The situations in Gaza, Israel and Iraq dominate the news and papers, capturing our attention and prompting our compassion. In response the Revd Ken Howcroft and Gill Dascombe, the President and Vice-President of the Methodist Conference call on all Methodists to urgent and informed prayer, commending all the peoples of the region to the care of Almighty God, and regular prayer for the needs of the Land of the Holy One.
Methodists are not alone in this task. Christian Aid have provided a prayer for the region; an appeal for funds to help in the situation; and a call to sign a letter to the Foreign Secretary asking for Britain to take some action. These can be found on Christian Aid's website.
Holy God,
holy and strong in love,
holy and immortal.have mercy on us
and on all in the land called holy.
Where fear brings despair, let there be hope.
Where the urge to defend others brings violence,
let there be love.
Where the causes of conflict and the means of reconciliation
are beyond our comprehension,
may the peace of the Lord, which passes all understanding,
guide everyone's hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Amen.
Methodist Church E-News