Israeli authorities issued demolition orders last Sunday for all homes in the village of Khirbet al-Nu’man near Bethlehem. The orders, affecting 45 homes, were issued under the pretext of lacking permits, even though the village predates the Israeli occupation of 1967. The move is seen as part of a broader effort to annex the area into the municipal boundaries of Jerusalem. In addition to Khirbet al-Nu’man, the Palestinian neighborhood of Silwan in East Jerusalem faces ongoing demolition threats. In 2024, Israeli authorities demolished 226 homes and structures in Jerusalem alone, resulting in the displacement of 621 Palestinians and impacting 40,767 others.
Dear God, we cry out for the people of Khirbet al-Nu’man, Silwan, and all communities facing the erasure of their homes and lives. In our despair of this unending injustice, help us remember that you are our stronghold, the rock of refuge (Psalm 94:22) amid the rubble of destruction. We ask you to stand with these communities in their struggle and comfort them in their sorrow. Holy Spirit, stir the hearts of the world to act until every family can dwell in safety and dignity.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.