Hundreds of thousands of people have been forced to flee, however, there is some consolation, that this is a conflict taking place within Europe and in an area with relatively resourceful neighbouring countries. Even if millions of people were to be displaced, neighbouring countries – with the support of the rest of the EU and Europe – should be able to support the refugees in their immediate time of need.

Jesus and his family knew what it was like to flee a homeland. Jesus was born a vulnerable, needy child with nowhere to lay his head except in a stable. 

May those who can, be guided by the Good Samaritan’s example by reaching out in a special way to supposed outsiders, so as to welcome the one who is a stranger, the one who is a foreigner, and the one for whom your mercy, your imagination, your love must stretch the farthest.  

Loving God,
We pray for the people of Ukraine,
for all those suffering or afraid,
that you will be close to them and protect them.

We pray for world leaders,
for compassion, strength and wisdom to guide their choices.

We pray for the world
that in this moment of crisis,
we may reach out in solidarity
to our brothers and sisters in need.

May we walk in your ways
so that peace and justice
become a reality for the people of Ukraine
and for all the world.

Amen.