Long held in Israel this year's Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem broadcast instead
Like all other events during coronavirus restrictions, the annual day of prayer - normally hosted live in Jerusalem - carries on but through streaming services
This year marked the 18th anniversary of the “Global Day of Prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem,” an annual event that takes place every first Sunday of October since 2002, organized by Eagles’ Wings ministry.
Bishop Robert Stearns, executive director of Eagles’ Wings ministry opened the 90-minute broadcast, which was streamed on GOD TV, saying that this was the first time he was not in Jerusalem for Sukkot since 1994.
Due to COVID-19 and the travel restrictions in Israel, the ministry leaders and participants cannot physically be in Jerusalem this year.
“Even though we cannot physically be in Jerusalem this year, our hearts are always in Jerusalem,” said Stearns. “Prayer knows no boundaries or time restraint. All around the world, nations are tuning in together, united in prayer, to pray for the peace of Jerusalem.”
Gilad Erdan, representative of Israel to the United Nations and ambassador of Israel to the United States, was the keynote speaker.
The event featured Moshe Lion the mayor of Jerusalem, Pastor Freddy Washington from Word Church (Pends Grove, N.J.), Pastor Adam Durso, Executive Director of LEAD (New York City), Bill Johnson, Heidi Baker and more. Evangelical leaders from around the stood together to pray for the peace of Jerusalem from different continents.
As always, the event brought together Christians and Jews. Rabbi Joseph Potasnik, New York Board of Rabbis, expressed his gratitude for Christians’ support of the Jewish community and celebration of Sukkot. There was a choral performance by Cantor Netanel Hershtik from Hampton Synagogue (Westhampton Beach, N.Y.).
Eagles Wings, a New York-based non-profit, evangelical ministry, normally hosts the event at the Haas Promenade in Jerusalem. Jack Hayford and Bishop Robert Stearns started the Day of Prayer based on the Bible command to pray for Jerusalem:
“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you.” Psalm 122:6