The Rt. Rev. Pierre Whalon writes to the Convocation of Episcopal Churches in Europe about an apparent terrorist attack in Nice, France:
This morning will be very hard. [The Rev. Peter Jackson and his parishioners at Holy Trinity Church, Nice] need our prayers as they minister the love of God to their stricken city. And let us pray for the dead and dying, the wounded and all who care for them, the police who had to kill the terrorist and face the horror he had created, and him too. And finally, pray and work for justice, that we might have peace. …
A Collect for Peace
O God, the author of peace and lover of concord, to know you is eternal life and to serve you is perfect freedom: Defend us, your humble servants, in all assaults of our enemies; that we, surely trusting in your defense, may not fear the power of any adversaries; through the might of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
By your Cross, Lord Jesus, you became our only true and lasting hope. We ask that you give rest to those who died in Nice, and that you heal the wounded and bless those who care for them. You comforted Martha and Mary; comfort all who mourn. Give us who remain stout hearts to face the days ahead. And roll down your justice upon us all, that we might have peace. We ask this because in your love you died for us, and rose again, that we might have life with you forever. Amen.
Read the rest at Episcopal News Service.
