Prayer

We can support both Israelis and Palestinians by taking part in a churchwide effort that began in Advent 2000. The Ecumenical Prayer Vigil is an opportunity for ELCA members to join Christians all over the USA in regular prayer for peace and healing. Participants focus their prayers on one day each month for the Christian communities in Jerusalem, for all those who are suffering in the Holy Land, for Palestinians and Israelis, and for peace in the Middle East and the world.

Many synods and congregations around the ELCA have maintained this Prayer Vigil, such as English Lutheran Church in La Crosse, Wis. There, 15 to 25 students, working adults, and retired couples gather on the 20th of each month, regardless of the day of the week. Because the prayer vigil is publicized in local papers, at least a third of the worshippers come from outside the congregation.

Prayer Resources

Ecumenical Prayer Vigil: Commit your congregation to pray for peace.

Holy Land Prayers and Litanies: Use these prayers in your congregation, in your daily prayers, and in the Ecumenical Prayer Vigil.

"Pray for Peace in the Holy Land": Read an article about congregations, synods, and colleges praying for peace.

Denominational Prayers for Peace: Prayer and worship resources from various organizations and denominations.

Prayer Vigil by State and Congregation: See a list of Christian Denominations' monthly prayer vigils for peace in the Middle East separated by state and congregation.

Interfaith Prayers for Peace: See a collection of inter-faith prayers for peace in the Middle East.

Prayer for Peace Bulletin Insert: Utilize this resource from the Mennonite Central Committee.