Saturday, September 07, 2013

A Plea to Our Father in Time of Terror

This morning I joined Catholics, fellow Christians, and followers of other beliefs in worldwide prayer and fasting for the sake of Syria's suffering people.  




In quiet aloneness, I sat in the chapel at St. Anthony's Church reciting a Rosary, meditating on the Joyful Mysteries.  


How strange to consider that Saturdays are devoted to the Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary as we reflect upon and pray over the suffering and terror that consumes the people of Syria.  


A Prayer for the People of Syria
Almighty eternal God, source of all compassion,
the promise of your mercy and saving help fills our hearts with hope.
Hear the cries of the people of Syria;
bring healing to those suffering from the violence,
and comfort to those mourning the dead.
Empower and encourage Syria’s neighbors
in their care and welcome for refugees.
Convert the hearts of those who have taken up arms,
and strengthen the resolve of those committed to peace.
O God of hope and Father of mercy,
your Holy Spirit inspires us to look beyond ourselves and our own needs.
Inspire leaders to choose peace over violence
and to seek reconciliation with enemies.
Inspire the Church around the world with compassion for the people of Syria,
and fill us with hope for a future of peace built on justice for all.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, Prince of Peace and Light of the World,
who lives and reigns for ever and ever.
Amen.

4 comments:

Jeanie said...

I am so torn. I remember WWII and our delay to help even though we knew about the Concentration camps. But then I just don't want another war -- Pottery Barn rule and all -- and who is better when we don't know. This is one where the normally liberal me bounces back
and forth.

Unknown said...

I never thought this president would choose war over peace. Why can't we let the UN take action...why must we get into another middle eastern war...and why do we only care about this part of the earth and turn a blind eye to atrocities elsewhere.

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Prayers for the Syrian people... That situation is terrible and our crazy President is making things worse and worse... God Help Us.

Hugs,
Betsy

DeniseinVA said...

I too send my prayers.