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Dear Partners in Prayer,
The people of the United States have witnessed the wrenching and heart-breaking scenes from Las Vegas of the worst mass shooting in the modern history of this nation. As Christians, and as people of prayer, we are called at this time to bring before almighty God our anxiety and our bewilderment. How shall we pray? How shall God’s grace, mercy and peace prevail? Please join with me in a time of silence and stillness, and then prayers of the heart and mind at this time.
A Prayer for the Suffering, Grieving, and Anxious
Almighty God, you alone can bring into order the unruly wills and affections of sinners. You alone can bring order into the midst of chaos. You alone can confront the power of darkness, evil and wickedness in human life. You alone can bring comfort into the midst of sorrow and loss. Grant all people grace to seek after the promise of eternal life in this time of crisis; that, among the swift and varied changes of the world, our hearts may surely there be fixed where true joys are to be found; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
A Prayer for the Suffering and for Those Who Care for Them
God of all grace and healer of all wounds, giver of life and health: Look with compassion on all who have been sorely wounded from the mass shooting in Las Vegas; give perseverance and skill to all doctors and nurses who treat these wounded bodies and souls that, at their hands, your healing grace may abound. We lift before You, gracious God, all family members who are filled with anxiety and fear. Let your will be done and your hand prevail, through the great Shepherd and Guardian of our souls, Jesus Christ our Savior.
For Those Who Have Died
O God, the author of life and strength in all sorrow: We commend to your mercy all who have died in the senseless shooting at a concert in Las Vegas. Receive them into the arms of your mercy, into the blessed rest of everlasting peace, and into the ceaseless light of your presence; through Jesus Christ our Redeemer.
For First Responders
God of all power and shepherd of all souls: guard and protect the police, fire fighters, EMS attendants and rescue workers in Las Vegas and throughout this land. We thank you for your protecting hand upon them so that they may protect us wherever we may be. Bless and strengthen them in this time of selfless service; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
For Our Nation
Lord God Almighty, you have made all the peoples of the earth for your glory, to serve you in freedom and in peace: Give to the people of the United States of America a zeal for wisdom in the midst of trouble; the power of peace in a time of anxiety, and the strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Yours in Christ,
The Rev. Dr. John R. Throop
President, Executive Council
Anglican Fellowship of Prayer
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One of the founders of the Anglican Fellowship of Prayer, Helen Shoemaker, said “Prayer is the mightiest force in God’s universe. When we pray, we align ourselves with Jesus’ eternal prayer for us. When we pray, we throw our love with His like a lariat around the world. Our prayers go where we cannot and speak whole
spiritual continents into being. “