04/26/2026
Amen!
🕯️From this week's prayer liturgy: mfsaweb.org/candle
This week, we light the Candle of Peace, Hope and Justice for those caught in the ripple effects of the war in the Middle East.
For the survivors across the region, still searching for the missing, grieving for the dead, caring for the wounded, and struggling to rebuild their lives amidst ongoing chaos.
For the farmer in Vietnam who can no longer make ends meet, as production costs rise and wholesale prices fall.
For the trucker and the taxi driver in Bangladesh who can’t afford diesel for their vehicles, if supply can be found.
For students in Iran, deprived of learning because their schools have been destroyed. For students in Pakistan deprived of learning because their schools have closed to conserve precious fuel.
For those across the globe affected by supply chain disruptions, including those in need of medical devices and supplies, and the estimated millions in danger of falling into food insecurity if the war continues.
For families across the U.S. who will lose health insurance and food, heating, and housing assistance to pay for this war.
For the children in Washington DC who ask their teachers if bombs will fall on them in their schools, since their country had bombed the schools of other children. For children everywhere who have been made afraid.
Forgive us, Lord, when our concern over war is limited to the safety of our own soldiers and the price at the pump. Open our eyes to the physical, economic, and psychological havoc reverberating around the world.
Help us to turn toward those who preach the ways of peace, the promise of patient diplomacy, and the politics of compassion, equity, and justice. Guide the hand of the negotiators, that the peace they craft may be one that is lasting and just for all.
Then, going forward, in the words of one Artemis astronaut, help us to “always choose Earth, always choose each other.”
