Pray and hope for a just and lasting peace in the Middle East
Today, The United Church of Canada issued a statement of hope and prayer for a permanent ceasefire in the Middle East. The statement reads:
The United Church of Canada joins in the prayers and hopes of partners in Palestine and Israel and around the world at news of the emerging ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
We reiterate our call for the immediate and safe release of all captives so that they can return to their families and communities. This ceasefire must be sustained and permanent.
Communities who are displaced and have endured more than 400 days of bombardment, constant fear, famine, and the denial of shelter, healthcare, and water must have freedom to return to their homes. Humanitarian aid must be safely delivered to all parts of Gaza.
We pray for the efforts of all those who have worked tirelessly to bring about an end to the violence so that the people of Gaza might reclaim their rights to life with dignity.