Sierra Leone update
27 September 2017
Thank you to the generous donors who have so far given £5,556 to the Sierra Leone Mudslides appeal in the last four weeks.
To donate to the appeal, please click here
A message from Dr Olubunmi Olayisade, Africa Partnership Coordinator for the Connexional Team
It was with great shock and sympathy that we watched the destruction of homes, properties and lives of the flood victims on the BBC news yesterday. We heard the sad news that over 300 deaths were reported and over 2000 people were rendered homeless on the first day. It is certain that the death toll will rise.
We therefore join our brothers and sisters in Sierra Leone in mourning the deaths of community members and friends in Freetown. We pray for prompt response in getting humanitarian support to the flood victims to avert further deaths and hardship. May Jesus be their rock of refuge and a very present help in times of need? May He uphold them in His loving arms and surround them with kindness and mercy? May they be assured of His steadfast love and presence as they wade through this ordeal as a nation? In Jesus name we pray.
Psalm 71
I cried out to God with my voice, To God with my voice
And He gave ear to me.
2 In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord
My hand was stretched out in the night without ceasing
My soul refused to be comforted.
3 I remembered God, and was troubled; I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed
We shall continue to uphold you
8Has His mercy ceased forever? Has His promise failed forevermore?
9 Has God forgotten to be gracious?
Has He in anger shut up His tender mercies? Selah
10 And I said, "This is my anguish; but I will remember the years of the right hand of the Most High."
11 I will remember the works of the Lord
Surely I will remember Your wonders of old.
A prayer from the Revd Loraine N Mellor, President of the Methodist Conference
We call on the Methodist people to join us in prayer for the people of Sierra Leone:
Gracious God, we pray for all those caught up in the land slide in Freetown Sierra Leone.
For those whose lives have been lost and those who grieve for them.
For those who are concerned and worried about lost homes and livelihoods.
For all those who are helping to relive suffering, medical, nursing and emergency services.
For aid agencies and all who are responding to offer care and support.
Lord in your mercy hear our prayer.
Gracious God, we pray for those who will find themselves unexpectedly turning to you at this time. May they know your love and compassion in the people they meet who are helping at this time of tragedy and despair.
Lord in your mercy hear our prayer.
Gracious God, this community is one of the poorest in the country of Sierra Leone. Help us to know what to pray and how to respond.
Challenge us we pray.
Lord in your mercy hear our prayer.
Amen