Prayers for Haiti disaster
News reports from Haiti tell of severe destruction and loss of life. The capital of Port au Prince is reported to be devastated, and a Hatian official told the UN that at least 100,000 are dead. Remember the people of Haiti in your congregation's prayers this Sunday.
Here is a prayer you can use in devotions or in worship. The response, in bold, is Psalm 36:7, from Sunday's psalmody:
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Gracious God, we pray for the people of Haiti who have been affected by this week’s severe earthquake. May your steadfast love be a tower of strength and courage in the midst of destruction and distress, and a refuge and comfort to all those who suffer and grieve the loss of thousands upon thousands of lives.
How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
Sustaining God, we pray for the people of Haiti, for people around the world who wonder and wait for news of loved ones there, for the government of Haiti as it seeks to save lives and preserve order, and for relief workers as they assess damage, assist victims, and begin on the journey of recovery.
How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
God of hope, we lift up the ELCA International Disaster Response team and our partners on the ground in Haiti, who are already providing care and will be there long after this disaster is out of the news.
How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings.
Giver of all good things, we thank you for the members of your family, the Church, who, though they may not be able to be present physically to assist in response to the great needs created by this earthquake, give generously in spirit through prayer and financial gifts to make our disaster relief efforts possible.
How precious is your steadfast love, O God! All people may take refuge in the shadow of your wings. In the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Below is additional video of the damage from CNN:
