Prayer for Iraqis and Americans

Dear God.

You are our creator and sustainer, our rock and our redeemer, the source of truth, of life and of love, our help in times of trouble.

We bring before you today the suffering of our blood-soaked world. In particular, we pray for the people whose lives are tormented by the war in Iraq.

We want to pray for the Iraqi people - the children, the young people, the women and men and elderly. They have known too much violence and too much suffering for too long.

We pray that you comfort those who sorrow,
that you give courage to those who live in fear,
that you bring healing to those injured or traumatized,
that you offer hope to those who have been detained,
that you show another way to those who would advocate violence,
that you strengthen those who would seek peace.

We bring before you today also our neighbours, the people of the United States. These are troubling times for them also.

We pray for the American administration -
that it may truly desire the welfare of the people of Iraq,
that it may seek security through justice, understanding and cooperation,
that it may become a beacon of goodwill to the world.

We pray for American soldiers in Iraq -
calm their fears and anxieties,
fill their hearts with compassion,
move them to see the Iraqi people as their friends.

We pray for American families who have lost loved ones in Iraq -
hold them with your comforting embrace,
bring them healing and hope.

We pray for American Mennonite sisters and brothers -
guide them as they seek to follow you
may they may live your way and demonstrate your love
may they proclaim your peace to the world.
Give courage where there is fear and strength where there is weakness
May your spirit be an abiding companion.