Jesse Jackson embarking on Mideast mission

Rev.Jesse Jackson

JERUSALEM (CNN) -- The Rev. Jesse Jackson this weekend plans to meet with Israeli and Palestinian leaders in an effort to help ease tensions in the Middle East.

The U.S. civil rights leader -- to be accompanied by a delegation of Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders -- hopes to meet with many officials, including Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres, and Palestinian Authority President Yasser Arafat.

Jackson also is to meet with Palestinian and Israeli families "who have been particularly affected by the prevailing tragic situation," according to a statement from the Middle East Council of Churches, which invited the delegation to the region.

The visit begins Saturday and lasts through Wednesday.

Sunday, Jackson is scheduled to lead an ecumenical prayer service and preach at a church. Wednesday, he will visit Gaza.