Prayer on the 18-month anniversary of war in Ukraine

O Lord, how long can the people of Ukraine and of Russia take this violence.

More than 100,000 people killed, more than 400,000 people injured.

Houses and homes destroyed, lives shattered, fields and crops ruined and mined.

We weep with those who have lost loved ones. Give compassion to those who grieve.

We cry out with those who sit by the injured and those broken in spirit. Bring healing to bodies and souls.

We plead with you on behalf of those who have been displaced by this war. For refugees and the homeless, for those separated from family and community.

How long, O Lord, will this go on.

God of everlasting compassion, we have become immune, the news no longer shocks us.

But you know, you see, you care.

Break the tanks and the missiles, the drones and the guns –

break the trust in military power and technology –

break the pride of human beings.

Bring all to their knees in acknowledgement that the only answer is to be found in the reign of your Son, Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace. In whose name we pray. Amen.