People of all faiths, ages and backgrounds are welcome to attend. The event will include music, prayer, readings and candle-lighting. Attendees are welcome to bring a candle (glass jars recommended) and a sign or symbol for peace and a ceasefire in Gaza.

“In the midst of our holiday celebrations, we acknowledge the brokenness and violence in our world, and gather with compassion for victims of war everywhere,” said Riverside pastor Vicky Stifter.

“Our hearts ache especially for our siblings in Gaza. With more than 17,000 people killed in recent weeks, most of them women and children, and many more suffering from hunger, thirst and lack of shelter, we gather on one of the longest nights of the year to pray and act for peace,” said event organizer, Rev. John Boonstra. “We call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, and ask our President, Senators, and Representatives to do all in their power to stop the violence and promote a political solution to the unrest and injustice in the region so that the people of Israel and Palestine can live in a true and lasting peace.”