International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
November 29

Read:
Psalm 122:6-8

Explain:
On November 29, 1947, the UN adopted a resolution calling for the establishment of two states in Palestine: one Jewish, one Arab. The Jewish state, Israel, came into being in 1948, though its right to exist has not been recognized by most of the Arab world. The Arab (or Palestinian) state has never come into being. Since 1967, Israel has been establishing Jewish settlements in territories which are home to Palestinians but controlled by Israel; most of the international community has denounced this as illegal. Israel has imposed extremely harsh measures on Palestinians in the occupied territories to suppress uprisings and in reaction to terrorist attacks. This has led to accusations that Israel is violating Palestinians' human rights.

In 1977, thirty years after the resolution calling for a Jewish and an Arab state, the UN declared that November 29 should be observed as the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People. This day calls attention to the suffering of Palestinians and to the fact that they still do not have the independent nation they were promised over half a century ago.

Pray:

• Give thanks that Jews have been able to return to their ancient homeland.
• Pray for the establishment of the promised Palestinian state.
• Pray that Israelis and Palestinians will find a way to share the Holy Land in peace.
• Pray for Palestinians living in the occupied territories and in refugee camps.