United Methodists pray for peace in the Middle East

United Methodists are praying for peace in the Middle East. Israel declared war on Hamas after the militant Palestinian group invaded Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023.

Our United Methodist Bishops call on “all United Methodists to join our efforts in advocating for peace. May God guide us toward a hopeful future, where nations and peoples can live in harmony and mutual respect.”

"The church deplores war and all other forms of violent conflict and urges the peaceful settlement of all disputes. We yearn for the day when there will be no more war and people will live together in peace and justice" (2020-24 Book of Discipline, Social Principles ¶165.F). See some of the ways United Methodist leaders, organizations and individuals are responding to the continuing conflict in the Middle East.

More about our view of war

SUPPORT those affected by the war

UMCOR International Disaster Response and Recovery

RESOURCES

Ways United Methodists can talk together about war and peace

Social Media Graphics

Use these coordinating graphics to post on your social media channels and website. There are two designs and each version is available in several sizes.

Light shines in the darkness (Jn. 1:5)

United Methodists are praying for peace in the Middle East. Israel declared war on Hamas after the militant Palestinian group invaded Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023. Light breaking through clouds social media image (1080x1080).

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God is our refuge (Ps. 46:1)

United Methodists are praying for peace in the Middle East. Israel declared war on Hamas after the militant Palestinian group invaded Israel from the Gaza Strip on October 7, 2023. Candle social media image (1080x1080).

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Statements

United Methodist General Board of Church & Society: Tell Congress to support the No War with Iran Resolution (Jun 2025)
UMC Council of Bishops: United Methodist Bishops issue four letters on justice and peace (May 2025)
Global Ministries of The UMC: Joint statement on the attacks in Israel (Oct 2023)
World Council of Churches: Church leaders in Holy Land call for de-escalation, respect for human rights (Oct 2023)