The devastating earthquakes which hit Turkey and Syria, killing thousands, still dominate the news.
Church congregations are being encouraged to stand in solidarity with our neighbours in praying for comfort and hope for all those caught up in the tragedy.
“Every prayer, every gift, every action brings hope to all those affected by this disaster,” says Patrick Watt, CEO of Christian Aid.
You and your church can still contribute to the Disasters Emergency Committee national appeal.
God of time and space, we cry to you for your children - our neighbours - in southern Turkey and northern Syria, following the earthquake that has devastated hundreds of lives. Only they and you know what it is like to experience such trauma in the middle of the night.
We give thanks for the aid that is already being given and for the promises of help that have been made by many nations.
Comfort, we pray,
those who are trapped in collapsed buildings;
those who have lost loved ones;
those who wait for news and
those digging through rubble to save others.
Grant the gift of hope so that those caught between life and death know that you are with them and that others are ready to support them as they seek a future that overshadows the experiences of today.
We ask this in the Name of Jesus, who endured so much for love of them.
Amen