Avinu Shebashamayim, our loving Guardian in Heaven, our Rock and Redeemer, bless and protect the land of Israel and all who dwell within it. We urgently pray that those held hostage in Gaza will return home to their loved ones, and we pray for ongoing healing for those who have been released. We pray that those suffering in Gaza, civilians hungry and in need of healing, will return home to build and live in healthy communities.
We pray to see the day when Israelis and Palestinians – Jews and Christians and Muslims – will dwell under their fig trees and grapevines, whether in Tel Aviv, in Ramallah, or in Gaza City, and no one will make them afraid. May there be no more death, no more senseless loss, for Israelis or Palestinians. May there be safety, justice, self-determination, hope, and a healthy future for all, b’karov u’v’yameinu, speedily and in our days. And let us say amen.
