150 Israelis and Palestinians gathered in Beit Jalla (near Bethlehem) for a friendship celebration of the World Day of Prayer and Action for Children, on the 20th of November.

On November 22, 150 Israelis and Palestinians gathered in Beit Jalla (near Bethlehem) for a friendship celebration organised by the “Sulha peace project” (http://www.sulha.com/). The activities included music, inspiring presentations, peace prayers, dialogue circles and good food.

Following a tribal fire dance, the Israeli and Palestinian participants assembled in the main hall for speeches and songs. Sulha Peace Project representatives Ali and Dafna conveyed beautiful words to the audience and GNRC coordinator for Israel, Dorit Shippin was on hand to present the significance of the World Day of Prayer and Action for Children (http://www.dayofprayerandaction.org/).

Dorit introduced one of the evening’s highlights: three children, a Jew, a Muslim and a Christian were invited to light a candle for the Day of Prayer and Action. A prayer for peace was offered by a Palestinian women; the Bethlehem choir offered folklore music; and SiriOm Singh – a visiting musician and spiritual teacher from the U.S. – gave a short performance.

The World Day of Prayer and Action for Children was initiated by the International Arigatou Foundation, in partnership with the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC).