HELP UKRAINIAN REFUGEES

A Prayer for Ukraine

God of peace and justice,
We pray for the people of Ukraine today.
We pray for peace and the laying down of weapons.
We pray for all those who fear for tomorrow,
That your Spirit of comfort would draw near to them.
We pray for those with power over war or peace,
For wisdom, discernment and compassion
To guide their decisions.
Above all, we pray for all your precious children, at risk and in fear,
That you would hold and protect them.
We pray in the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace.
Amen.

Archbishop Justin Welby
Archbishop Stephen Cottrell

Over four million refugees have fled recently fled Ukraine. Episcopal Relief & Development (ERD) is partnering with Anglican agencies and other ecumenical partners to provide humanitarian aid in response to this crisis. Please help us to supply needed items for displaced families and individuals who are fleeing the war to other parts of Europe. 

As we pray for an end to violence and for those fleeing Ukraine, we also pray for ERD and other ecumenical agencies working to respond to the current crisis. Specific needs will change as the crisis evolves. As of right now, there is a need for food, water and shelter. 

Please consider partnering with ERD in this response by donating to the International Disaster Response Fund. Your support will help meet critical needs for people fleeing the violence including food, cash, blankets and hygiene supplies. Help today | Read more about the response

Here is more from Father Peter Doddema: 

...I simply want to spotlight the work of Episcopal Relief and Development in the Ukraine. This is the Episcopal Church's version of the Red Cross. When there is a humanitarian need, ERD shows up early, works hard, and stays in an area long-term to see that Christ's mandate from Matthew 25:35 (I was hungry and you fed me; I was naked and you clothed me...) is met. 

If you are interested, you can research ERD on Charity Navigator (charity navigator.org), which evaluates and rates charities based on their transparency, financial organization, and the percentage of their funds that actually help people in need. ERD receives 4 stars, Charity Navigator's highest rating.

If you want to help the Ukrainian people, this is a safe, effective way to help them get food, medicine, and more. I am donating to ERD myself, and I encourage you to do so as well.

Blessings,

Peter +