Holocaust Memorial Day – 27 January
On this day, we remember with sorrow and reverence the six million Jewish people who were murdered during the Holocaust, along with millions of others who were persecuted and killed. As Christians, we remember knowing that every life is created in the image of God, known by him, and precious in his sight.
The Holocaust stands as a devastating reminder of what happens when hatred replaces love, when fear silences truth, and when people turn away from God’s command to love their neighbour. Scripture teaches us, “Love your neighbour as yourself” (Mark 12:31). The horrors we remember today show the consequences of failing to live by that command.
Jesus calls us to be light in the darkness. Yet the Holocaust reveals how often darkness prevailed when voices remained silent. Holocaust Memorial Day challenges us to reflect honestly: where injustice goes unchallenged, suffering grows. As followers of Christ, we are called not to be bystanders, but peacemakers — to stand against prejudice, racism, and antisemitism in all its forms.
Even in the depths of unimaginable suffering, we honour the courage, faith, and resilience of those who endured. We remember them not only in grief, but with a renewed commitment to live out Christ’s teachings of compassion, humility, and justice.
As we remember, may we ask God to soften our hearts, sharpen our conscience, and strengthen our resolve to love boldly. May we work for a world where dignity is upheld, where hatred is challenged, and where the words of Micah guide our lives: “To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
Loving and merciful God, we come before You with heavy hearts, remembering the victims of the Holocaust and all who have suffered because of hatred and violence. We mourn lives lost, families destroyed, and futures stolen.
We confess that there have been times when Your people have been silent in the face of injustice. Forgive us, Lord, when we fail to love as You have taught us, and when fear or indifference has taken the place of courage.
Grant us hearts of compassion and eyes that see the suffering of others. Help us to challenge prejudice, to stand against antisemitism and all forms of hatred, and to be witnesses of Your love in a broken world.
Strengthen us to walk in the way of Christ — to seek peace, to speak truth, and to protect the dignity of every human being. May our remembrance today lead to action tomorrow, and may Your light shine through us in places of darkness.
We offer this prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. Amen.
Leonora Wassell – CoChair
Photo by Diego Céspedes Cabrera on Unsplash
