Press Releases
United in prayer for Ukraine – #PrayforUkraine
An inter–church initiative for Sunday, 3rd April 2022
Churches Together in Britain and Ireland (CTBI) is joining with churches and faith–based organisations across Britain and Ireland to invite Christians 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. CTBI has been supporting these efforts in the context of our wider work to support all those seeking asylum through the Churches’ Refugee Network and the Church of Sanctuary movement.
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.
Please find below the text of the official #Pray for Ukraine prayer to share amongst your leaders, congregations and communities:
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.
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.
Shared on behalf of Churches Together in Britain and Ireland