In response to the tragic Grenfell Tower fire disaster that occurred, here are a few of the prayers and statements made by our Churches:
The moderators of the United Reformed Church General Assembly, Kevin Watson and Alan Yates, offer a prayer following the Grenfell Tower fire disaster
We pray for all who have suffered because of the dreadful Grenfell Tower fire.
We pray that those who have died and been taken from us are remembered and treasured.
We pray for healing and support for those who have survived, and for everyone affected by this tragedy.
We pray for physical healing for all those injured, especially those in hospital, the elderly, and infirm.
We pray for emotional healing, recognising the shock, trauma and grief to be lived through.
We pray for the revival of human spirit, with faith, hope and love surrounding each in peace.
We pray for justice to help us accept mistakes made and warnings ignored, for lessons to be learned.
We pray that all who suffer are granted the opportunity to cry out in their pain and be listened to.
When all is lost, all is lost, no words can ease the pain. But we are carried through that pain by those who come around us, helping us back onto our feet, walking with us, listening to us, or just being there with us. We see the presence of God’s love through them.
And so we give thanks and pray for all those who have offered healing, support and comfort:
For the emergency, medical and social services, working sacrificially and with courage;For those in authority, responsible for taking a lead in facing the challenges this fire has revealed;
For local residents, churches and charities, for the community itself, expressing such tangible love.
Statement and Prayer from the London District Chairs in response to the fire at Grenfell Tower
It is with shock and dismay that we woke up to the news of the fire at Grenfell Tower in Notting Hill this morning. This has taken place in a densely populated, vibrant part of our city and the tower block has been the home of many families. Notting Hill Methodist Church is close to the fire and within the cordon established by police. Superintendent Minister of the Notting Hill Methodist Circuit, Mike Long, visited rescue centres this morning to see what help the Church might offer. The facts of the cause of the fire and the events that followed will take time to emerge and the effects on the local community will be long-term and far-reaching. As a District we will do all we can to support the local church as it works with the community in the weeks and months to come.
Gracious God
We pray for those caught up in the fire at Grenfell Tower,
for casualties, for the wounded, for the missing and the traumatised.
We pray for the emergency services and for those who are responsible for co-ordinating the response to this major incident.
In despair bring hope
In injury bring healing
In fear bring comfort.
In our helplessness be our strength.
In your mercy hear our prayers.
In Christ’s name.
Amen.
Michaela Youngson and Nigel Cowgill
Chairs of the London District of the Methodist Church