As the global community sits in worry and sadness over the more than 200 school girls recently abducted in Nigeria, we in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) call for deep and earnest prayer for their safe return.

From our positions as Stated Clerk of the General Assembly, Executive Director of the Presbyterian Mission Agency; and Moderator of the 220th General Assembly (2012), we urge Presbyterians and the world to pray without ceasing that the girls are located and returned unharmed to their families.

We know there is power when people come together in prayer, so we encourage you to take time out to ask for God’s hand of protection and care over the girls, and for a cessation of the violence being waged in Nigerian communities.

Additionally, we urge you to actively engage through other efforts. A posting on the PC(USA) World Mission Nigeria page outlines the current situation and shares several ways to get involved. The page also includes a prayer written by the PC(USA) office of Theology, Worship and Education.

In times like these it is imperative that we put our hope and trust in a triune God. And, it is critical that we continue to lift our eyes unto the hills, knowing without a doubt that our help comes from the Lord.

Gradye Parsons
Stated Clerk of the General Assembly

Linda Bryant Valentine
Executive Director of the Presbyterian Mission Agency

Neal Presa
Moderator of the 220th General Assembly (2012)