O Merciful God, you call the nations to yourself. You give rest to the ones who seek refuge from war and persecution, famine and other abuses to humanity. Remember those who fled these earthly terrors and did not find home, did not find shelter, did not find rest or acceptance. May your grace comfort them in the trials of their suffering, and in your mercy, guide them to safety.
You say blessed are the poor, the mournful, the meek, the hungry, the merciful, the pure, the peacemakers, the persecuted – are not our immigrant brothers and sisters then blessed? Indeed, they are blessed, so that your name might be glorified from the East to the West.
Please, dearest Teacher, inspire in the hearts of all people the sanctity of human life – including that of the refugee. May the hearts of residents in the Spokane area be open to receiving the stranger. May we keep in mind that you also fled to Egypt during the slaughtering of the innocents. You too were a stranger in a new land.
Remind us of the dignity of refugees and other immigrants. Open our eyes so that we cannot fail to see the suffering of our brothers and sisters. Call us out of comfort and into sensitivity that we may respond to their plight. May we share the blessings of our great nation with those who have suffered so much. For, indeed, you offer the refugee freedom, opportunity, peace and nourishment.
Give our refugee neighbors the strength to overcome the obstacles necessary to resettlement. Provide for them shelter, employment, transportation and healthcare. Grant that they may rest peacefully each night – far from the terrors of yesterday. May each immigrant find healing in their minds and souls so that they will become thriving members of our communities.
May we rejoice! For the nations have been called to you! No kingdom is like yours. No power or glory on earth can overcome your Holy Name. Together we look forward to the day when all nations shall gather under the banner of your kingship, singing: “Blessed is the One in Heaven who reigns forever and ever!”
Amen.
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Matthew 5:1-12
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness,
for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.
Blessed are those who suffer persecution for righteousness’ sake,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
If God is calling you towards Refugee Resettlement, then consider getting involved through volunteering or donating. Make an impact with us.