Beloved sisters and brothers in Christ,

As we witness the widening conflict across the Middle East, our hearts are heavy. In times such as these, we turn first to prayer. Scripture reminds us, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).

We are not powerless in moments of turmoil. We are called to pray – for peace, for protection, and for the preservation of every life precious to God. I invite you to join in prayer:

• for peace to prevail across the Middle East.
• for every life to be protected.
• for families living in fear to be sheltered in God’s mercy.
• for leaders to be guided toward wisdom and restraint.

Beloved, let us remain awake in prayer – in our congregations, in our homes, and in the quiet of our hearts. May Christ, our Peace, guard the nations and steady our spirits.

A Prayer for Peace

God of mercy and compassion,
you are the source of life and the guardian of every soul.

We grieve the violence unfolding in our world.
We tremble for families living under the threat of war.

Protect every life, O God.
Shield the innocent.
Restrain the powerful.
Transform the policies of nations,
so that they reflect your justice, mercy, and peace.

Grant wisdom to leaders.
Turn them toward diplomacy instead of destruction,
toward courage in reconciliation instead of pride in power.

Make us instruments of your peace.
Keep our hearts free from hatred.
Teach us to love beyond borders and beyond fear.

Through Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, we pray. Amen.

In Christ’s hope,

Bishop Hee-Soo Jung