A prayer following the Hunter Valley Bus Accident, from Dean Sandy Grant at St Andrew’s Cathedral. (Facebook link)

In the Psalms we read:

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

Dear God, our refuge and strength. In the aftermath of this tragic bus accident, we commend to your merciful care the loved ones of those whose lives were lost, along with all those who are injured and traumatised. Comfort them at this difficult hour. Where there are few words except sorrow, may they know the prayers and support of others across our nation.

We pray that you would uphold the bride and groom whose wedding day has been so marred, along with the various communities affected in the Hunter and beyond. Grant them strength each day in the face of their devastating grief. Finding consolation in the love of others and knowing that their pain is shared by fellow Australians, may they look to you, as the God of all comfort.

We thank you for the efforts of emergency service personnel, for their commitment and dedication in the face of carnage. We pray that in your goodness, you would protect them from the worst impacts of trauma. Give all who serve in ambulance service, fire and rescue, SES, and the police force, courage in adversity, safety in service, and protection from all harm.

In sorrow, we look with hope for the day when the Lord returns, and to his promise that there will be no death or mourning or crying or pain, when he wipes tears from our eyes. And so we pray in Jesus’ precious name. Amen.