Pray for Peace in the Middle East

These are times of great concern for many of us in the region and especially for those of you who have family and friends in the Gulf and Middle East. If we can be on any help at this time, either for prayer, or a chat, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

Ten out of eleven countries in our Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf have been targeted since the war broke out on 28 February - many of our friends and colleagues across the Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East have been caught up in the cross fire and are seeking safety in shelters or basements. Many have been able to leave the region but many remain in the countries they call home.

In moments like these, our response as believers is not fear, anger, or division but prayer. So let us pray for:

• Protection of innocent lives.
• Wisdom for world leaders and for peacemakers to rise up.
• Restraint over escalation and/or retaliation.
• God’s peace over the nations.
• The ministry of Christian churches in the region.
• Safe passage home for those trapped on land or sea.
• Comfort for those who mourn the loss of loved ones.

Lord, in your mercy: hear our prayer.
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The Bible reminds us: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” Matthew 5:9. May the Prince of Peace bring calm where there is conflict.

I'm reminded of those words from Isaiah 43:2 'When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze.' and Isaiah 41:10 'So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.'

And also Philippians 4:6-7 'Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.'

ZOOM PRAYERS: PARISH
Take place every Tuesday and Thursday at 9.00 am. Details below - contact Ven Paul for a copy of the service sheet.
Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81835740721?pwd=WXJLSC9NYkQyblhaSzRKVWR0aXVGQT09
Meeting ID: 818 3574 0721
Passcode: 695196

ZOOM PRAYERS: SAINT CHRISTOPHERS CATHEDRAL, BAHRAIN
Is offering an online Service of Evening Prayer at 6.00pm Cyprus time, every day. Please go to the Diocesan website  https://www.cypgulf.org and click on the green box for the Zoom link and service sheet. 

ZOOM PRAYERS: DIOCESE
At this difficult time across the countries of the Diocese, Bishop Sean invites the people of its parishes and beyond to come together for a special online service of Evening Prayer every Tuesday at 6.00 pm Cyprus time. Please go to the Diocesan website https://www.cypgulf.org and click on the green box for the Zoom link and service sheet. 

NB this prayer produced by St Luke’s Anglican Church, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, might be helpful to you.