"On [Saturday] the 7th of September...we will gather together in prayer, in a spirit of penitence, to ask from God this great gift [of peace] for the beloved Syrian nation and for all the situations of conflict and violence in the world. We want a peaceful world. We want to be men and women of peace."
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September 7: Day of Fasting and Prayer for Peace in Syria, the Middle East, and throughout the World
In a recent memo to all Priests, Deacons, and Pastoral Coordinators in the Archdiocese of Seattle, Archbishop J. Peter Sartain and Bishop Eusebio Elizondo urge all parishes in the Archdiocese "to make this coming Saturday a day of prayer for peace - most especially at Mass." The memo includes a number of Masses for Various Needs and Occasions that the priests of the Archdiocese may use for Mass on September 7 and have been given permission to use for this coming Sunday Liturgies.
Additional liturgical resources for the Day of Prayer for Peace in Syria (including how to plan a vigil and prayers for peace), September 11th, and other various considerations for liturgical celebrations are available on the Liturgy Office website.
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Interfaith prayer and faith procession for peace in Syria
On Saturday, September 7 at 7:00pm, people of all faiths are invited to gather at St. James Cathedral for an interfaith prayer and candlelight procession for peace in Syria. Christian, Jewish, and Muslim leaders will come together in prayer for a peaceful resolution to the crisis in the Middle East.
Following the brief prayer at St. James, all are invited to join in a candlelight procession to the outdoor plaza at Temple de Hirsch Sinai for the concluding prayer.
This event is co-sponsored by St. James Cathedral, Temple de Hirsch Sinai, the Church Council of Greater Seattle, and St. Mark's Episcopal Cathedral. All are welcome.
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Some simple ways parishioners can vigil for peace
- Spend some time this Saturday in intentional prayer for peace
- Pray the Rosary
- Fast from things that distract you from God's presence
- Invite parishioners to spend time in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
- Prepare Taize prayer around the Cross
- Pray Compline (Night Prayer) from the Liturgy of the Hours
- Do something that promotes a spirit of peace in your home, parish, or community
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God of Compassion,
Hear the cries of the people of Syria,
Bring healing to those suffering from the violence,
Bring comfort to those mourning the dead,
Strengthen Syria's neighbors in their care and welcome for refugees,
Convert the hearts of those
who have taken up arms,
And protect those committed to peace.
God of Hope,
Inspire leaders to choose peace over violence
and to seek reconciliation with enemies,
Inspire the Church around the world
with compassion for the people of Syria,
And give us hope for a future of peace
built on justice for all.
We ask this through Jesus Christ,
Prince of Peace and Light of the World,
Amen.
Prayer for Peace in Syria
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View resources and information regarding the Church's efforts in the region on the USCCB website.
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