Storms, and Fires rage about us, and cause us to be afraid

A post from Bishop Sam Rose (on Facebook) reminding us that many, many fires are now ignited in what promises to again be a busy and destructive fire season across Canada.

With the news of the fires jumping the Churchill River and full evacuation of Churchill Falls, I appeal for your prayers at this time:

A PRAYER FOR THOSE IN THE PATH OF FIRE

Almighty God, who is our strength and our refuge; be with those who are besieged by fire, guide those who evacuate so that they may find care and comfort in a safe place; protect their homes and their pets, their neighbours and their friends, so that they may return home to a loving community. We ask this in the name of Jesus your son, who abides with you and with the Holy Spirit. Amen.

A PRAYER FOR FIRST RESPONDERS

O God, whose love encircles us; sustain those who respond when wildfires roar, keep them safe from harm and hold them in your sheltering embrace so that they may complete these burdensome tasks, return home to their families, and keep the lives and homes of all they protect safe from harm, in the loving name of Jesus, who gave his life for all. Amen.

A PRAYER FOR THOSE WHO MINISTER IN TIME OF WILDFIRE

Loving and merciful God, wherever we go, you are there with us; strengthen those who serve in the time of wildfire; buoy their spirit as they encounter despair; strengthen them as they comfort the displaced; and guide them as they guide others to safety and security. We ask this in the name of Jesus who is our strength and our safe place. Amen.
– from Episcopal Relief & Development of The Episcopal Church

Sam Rose is the sixth Bishop of the Diocese of Eastern Newfoundland and Labrador