Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
United Methodist Bishops Call for Prayer and Peace in the New Middle East War
Sunday, March 1, 2026
WASHINGTON, D.C. — We know that our hearts are heavy as we witness the mounting loss of life from the ongoing military strikes carried out by the United States and Israel, and from retaliatory strikes by Iran. Families are grieving the loss of loved ones, and entire communities are shaken by the weight of uncertainty, fear, and profound sorrow. Innocent civilians are caught in the crossfire of a widening conflict they did not choose.
Scripture reminds us that “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). As bishops of The United Methodist Church, we hold fast to this promise as we pray for all who have been killed, all who are injured, and all who now carry trauma and fear in the wake of this violence. We stand resolute in remembering the uncompromising call of Jesus: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). This calling is a summons to act with courage and with a steadfast commitment to honoring the dignity and life of every human being.
We urge leaders on every side to turn from the escalation of violence and seek paths toward justice, reconciliation, and lasting peace. We implore them to place the protection of innocent lives at the center of every decision.
As followers of Christ, let us be steadfast in prayer for those whose lives were taken that they may rest in God’s eternal peace. Let us pray for the wounded that healing and comfort may surround them. Let us pray for families and communities in mourning that they may find strength for the days ahead. And let us pray for leaders and nations that they may choose the path of peace over the path of destruction.
May God’s Spirit move among us and within us, guiding our hearts toward justice, compassion, and the hard, holy work of peacemaking. May we be instruments of Christ’s peace in a world yearning for healing.
In Christ’s mercy,
Bishop Tracy S. Malone
President, Council of Bishops
The United Methodist Church
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