Day of prayer for Ukraine
This Sunday (April 3), churches and Christians from across the UK and Ireland are being invited to come together in an act of witness to pray and light candles for Ukraine, for an end to the conflict, and for all those affected by the terrible impact of war.
The event is being co-ordinated by the charity, Christian Aid.
Mari McNeill, head of Christian Aid Wales says, "We have all watched the unfolding conflict in Ukraine and seen the heart-breaking stories of people fleeing violence, not knowing when they’ll see their loved ones again. More than two million people have fled Ukraine. Many more have been forced from their homes to seek shelter. Lives have been lost and families torn apart. Homes have been destroyed and many roads are blocked. No one is safe.
"Churches in Ukraine, in neighbouring countries and here in Wales alongside many others in the community have responded with generosity and hospitality to support and welcome refugees.
"We all share a feeling of horror and powerlessness but every prayer, every action brings hope to the people of Ukraine. We are sharing a prayer that we would invite you to use on 3rd April during your worship for that Sunday and if possible, perhaps in a more public event with other churches and your wider community.
"There will be an event at near the Ukrainian and Russian embassies in London in the afternoon. There will also be one or two events in Wales, with details to follow this week.
"Together as Christians in these islands and with our sisters and brothers in the churches of Ukraine, we pray for an end to the conflict and for peace in our world."
The Archbishop of Wales, Andrew John, is urging churches to take part. He says, "The outpouring of love from the people of Wales to the people of Ukraine at this time has been astonishing. It is also so good to see an united approach across the Christian churches in Wales for the prayer initiative on Sunday. I would urge all who pray to join us on Sunday in what will be a very special act of witness."
The Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby, said, “When we pray, we invite the presence of God into the messiness and darkness of our world. When we pray together, we witness to the possibility of unity and the promise of reconciliation that God promises us in Jesus Christ.
“I urge all Christians to come together on the 3rd of April to pray and light candles for the people and the peace of Ukraine: to pray for hope for those fearful of the future, to pray for God’s comfort for those suffering, and to pray for the Holy Spirit to turn hearts towards the compassion and justice that the resurrected Christ promises us will eventually prevail.”