Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz prays for lasting peace in response to the U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran that started Feb. 28, 2026, and Iran’s retaliation that have led to the loss of hundreds of lives, including many children.
Lorraine Stutzman Amstutz is MC USA’s denominational minister for Peace and Justice. For more than 25 years, she served as the coordinator of Mennonite Central Committee’s Restorative Justice program. She also co-authored “The Little Book of Restorative Discipline for Schools” and “What Will Happen to Me?” Lorraine graduated from Eastern Mennonite University, Harrisonburg, Virginia, with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work, and earned a master’s in Social Work from Marywood University, Scranton, Pennsylvania. She and her husband attend Blossom Hill Mennonite Church, Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
As followers of Jesus Christ, we are deeply saddened by the violence and destruction unfolding in our world. The bombing of Iran and the escalating tensions in the region remind us of the fragile nature of peace and the immense cost of war.
We affirm the sacred dignity of every human life.
We reject hatred and dehumanization that occurs in the name of seeking peace.
We grieve every life lost.
We pray for families who are mourning.
We ask you to protect civilians, children and all who are most vulnerable from further harm.
While nations wrestle with complex political and security concerns, we believe Christ calls us to be agents of reconciliation, truth and peace.
We commit ourselves to pray for wisdom for leaders, protection for the innocent, comfort for those who grieve, and restraint that prevents further bloodshed. May God’s justice and mercy guide all nations toward lasting peace.
Holy Spirit, bring comfort where there is fear, courage where there is despair, and hope where darkness feels overwhelming. Amen.
For further engagement
As a peace church, one of our core faith values is resistance to war, both in our neighborhoods and overseas. For deeper understanding, explore “Learn, Pray, Join: Cost of War,” a collaborative initiative that seeks to reinvigorate the collective voice against the destructive powers of militarism through education, prayer and action.