Even before 7th October, it was not easy to believe in peace and reconciliation in the Middle East. After the brutal Hamas attack on Israel and since the war in Gaza has been killing more and more people, it has been even more difficult. Too many threads of life have been cut since, the human suffering on both sides is too great and the traumas in both societies too powerful to give peace and reconciliation a realistic chance.

But is the question of peace and reconciliation all about realism? There are people in Palestine and Israel who continue to cling to the idea of reconciliation despite everything, not because they are naïve dreamers. Rather, they believe that human beings were created in such a way that they are not only capable of war, but also of reconciliation. They believe in the reconciliation potential of religions, in the power of faith, in the human element in people – and remain completely grounded in the facts. Because such an inner attitude has to prove itself in complicated everyday life.

You will find such voices in the new Schneller magazine. Listening to them is particularly soothing and encouraging in dark times. This is exactly how the World Day of Prayer sees itself, as an offer to join in the worldwide bond of peace and to pray together for the people and for peace in the Holy Land. This is also what the new edition is all about.

And finally, there is a great story from the Theodor Schneller School in Amman. They are planning the general refurbishment of the boarding rooms there. Doesn't sound exciting at first?

Then read yourself why this is unique....