Australian Anglicans have been shocked by the news and images of the devastating earthquake in Christchurch on Tuesday March 22. The stark image of the ruins of Christchurch Cathedral has brought home to many how deeply this tragedy has affected our brothers and sisters in New Zealand. Our thoughts go out to all who have been affected by this disaster. The loss of so many people and continuing uncertainty about the fates of many more weigh heavily on our hearts and minds. As the people of New Zealand reached out to us so willingly when we faced our own challenges in the recent floods, so we offer our help in their time of need.
The Anglican Church of Australia offers its prayers for the people of Christchurch and New Zealand. We pray that they may be comforted in their grief, strengthened in efforts to find the lost and heartened in the coming days by the support and assistance of friends from around the world. I encourage all who can to respond generously to the New Zealand Bishops’ Emergency Appeal organized by the Diocese of Wellington. Instructions for making donations can be found at http://www.anglican.org.nz/News/Earthquake-Appeal-for-Christchurch
Gracious God
whose love for us is greater even than death,
we pray for the people of Christchurch devastated by the earthquake:
comfort all who grieve for loved ones lost;
strengthen those who face the ruin of homes, memories and livelihoods;
encourage the police, defence force, search and rescue teams
and church workers and all who bring relief and assistance.
Give us compassionate and generous hearts towards all who are in need.
As they face their uncertainty and grief
may they know the assurance of your presence with them
and the hope of new life to come.
We ask this through Jesus Christ
who lives with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
The Anglican Church of Australia offers its prayers for the people of Christchurch and New Zealand. We pray that they may be comforted in their grief, strengthened in efforts to find the lost and heartened in the coming days by the support and assistance of friends from around the world. I encourage all who can to respond generously to the New Zealand Bishops’ Emergency Appeal organized by the Diocese of Wellington. Instructions for making donations can be found at http://www.anglican.org.nz/News/Earthquake-Appeal-for-Christchurch
Gracious God
whose love for us is greater even than death,
we pray for the people of Christchurch devastated by the earthquake:
comfort all who grieve for loved ones lost;
strengthen those who face the ruin of homes, memories and livelihoods;
encourage the police, defence force, search and rescue teams
and church workers and all who bring relief and assistance.
Give us compassionate and generous hearts towards all who are in need.
As they face their uncertainty and grief
may they know the assurance of your presence with them
and the hope of new life to come.
We ask this through Jesus Christ
who lives with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.