Following the recent wave of violence and disorder across the UK, the Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby said last weekend “I also want to thank churches and other faith groups around the country who are doing such vital work to care for their communities and bring people together. As Christians we remember Christ’s command to love our neighbour – that is especially vital at this time“.
“Lord God. At this time of unrest, we ask for your spirit to bring unity to our communities. For those who feel anxious, scared or intimidated – we ask you to fill them with your peace. For those who feel unwanted, abandoned or alone – we pray that you would fill them with your love. For those who feel in despair – we ask you to bring your hope.
We pray for all emergency workers at this time. For the police officers charged with keeping people safe and maintaining order; for the paramedics caring for those who are injured; and for the fire fighters responding to acts of arson and vandalism. Protect them from harm. Help them act with courage in the face of aggression and with restraint in the face of hostility.
We pray for our politicians and community leaders. That they would have the wisdom to know how to bring our communities together at this time in hope, love and reconciliation.
We pray for those causing disorder on the streets, that they will turn from darkness and hate, to be responsible upstanding citizens of their country.
Fill this land with your spirit of peace we pray.”
Amen.
