Articles - Miscellaneous

Prayer for Change

We are invited by the Churches Refugee and Racial Justice Network to set aside 5 minutes at 9pm on any day during Lent to pray for asylum seekers and all who work and campaign on their behalf. This month's Prayer for Change incorporates part of a prayer composed for this purpose by Sheila Williamson, a Darlington priest (the words in italics are hers).

Crucified and Risen Christ,
whose arms bore the weight of the cross,
and in whose compassionate embrace all human suffering is held,

We pray for those who live in fear of detention and removal,
for those who are in detention at this time,
and for those who face removal to an uncertain future.
We ask you to assure them of your great love.
Surround them with your presence and fill them with your peace.
Give wisdom and encouragement to those who are involved in your church.
Give us the grace we need as we are learning, and show us how to be hope-bearers in difficult places.
Bless our eyes so that we will recognise injustices.
Bless our ears so that we will hear the cry of the stranger.
Bless our mouths so that we will speak words of welcome to newcomers.
Bless our shoulders so that we will be able to bear the weight of the struggle for justice.
Bless our hands so that we can work together with all people to establish peace.

Crucified and Risen Christ,
open our hearts and our arms
to bear the weight of your cross.
Renew our commitment to compassionate care.
Raise our awareness of what needs to be done.
Lift up our voices in solidarity and support.

Jean Mortimer

© St Edmund's Church, Roundhay