The Bishop of Monmouth, Rt Revd Dominic Walker OGS, has urged his clergy and parishioners to pray for the situation in Haiti and to send practical aid in the form of donations to Christian Aid’s Emergency Fund.

He writes:
The scenes on our televisions of the tragedy that has hit the people of Haiti are heartbreaking. One newspaper described Haiti as the unluckiest country in the world because of its history of political and economic unrest and now natural disaster. We are still receiving news of the terrible loss of life and the urgency of getting aid to the right people in time. This is a time for urgent prayer and action and I am calling upon all our parishes and people in the diocese to respond. May I suggest that we all use the following prayer on a daily basis whilst the rescue work is carried out.
 
O God, our refuge and strength,
we hold before you the nation and people of Haiti
and pray for healing in the midst of tragedy and devastation.
Give comfort to the homeless, the bereaved and the suffering,
courage to survivors,
wisdom to those who seek to help,
and light to all who live in the shadow of death.
This we ask in the name of Jesus Christ,
our rock and salvation.  Amen.
 
Please also encourage people to give generous support to Christian Aid’s Haiti Earthquake Appeal.  I have sent them a donation from my Mission & General Fund and churches may wish to take a special collection and encourage individuals to donate. http://www.christianaid.org.uk/emergencies

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19 January 2010