Praying for the victims of Hurricane Sandy

WORLD – The aftermath of Hurricane Sandy, the largest Atlantic hurricane on record, is slowly beginning to be revealed. The storm first cut across the Caribbean before making landfall in the Eastern United States. 146 people are dead, with more missing, and damages are estimated in the billions.

In the United States, President Matthew Harrison of The Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod (LCMS) issued a letter thanking God that “no deaths among LCMS members have been reported,” but also noting they “anticipate rapidly growing demand for assistance with transitional housing, essential transportation, replacement food and medication, and more.”

“Now is the moment for the saints who know so clearly that all they for time and eternity is a gift,” he continued, “to sacrifice for those who are in need. Right now, LCMS Lutherans are rescuing, caring for, and binding up the wounds of their friends, families, and non-Lutheran neighbors. It’s time to help them in the name and for the sake of Christ.”

Lutheran Church–Canada is calling on its members to remember those affected by Hurricane Sandy in prayer. It has released a prayer which congregations may wish to use this Sunday:

“Gracious God, Lord, heavenly Father, Your mercies endure forever and Your Word can still the storms. You bring peace to our lives. We humbly implore You to be present with all who have been affected by Hurricane Sandy. Reveal Your compassion; alleviate their pain and suffering. Give hope to the discouraged, and comfort to those who have lost loved ones. Help the people to rebuild their lives and homes. We implore You to assist relief workers, Your Christian Church near and far to reach out with the love of Jesus Christ to support those who suffer. In the midst of this calamity, may people be touched by Your love and learn to trust in You above all. Hear us for the sake of Your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.”

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