CHICAGO (ELCA) -- The Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA)
has made available prayer and worship resources in response to the April
15 explosions during the Boston Marathon. The resources are at
http://www.ELCA.org/Growing-In-Faith/Worship.aspx.
The Rev. Mark S. Hanson, ELCA presiding bishop, offered the
following prayer:
“Oh God, in Jesus name we renounce the forces of evil and the
disruptive power of violence. With all those who suffer, we cry out for
mercy and healing, by your spirit join us together into one community of
compassion and courage. Do not let fear hold us captive. Give us faith to
trust your promise that nothing in all creation will separate us from
your love in Christ Jesus. For all who care for the wounded, we give
thanks and pray that you will give them strength. For all who mourn, give
the comfort of your peace. In the name of the risen Christ we pray, amen.”
The ELCA New England Synod, based in Worcester, Mass., is a member
of the Massachusetts Council of Churches, which offered a statement in
response to the bombing in Boston. The statement is available at
http://masscouncilofchurches.wordpress.com/.
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About the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America:
The ELCA is one of the largest Christian denominations in the United States, with 2.8 million members in more than 8,500 worshiping communities across the 50 states and in the Caribbean region. Known as the church of "God's work. Our hands.," the ELCA emphasizes the saving grace of God through faith in Jesus Christ, unity among Christians and service in the world. The ELCA's roots are in the writings of the German church reformer Martin Luther.
For information contact:
Candice Hill Buchbinder
Public Relations Manager
Candice.HillBuchbinder@ELCA.org
