Dear Beloved of Trinity Church,
This past Sunday, we had an inspiring Adult Forum where we engaged openly and honestly in conversation about the current complexities of the world in which we live. This dialogue was prompted by the recent violence in Gaza, serving as another painful reminder that war and violence have sadly been recurring themes in our shared human history - the ongoing Ukraine and Russia crisis is yet another graphic example of our inability to coexist peacefully. And still, many other regions around the globe have violence and atrocities just as painful and horrific but often do not make international headlines. So, where do we go from here? What do we do? What does it do to our souls?
It's entirely understandable that people grow tired of hearing well-intentioned promises of prayer. As Christians, however, prayer is a cornerstone of our faith. Prayer informs us, shapes us, and sustains us as we strive to embody the enduring hope of Christ that is in us.
Therefore, prayer is exactly what I'm asking all of us to do. I'm asking everyone in the parish to intentionally offer the Prayer for the Human Family each day for the foreseeable future. May its words shape, inform, and challenge us as we find our way forward with the fervent hope that one glorious day, its words and intention will be realized.
Prayer for the Human Family
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and peoples may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Forward in Faith!
Peace and blessings to all,
For more information about the Episcopal Church and the conflict in Gaza, visit: