Prayer for Japan - March 18, 2010The stories and images of the devastating crisis in Japan are at times beyond comprehension and words. Carol Penner, pastor of The First Mennonite Church in Vineland, ON offers the prayer below for use in our congregations, providing specific words of care and petition for the many persons affected. If you wish to access additional prayers and worship resources that Carol has written check out her blog at http://www.leadinginworship.com/.
Prayer for Japan
Carol Penner, The First Mennonite Church, Vineland
God of Hope,
in this time of tumult we lay before you the country of Japan.
With their land still trembling,
they try to comprehend devastation too broad in its scope:
people killed and missing,
homes and towns and cities demolished,
the sea sweeping through with yet more destruction.
Our prayers are for the people of Japan:
Holy Comforter, bring your peace.
We are acutely aware of all who need rescue:
those trapped in buildings and remote areas,
those without food or clean water or shelter,
the injured, the terrified, the anguished.
Give strength and stamina to rescuers.
Give strength and compassion to medical staff.
Give strength and clear vision to leaders who mobilize relief.
Our prayers are for the people of Japan:
Holy Comforter, bring your peace.
A country stretched to its limits
and yet now the fear of nuclear disaster looms.
God of infinite mercy, stop this from happening!
This country, of all countries, has suffered enough
and knows the terrible consequences of radiation.
Help the authorities to make careful decisions in the coming days.
Give them strength and courage as they man their posts.
Our prayers are for the people of Japan:
Holy Comforter, bring your peace.
In this time of crisis for a country that is suffering deeply,
we pray for the Christian church in Japan and all people of faith
that they will be a calm presence
providing hope and help in such a time as this.
Aid those from around the world who are mobilizing support
so that their efforts can be effective and timely.
Give us open hands and hearts to help the people of Japan.
Thank you for being the Holy Comforter, who brings us peace.
No comments:
Post a Comment