International Sisters Pray for Peace

By Phyllis Hallman

As coordinator of the International Sisters at the Mix in '06, it was my privilege to become part of a wonderful community of women who journeyed to Indianapolis from 26 countries. As we sang, prayed, laughed, walked, ate and worshipped together, we realized our commonality through our faith and our partnerships through Global Ministries. Our dreams were big, even though we ranged from age 25 - 77, spoke many different languages, and were diverse in economics, education, and looks!

As we parted with smiles and hugs, carrying our tote bags from Bolivia full of resources and new ideas for ministry, and dreams for the work to be done with new ideas and enthusiasm in small villages, large cities, hospitals, schools, churches, women's groups, etc., no one was aware of the tragedies that would be faced upon return.

One of our sisters, Mary Mikhael, President of the Near East School of Theology in Beirut Lebanon learned enroute that her country was at war. Returning to Lebanon later and through great difficulty, Mary wrote of her shock and dismay, sharing some of the conditions she faced as she returned. Mary wrote, "Friends, please keep praying for us. May God forgive us. Our beautiful country which was just being rebuilt is now left in ruins as if an earthquake hit. However, we have to continue hoping and working for peace, our only hope and our greatest challenge."

The message was forwarded to other International Sisters and some of their responses were:

"We have started special prayers for them in Lebanon, and we know God is the God of those people in Lebanon."
Malebogo from Botswana

"The situation is catastrophic. I hope our cries will penetrate the numbness of the world powers"
Jean from Palestine

"We have been discussing with women's groups and other church people the condition of the people of Lebanon. Be assured of our prayers. I hope their suffering and pain will have end soon."
Ann from Philippines

"When the participant from Lebanon shared the email message about the conflicts taking place right then, we all joined the prayer"
Yuriko from Japan.

Won't you join these and other sisters around the World who pray for each other , for Mary Mikhael and for all and who struggle with war and conflicts?

Prayer:

Loving God, we know you indeed are the God of all people and each person is precious in your sight. May the prayers of all your children be heard. May we be reminded daily of our own blessings and of the struggles of your children around the world. We pray for those who serve you in so many ways and so many areas of the world through our Common Global Ministries and our Global Partnerships. Please grant safety to all who serve. We ask that you heal our broken world so that we may live together in faith, safety, and peace. Hear our prayer. Amen