The Rev Mark Charleston from St Andrew’s Cathedral has made available the following prayers for use over this ANZAC weekend:
PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING AND FOR PEACE IN OUR WORLD
Our Lord Jesus Christ said: "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lays down his life for his friends."
Almighty God and Heavenly Father,
Whose kingdom rules over all and in whom there is perfect freedom. We give you thanks on this Day for all who have served in the defence of this country.
As we remember those men and women who served - in the ranks of our Navy, Army, Air Force, Merchant Navy and Police, we give thanks to you, gracious God, for their great sacrifices in conflict and in captivity - for the cause of peace and freedom. In our nation of wealth, prosperity and comfort, let us not forget the cost of these privileges which we now enjoy.
And, gracious Father, we pray for peace. Have mercy on our broken and divided world and banish the spirit that makes for war. We ask that leaders of nations and governments will pursue freedom, justice and the welfare of all peoples.
And finally, we pray for ourselves. In the midst of worldly turmoil and strife, make us yearn for peace - not only with each other - but peace with you through our crucified and risen Saviour. Trusting in Him for the forgiveness of our sins, help us to look forward to His kingly return.
Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
PRAYER FOR DEPLOYED MILITARY PERSONNEL
The Psalmist says: "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."
Gracious Lord,
You have reconciled to yourself all those who trust in your Son for the forgiveness of their sins. We pray this day for our deployed military personnel serving around this world.
Watch over our men and women, especially in places like Afghanistan where conflict and strife seem at their worst. Give them courage in adversity, safety in service and protection from harm.
We pray for those who may be sick and injured. Strengthen all who will care for them. Provide ample resources and energy to doctors, nurses and chaplains coping with prolonged work hours and deeply distressing circumstances.
We pray again for the families and loved ones of those deployed. Protect them during their periods of separation and reunite them in joy.
And, heavenly Father, we especially pray this morning for those who are now grieving the loss of loved ones killed on active service. Help them to cast their anxieties upon you, the God of all comfort. Enable others to minister to their needs with sensitivity and respect. And may they know the prayers and support of their fellow Australians.
We ask all these things through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
