Leaders of New Zealand’s mainline Christian denominations have agreed to call a National Day of Prayer on April 30.
Churches throughout the country will be opened then, so that churchgoers and the community at large can pray for people reeling from the effects of the disasters that have struck Haiti, Japan, Greymouth and Christchurch.
Anglican Archbishop David Moxon says that observing a National Day of Prayer “will allow us to acknowledge the uncertainty of life for so many people.
“We want to offer the opportunity for people to use our sacred places where people may pray and be encouraged to intercede for those who have lost so much. We recognize that the deep loss and pain will continue into the future as families and communities grieve for loved ones and the loss of familiar communities.
Moxon said that April 30 has been chosen “as it immediately follows Easter when we celebrate the God of ultimate love and empathy who shares the pain of the cross. We are strengthened by the God who offers ultimate hope through the gift of resurrection and new beginnings arising out of despair.”
Moxon said that participating churches are invited to share a brief liturgy at midday on April 30. The liturgy may include: a brief theological statement concerning our hope in the crucified and risen Christ; an appropriate Scripture, such as Psalm 23, Romans 8: 38 – 39, Matthew 11: 28 – 30; The Lord’s Prayer; or the song, Morning Light.
“We commend this opportunity to gather nationally and offer our churches to provide the sanctuary many seek at this time,” said Moxon. “We also believe that this opportunity will continue to encourage us to give to Christchurch and other relief agency work in the Pacific Rim in whatever way we can.”