JPB Brings International Christian and Jewish Leaders to Riga
For the first time in its history, the Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast (JPB) was held in Latvia, bringing together political leaders, diplomats, Christian leaders, entrepreneurs, and friends of Israel from numerous nations for two days of prayer, dialogue, and fellowship in Riga. The event marked the 31st international Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast and the first ever hosted in the Baltic States.
Founded by former Knesset Member Robert Ilatov and today led by Executive Director Albert Veksler, the Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast has become an international movement dedicated to encouraging prayer for the peace of Jerusalem, strengthening relationships between Christians and Jews, and promoting dialogue rooted in shared biblical values. Inspired by Psalm 122:6—“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem”—the gatherings seek to build bridges across nations while encouraging prayer, reconciliation, and mutual understanding.
The Latvian gathering was organized on the local level under the leadership of Saeima Member Jānis Grasbergs, who welcomed international guests to Latvia at a time when Europe and the Middle East continue to face significant geopolitical uncertainty. Participants represented government, diplomatic missions, churches, ministries, and civic organizations from across Europe, Israel, and beyond.
Throughout the two-day programme, speakers reflected on the biblical significance of Jerusalem, the importance of religious freedom, the necessity of praying for peace, and the responsibility of believers to serve as peacemakers in an increasingly divided world. The event provided opportunities not only for public addresses but also for meaningful personal conversations between Christian and Jewish leaders, parliamentarians, and representatives of various denominations.
The Latvian Evangelical Alliance (LEA) was pleased to support this historic gathering by assisting in welcoming international guests and encouraging cooperation among Latvia’s evangelical churches. As an alliance seeking to strengthen unity among Christians in Latvia, LEA recognizes the value of initiatives that foster prayer, respectful dialogue, and international partnership grounded in the Christian faith.
The Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast movement has expanded significantly over the past decade, hosting events in parliaments and capitals around the world. According to its organizers, the gatherings exist not as political campaigns but as opportunities to bring together leaders from different backgrounds around the shared conviction that prayer, humility, and friendship can contribute to peace and reconciliation.
Latvia’s hosting of the Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast represents another milestone in the country’s growing engagement with international Christian initiatives and reflects the willingness of Latvian churches and civic leaders to participate in conversations that extend beyond national borders. It also demonstrates the continuing importance of cooperation between churches, public institutions, and international partners in addressing the spiritual and moral challenges facing Europe today.
As participants departed Riga, many expressed gratitude for Latvia’s hospitality and for the opportunity to gather in prayer during a time of global uncertainty. The event served as a reminder that while nations may differ in history and tradition, prayer remains a powerful expression of hope, reconciliation, and shared responsibility for peace.