Creator and Giver of all Good,
You are God Most High – the source of all life, light, and love. You are worthy of our praise and our adoration. We lift our collective voices to declare that you are majestic in holiness, perfect in wisdom, and boundless in mercy. It is of this mercy that we pray today for the world’s ongoing conflicts, humanitarian crises, and religious freedom challenges.
There is a need for peace and calm in the region in the city of Alleppo in Syria. The city is experiencing a worsening situation due to renewed clashes with casualties reported. The fighting between government forces and Kurdish fighters recently sent thousands of civilians fleeing and leaving many dead. We pray comfort for all those affected by this violence and pray that those who are involved in this disagreement will find a pathway to a peaceful resolution. We pray that God will intervene in the conflict and give God’s children strength to face these challenges until they are resolved.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens with the suspension of 37 humanitarian organizations by Israel from operating in Gaza, due to new registration rules. These new rules are expected to exacerbate an already dire humanitarian situation. We pray to merciful God for the protection of aid workers and the well-being of the people they serve. Send manna – God’s constant care and provision – from heaven for your people. Let all those affected feel wrapped in the love of God the Creator of all. From Jude 1:2 NET version: “To those who are called, wrapped in the love of God the Father and kept for Jesus Christ. May mercy, peace, and love be lavished on you!”
Violence in the West Bank is ongoing. We read reports of horrific illegal settler violence continuing which include reports of injuries to Palestinians, property damage, and the use of force in places of worship. There is large-scale confiscation of land and deprivation of access to resources. There has also been criminal prosecution in military courts during which due process and fair trial rights are systematically violated. God of all people, we pray for justice, the cessation of violence, and the protection of all individuals and holy sites. Help your children to live peaceably with one another. Heal the racial discrimination and segregation that is happening in the lives of Palestinians.
The future of Venezuela is currently uncertain. After the US (United States of America) captured Nicolas Maduro, the Venezuelan community is experiencing high emotions regarding the country’s future – especially concerning its ongoing humanitarian crises – which have caused millions to flee. We lift our voices in prayer to the Almighty God for liberty, peace, and stability in the nation. We place our trust in you, who knows all things. Keep your children safe from harm and help them remember that you are always with them – watching over them and showing them the way forward.
The United States needs prayer. There have been government officials who have passed away or been in an accident. There have been reports of severe weather in southern states, Alaska, and the Midwest. There is a general sense of unrest and division being reported. We pray that the United States be just that – united. Jesus’ prayer for all his followers was for unity. In John’s Gospel, He prays: “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.” Father, help us all feel called to unity and love. Help us to respect one another, to reflect divine unity, to bring our hearts together when they are divided. Help us to listen with humility, to love with patience, and to walk together in understanding – no matter what our political or spiritual views are.
Persecution of Christians in India has increased, especially during the recent Christmas season. Catholic groups have appealed to the Indian government to address the targeted violence against the Christians by Hindu extremists who view all Christians as outsiders and seek to cleanse the nation of Christianity, often using extensive physical assaults. God, we pray you put a hedge of protection around the Christian community. God, you are a refuge for your people in India, you are a fortress and shield from all evil. Give your children in India inner peace and the ability to love even their enemies. We pray for your justice and peace to prevail over all harmful actions. In Psalms 91, we pray, “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty… You shall not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day…” We pray for the upholding of religious freedom in India.
We continue to hear of the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Ethiopia (Tigray War and Oromia region). These dire situations continue to disrupt lives, drive displacements, and cause severe hunger and malnutrition. God of peace and compassion, we lift up the people of Ukraine and Ethiopia to you. Be near to those who are fearful, grieving, or displaced. Protect the innocent, strengthen the weary and comfort those who have lost loved ones. Guide the leaders toward wisdom, restraint, and justice. Holy Parent, open the paths to peace where there seems to be none.
We humbly come before you in prayer for all these, our brothers and sisters. We pray especially for the little children in the world who have experienced terrible circumstances. Please watch over them and guide them and help them to trust in your goodness and love even though they may feel all alone. We know that even though things seem perilous, you still draw near to hear the quiet prayers of your children. Help us to see one another as reflections of your grace, and work as one for justice, compassion, and hope. You are unchanging and we thank you for your grace that sustains us all, your love that redeems humankind, and your presence that gives us all peace when we call upon you. We thank you now for answered prayers. To you alone be honor, glory, and praise, now and forever. May it be so.
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