End Racism Build Peace

 UN International Day of Peace *

Each year the International Day of Peace is observed

around the world on 21 September. The UN General Assembly has declared this as a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, through observing 24 hours of non-violence and cease-fire. But achieving true peace entails much more than laying down arms.  It requires the building of societies where all members feel that they can flourish. It involves creating a world in which people are treated equally, regardless of their race.

As Secretary-General António Guterres has said:

“Racism continues to poison institutions, social structures, and everyday life in every society. It continues to be a driver of persistent inequality. And it continues to deny people their fundamental human rights. It destabilizes societies, undermines democracies, erodes the legitimacy of governments, and… the linkages between racism and gender inequality are unmistakable.”

The theme for this year’s Day of Peace is “End Racism Build Peace” as the United Nations calls upon all of us to work towards a world free of racism and racial discrimination.  But we must start as individuals and overcome prejudices and racial attitudes. To end racism means a change in focus from suspicion and hatred are overcome with compassion and empathy.

As conflicts continue to erupt across the globe, causing people to flee, we have seen race-based discrimination at borders. As COVID-19 keeps attacking our communities, we have seen how certain racial groups have been hit much harder than others. As economies suffer, we have seen hate speech and violence directed at racial minorities.

What does this day commemorate? IT is a day to pray that peace will emerge from hate, racism attitudes and conflicts. IT is a day to gather around peace poles and lift up our prayers to God as we seek to have a world that is free from conflict.

It is a day to pray “May peace prevail on earth.”

PRAYER

God of grace on this International Day of Peace we lift up to you the many people who are not at peace- whether they are in the midst of war, conflicts with neighbouring countries or communities. We ask that there would be resolutions for the sake of people’s lives.

We also pray for people who are not at peace with themselves as there is a need for mental health and a focus for hope to bring healing.

God we pray this day for peace—for we love this world which you have created and we need each other as we need to grow together combatting the challenges our world is facing. May peace prevail on earth O God, May peace prevail on earth. Amen. 

«  This information is fromhttps://www.un.org/en/observances/international-day-peace 

PRAYER:

God of grace we praise you and thank you for the life of Queen Elizabeth II whom you have called home to rest. Bless the Royal Family and comfort them and all who mourn her death. Be with King Charles as he grieves his mother’s death and as he begins his new role as king. May your Spirit encircle all who mourn and keep us safe as we share in thanksgiving for the life of Queen Elizabeth II. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.