A prayer marking two years since the taking of 251 hostages from Southern Israel

Almighty, God, our deliverer,
who lifted the yoke of slavery from your people bound in Egypt,
we pray on this anniversary for all who are unjustly held captive in the holy lands.
We pray that you would strengthen and protect them as we wait for their liberation and safe return.
Hold their families and loved ones in your care and remind us of their plight that they may never be forgotten.
As we remember them, we continue to pray that a new song of justice and peace might be sung in the Holy Land, that all may find shelter and protection under the shadow of your wing.
We offer our prayers in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Revd Richard Andrew, President of the Methodist Conference.