Greetings,

Following an invitation from the National Council of Churches in Australia, churches in Australia are marking Sunday 22 August as a National Day of Prayer.  Rev Sharon Hollis, UCA President, is encouraging all members to join in this day as we pray for all who are experiencing the ongoing impacts of the pandemic.  Sharon’s invitation encourages members to “join together in prayerful ways as we acknowledge the loss, anxiety, fear and uncertainty facing many people in Australia and across the world.”

You might like to join me in praying this prayer that Sharon has written:-

    God of mercy and compassion,   
We pray for the world as across the globe we face the challenges of COVID.

    We give you thanks for those who care for the sick,   
     for those who work on limiting the spread of the disease   
    and those who develop and administer vaccines.

    We remember before you all those affected by COVID.

    Comfort those who mourn the death of a loved one.

Heal those who have COVID-19 or suffer the long-term effects of having had  COVID.

    Sustain those who work in health care, testing and vaccination.

    Encourage those who are supporting education remotely,  
     console those who must stay at home,   
   and bless and protect those whose work is essential for our well-being.

We long for a world where access to health care and vaccines are shared  equitably. 

   Strengthen the efforts of those who work to end COVID for all,  
   and fill us with a desire to work for justice and care for all.

    Amen.

May we all stay safe and stay connected. 

Blessings – Heather.