From the Interim Rector - April 18
Dear Parish Family,
I can well imagine that you are as horrified as I am every morning as I open the New York Times or every evening when I turn on the news. The war in Ukraine is beyond anything I could have imagined happening in Europe in my lifetime or for generations to come. The atrocities mount with each new day and our hearts grieve with the senseless loss of life and the wanton destruction of people's homes and lives.
Earlier last week I was asked to join in the planning of a Vigil for Ukraine. I immediately said yes. I am proud to represent the Church of the Epiphany and I very much hope you can join me and the many community leaders who have signed on to be a part of this event. As a part of the Vigil information will also be provided identifying ways in which we can offer financial support to the people of Ukraine and be assured it will end up reaching the places and people most in need.
If you are able to attend, please consider bringing a bouquet of sunflowers. You'll find them at nearly every bodega that sells flowers. The sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine and Ukraine is the largest exporter of sunflower seeds and oil in the world, accounting for nearly 50% of the world's supply. That is, before this unconscionable violation of their sovereignty and democracy. At rallies and vigils across the US, the sunflower has become the emblem of Ukraine's truly heroic stand against an army and a country whose weapons of war could, if fully unleashed, destroy the entire planet many times over.
In this most Holy Week, and until peace is restored, may this prayer be ours.
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
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