In a world fractured by violence, fear, and misunderstanding, the call to peace feels both urgent and sacred. The conflict in Gaza and Israel has once again exposed the deep wounds that lie between communities, faiths, and families — wounds that words often fail to heal.
This gathering reminds us that dialogue is itself an act of peace. It is a form of prayer in motion — a way of saying, “We refuse to let hatred have the last word.”
When people of different faiths share their stories, something sacred happens. Compassion rises. Walls soften. And the Spirit of peace, which transcends every human boundary, begins to move among us once more.
A Prayer for Peace Among Peoples
God of all creation,
You who formed us from the same earth and breathed into us the same spirit of life—
We bring before You the pain of a world divided by violence, fear, and loss.
Hold close the people of Gaza and Israel,
The children who cry out for safety,
The parents who mourn,
The communities who live in fear.
Teach us to be makers of peace,
Not only with our words, but with our listening.
Let our hearts become places of refuge
Where understanding can dwell and compassion can take root.
When we are tempted to despair,
Remind us that every act of kindness is a spark of resurrection.
When we are overwhelmed by anger,
Turn our eyes toward the suffering of others
Until we recognize ourselves in their tears.
God of Abraham and Sarah, of Mary and Jesus, of all who seek You by many names—
Bless those who work for dialogue,
Who cross divides,
Who choose love when hatred is easier.
And may we, in our own small ways,
Be instruments of Your peace.
Amen.
Carrying Peace Forward
Peace does not come all at once. It unfolds slowly, through the hands and hearts of those willing to see one another as human first.
As we prepare to welcome the Rossing Center’s team to Bon Secours, may we also prepare our own hearts — to listen deeply, to grieve honestly, and to hope stubbornly.
Because peace is not only a dream of the future. It is a practice of the present — one conversation, one prayer, one act of compassion at a time.
We invite you to join us for Interfaith Peacebuilding: Jewish-Christian Relations in the Wake of October 7th and the War in Gaza, a free presentation with interfaith educators John Munayer and Hana Bendcowsky from the Rossing Center.
To Register: https://bonsecoursrcc.org/event/rossing-center-2025-tour/
Come be part of a meaningful evening of listening, dialogue, and shared hope for peace.