A Prayer for those affected by recent bushfires
Holy God
look in mercy on your people,
and hear our prayer for those whose lives and possessions
are threatened or have been destroyed in bush fires over these past few days.
Comfort those who have lost homes and livelihoods;
calm those who anxiously await news of relatives and friends in fire emergency areas;
Bring hope to those who have lost possessions and homes,
help all those who care for them as friends and professional helpers in evacuation centres
strengthen those fighting the fires as they tire,
keep them safe in danger
and help them in their difficult decision making about what is defendable and what is not.
Give gentle and healing hands to those who look after injured wild life.
We ask these things through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen
A Prayer for those suffering from floods here in Australia and overseas
God, bless the communities that have been hard-hit by floods,
not only in Australia but also in Brazil, Sri Lanka and elsewhere.
Bless the rescue and relief workers facing danger and distress
with courage and stamina as they protect lives and property.
Bless the people whose homes and businesses have been flooded
with hope for the future as they clean up and rebuild.
Bless the volunteers and neighbours who offer generous care
with present compassion and long-term, practical commitment.
Bless the people of faith who pray and care through this crisis
with trust in your strength and love for all the people they serve.
Bless the people who are grieving for flood victims who have died
with comfort and peace, as we commit them to your eternal care.
Thank you for communities working together in good spirits,
for leaders making wise decisions for the present and the future,
and for your Spirit teaching us what neighbourly love must mean,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
(from the Mission Plan Coordinator Diocese of Perth)
