Our Prayers 2023
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Sunday, September 17, 2023
Please remember
· The people of Morocco, suffering after a devastating earthquake.
· The people of Libya, following huge storms and floods
· The homeless
· Refugees trying to escape by crossing the Mediterranean Sea
· The Season of Creation
· The Indigenous Voice to Parliament and the referendum on 14 October 2023
· Children and youth in Timor Leste and the mission of the Timor Children’s Foundation
· The 37th Queensland Synod of the Uniting Church in Australia to be held in Brisbane and Alexandra Headlands from Friday 20 October to Tuesday 24 October 2023
· People whose mental health issues make every-day living so difficult.
Please remember
· The people of Morocco, suffering after a devastating earthquake.
· The people of Libya, following huge storms and floods
· The homeless
· Refugees trying to escape by crossing the Mediterranean Sea
· The Season of Creation
· The Indigenous Voice to Parliament and the referendum on 14 October 2023
· Children and youth in Timor Leste and the mission of the Timor Children’s Foundation
· The 37th Queensland Synod of the Uniting Church in Australia to be held in Brisbane and Alexandra Headlands from Friday 20 October to Tuesday 24 October 2023
· People whose mental health issues make every-day living so difficult.
Sunday, September 10, 2023
This week we pray for: Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, Togo
The Benin of today was the site of Dahomey, a prominent West African kingdom on what was known as the Slave Coast, one of the primary supply centres of slaves to the European traders. In 1872 Dahomey became part of French West Africa and the Republic of Benin achieved independence in 1960. A succession of military governments ended in 1972 with the establishment of a government based on Marxist principles. Multi-party democracy was introduced in 1991. The economy of Benin is still largely based on subsistence agriculture. As in most former French colonies, the Catholic Church is the majority church. The largest Protestant denomination is the Assemblies of God, and there are several other sizeable Pentecostal and Evangelical churches.
Côte d’Ivoire. In the 15th century, French and Portuguese traders explored the area, in search of ivory and slaves. France extended its influence inland in the 19th century, and the territory became a French colony in 1884. Ivory Coast achieved its independence in 1960. Under a one party regime, the country maintained close political and economic ties with France. It had one of the most developed economies of sub-Saharan Africa, based on the production and export of cocoa and coffee, and remained stable until the 1990s, when tensions between population groups became manifest. In 2002 a rebellion divided the country in two: the less developed north, and the south where the plantations are concentrated. In 2005, negotiations were still going on to settle the conflict. Christian missions began working in the area in the 19th century. The Catholic Church is the majority church. Most of the Protestant churches are Pentecostal and Evangelical. The north of the country is predominantly Muslim.
The region of today's Togo was settled by various groups. Togoland became a German colony in 1884, and after World War I was divided between the British and the French. British Togoland joined Ghana at independence, and the French colony became Togo in 1962. A year later, Togo was the first African independent nation to experience a military coup. From 1967 to 2005 an authoritarian regime was imposed, oppressing the democratic opposition and violating human rights. Many Togolese were killed, and hundreds of thousands became refugees in neighbouring Ghana and Benin. At the president’s death, his son took over in elections marred by killings and torture, and democratisation continued to be blocked by those in power. The economy of Togo depends on subsistence agriculture and export of coffee, cocoa and cotton, and on the production of phosphate. Catholic missions began in Togo at the end of the 16th century, and today more than half of the Togolese Christians belong to the Catholic Church. The Evangelical Presbyterian church is the largest Protestant denomination.
This week we pray for: Benin, Côte d'Ivoire, Togo
The Benin of today was the site of Dahomey, a prominent West African kingdom on what was known as the Slave Coast, one of the primary supply centres of slaves to the European traders. In 1872 Dahomey became part of French West Africa and the Republic of Benin achieved independence in 1960. A succession of military governments ended in 1972 with the establishment of a government based on Marxist principles. Multi-party democracy was introduced in 1991. The economy of Benin is still largely based on subsistence agriculture. As in most former French colonies, the Catholic Church is the majority church. The largest Protestant denomination is the Assemblies of God, and there are several other sizeable Pentecostal and Evangelical churches.
Côte d’Ivoire. In the 15th century, French and Portuguese traders explored the area, in search of ivory and slaves. France extended its influence inland in the 19th century, and the territory became a French colony in 1884. Ivory Coast achieved its independence in 1960. Under a one party regime, the country maintained close political and economic ties with France. It had one of the most developed economies of sub-Saharan Africa, based on the production and export of cocoa and coffee, and remained stable until the 1990s, when tensions between population groups became manifest. In 2002 a rebellion divided the country in two: the less developed north, and the south where the plantations are concentrated. In 2005, negotiations were still going on to settle the conflict. Christian missions began working in the area in the 19th century. The Catholic Church is the majority church. Most of the Protestant churches are Pentecostal and Evangelical. The north of the country is predominantly Muslim.
The region of today's Togo was settled by various groups. Togoland became a German colony in 1884, and after World War I was divided between the British and the French. British Togoland joined Ghana at independence, and the French colony became Togo in 1962. A year later, Togo was the first African independent nation to experience a military coup. From 1967 to 2005 an authoritarian regime was imposed, oppressing the democratic opposition and violating human rights. Many Togolese were killed, and hundreds of thousands became refugees in neighbouring Ghana and Benin. At the president’s death, his son took over in elections marred by killings and torture, and democratisation continued to be blocked by those in power. The economy of Togo depends on subsistence agriculture and export of coffee, cocoa and cotton, and on the production of phosphate. Catholic missions began in Togo at the end of the 16th century, and today more than half of the Togolese Christians belong to the Catholic Church. The Evangelical Presbyterian church is the largest Protestant denomination.
Sunday, September 3, 2023
This week we pray for: Cape Verde, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal
We are thankful for:
· the many ways in which these countries have moved beyond their colonial histories, especially the scars related to slave trade
· this area’s distinctive music and cultural practices of storytelling
· economic and educational advances that have lifted some out of poverty
· promising transitions into democracy and changes in government leaders
· the persistent, faithful witness of churches in the midst of other faiths.
A man walks through a village in Senegal.
We pray for:
· the people in these societies who continue to live in abject poverty
· an end to policies, systems, and cultural practices that continue to exploit and marginalise some groups
· the fair election of more just government leaders who respect the rights of all people
· faith communities witnessing and working together for the common good.
This week we pray for: Cape Verde, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Senegal
We are thankful for:
· the many ways in which these countries have moved beyond their colonial histories, especially the scars related to slave trade
· this area’s distinctive music and cultural practices of storytelling
· economic and educational advances that have lifted some out of poverty
· promising transitions into democracy and changes in government leaders
· the persistent, faithful witness of churches in the midst of other faiths.
A man walks through a village in Senegal.
We pray for:
· the people in these societies who continue to live in abject poverty
· an end to policies, systems, and cultural practices that continue to exploit and marginalise some groups
· the fair election of more just government leaders who respect the rights of all people
· faith communities witnessing and working together for the common good.
Sunday, August 13, 2023
This week we pray for: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea
We are thankful for:
· the natural resources and diverse gifts that come from these countries, such as the distinctive music and dance of Cameroon
· those who minister to victims of sexual violence, trafficking and other human rights abuses
· Christians and people of other faiths who courageously have pursued reconciliation and peace among those in conflict
· individuals and organizations who have provided for health clinics and schools in Cameroon and the Central African Republic.
Women walking to market in the far north of Cameroon.
We pray for:
· just resolutions to the conflicts and violence among diverse groups and their leaders
· refugees who flee to other countries, and for those who host them
· economic developments that make it possible for all to rise out of poverty
· stable democratic governments that effectively serve the common good.
Equatorial Guinea was one of the few Spanish colonies in Africa. It achieved independence in 1968. Until 1979, the country was ruled by a dictatorial regime that plundered its resources and oppressed the population. The Christians and the churches were harassed, atheism was actively promoted, and freedom of worship was restricted.
A coup d'état brought an end to this period. Since then, Equatorial Guinea has had the same president, who has established an authoritarian system of government. Offshore oil reserves have made Equatorial Guinea a major oil producer, but for the majority of the population agriculture remains the main source of livelihood, and there has been little improvement in living standards. Christianity was brought to the area at the time of Spanish colonization, and the Catholic Church is the majority church. There are a few small Protestant churches, which have formed a council. Since the 1980s, there has been an influx of Pentecostal, Charismatic, and Evangelical groups. They constitute about 5 percent of the population and form, together with the Protestants, about 10 percent of the total number of Christians.
This week we pray for: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Equatorial Guinea
We are thankful for:
· the natural resources and diverse gifts that come from these countries, such as the distinctive music and dance of Cameroon
· those who minister to victims of sexual violence, trafficking and other human rights abuses
· Christians and people of other faiths who courageously have pursued reconciliation and peace among those in conflict
· individuals and organizations who have provided for health clinics and schools in Cameroon and the Central African Republic.
Women walking to market in the far north of Cameroon.
We pray for:
· just resolutions to the conflicts and violence among diverse groups and their leaders
· refugees who flee to other countries, and for those who host them
· economic developments that make it possible for all to rise out of poverty
· stable democratic governments that effectively serve the common good.
Equatorial Guinea was one of the few Spanish colonies in Africa. It achieved independence in 1968. Until 1979, the country was ruled by a dictatorial regime that plundered its resources and oppressed the population. The Christians and the churches were harassed, atheism was actively promoted, and freedom of worship was restricted.
A coup d'état brought an end to this period. Since then, Equatorial Guinea has had the same president, who has established an authoritarian system of government. Offshore oil reserves have made Equatorial Guinea a major oil producer, but for the majority of the population agriculture remains the main source of livelihood, and there has been little improvement in living standards. Christianity was brought to the area at the time of Spanish colonization, and the Catholic Church is the majority church. There are a few small Protestant churches, which have formed a council. Since the 1980s, there has been an influx of Pentecostal, Charismatic, and Evangelical groups. They constitute about 5 percent of the population and form, together with the Protestants, about 10 percent of the total number of Christians.
Sunday, August 6, 2023
This week we pray for: Republic of Congo, Gabon, São Tomé and Príncipe
· democratic fair elections and political stability in this region
· economic development that benefits all the people, especially those living in poverty
· preservation of the wildlife and the land
· the witness of the churches and other faith groups in the midst of the challenges.
Girls displaced by war in the eastern Congo live in a Displaced Persons Camp
set up on a lava flow in the village of Nzulu.
This week we pray for: Republic of Congo, Gabon, São Tomé and Príncipe
· democratic fair elections and political stability in this region
· economic development that benefits all the people, especially those living in poverty
· preservation of the wildlife and the land
· the witness of the churches and other faith groups in the midst of the challenges.
Girls displaced by war in the eastern Congo live in a Displaced Persons Camp
set up on a lava flow in the village of Nzulu.
Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe is a Portuguese-speaking island country in the Gulf of Guinea, off the western equatorial coast of Central Africa with a population of 201,800.
The islands were uninhabited until their discovery in 1470 by Portuguese explorers João de Santarém and Pedro Escobar. Gradually settled throughout the 16th century, they served as a vital commercial and trade centre for the Atlantic slave trade. The rich volcanic soil and proximity to the equator made São Tomé and Príncipe ideal for sugar cultivation, followed later by cash crops such as coffee and cocoa; the economy
was heavily dependent upon African slaves.
The islands were uninhabited until their discovery in 1470 by Portuguese explorers João de Santarém and Pedro Escobar. Gradually settled throughout the 16th century, they served as a vital commercial and trade centre for the Atlantic slave trade. The rich volcanic soil and proximity to the equator made São Tomé and Príncipe ideal for sugar cultivation, followed later by cash crops such as coffee and cocoa; the economy
was heavily dependent upon African slaves.
Sunday, July 30, 2023
Our concern for our needy neighbours, our family, our friends and strangers, can be channeled two ways - into both prayers and actions. Right now, we begin with prayer.
As we bring our prayerful thoughts in focus, we remember Jesus, who lived as a son and brother of an earthly family, who enjoyed communal closeness with his group of friends, and who faced strangers and enemies with the same and equal loving kindness. So we speak aloud our concerns for our sisters and brothers, friends and strangers throughout the world.
We bring to mind those who seek justice and mercy for all who are wronged and neglected; for all who work and suffer to right wrongs; for those who champion the oppressed, for those who rescue the lost.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
We remember those who foster health of body and mind for all the diseased, badly injured, mentally anguished or spiritually dying; and all those human agents who bring healing and comfort.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
We focus on those who want the church to be at one in prayer and mission; all those who work to mend its divided and scattered condition; and those who work tirelessly for reconciliation between fractured ideologies.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
We remember those who seek for a better world, free from evil and alienation; we think of those who have lost faith and hope in the system; but also those who humbly and steadfastly continue to spread the story of Jesus.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
For those who want lives of freedom and confidence for every man, woman and child; for any among us who feel crushed by circumstances over which they seem to have no control; for those who unobtrusively minister to others like angels of mercy, we include them in our prayerful thoughts.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
God who is Love, in faith and with thanksgiving, we acknowledge that your power and influence can give us capacity far beyond our understanding or imagination, to live for others. As the Source that gave us life, and abundant love to share, we commit our living to you and the Jesus Way.
Amen
Our concern for our needy neighbours, our family, our friends and strangers, can be channeled two ways - into both prayers and actions. Right now, we begin with prayer.
As we bring our prayerful thoughts in focus, we remember Jesus, who lived as a son and brother of an earthly family, who enjoyed communal closeness with his group of friends, and who faced strangers and enemies with the same and equal loving kindness. So we speak aloud our concerns for our sisters and brothers, friends and strangers throughout the world.
We bring to mind those who seek justice and mercy for all who are wronged and neglected; for all who work and suffer to right wrongs; for those who champion the oppressed, for those who rescue the lost.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
We remember those who foster health of body and mind for all the diseased, badly injured, mentally anguished or spiritually dying; and all those human agents who bring healing and comfort.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
We focus on those who want the church to be at one in prayer and mission; all those who work to mend its divided and scattered condition; and those who work tirelessly for reconciliation between fractured ideologies.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
We remember those who seek for a better world, free from evil and alienation; we think of those who have lost faith and hope in the system; but also those who humbly and steadfastly continue to spread the story of Jesus.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
For those who want lives of freedom and confidence for every man, woman and child; for any among us who feel crushed by circumstances over which they seem to have no control; for those who unobtrusively minister to others like angels of mercy, we include them in our prayerful thoughts.
Just God, may we too be strengthened to do your work through our own actions...
God who is Love, in faith and with thanksgiving, we acknowledge that your power and influence can give us capacity far beyond our understanding or imagination, to live for others. As the Source that gave us life, and abundant love to share, we commit our living to you and the Jesus Way.
Amen
Residents of the Congolese village of Wembo Nyama walk from a worship service in the United Methodist Church
Sunday, July 30, 2023
This week we pray for Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda
Read just a little of the turbulent history of Rwanda in Africa
The original inhabitants of today's Rwanda are the Batwa, Bahutu, and Batutsi. The territory was attributed to Germany at the Berlin conference in 1884, and became a Belgian protectorate after World War I. The colonial powers exploited rivalries between the population groups.
The history of Rwanda before and since independence, in 1962, has been dominated by the conflict between the Bahutus and the Batutsis, which culminated in the 1994 genocide. About one million Batutsis and moderate Hutus were massacred. The Patriotic Front took power, and some two million Hutus fled to neighbouring Congo and other countries. The new government invaded Congo, in pursuit of the perpetrators of the genocide, and to support the rebellion against Congo's president Mobutu. Elections in 2003 helped to stabilise the internal political situation.
The Catholic Church is the majority church in Rwanda. Among the other churches Anglicans, Presbyterians, Baptists, and Seventh-day Adventists are the largest. The churches have struggled to come to terms with their responsibility in the genocide. Some Christians and local churches stood up against the killings, others were party to it. Many new churches and Christian groups have proliferated, especially Pentecostals.
Sunday, July 30, 2023
This week we pray for Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda
Read just a little of the turbulent history of Rwanda in Africa
The original inhabitants of today's Rwanda are the Batwa, Bahutu, and Batutsi. The territory was attributed to Germany at the Berlin conference in 1884, and became a Belgian protectorate after World War I. The colonial powers exploited rivalries between the population groups.
The history of Rwanda before and since independence, in 1962, has been dominated by the conflict between the Bahutus and the Batutsis, which culminated in the 1994 genocide. About one million Batutsis and moderate Hutus were massacred. The Patriotic Front took power, and some two million Hutus fled to neighbouring Congo and other countries. The new government invaded Congo, in pursuit of the perpetrators of the genocide, and to support the rebellion against Congo's president Mobutu. Elections in 2003 helped to stabilise the internal political situation.
The Catholic Church is the majority church in Rwanda. Among the other churches Anglicans, Presbyterians, Baptists, and Seventh-day Adventists are the largest. The churches have struggled to come to terms with their responsibility in the genocide. Some Christians and local churches stood up against the killings, others were party to it. Many new churches and Christian groups have proliferated, especially Pentecostals.
Sunday, July 16, 2023
This week we pray for: Eritrea, Ethiopia
The overwhelming majority of Eritrean Christians are Orthodox. Before Eritrea's independence, they came under the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. The Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church became independent in 1994, with the help of the Coptic Orthodox Church, and joined the WCC in 2003. Catholic and Protestant presence dates from the 19th and 20th century. More recently, some Pentecostal and Evangelical groups have entered the country.
Ethiopian monarchy embraced Christianity at its very early stages, and it became the state religion in the 4th century. By the 7th century there was Muslim influence. Tensions and conflict have been recurrent between the Christian and Muslim communities. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church was the state church under the monarchy but has lost this position. Catholic presence goes back to the 16th century, and Protestant missions arrived in the 20th century. The largest non-Orthodox church is the World of Life Church (Evangelical), followed by the Mekane Yesus Church (Lutheran and Presbyterian). There are also two large Pentecostal churches.
This week we pray for: Eritrea, Ethiopia
The overwhelming majority of Eritrean Christians are Orthodox. Before Eritrea's independence, they came under the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. The Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church became independent in 1994, with the help of the Coptic Orthodox Church, and joined the WCC in 2003. Catholic and Protestant presence dates from the 19th and 20th century. More recently, some Pentecostal and Evangelical groups have entered the country.
Ethiopian monarchy embraced Christianity at its very early stages, and it became the state religion in the 4th century. By the 7th century there was Muslim influence. Tensions and conflict have been recurrent between the Christian and Muslim communities. The Ethiopian Orthodox Church was the state church under the monarchy but has lost this position. Catholic presence goes back to the 16th century, and Protestant missions arrived in the 20th century. The largest non-Orthodox church is the World of Life Church (Evangelical), followed by the Mekane Yesus Church (Lutheran and Presbyterian). There are also two large Pentecostal churches.
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Feast of the Holy Cross,
Asmara, Eritrea. |
Before a service in St Mary's Cathedral of the Ethiopian
Orthodox Tewahedo Church in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. |
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The Ecumenical Prayer Cycle
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement.
Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one.
When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
Sunday, July 9, 2023
This week we pray for: Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda
We are thankful for:
· how the churches in Sudan and in South Sudan, as well as Ecumenical Network Sudan, have consistently pursued peace processes, healing and reconciliation in these war-ravaged countries
· those who work to bring justice for the victims of genocide and war crimes, including the International Criminal Court
· the many who carry out humanitarian work in these countries and who settle those who are displaced
· the economic progress and peacebuilding that have occurred in Uganda, and for effective measures to curb the spread of HIV and AIDS.
We pray for:
· a cessation of ethnic animosities and violence, and increased understanding between ethnic and religious groups
· an end to the rape and practices of genital mutilation of girls and women
· governments to respect the will and best interests of their people and the human rights of all natural resources to be preserved and the land saved from further desertification.
A group of women of an Episcopal Diocese march together to Sunday service on the fifth Sunday of Lent at the Macedonia church in Palorinya refugee settlement, West Nile area of northern Uganda
Prayer is at the very heart of the ecumenical movement.
Jesus prayed that we – his followers – may all be one.
When we pray with and for one another, we can feel God’s gift of unity.
Sunday, July 9, 2023
This week we pray for: Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda
We are thankful for:
· how the churches in Sudan and in South Sudan, as well as Ecumenical Network Sudan, have consistently pursued peace processes, healing and reconciliation in these war-ravaged countries
· those who work to bring justice for the victims of genocide and war crimes, including the International Criminal Court
· the many who carry out humanitarian work in these countries and who settle those who are displaced
· the economic progress and peacebuilding that have occurred in Uganda, and for effective measures to curb the spread of HIV and AIDS.
We pray for:
· a cessation of ethnic animosities and violence, and increased understanding between ethnic and religious groups
· an end to the rape and practices of genital mutilation of girls and women
· governments to respect the will and best interests of their people and the human rights of all natural resources to be preserved and the land saved from further desertification.
A group of women of an Episcopal Diocese march together to Sunday service on the fifth Sunday of Lent at the Macedonia church in Palorinya refugee settlement, West Nile area of northern Uganda
Sunday, July 2, 2023
This week we pray for: Kenya, Tanzania
Tanzania has over one hundred ethnic groups, mostly of Bantu origin. Arab trading posts were established along the coast and on the island of Zanzibar as early as the 10th century. Tanganyika was declared a German colony in 1884. In 1919, Britain took over Zanzibar, and Tanganyika as trust territories, until independence in 1961 and 1963. In 1964, Zanzibar and Tanganyika merged to form the nation of Tanzania. The first president was Julius Nyerere, one of the great leaders of Africa's independence. Tanzania was deeply involved in the struggles in Southern Africa, caring for thousands of refugees. Economically it is a poor country, depending almost entirely on agriculture for subsistence and exporting coffee, cotton, etc. Manufacturing industries and gold mining are beginning to develop.
The Catholic Church is the oldest and largest church, representing about half of all Christians. Other large churches are the Anglican, Lutheran, Baptist, Africa Inland, and Moravian churches.
Kenya was inhabited by groups such as the Kikuyu and the Masai when the British colonised it in 1895. After the Mau Mau uprising in the early 1950s the Kenyan people regained their independence in 1963, under Mzee Jomo Kenyatta. The 1990s were characterised by political oppression, violence and misuse of state resources. The economy, mainly based on agriculture and the export of tea and coffee, was adversely affected by mismanagement, and severely hit by drought. In 2005, Kenya played a key role in peace settlements in Somalia and southern Sudan. The Christian churches in Kenya are strong. The Protestant and Anglican churches, through the National Council, and the Catholic Church have repeatedly spoken out and acted against the mismanagement and corruption of political leaders, and contributed to democratic changes. Some of the pressing challenges are high rates of poverty, (most Kenyans live below US$1 per day), and the impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
This week we pray for: Kenya, Tanzania
Tanzania has over one hundred ethnic groups, mostly of Bantu origin. Arab trading posts were established along the coast and on the island of Zanzibar as early as the 10th century. Tanganyika was declared a German colony in 1884. In 1919, Britain took over Zanzibar, and Tanganyika as trust territories, until independence in 1961 and 1963. In 1964, Zanzibar and Tanganyika merged to form the nation of Tanzania. The first president was Julius Nyerere, one of the great leaders of Africa's independence. Tanzania was deeply involved in the struggles in Southern Africa, caring for thousands of refugees. Economically it is a poor country, depending almost entirely on agriculture for subsistence and exporting coffee, cotton, etc. Manufacturing industries and gold mining are beginning to develop.
The Catholic Church is the oldest and largest church, representing about half of all Christians. Other large churches are the Anglican, Lutheran, Baptist, Africa Inland, and Moravian churches.
Kenya was inhabited by groups such as the Kikuyu and the Masai when the British colonised it in 1895. After the Mau Mau uprising in the early 1950s the Kenyan people regained their independence in 1963, under Mzee Jomo Kenyatta. The 1990s were characterised by political oppression, violence and misuse of state resources. The economy, mainly based on agriculture and the export of tea and coffee, was adversely affected by mismanagement, and severely hit by drought. In 2005, Kenya played a key role in peace settlements in Somalia and southern Sudan. The Christian churches in Kenya are strong. The Protestant and Anglican churches, through the National Council, and the Catholic Church have repeatedly spoken out and acted against the mismanagement and corruption of political leaders, and contributed to democratic changes. Some of the pressing challenges are high rates of poverty, (most Kenyans live below US$1 per day), and the impact of the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
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Sunday, June 25, 2023
This week we pray for: Malawi, Zambia
Zambia was settled by Bantu people from 800 AD. In 1890 the British South Africa Company took hold of the territory. In 1911 the British established the protectorate of Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia). The discovery of vast copper deposits led to intensive mining in the north-western part of the country. Zambia became independent in 1964, under president Kaunda. In the period of decolonisation and the liberation struggles in Southern Africa, Zambia was one of Africa's leading young nations. Kaunda did much to unite the country, with Zambia's economy growing again since 2004, after a long period of decline due to the drop in copper prices on the world market and poor management. The country is facing a high poverty rate, especially in rural areas, and high rates of HIV/AIDS infection. Christian missions came to Zambia in the 19th century. The churches are strong and have an important place in the society. The Catholic Church is the largest church, followed by the United Church of Zambia. In 1991 Zambia was declared a Christian nation by its president, a born-again Christian. The matter was being reconsidered during a revision of the constitution in 2005.
A worker labours on a tea plantation near Thyolo, in southern Malawi, as the sun rises through early morning fog.
This week we pray for: Malawi, Zambia
Zambia was settled by Bantu people from 800 AD. In 1890 the British South Africa Company took hold of the territory. In 1911 the British established the protectorate of Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia). The discovery of vast copper deposits led to intensive mining in the north-western part of the country. Zambia became independent in 1964, under president Kaunda. In the period of decolonisation and the liberation struggles in Southern Africa, Zambia was one of Africa's leading young nations. Kaunda did much to unite the country, with Zambia's economy growing again since 2004, after a long period of decline due to the drop in copper prices on the world market and poor management. The country is facing a high poverty rate, especially in rural areas, and high rates of HIV/AIDS infection. Christian missions came to Zambia in the 19th century. The churches are strong and have an important place in the society. The Catholic Church is the largest church, followed by the United Church of Zambia. In 1991 Zambia was declared a Christian nation by its president, a born-again Christian. The matter was being reconsidered during a revision of the constitution in 2005.
A worker labours on a tea plantation near Thyolo, in southern Malawi, as the sun rises through early morning fog.
Sunday, June 18, 2023
This week we pray for: Botswana, Zimbabwe
Protestantism is a significant force in Botswana. The United Congregational Church is the major denomination. Seventh Day Adventists are the second largest denomination.
Zimbabwe. Bantu groups settled this region several thousands of years ago. The Great Zimbabwe ruins attest to the existence of a powerful kingdom in the medieval era. In the 19th century the British established colonial control. Southern Rhodesia became a settlement of white farmers who resisted African majority rule when in 1964 neighbouring Zambia and Malawi became independent. The white farmers declared unilateral independence in 1965. After sixteen years of war the African people of Zimbabwe became independent in 1980. The WCC supported the liberation movements. Since the late 1990s President Mugabe's rule of the country has become increasingly authoritarian. Most of the white farms were nationalised, but redistribution has not benefited the poor African peasants. The economy, based on agriculture and once one of the strongest of Africa, has seriously deteriorated. The churches have an important place in Zimbabwe's society. Many have supported the liberation struggle. Zimbabwe has 16 official languages!
A small portion of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Praying with Zimbabwe and Botswana: ‘It is the small acts that grow and havea big impact on people's lives.
This week we pray for: Botswana, Zimbabwe
Protestantism is a significant force in Botswana. The United Congregational Church is the major denomination. Seventh Day Adventists are the second largest denomination.
Zimbabwe. Bantu groups settled this region several thousands of years ago. The Great Zimbabwe ruins attest to the existence of a powerful kingdom in the medieval era. In the 19th century the British established colonial control. Southern Rhodesia became a settlement of white farmers who resisted African majority rule when in 1964 neighbouring Zambia and Malawi became independent. The white farmers declared unilateral independence in 1965. After sixteen years of war the African people of Zimbabwe became independent in 1980. The WCC supported the liberation movements. Since the late 1990s President Mugabe's rule of the country has become increasingly authoritarian. Most of the white farms were nationalised, but redistribution has not benefited the poor African peasants. The economy, based on agriculture and once one of the strongest of Africa, has seriously deteriorated. The churches have an important place in Zimbabwe's society. Many have supported the liberation struggle. Zimbabwe has 16 official languages!
A small portion of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Praying with Zimbabwe and Botswana: ‘It is the small acts that grow and havea big impact on people's lives.
Sunday, May 21, 2023
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
For our own needs, and the needs of those around us, let us pray….
Holy Friend, Loving God and Saviour, we pray to you, both when we are at our wits end and on those days when we feel reasonably capable and competent.
We ask you to bless our attempts to aid at least some of the lonely, suffering, bewildered, and grieving people on earth.
Yet our efforts towards loving our neighbours, both individual and corporate, even at their best and most efficient are piecemeal.
Sometimes, in spite of our good intentions, our endeavours may be ill advised and ill directed.
By the loving work of your Holy Spirit, O God, do for our fellow human beings that which we cannot manage to do.
May no child of earth, be they friend or stranger, ever face distress or calamity on their own.
We ask that your presence imbue and bless those gifted people who seem to have the knack of loving others through appropriate, practical ways.
Give each of us the commitment and wisdom to express our compassion, as limited as it may be, more wisely and lovingly.
Loving God, to you all persons are precious. No neighbour is a nuisance. No enemy is beyond the pale. Please teach us your ways.
Let no person be forgotten, none neglected, none despised, and none judged as unworthy of our best care and efforts.
Bring the day nearer when your church on earth may become more truly one with your Spirit, a selfless serving community of grace, mercy and peace. Through Christ Jesus, our exalted Friend and Lord.
Amen.
Let us join together in the Lord’s Prayer.
The Lord’s Prayer
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
For our own needs, and the needs of those around us, let us pray….
Holy Friend, Loving God and Saviour, we pray to you, both when we are at our wits end and on those days when we feel reasonably capable and competent.
We ask you to bless our attempts to aid at least some of the lonely, suffering, bewildered, and grieving people on earth.
Yet our efforts towards loving our neighbours, both individual and corporate, even at their best and most efficient are piecemeal.
Sometimes, in spite of our good intentions, our endeavours may be ill advised and ill directed.
By the loving work of your Holy Spirit, O God, do for our fellow human beings that which we cannot manage to do.
May no child of earth, be they friend or stranger, ever face distress or calamity on their own.
We ask that your presence imbue and bless those gifted people who seem to have the knack of loving others through appropriate, practical ways.
Give each of us the commitment and wisdom to express our compassion, as limited as it may be, more wisely and lovingly.
Loving God, to you all persons are precious. No neighbour is a nuisance. No enemy is beyond the pale. Please teach us your ways.
Let no person be forgotten, none neglected, none despised, and none judged as unworthy of our best care and efforts.
Bring the day nearer when your church on earth may become more truly one with your Spirit, a selfless serving community of grace, mercy and peace. Through Christ Jesus, our exalted Friend and Lord.
Amen.
Let us join together in the Lord’s Prayer.
The Lord’s Prayer
Sunday, May 14, 2023
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
Today there is space in these prayers during which you are invited to insert your own private love and concern for others. The bidding - Spirit of truth enlighten us all - has the congregational response
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Our prayers for others …….
Let us pray for those who are confused by duplicity in their lives, and therefore fear there is no Spirit of truth anywhere.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for those who are too cocksure in all they think, say and do; those who think they hold the truth without error.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for those cowered by oppression & suffering, who fear that despair is their truth.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for those who are angered by their personal circumstances, believing there must be some truth that is responsible.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for the very healthy and proud, who imagine that all truth favours the strong and powerful.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for the dying and those who love them, especially if they believe that death is the ultimate truth.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray today, of all days, for those mothers who are nursing a new born, who intuitively know that truth is love.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for all those who have put their faith in Christ, and now eagerly search for truth.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
And now let us pray for ourselves.
Holy Friend, pervade us with your living Truth, making us more at peace with ourselves and more understanding of others.
Give us a deeper insight into and concern for those who seem different to us, who disappoint or even hurt us.
Make us patient with all who easily irritate us but firm with those who try to manipulate us.
Teach us how to live loyally, lovingly, wisely, courageously and with abundant good humour.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen!
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
Today there is space in these prayers during which you are invited to insert your own private love and concern for others. The bidding - Spirit of truth enlighten us all - has the congregational response
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Our prayers for others …….
Let us pray for those who are confused by duplicity in their lives, and therefore fear there is no Spirit of truth anywhere.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for those who are too cocksure in all they think, say and do; those who think they hold the truth without error.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for those cowered by oppression & suffering, who fear that despair is their truth.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for those who are angered by their personal circumstances, believing there must be some truth that is responsible.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for the very healthy and proud, who imagine that all truth favours the strong and powerful.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for the dying and those who love them, especially if they believe that death is the ultimate truth.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray today, of all days, for those mothers who are nursing a new born, who intuitively know that truth is love.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Let us pray for all those who have put their faith in Christ, and now eagerly search for truth.
Silence
Spirit of truth enlighten us all.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
And now let us pray for ourselves.
Holy Friend, pervade us with your living Truth, making us more at peace with ourselves and more understanding of others.
Give us a deeper insight into and concern for those who seem different to us, who disappoint or even hurt us.
Make us patient with all who easily irritate us but firm with those who try to manipulate us.
Teach us how to live loyally, lovingly, wisely, courageously and with abundant good humour.
Spirit of truth lead us into the fullness of Christ’s love.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen!
Sunday, May 7, 2023
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
Let us pray for others and ourselves….
Let it never be said, loving God, that your church neglected to both pray for and serve the world in its multiplicity of needs.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
For King Charles and the Royal Family, bless their commitment to servanthood and leadership in Christ’s name. Where they may reveal privilege let the oppressed people of our nation and world know they are not overlooked nor forgotten. The grace of Christ will, through his servants, come to their aid.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
For the unemployed and the unemployable, those who are grossly overworked and underpaid, and any who have seen the results of years of toil collapse around them, we pray.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
For the indigenous people of this and others countries who live with disinheritance, for their health and education, for the nurturing of their culture, for their leaders, and for those Gubba* who work for justice and reconciliation, we pray.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
For the frail and the sick in this congregation and beyond, and we especially think of Bob, for the handicapped and those who suffer constant pain, for those dying slowly and all who care for them, for the bereaved and loving friends who reach out to console them, we pray.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
Loving God, we are your family; like children we pray to you, asking for the blessing of your hands laid upon us, that we may with courage and compassion, work with the other members of your family with humility and good humour; through the name and grace of Jesus of Nazareth
Amen!
Let us join in saying The Lord’s Prayer…
Our Father in Heaven ….
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
Let us pray for others and ourselves….
Let it never be said, loving God, that your church neglected to both pray for and serve the world in its multiplicity of needs.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
For King Charles and the Royal Family, bless their commitment to servanthood and leadership in Christ’s name. Where they may reveal privilege let the oppressed people of our nation and world know they are not overlooked nor forgotten. The grace of Christ will, through his servants, come to their aid.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
For the unemployed and the unemployable, those who are grossly overworked and underpaid, and any who have seen the results of years of toil collapse around them, we pray.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
For the indigenous people of this and others countries who live with disinheritance, for their health and education, for the nurturing of their culture, for their leaders, and for those Gubba* who work for justice and reconciliation, we pray.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
For the frail and the sick in this congregation and beyond, and we especially think of Bob, for the handicapped and those who suffer constant pain, for those dying slowly and all who care for them, for the bereaved and loving friends who reach out to console them, we pray.
Although we cannot do everything,
enable us to do something
Loving God, we are your family; like children we pray to you, asking for the blessing of your hands laid upon us, that we may with courage and compassion, work with the other members of your family with humility and good humour; through the name and grace of Jesus of Nazareth
Amen!
Let us join in saying The Lord’s Prayer…
Our Father in Heaven ….
Sunday, April 30, 2023
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
You and I may be inexperienced and ordinary members of Christ’s family, nevertheless we are called to be loving and caring. We should never stop praying and acting in the name of the King of Love, the Good Shepherd, even when it is sometimes difficult to see the change we continuously and fervently request.
So let us pray…..
Loving God, help us to pray with focus minds and committed hearts. Imbue us with the compassion that Christ modelled through his life and death, as we think of people and places here and across the globe.
We pray for the taming of the wolves of war and terrorism in those parts of the world that front our daily news reports. We pray for those people for whom the hope of green pastures and still waters seems out of reach.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for an end to suffering brought about by injustice, neglect, discrimination; and we pray that those who look on but do nothing may discover new courage and selfless purpose.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for people who have been misled and misused by false shepherds; we ask for clarity of mind and heart, and renewed self-determination for those exploited spiritually or materially by slick religious, political or materialistic salesmen.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for restoration of any hurts, resentments or misunderstandings that have divided friends and strangers – people both near to us and far from us; show us how to reach and support those who once had faith in God but have fallen into empty cynicism.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for blessings on all who are good shepherds to fellow travellers on life’s journey; for those who foster hope in their community through the work of medicine, counselling, social planning, legal aid, law making, and sincere good neighbourliness. Help us, even if we are standing on the sideline, always to recognise the opportunity to support real change in Christ’s name.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for those who tender special care and compassion to the dying and the grieving. May both the servant and the served truly know the comfort of the Shepherd whose love does not terminate at the valley of the shadow of death...
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
Most loving God, enable us to embody the spirit of these prayers with generous and grateful hearts. May we enact goodness and mercy in the daily routines of our own lives, with the love of the Good Shepherd at our core and trusting you as the very ground of our being.
In the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen
Let us join together in saying the prayer Jesus taught
Our Father in Heaven ….
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
You and I may be inexperienced and ordinary members of Christ’s family, nevertheless we are called to be loving and caring. We should never stop praying and acting in the name of the King of Love, the Good Shepherd, even when it is sometimes difficult to see the change we continuously and fervently request.
So let us pray…..
Loving God, help us to pray with focus minds and committed hearts. Imbue us with the compassion that Christ modelled through his life and death, as we think of people and places here and across the globe.
We pray for the taming of the wolves of war and terrorism in those parts of the world that front our daily news reports. We pray for those people for whom the hope of green pastures and still waters seems out of reach.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for an end to suffering brought about by injustice, neglect, discrimination; and we pray that those who look on but do nothing may discover new courage and selfless purpose.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for people who have been misled and misused by false shepherds; we ask for clarity of mind and heart, and renewed self-determination for those exploited spiritually or materially by slick religious, political or materialistic salesmen.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for restoration of any hurts, resentments or misunderstandings that have divided friends and strangers – people both near to us and far from us; show us how to reach and support those who once had faith in God but have fallen into empty cynicism.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for blessings on all who are good shepherds to fellow travellers on life’s journey; for those who foster hope in their community through the work of medicine, counselling, social planning, legal aid, law making, and sincere good neighbourliness. Help us, even if we are standing on the sideline, always to recognise the opportunity to support real change in Christ’s name.
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
We pray for those who tender special care and compassion to the dying and the grieving. May both the servant and the served truly know the comfort of the Shepherd whose love does not terminate at the valley of the shadow of death...
Good Shepherd, hear us.
Good Shepherd, save us and help us.
Most loving God, enable us to embody the spirit of these prayers with generous and grateful hearts. May we enact goodness and mercy in the daily routines of our own lives, with the love of the Good Shepherd at our core and trusting you as the very ground of our being.
In the name of Jesus Christ.
Amen
Let us join together in saying the prayer Jesus taught
Our Father in Heaven ….
Sunday, April 23, 2023
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
Praying for other people is not an escape from the hard facts of life, but an engagement with them. So as we reflect on the world, the past and continuing conflicts that have led to man’s inhumanity to man, let us engage with these and other difficult facts right now…..
Ukrainian Kyrie Eleison Pilgrim Singers
Most loving God, source of resurrection life, we offer you our lives, along with the prayers we bring to you, so that our prayers and our deeds may work together in unison for the healing of the world for which Christ lived, died and arose.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Uplift believers around the world. In spite of our superficial differences, may we all be drawn closer together in worship and outreach, so that the world may see we are the disciples of the Master of Love.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Ukrainian Kyrie Eleison Pilgrim Singers
Uplift your church in its attempts to serve the world. Strengthen all those who work for justice and peace, inspire those who work with the poor and outcaste. Give encouragement to those who seek to rehabilitate those who have made poor choices of lifestyle; and reinvigorate those who are weary but cannot yet seek rest from their labours.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Uplift Christians who take their place in political life – independents and minor parties, members of the government and the opposition, government ministers and back benchers. Enable them all to maintain their integrity and faith-optimism among so much double-talk and through numerous setbacks and compromises.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Ukrianian Kyrie Eleison Pilgrim Singers
Uplift all the people, both inside or outside the church, who this day watch with the dying, comfort the sorrowful, feed the hungry, tend the sick, befriend the loner, teach the young, counsel the bewildered, encourage the timid, and forgive the enemy. By your grace, multiply the effect of their individual efforts, that the curse of human misery may recede and the joy of living increase.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Lord of life, indwell our common days, that in mind and soul we may be young enough to see brave visions and old enough to dream wise dreams.
Move freely among us, Holy Friend, and enlist us in the service of Christ’s brave new world.
Amen!
[Adapted from “Brief Prayers” Vol 3. B D Prewer & Open Book Publishers.]
And so we say together …
Our Father in Heaven
Hallowed be your name...
Prayers for Others & Ourselves
Praying for other people is not an escape from the hard facts of life, but an engagement with them. So as we reflect on the world, the past and continuing conflicts that have led to man’s inhumanity to man, let us engage with these and other difficult facts right now…..
Ukrainian Kyrie Eleison Pilgrim Singers
Most loving God, source of resurrection life, we offer you our lives, along with the prayers we bring to you, so that our prayers and our deeds may work together in unison for the healing of the world for which Christ lived, died and arose.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Uplift believers around the world. In spite of our superficial differences, may we all be drawn closer together in worship and outreach, so that the world may see we are the disciples of the Master of Love.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Ukrainian Kyrie Eleison Pilgrim Singers
Uplift your church in its attempts to serve the world. Strengthen all those who work for justice and peace, inspire those who work with the poor and outcaste. Give encouragement to those who seek to rehabilitate those who have made poor choices of lifestyle; and reinvigorate those who are weary but cannot yet seek rest from their labours.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Uplift Christians who take their place in political life – independents and minor parties, members of the government and the opposition, government ministers and back benchers. Enable them all to maintain their integrity and faith-optimism among so much double-talk and through numerous setbacks and compromises.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Ukrianian Kyrie Eleison Pilgrim Singers
Uplift all the people, both inside or outside the church, who this day watch with the dying, comfort the sorrowful, feed the hungry, tend the sick, befriend the loner, teach the young, counsel the bewildered, encourage the timid, and forgive the enemy. By your grace, multiply the effect of their individual efforts, that the curse of human misery may recede and the joy of living increase.
Teach us so to pray, loving God.
Teach us so to live, loving Jesus.
Lord of life, indwell our common days, that in mind and soul we may be young enough to see brave visions and old enough to dream wise dreams.
Move freely among us, Holy Friend, and enlist us in the service of Christ’s brave new world.
Amen!
[Adapted from “Brief Prayers” Vol 3. B D Prewer & Open Book Publishers.]
And so we say together …
Our Father in Heaven
Hallowed be your name...
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