Litany for God's People in Times of Distress

Leader: O God, who is Creator, Redeemer and sustainer.

People: Hear our prayer.

Leader: Lord God, we know that you are the author of every good and perfect thing. We rejoice in the perfection of your created order. We stand like Job in awe of the power you have placed in nature.

People: We praise you for the goodness of your creation.

Leader: God, even of the fury of storms, we give you thanks that you are steadfast in your love, and constant in your faithfulness, that we might approach you as our strength and refuge.

People: We give you thanks for your steadfast love, and pray your presence among those who suffer.

Leader: Lord of all life, and sustainer of all hope, we ask your special concern for those who are survivors of all disasters this day. We pray especially for those facing loss as the rivers crest near their homes, and those who have already suffered loss through tornadoes and storm.

People: May they know the power of your healing love.

Leader: Following every disaster we know that those who suffer experience differing emotions: some are at peace, some are disquieted, some have feelings of anger, vengeance and retribution, many simply wish to hide. Help us to know that you do not desert us despite our feelings.

People: We thank you that you do not leave us alone, but labor to make us whole.

Leader: God, in mystery and silence you are present in our lives, bringing new life out of destruction, hoe out of despair, growth out of difficulty.

People: Through your Holy Spirit, may we know that you work together in all things for good. We believe that through you, love may overcome hatred, joy may overcome sorrow, and good may overcome evil.

Leader: Help us to see your unseen hand in the unfolding of all our lives, and to attend to the gentle guidance of your Spirit, that we may know the joy you give your people.

People: Give us eyes, ears, and hearts that can see your work in the world.

Leader: Rejoicing in the fellowship of all the saints, let us entrust ourselves, and one another, amid all of life to Christ our God.

People: We rejoice that in life and in death we belong to you.

Leader: Mighty God, whose Word we trust, whose Spirit enables us to pray: Accept our requests and further those which will bring about your purpose for the earth; through Jesus Christ, who rules over all things.

All: Amen.