A prayer for Haiti

Dear Friends,

I share with you the sense of loss and sadness at the devastation in Haiti. As the pictures and stories from that region continue to come in, the need for all people of faith to come together to offer aid, assistance, and prayers becomes increasingly clear. Many of us in the St. Paul’s community feel a particularly personal connection to the people of Haiti though our missionary work led by Dr. Bart Smoot.

Sunday, January 13 at 5pm, there will be a special Evensong with Bishop Mathes preaching, dedicated to all those affected by the earthquake in Haiti and how we can respond. Our local representatives from Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) will be on hand.

You can support Haiti financially through our partnership with ERD. There is no organization in Haiti better situated than ERD to provide direct aid on the ground. (Simply write “Haiti Response” in the memo line of your check, or go to the ERD website here for more information and to send your support online).

Finally, it is important to remember that even in the midst of devastation, God is very much present. Please join me in prayer for those affected by the Earthquake in Haiti…

God of the present moment,
God who in Jesus stills the storm
and soothes the frantic heart;
bring hope and courage to all those affected by the earthquake in Haiti
as they wait in uncertainty.
Bring hope that you will make them the equal
of whatever lies ahead.
Bring them courage to endure what cannot be avoided,
for your will is health and wholeness;
you are God and we need you,
and thank-you for your enduring faithfulness.

God’s peace,

(The Very Reverend) Scott E. Richardson, Dean