As Hurricane Sandy prepares for imminent landfall in the Northeast, the storm has already wrought devastation and death along its path.
Together we call the church to pray for those affected by the superstorm, and for those who will be among the first to respond:
God of all time and place,
We thank you for your sustaining grace when our fears are large and our faith is small.
Storms have brought destruction to our sisters and brothers.
We grieve the loss of lives, homes and work.
Please send your Spirit to the broken and bruised places in their lives.
Show us how we can give practical care that rebuilds and renews.
Lead us to the place where hope reigns again.
May the gift of new life in your son Jesus Christ keep us in these days.
For information on how you can join other Presbyterians in responding to the hurricane or for worship resources for use in times of disaster, visit the website of Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.
Neal D. Presa, Moderator of the 220th General Assembly (2012)
Gradye Parsons, Stated Clerk of the General Assembly
Linda Bryant Valentine, Executive Director of the Presbyterian Mission Agency