Leader:
We begin with a moment of silence for those who have been affected and will continue to be affected by this disaster.

[Pause]

ALL:
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord. Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to the voice of my supplications. (Ps. 130: 1-2)

Leader:
O Lord, you have surely heard the cry of those directly affected by this disaster. We also present to you our prayers for those wanting to assist in the relief.

Leader:
For those who rushed in as first responders to search for survivors

ALL:
Lord, give them the strength to continue in adverse conditions

Leader:
For those who will provide clinical care and support to the wounded

ALL:
Lord, give them the skills and fortitude to work long hours with limited resources

Leader:
For those who will bury the dead and comfort their loved ones

ALL:
Lord, give them compassion and a heart for mercy

Leader:
For those who will organize acts to aide in relief

ALL:
Lord, give them prudence and patience to understand needs

Leader:
For those invited to journey to provide relief services and medical care

ALL:
Lord, give them ease and safety in their travels

Leader:
For those who will report on this disaster

ALL:
Lord, give them the gifts of compassion and charity in their coverage

Leader:
Do not fear, O Zion; do not let your hands grow weak. The Lord, your God, is in your midst. … he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love. (Zephaniah 3: 17a,c)

ALL:
Good and Gracious God, we bring these prayers to You knowing that You hear them and those unspoken in our hearts. We ask You to bring hope to those who are despairing. We will remain steadfast in our commitment to those who suffer just as You remain steadfast in Your love for all of creation. We place our trust in You. Amen.

Resources:
http://www.crs.org/ways-to-give-emergency
https://www.oxfam.org/en/emergencies