Prayers: The Saints, Martyrs and Missionaries of Africa
20 February
Missional God,
we give you thanks for the many witnesses you raised up in the continent of Africa,
throughout the ages, who have enriched the Christian faith by their lives and sacrifice.
We remember their courage in the earliest times of persecution under Diocletian,
their acceptance of the Christian faith despite the disapproval of their communities,
and their missional journeys into Europe, which enriched the developing Christian world.
We pray for all who are oppressed today because of their faith,
and we give thanks for the contribution of theologians from the margins,
who give us a fuller picture of your glory in the world,
through Jesus Christ the Redeemer of the whole world. Amen.
Collect 165
God of all nations,
you have called from among the people of Africa
saints, martyrs and missionaries
who have been faithful in witness to the truth:
grant that by service and sacrifice
we may be ready to live and die
constant in love for all your children:
for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord,
to whom with you and the Holy Spirit
be all honour and glory,
now and for ever.