A Quaker Peace Vigil in the Heart of London
A Loud Silence for Peace: An ecumenical invitation for uniting prayerful witness, public presence, and shared hope to support peace in the world
On Saturday 19th September 2026, Christians and all people of goodwill are warmly invited to take part in a public witness for peace by joining a 'Peace Walk' through central London. Organised by the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers), this silent walking vigil offers a simple and powerful expression of shared longing for reconciliation in a fractured world.
The timing is especially significant as the 19th of September has been chosen because of its close proximity to the United Nations International Day of Peace. This day is held annually on 21st of September and it is devoted to strengthening ideals of peace by observing 24 hours of non-violence and ceasefire. Established in 1981, it promotes education, awareness, and action toward a more peaceful world. Around the world, communities will be marking the day in diverse ways.
In London, on the 19th of September, the Quaker vigil will provide a contemplative and public Christian response rooted in stillness, prayer, and presence. It will begin at midday and conclude mid-afternoon - approximately 4pm - following a gentle route of about one and a half miles through central London. Participants will gather for a short meeting for Worship at the outset, continue in silence at a steady walking pace, and pause partway for further worship before concluding together.
This form of witness is deeply characteristic of the Quaker tradition. For them silence is not absence but attentiveness to God, to one another, and to the suffering of the world. In a culture saturated with noise, such a ‘loud silence’ invites reflection and creates space for the Spirit to speak to disrupt indifference.
Although initiated by the Quakers the invitation is intentionally broad. Churches, ecumenical partners, and individuals (of any denomination) are encouraged to join for all or part of the walk. Whether walking the full route or simply standing in prayerful solidarity for a short stretch, participants will provide a very meaningful contribution to this shared act of public discipleship.
The vigil resonates with the renewed global emphasis on peace voiced by church leaders recently. For example, Pope Leo XIV, speaking during his visit to Africa in April, issued a strong appeal for reconciliation amid ongoing conflicts, urging nations and communities alike to reject violence and pursue dialogue, justice, and healing. His call reflects a consistent Christian conviction that peace is not passive but must be actively embodied through witness, prayer, and courageous solidarity.
At its core, even though the London vigil will be a modest event, in its simplicity lies its strength as there are no banners required, speeches to master, and no demands beyond, that is, a willingness to walk quietly and hold the world in prayer.
Churches Together groups, congregations, and ecumenical networks are encouraged to share this invitation and consider participating. In a time when division all too often feels louder than hope, the vigil offers a different kind of testimony grounded in faith, humility, and the quiet persistence of peace.
Further information, including details of the route and how to register interest, can be found here:
https://quakervigilforpeace.org/
Please spread the word and come - all are welcome!
Article by Dr Ian Watson, County Ecumenical Officer for Norfolk and Waveney.