A
Prayer for the Victims of Hurricane Katrina
O
God, we remember when the disciples of Jesus were terrified
after a long night on a turbulent sea. When they cried to you
for help, you stilled the sea and brought them to safety. We
ask now that you comfort and still the hearts of those suffering
from the effects of Hurricane Katrina. We pray for those who
have been displaced and who now must return to homes destroyed
or damaged by the storm. We pray for those whose lives were
lost and for those who now must grieve the loss of a loved
one. We pray for those who are attempting
to
offer help and relief to victims. While we wonder why such
devastation can occur, where lives and property can seem held
so capriciously in the hand of what is uncontrollable, we know,
O God, that you count every hair on our head and that our names
are written on the palm of your hand. Let your loving grace
wash over those who must now face damaged lives, homes,
and possessions. Hold them close to yourself until they are
sure
of the security
of your loving embrace. Calm their hearts and still their souls,
O Lord. We ask this for the sake of your love. AMEN.
Renée
Miller
Ten Ways to Help
1. Pray for victims and their families, that they will find their
fears calmed, that they will be given hope in their loss, and
that they will be given the strength to begin anew.
2. Listen to the local news to find out about relief efforts
in your area and how you might participate.
3. Set
aside some portion of your income to help those in need.
In addition to the Red Cross, many religious
organizations are
arranging relief efforts and accepting donations.
4. Offer
hospitality to displaced persons and families.
5. Offer
to care for the pets of those who have been displaced.
6. Write
a letter of hope and encouragement to victims and send
it to your local politicians, and to your local newspaper editor.
7. Smile
at every person you meet. They may not be a victim,
but they may have family or friends who are victims.
8. Go
to the Red Cross and offer your services as a volunteer.
9. Set
up a prayer vigil at your church, synagogue, or mosque
for victims and/or their families and friends.
10.
Pray for those who have died, and for their
families and friends who grieve.
(Return
to Top)
