August 24, 2006

"Praying for peace is an essential part of Christian worship and, indeed, of human existence," says World Council of Churches (WCC) general secretary Rev. Dr Samuel Kobia about the International Day of Prayer for Peace, to be celebrated on 21 September 2006.

On that date or the closest Sunday to it, WCC member churches worldwide are invited to pray for peace. This WCC initiative saw the light two years ago within the framework of its Decade to Overcome Violence (DOV), and was welcomed by UN secretary-general Kofi Annan. Its celebration coincides with the UN International Day of Peace.

The theme for this year, "* and still we seek peace,"was chosen by churches from Latin America – the region of the DOV annual focus in 2006.

Churches are being asked "to be especially mindful of the violence in Latin America, but also of the suffering children, elderly, women and men in the Middle East," and to pray for "cessation of all violence and for lasting peace," says Kobia.

The International Day of Prayer for Peace is an opportunity for church communities in all places to pray and act together to nurture lasting peace in the hearts of people, their families, communities and societies.

Suggestions on how to observe the day include art contests, educational and cultural events, prayers and reflections on peace in the community, workplace, school or home, and prayer vigils with other faith communities.

Copies of an IDDP brochure, prayers and other resources are available on the DOV website: http://overcomingviolence.org/en/about-the-dov/international-day-of-prayer-for-peace.html.

World Council of Churches