Sydney Archbishop Kanishka Raffel has called for prayer for the troubled nation of Afghanistan.
He addressed the situation in a video after the withdrawal of western forces and prayed for the nation, its people, especially the women facing persecution and repression and Christian churches.
View the Archbishop at Prayer here.https://vimeo.com/588721741
Brisbane Archbishop Phillip Aspinall AC presided at a service of Prayer and Lament for Afghanistan on Sunday 22 August 2021. That service can be viewed here. https://youtu.be/bYuzc9GsgwE
Townsville Bishop Keith Joseph also presided at a service of Prayer and Lament for Afghanistan on Wednesday 18 August 2021. That service can be viewed here https://youtu.be/8d6LX0rZXBo
The prayer
THis is the prayer prayed by Archbishop Raffel
Almighty God,
Creator and preserver of our world. We pray today for peace.
Have mercy on our broken and divided world and banish the spirit that makes for war. We ask that leaders of nations and governments will pursue freedom, justice and the welfare of all people.
We pray especially for all affected by the escalating turmoil and tragic events in Afghanistan. Help the leaders of nations to protect the vulnerable and to establish justice and peace. Restrain the forces of evil and protect men, and especially women and children from Taliban forces.
We also pray for Christian brothers and sisters in Afghanistan. Preserve their lives and strengthen their witness in this land of deep spiritual darkness and despair.
We pray for Afghan refugees who have made Australia their home and for those who are anxious about family in Afghanistan. Comfort them we pray and may they know the hope and peace that is found in our Lord Jesus.
And we pray, Father, for the veterans of our Defence Force who have served in Afghanistan, and their families. Sustain these men and women who have served our country. May they receive the care and support they need at this time of disappointment and discouragement.
Heavenly Father, in an uncertain world, please turn the hearts of all people to your Son Jesus Christ our Lord and to the peace that passes all understanding.
We ask these things in Jesus’ name. Amen.
