14.4.22
This week’s Kumi Now considered the issue of the Israeli policy of demolishing Palestinian homes. Building permits are rarely granted to Palestinians by the Israeli authorities so they have to build without permits. They may then be forced to demolish their own homes to avoid incurring high demolition costs. Palestinian homes and buildings may also be demolished by the Israeli military to clear land or for punitive reasons.
Next week Kumi Now will consider the issue of administrative detention, as we also remember Palestinian Prisoner Day which falls this year on Easter Sunday, the 17th of April.
Lord, we pray that the Israeli authorities will cease to use home demolition as a way of forcing Palestinians from their homes and off the land.
Lord, in your mercy…
Last Sunday, the 10th of April, was Palm Sunday. This day marks the beginning of Holy Week for western churches.
Lord Jesus, we remember how warmly the crowds greeted you as you entered through a gate in Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, ‘they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, crying out, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord” (John 12:12).
Lord in your mercy…
On Saturday, the 9th of April, Sabeel Jerusalem joined with Sabeel Australia, Palestine Israel Ecumenical Network and Palestinian Christians in Australia to worship together at an online service called ‘Voices of Hope:Journeying towards Easter’.
Lord Jesus, as we reflect on your sufferings and redeeming work on the cross we pray that you would continue to lead and guide us by your light through dark and troubled times.
Lord, in your mercy…
Sabeel Jerusalem has just published the latest edition of the Cornerstone magazine which explores the theme of apartheid. In the Summer 2021 edition of the Cornerstone, Jean Zaru, a Palestinian and founding member of Sabeel, stated that her message of hope is ‘embodied in the spirit and will of all those who refuse to submit to the forces of oppression, violence and injustice’.
Merciful and faithful Lord, we pray that you will enable those suffering from oppression in the Holy Land, to hold on to hope even as they endure persecution. “
Lord, in your mercy…
Rev. Canon Naim Ateek and women from the Sabeel movement will lead us in worship and reflection this coming Holy Saturday, on the 16th of April, for the Sabeel Easter Service in Jerusalem.
Lord, in your tender compassion, ‘ The dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death and to guide our feet into the way of peace.’(Luke 1:78-9)
Lord, in your mercy…
The Latin Patriarchate of Jerusalem has appointed two new bishops. The Rev. Jamal Khader Daibes is Palestinian and has been appointed as the Patriarchal Bishop of Jordan. The new Patriarchal Vicar of Israel is the Rev. Rafic Nahra. He was born in Egypt to Lebanese parents.
Lord, we give thanks for these two newly appointed bishops. Both men were born and raised in the Middle East and have a deep love and understanding for the people there. Lord, grant them your grace as they guide and serve their communities.
Lord, in your mercy…
We join with the World Council of Churches in their prayers for the countries of Bulgaria, Hungary and Romania.
Lord, in your mercy….