Gracious and merciful God,
You are our refuge and strength, a very present help in times of trouble.
We come before you with hearts that are heavy yet hopeful, lifting up the people of Venezuela and the very complicated realities they face in these challenging times.
Bring calm where there is fear, clarity where there is confusion, and restraint where there is anger or despair.
Guide leaders, institutions and communities toward decisions that honor life, dignity and the common good.
We pray especially for our Lutheran church in Venezuela, for pastors, deacons, lay leaders and all who serve faithfully amid uncertainty.
Sustain them with courage, wisdom and perseverance.
Let your church be a living sign of your grace and a place of refuge, truth, accompaniment and hope for all who suffer.
God of justice, where systems oppress and voices are silenced, raise up pathways of accountability, reconciliation and peace.
Protect the most vulnerable, the poor, the displaced, the elderly and the children, and strengthen all who labor for justice, healing and reconciliation.
God of hope, when the future feels fragile and unclear, remind your people that you are not absent.
By your Holy Spirit, kindle hope that does not disappoint and peace that surpasses all understanding. We entrust Venezuela, its people and your church into your loving hands, trusting not in our own strength but in your steadfast love made known in Jesus Christ, who is our peace.
In his holy name we pray.
Amen.
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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 2.7 million members in more than 8,400 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
