Christian Aid is inviting people to join its monthly online event - Prayers for Peace in the Middle East. Christians from all over the UK have been taking part in the regular Zoom calls which happen on the 24th of each month.
The next one is on Tuesday 24 September from 7-8pm when participants will hear from Nadia Giol and her colleague Anat Asia, before joining in with prayers for a just peace in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory.
Nadia and Anat have spent more than ten years facilitating non-violent communication (NVC) groups for Jewish and Palestinian Israelis in the Galilee where they both live, and for online groups from around the world. They created Heart to Heart, in October 2023, as a space where Palestinians, Israelis and people from around the world can express themselves. There is a women’s group, a mixed group and a group of NVC practitioners, each meeting weekly.
William Bell, Christian Aid’s Head of Middle East Policy and Advocacy said learning more about the situation in the Middle East is a good way of showing solidarity with all those affected by the conflict.
“The lives of Israelis and Palestinians have been shaped by collective loss, trauma and fear, and the war in Gaza has demonstrated how urgently people in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory need a just peace. Every day, ordinary Palestinians and Israelis stand up for dignity, equality and a just peace, often at great cost. We want to stand with them and encourage others to do the same.”
To sign up for the event, visit: Prayers for Peace in the Middle East - Christian Aid
A Just Peace: webinar and workshop
Also this month - as the war in Gaza nears the grim milestone of one year – Christian Aid is hosting another initiative - A Just Peace: webinar and workshop, on 16 and 17 September.
If you’ve ever had a question about peace in Israel and Palestine you’ve been too nervous to ask; had a tricky question someone has asked you at church; or are not sure how to speak to your local politician about the conflict, then this webinar is for you. The panel will answer your questions and share their experience on speaking up for a just peace.
Jess Hall, Christian Aid Campaigns and Organising Officer, explained: “We all long for peace in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory, but we can shy away from conversations in our churches and with our politicians; it can feel difficult and controversial.
“But silence can support the status quo. Our Just Peace information and advice can equip people to break the silence and put their faith into action.”
To join the webinar and workshop to find out more visit https://www.christianaid.org.uk/get-involved/campaigns/just-peace-webinar-and-workshop.
- Webinar: Monday 16 September, 7.30 - 8.30pm
- Workshop: Tuesday 17 September, 7.30 - 9pm
