We are inviting churches across Britain and Ireland to join together in an act of witness to pray and light candles for Ukraine, for an end to the conflict and for all those affected by the terrible impact of war.
We have all watched the unfolding conflict in Ukraine and seen the heart-breaking stories of people fleeing violence, not knowing when they’ll see their loved ones again. Over two million people have fled Ukraine. Many more have been forced from their homes to seek shelter. Lives have been lost and families torn apart. Homes have been destroyed and many roads are blocked. No one is safe.
Churches in Ukraine, in neighbouring countries and here in Britain and Ireland alongside many others in the community have responded with generosity and hospitality to support and welcome refugees.
We all share a feeling of horror and powerlessness but every prayer, every action brings hope to the people of Ukraine. We are sharing a prayer that we would invite you to share on 3rd April during your worship for that Sunday and, if possible, perhaps in a more public event with other churches and your wider community. There will be a national event at [time to be agreed] near the Ukrainian and Russian embassies in London.(tbc)
Together as Christians in these islands and with our sisters and brothers in the churches of Ukraine, we pray for an end to the conflict and for peace in our world.
What?
On 3rd April 2022, churches and Christians from across the UK and Ireland will come together in an act of witness to pray and light candles for Ukraine, for an end to the conflict, and for all those affected by the terrible impact of war.
Audience: Church leaders, active Christians who attend church or people who identify as Christian but do not attend a place of worship at least once per month.
Toplines: It is a dark and worrying time for the people of Ukraine and for everyone who believes in peace.
We have seen the heart-breaking stories of people fleeing violence, not knowing when they’ll see their loved ones again.
It shouldn't be like this. War and poverty should have no place in our world.
Like the people of Ukraine looking out for their neighbours or the charity workers delivering emergency food to people seeking refuge, we must bring hope.
That is why Christians from across the UK and Ireland - recognising the God-given human dignity and rights of every human being - are uniting in an act of witness to pray for Ukraine and an end to the conflict.
With one voice, we are uniting behind a simple message: immediately agree a ceasefire and unequivocally commit to protect civilians and key services.
Every prayer, every gift, every action brings hope to the people of Ukraine. By joining us, you can give hope to our brothers and sisters in Ukraine.
Context: The humanitarian challenges in Ukraine are huge. People are desperately fleeing to neighbouring countries, facing long waits at borders and freezing temperatures.
Over two million people have fled Ukraine. Many more have been forced from their homes to seek shelter. Lives have been lost and families torn apart. Homes have been destroyed and many roads are blocked. No one is safe.
Schools, health facilities, water and food supplies have been destroyed or damaged. People are in urgent need of shelter, food and water.
It is predicted that 7.5 million people will be displaced. Ukraine is on course to become the biggest movement of people in Europe since World War II.
Prayer:
God of all peoples and nations,
Who created all things alive and breathing,
United and whole,
Show us the way of peace that is your overwhelming presence.
We hold before you the peoples of Ukraine and Russia,
Every child and every adult.
We long for the time
When weapons of war are beaten into ploughshares
When nations no longer lift up sword against nation.
We cry out to you for peace;
Protect those who only desire and deserve to live in security and safety
Comfort those who fear for their lives and the lives of their loved ones
Be with those who are bereaved.
Change the hearts of those set on violence and aggression
And fill leaders with the wisdom that leads to peace.
Kindle again in us a love of our neighbour,
And a passion for justice to prevail
and a renewed recognition that we all play a part in peace.
Creator of all hear our prayer
And bring us peace. make us whole.
Amen.