God of Hope,
in this time of tumult we lay before you the country of _____.
With their land still trembling,
they try to comprehend devastation too broad in its scope:
the sea sweeping through leaving people killed and missing,
homes and towns and cities demolished.
Our prayers are for the people of ______:
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 ________:
Holy Comforter, bring your peace.
In this time of crisis for a country that is suffering deeply,
we pray for the Christian church in ______ 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 ________.
Thank you for being the Holy Comforter, who brings us peace.
I am a Mennonite pastor currently teaching theology at Conrad Grebel University College in Waterloo, Ontario. I’ve served congregations in Ontario and most recently, Alberta.