As a college we are committed to pray for the resolution of
the conflict and for the people of Ukraine and Russia.
We know that those in our community will be responding to the devastation of the war in Ukraine, and the resulting humanitarian crisis, in a number of different ways, individually and through your local churches and networks.
We have been encouraged by the ways in which our students have sought ways to help, and have received questions about what we can do. Below are a collection of different resources and information about ways you can respond.
The Church of England has recently released a Parish Toolkit which provides a really helpful resource with details of where you can most helpfully donate, practical support you can offer (particularly in relation to those who have fled to the UK), a guide to advocacy and prayer and theological resources.
Pray
As a community we are asking for you to commit to pray for the people of Ukraine and Russia and for peace.
Please find below two prayers from the Church of England which can be used to pray for the situation. Graphics for these prayers can be found here. The Church of England also have a page of resources including prayers and readings chosen for prayer services for Ukraine.
Prayer for the Peace of the World
Almighty God,
from whom all thoughts of truth and peace proceed:
kindle, we pray, in the hearts of all, the true love of peace
and guide with your pure and peaceable wisdom
those who take counsel for the nations of the earth
that in tranquillity your kingdom may go forward,
till the earth is filled with the knowledge of your love;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
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.
Give
We know that many of you will have already donated to
support those most in need. There are a lot of charities are doing important
work where you may wish to give financially. Below we have listed a few you may
want to consider. Please avoid
organising charitable collection of toys, clothes and bedding as this is often
inappropriate and not what is most needed.
Disasters Emergency Committee’s Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal
USPG-Diocese in Europe Emergency Appeal
Other ways to respond
Register for the Government’s Homes for Ukraine scheme. The Church of England Safeguarding Team have helpfully added a page to the e-manual with some specific considerations/advice for this programme.
Pledge your support with the Global Sanctuary Foundation.
Take a look at the Church of England’s Parish Toolkit for further ways to respond individually or in your church and community.