This evening we pray with the people of Barcelona and all tourists who were caught up in the attack. Please light candles in your homes this evening (don’t forget to blow them out before you go to bed!) and pray for the epace of the world. Candles focus our minds on God’s light which has not and can never be extinguished, and also on the need for people of all faiths and none to be people of light, hope and peace.
Here are some prayers if you would like to use them:
For those caught up in tragedy and disaster
O Lord our God,
source of all goodness and love,
accept the fervent prayers of your people;
in the multitude of your mercies look with compassion
upon all who turn to you for help;
for you are gracious, O lover of souls,
and to you we give glory, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
now and for ever.
A simple prayer in troubled times
God of love,
turn our hearts to your ways;
and give us peace.
Amen.
International unrest
Almighty Father,
whose will is to restore all things
in your beloved Son, the King of all:
govern the hearts and minds of those in authority,
and bring the families of the nations,
divided and torn apart by the ravages of sin,
to be subject to his just and gentle rule;
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
A prayer at a time of despair
Restless with grief and fear,
the abandoned turn to you:
in every hour of trial,
good Lord, deliver us,
O God most holy, God most strong,
whose wisdom is the cross of Christ.