God of peace, we pray for peace between Israel and Hamas.  We pray for a ceasefire and the release of hostages.  We pray for leaders on both sides, that their hearts would be changed.  We pray for our Christian partners in the Land of the Holy One, and their Muslim and Jewish neighbours who inspire the world with their steadfast hope and faithfulness.

God of comfort and strength, we pray for all those who continue to suffer in this war - those who mourn, the injured, those who live in fear.  We pray for those who continue to try to provide aid and medical care - workers who risk their lives.  Bring us all hope, bring us all strength, bring us all peace.  In your holy and life-giving name we pray.  Amen.

Adapted from the bishops' prayers in support of our partners in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Jordan and the Holy Land