Prayers in Time of Disaster (thinking of Mexico & Puerto Rico this night...)
On the Occasion of a Disaster
Compassionate God… Draw near to us in this time of sorrow and anguish, comfort those who mourn, strengthen those who are weary, encourage those in despair, and lead us all to fullness of life; through the same Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen— Holy Women, Holy Men: Celebrating the Saints (Church Publishing: New York), page 733
A Prayer for First Responders
Blessed are you, Lord, God of mercy, who through your Son gave us a marvelous example of charity and the great commandment of love for one another. Send down your blessings on these your servants, who so generously devote themselves to helping others. Grant them courage when they are afraid, wisdom when they must make quick decisions, strength when they are weary, and compassion in all their work. When the alarm sounds and they are called to aid both friend and stranger, let them faithfully serve you in their neighbor. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.— Adapted from the Book of Blessings, #587, by Diana Macalintal
Prayer for Preparedness and Response
O God, our times are in your hand. In the midst of uncertainty lead
us by your never-failing grace as we seek to be agents of healing and
hope. Walk with us through difficult times; watch over us in danger;
and give to us a spirit of love and compassion for those who suffer and
mourn. And finally remind us that you have promised never to leave us
so that even in the valley of the shadow of death your love may be felt,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.— The Rev. Lyndon Harris, from the Episcopal Diocese of New York disaster preparedness plan
For a Person in Trouble or Bereavement
O merciful Father, who hast taught us in thy holy Word that thou dost not willingly afflict or grieve the children of men: Look with pity upon the sorrows of thy servant for whom our prayers are offered. Remember him, O Lord, in mercy, nourish his soul with patience, comfort him with a sense of thy goodness, lift up thy countenance upon him, and give him peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.-- Book of Common Prayer, page 831
Evening Prayer II
Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love’s sake. Amen.-- Book of Common Prayer, page 124
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