This morning the World Council of Churches expressed grave concern over escalating military attacks in the Middle East and called for an immediate cessation of violence, the protection of civilian populations, and renewed diplomatic engagement.

As part of the global fellowship of churches, the Uniting Church in Australia stands alongside our ecumenical partners in prayerful solidarity. We share the deep concern for the safety of civilians, the stability of the region, and the urgent need for de-escalation and dialogue.

In a time when rhetoric intensifies and fear spreads quickly, I invite the Uniting Church to be what we are called to be — a praying people. We hold before God all whose lives are endangered, and we pray for communities here in Australia who are watching these events with deep concern for loved ones.

We recommit ourselves to being people of restraint, reconciliation and hope.

Prayer for Peace

God of Abraham and Sarah,

God of Hagar and Ishmael,

God of Isaac and Rebekah,

God revealed to us in Jesus Christ,

We bring before you the lands where our faith was born,

now shaken by escalating violence and deep uncertainty.

We pray for the people of Iran,

for the people of Israel,

and for all across the region living tonight with fear.

We pray for children woken by sirens,

for families seeking safety,

for those carrying grief, anger and anxiety.

Prince of Peace,

interrupt the cycle of violence.

Protect civilian life on every side.

Grant leaders wisdom and restraint.

Turn hearts from further destruction toward dialogue and de-escalation.

Call all nations to act with responsibility,

with care for human life,

and with respect for the obligations of international law.

Spirit of the Living God,

comfort those in Australia whose loved ones are in harm’s way.

Strengthen Jewish, Muslim, Iranian, Arab and Christian communities who may feel vulnerable or unsettled.

Guard us from antisemitism, from Islamophobia, and from every form of hatred that rises in times of conflict.

Make your Church a place of safety, compassion and steady hope.

May fear give way to understanding.

May violence give way to courage for peace.

May justice and mercy meet.

In the name of Christ, who is our peace.

Amen.