Parishes of the Eastern Diocese offered a special prayer for victims of the California wildfires. Read it here.
The prayer ceremony included a collection to support relief efforts undertaken by the California-based Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of America. Diocesan Primate Bishop Mesrop Parsamyan directed parishes to offer the prayer during services on Sunday, January 19.
* * *
A Prayer for Mercy, Protection, and Restoration
In the Face of the California Wildfires
O Lord our God—sovereign and almighty; refuge of the afflicted, and hope of the despairing:
In this hour of calamity we turn to you with contrite hearts and fervent supplication. Be the steadfast protector and unshakable fortress for all those imperiled by the raging fires consuming the lands of California.
Look with compassion, O Master, upon those whose lives have been uprooted, whose homes have been reduced to ashes, and whose livelihoods have been swept away in the flames. Shelter the displaced with your peace, which surpasses all understanding, and grant them solace amidst the chaos.
Lord of infinite mercy, we beseech you to comfort the grieving families and loved ones of those who have perished in this disaster. Receive the souls of the departed into the light of your heavenly kingdom, and pour out the divine oil of consolation upon all who mourn, that they may find strength, courage, and hope in your boundless love.
O Christ, the Good Shepherd who lays down his life for his flock, we give thanks for the valor and sacrifice of the firefighters, first responders, and all those who labor tirelessly in the face of peril to safeguard lives and restore order. Fortify them with your wisdom, sustain them with your strength, and shield them under the shadow of your wings.
Lord who crowns the earth with beauty and abundance, have mercy upon the lands ravaged by these flames. Heal the wounds inflicted upon your creation, that forests may regrow, habitats may flourish, and communities may be rebuilt in resilience and hope.
In your infinite love, guide us as your servants to be instruments of your grace and compassion. Open our hands to give, our feet to serve, and our hearts to pray, that we may bear witness to your love through acts of mercy and care for those in need.
We lift up in our prayer especially the Western Diocese of the Armenian Church of America; its Primate His Eminence Archbishop Hovnan Derderian; all its clergy, and the Armenian faithful. May your blessings and protection be upon them during this time of trial.
O God who holds all times and seasons in your hand, grant us the faith to trust in your Providence even amid tribulations. Teach us to face the trials of life without fear, rooted always in the assurance of your love and the promise of your eternal kingdom.
For to you, O Lord, we offer glory, honor, and worship, now and forever, and unto the ages of age. Amen.