God of justice, God of love,
In whose image all are made,
We bring before you all who have been forced to leave their homes,
and have lost livelihoods,
as a result of war, drought, famine, persecution and poverty.
We consider the often-perilous journeys they make, whether alone or with loved ones,
as they seek sanctuary and a new place to call home, whether temporary or permanent.
We think of loved ones who are left behind or separated by the journey, and pray that they receive your divine protection.
We pray that those on the move receive hospitable welcomes at their places of destination,
we ask that they may be able to settle and regain some semblance of normality in their new homes.
We also pray that they do not experience hostility and intimidation from those who feel threatened by their presence.
We think of your Church and ask that congregations up and down these shores continue to show the love of Christ to those who are so much in need of it.
As Christians, may we never regard mercy and compassion towards others as weakness, naivety or gullibility, but display the traits which demonstrate that we follow a Saviour who came to rescue those left behind.
So, Lord, we pray that you give us the courage to always do the right thing.
This we ask in Jesus’ name.
Amen.
The Churches Commission for Migrants in Europe (CCME) is recruiting a General Secretary.
Challenging Hostility with Hospitality: Sanctuary Sunday is marked at the end of Refugee Week and aims to promote the Church of Sanctuary programme.
Revd Dr Inderjit Bhogal discusses the many current pressing issues affecting the Church relating to those seeking refuge and asylum.
Union Chapel, the historic Congregational Church in Highbury, north London, has become the latest Church of Sanctuary.