Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Violence, Looting and Riots in our Cities

Loving God, you call us into community, and we only become truly ourselves as we are there for others.

Forgive us our brokenness and heal the hurts of communities damaged in the recent troubles in our cities in the United Kingdom.

We pray for an end to the violence, looting and riots that have brought fear, terror and destruction to local neighbourhoods across London and other UK cities. We pray that the underlying reasons for the riots can be quickly, fairly and properly addressed and that the Government, the police and local communities will work together to rebuild trust and security.

Help us to repair the harm done to neighbourhoods, buildings and relationships and to rekindle hope.

Give to the Church in areas of trouble the courage and creativity to be there for others, and to be part of your gracious work of restoration and recovery.

We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, who is our peace and who keeps breaking down the barriers that divide us from each other.

We pray in faith, trusting in our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.