3rd September 2026

Save the Children released a report yesterday highlighting the fact that despite agreements between the Lebanon and Israel governments aimed at ending the fighting, children remain at risk due to Israel’s ongoing aggression towards civilian infrastructure.  Since March, Israel has killed an average of seven children every single day in Lebanon. Over the last six months, Israel has killed at least 4,300 people, wounded over 12,000 and destroyed between 60 and 70 villages, according to Save the Children. Save the Children have also emphasised the impact of Israel's violence on children's education in Lebanon. 340 schools have been damaged or destroyed in the past six months and at least 100,000 children are at risk of missing the next school year.

Loving God, forgive the war and violence takes the lives of children and prevents them gaining an education. Forgive that killing and destruction are considered to be acceptable ways of resolving difference. Forgive that the world seems to care so little for these little ones. Bring an end to this violence.  Bring an end to trauma and fear.  Bring and end to parents tears. We look for that day when neighbours live in unity. In the name of Jesus the Prince of Peace we pray, Amen. 

After a period of tireless negotiations by the UN lasting over 2 years Lybia's civil waring factions agreed to put down their guns and hold elections.  A NATO-backed insurrection toppled the government in 2011. This was followed by a civil war that lasted from 2014 to 2020.  Over the past six years there has been peace but now this has transformed into an environment where elections can be held. Rival factions came together on Sunday in a signing ceremony at the United Nations Support Mission to Libya in Tripoli.  “Today’s signing represents an important step in overcoming the political and institutional impasse that has delayed Libya’s electoral process,” UN Special Rep. for the Secretary General, Hanna Tetteh said. “The agreement demonstrates what can be achieved when Libyans constructively engage in dialogue and seek practical and implementable solutions to outstanding issues.” UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the deal demonstrated that progress could be achieved through dialogue and called on all relevant Libyan institutions and political actors to engage in good faith to advance implementation of the agreement.

A prayer based on Psalm 104 (CEV)

Creator God, how wonderful is the world you have made.

You built foundations for the earth,

and it will never be shaken.

You covered the earth with the ocean

that rose above the mountains.

Then your voice thundered!

And the water flowed down the mountains and through the valleys to the place you prepared.

You provide streams of water in the hills and valleys,

so that the donkeys and other wild animals

can satisfy their thirst.

Birds build their nests nearby and sing in the trees.

You let the earth produce grass for cattle,

plants for our food,

wine to cheer us up,

olive oil for our skin,

and grain for our health.

How wonderful, how marvellous,

how magnificent you are.

All praise and glory be to you Holy Father.

Amen.