Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Prayers for peace

Our pastor included a request for prayers from the Office on the Middle East, Presbyterian Peacemaking Program and the Iraq Network PC USA, in our church's latest newsletter. I read this contribution this week as I have been contemplating once again the incessant violence we humans inflict on each other around the world. It is a timely reminder that we have Christian brothers and sisters in Iraq, including fellow Presbyterians. And also a reminder that all of the Iraqi people are suffering, not just our fellow Christians. The message asks Presbyterians to pause for prayer each day at noon Eastern time and to pray for our Iraqi brothers and sisters in Christ, all the people of Iraq, Iraqis who are refugees or living in Diaspora, men and women serving in the U.S. military as well as those serving in the militaries of other nations, the people of the U.S. who are impacted by the ongoing Iraq war, and all in positions of authority. The invitation to prayer has been communicated to Presbyterians and other Christians in Iraq "in order that we might stand together before God's throne of grace." To which I can only add, Hear our united prayers, O, Lord, and grant us your peace. Amen.

Grace and Peace,
Donna Sue