel coordinators met and discussed the idea of "Waves of Prayer." The premise is that in their respective time zones, individuals and groups around the world will pray together at 12:00 on Thursdays, in solidarity with Sabeel in Jerusalem and with "Friends of Sabeel" worldwide. Starting in Australia, passing through Palestine, and on around the world we will pray for Peace with Justice and focus on specific issues each week.
Wave of Prayer for Thursday, February 4, 2010
The Israeli military has agreed to re-establish a military base in Beit Sahour, next to Bethlehem. The site was abandoned in 2006 but recent demonstrations by settlers have convinced the military to reoccupy the base. This further tightens the Israeli grip on Bethlehem and threatens the community of Beit Sahour. God, whose Son was born in this place during Roman military occupation, never let us forget your message of liberation and hope for all people.
It was recently announced that Danske Bank, a large Danish bank, would divest from two companies involved in settlements and the Separation Wall. This decision follows several positive developments in the area of divestment. We pray that this effective nonviolent tool for encouraging companies to respect international law will gain in popularity and scope. God, give us courage and the will to take risks for justice.
Crime in some parts of the West Bank seems to be on the rise. The social fabric of many Palestinian communities is yet another of the casualties of occupation and conflict. We pray for the organizations and individuals working to counteract the effects of the occupation. May their efforts at strengthening Palestinian communities nurture tolerance and love.
On Sunday, Sabeel-Nazareth will bring nearly 50 people from the Galilee to meet Father Manuel Musallam who served the Christian community in Gaza for many years, including during last year's attack on the Gaza Strip. They will hear about his experiences and offer prayers for the Gazans still under siege. Merciful God, may we never forget those who are silenced or those who are mistreated. Remind us of our duty as peacemakers.
This week we join with the World Council of Churches in praying for:
Ireland, United Kingdom
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