On Sunday, 2nd June Israel held its annual Jerusalem Day celebrations to commemorate the occupation of East Jerusalem during the 1967 war. These celebrations were marked with extreme right-wing Israeli youths marching through the Old City to Damascus Gate shouting chants against Christianity and Islam whilst proclaiming Jerusalem as the undivided capital of Israel. There were also conflicts at al-Aqsa Mosque when Israeli Jews entered the compound to pray – something which is normally forbidden especially during the final few days of Ramadan.
- Lord, we pray that the Israeli authorities will come to realise that there is no peace and justice without the recognition of international law. Grant to people of all religions the peace to come together and pray in their sacred places without the threat of interference or violence. Lord, in your mercy…hear our prayer.