A Word of Prayer - Prayer for our Children

In the wake of yet another mass shooting on a school campus, this time at Umpqua Community College in Roseburg, Oregon, I offer this prayer - hymn lyrics written by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette in response to the Columbine massacre in 1999.

A Prayer for Our Children

God, we have heard it, sounding in the silence:

News of the children lost to this world's violence.

Children of promise!

Then, without a warning, loved ones are mourning.

Jesus, you came to bear our human sorrow;

You came to give us hope for each tomorrow.

You are our life, Lord, God's own love revealing.

We need your healing.

Heal us from giving weapons any glory;

Help us O Prince of Peace, to hear your story;

Help us resist the evil all around here;

May love abound here!

By your own Spirit, give your church a clear voice;

In this world's violence, help us make a new choice.

Help us to witness to the joy your peace brings, 

Until your world sings!

How long, O Lord? How long? Lord, have mercy. Christ, have mercy. Lord, have mercy. Amen.