Holy One,
Your creation is groaning.
Our world is full of suffering and strife.
We come into our time of prayer with heavy hearts,
hurting with those who hurt,
weeping with those who weep.
Let our prayers be a catalyst for good – let them soften hard hearts, let them bring relief to those in pain, and let them show that we care for the least among us.
We pray for all of creation affected by the changing climate: for those in Pakistan and India who are inundated with flooding; and for those in Canada, Spain, Portugal, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Angola, among other places, who have been killed, displaced, and devastated by wildfires. Keep people and animals safe, especially the ones who are assisting those who are affected. For those who have experienced loss and trauma, we pray for your healing and release. By our prayers, let others know that you never abandon those in need.
We pray for all people and places impacted by war: for those in Ukraine, let these talks bear fruit and let hearts be so filled with your love that peace is the only response possible; for those in Israel and Palestine, let compassion and empathy reign, especially where it had not been felt before.
We pray for peace in Myanmar (Burma), as they announce their first general election since the 2021 military coup. Let all sides work together to end their 4-year civil war.
And we pray for those who are involved in traffic accidents worldwide, especially those deported from Iran who were in Afghanistan on a bus which caught fire and crashed, killing everyone on board.
Steadfast Love, let your mercy reign. Let your love cut through the chaos. Let our prayers help bring comfort and courage to those in need.
We ask all this with humility and hope. Amen.
Very beautiful prayer. Thank you.