Bushfires in Queensland and in other parts of Australia
News
“The immediate need is to meet the challenges presented by catastrophic fires in what could be a very long bushfire season, including through prayer and practical support,” says Archbishop Phillip Aspinall
Dear sisters and brothers,
We are living in a time of great trial and anguish for many people in Queensland, and other parts of Australia, due to destructive bushfires.
People have lost their lives and homes and others face anxious times during evacuation orders. Human livelihoods are at risk and there are inevitable stock losses, plus injury and death to wildlife with which we share the environment. Crucial infrastructure is also damaged, leading to disruption of water supply and other essential services.
The immediate need is to meet the challenges presented by catastrophic fires in what could be a very long bushfire season.
Please join with me in praying for our brothers and sisters affected by the bushfires and all those supporting them, especially our courageous emergency services personnel:
A prayer in bushfire season
We thank you, living God,
for the fire fighters and emergency service workers,
both volunteers and professionals,
who risk their own safety
to protect people and property.
Bless and protect them as they serve us in times of crisis.
Give them skill and care
as they work through fatigue, fear and danger.
To every community now shadowed by the smoke of bushfires,
give a strong spirit,
generous neighbours,
and the resources they need
to care for one another and for the land.
Refresh us in our faith
that nothing can separate us from your love
in Christ Jesus our Lord,
in whose name we pray. Amen.
(The Reverend Elizabeth Smith – Anglican Diocese of Perth)
Please also pray for the healing of our land
All things look to you, O Lord,
to give them their food in due season:
look in mercy on your people,
and hear our prayer for those whose lives and possessions
have been destroyed by fire.
In your mercy restore your creation and heal our land.
So guide and bless your people,
that we may enjoy the fruits of the earth
and give you thanks with grateful hearts,
through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
(A Prayer Book for Australia)
As we pray for our brothers and sisters affected by the bushfires, please consider contributing to the Archbishop’s Emergency Relief Appeal to help provide practical and pastoral assistance to those in need. More details can be found here.
Yours in Christ,
The Most Reverend Dr Phillip Aspinall
Archbishop of Brisbane
People affected by the bushfires who are seeking assistance are encouraged to speak with their local clergy who will then forward applications for emergency relief to the Archbishop’s Chaplain.
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