Each year, the World Council of Churches invites member churches, faith-based communities, and civil society organizations across the globe to dedicate a week to prayer and advocacy for a just peace in Palestine and Israel.
During the World Week for Peace in Palestine and Israel, church groups, congregations, and people of faith are encouraged to stand together in solidarity by taking part in worship services, educational events, and actions that promote peace and justice for both Palestinians and Israelis.
In alignment with our Catholic Nonviolence Days of Action, Pax Christi International participates in the Week of Prayer for Peace in Palestine and Israel and invites you to join us in this campaign under the theme “Whatever you did…you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
On Day 1, we turned our hearts to the Human Loss in Gaza, deeply mourning the profound suffering experienced since October 7, 2023.
Our faith moves us to respond with compassion, standing in solidarity with those affected. We asked everyone to share this infographic to help shine a light on their pain and to join in the call for a just peace.
On Day 2, we turned our attention to the injured and disabled who have faced extraordinary challenges in Gaza since 7 October 2023.
Their courage and resilience in the face of such adversity are of great inspiration. We invited everyone to organise or join a ride for the “Gaza Sunbirds” campaign. By sharing this message and participating in the ride, we can help raise awareness and foster a sense of unity. Find more here.
On Day 3, we committed to a day of fasting in solidarity with the displaced people of Gaza. This day of fasting represents a spiritual journey towards empathy and understanding.
Through this action we are united with those who have been forced from their homes and who endure daily hardships in Gaza.
May this serve as a powerful testament to a commitment to just peace. To bring relief to those suffering and work tirelessly towards a future where peace prevails, and every individual’s dignity is respected.
On Day 4, we focused on Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners detained by Israel.
We invited everyone to light a candle on their balcony to honour those who are imprisoned or held captive in order to raise awareness and signify our collective wish for their safe release and for justice.
May this serve also as a visible sign of our commitment to peace and our hope for a future where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.
On Day 5, we turned our focus to the women and children enduring hardship under fire.
We invited everyone to organise a Reflection Walk with their neighbours and friends, reflecting on the struggles faced by women and children caught in conflict. This was a way to help raise awareness of the importance of walking together on the path to Just Peace!
On Day 6, we turned our attention to the international community as we observed the International Day of Peace.
We invited everyone to amplify the call for justice by sharing the recent speech of Rev. Munther Isaac on “Silence is Complicity.” His powerful words highlight the urgent need for action against ongoing atrocities and underscore the importance of speaking out.
Additionally, we encouraged everyone to ask their governments and faith leaders to condemn these injustices and call for an imminent and permanent ceasefire. Find the speech here.
On Day 7, we focussed on the reconstruction of Gaza, addressing its needs, challenges, and future path.
This day was dedicated to hearing and echoing the voices of Palestinians as they navigate their journey towards recovery and peace.
We invited everyone to take part in this crucial dialogue by reflecting on and amplifying the experiences and testimonies of those directly affected. By listening deeply and sharing these voices, we support the reconstruction efforts and advocate for a future where the hopes and dreams of the Palestinian people are realised.
Thank you to everyone who joined us on this journey of reflection, advocacy, and unity.
