BALANGA CITY — Bishop Ruperto Santos of the Diocese of Balanga on Monday asked for prayers for the volatile situation in the Middle East and the raging bushfires in Australia.
The Bataan prelate said that situations in the Middle East are uncertain and volatile. “We must resort to prayers that all must give peace a chance, work for the common good and strive for the stability of the region,” he said.
He urged for restraint and never to resort to war that he said just creates destruction and death, where there are no victors but victims, and leads to a cycle of hatred and violence.
“War must be avoided. Let us pray hard for peace,” Santos implored.
He said that no one knows what lies ahead but it is good and proper to have plans for safety and security of the overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East: “We must be ready and prepare our own contingency plans.”
Santos said that the Diocese of Balanga made a pastoral visitation in 2016 to Bataenos (people of Bataan) residing in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, all cities in Australia.
In solidarity with Australia, the bishop prepared the following prayer recited in the diocese:
“Almighty and Loving God, the whole earth belongs to you! You are the author of life, of every living thing. Be with the people of Australia now in the midst of catastrophic bushfires. We beg You, o God, to take over and release your power.
We know you will supply everything we need even the rains from the heavens. Great is your faithfulness o Lord! Look compassionately upon those who put their complete trust in You and make Yourself real to those who do not believe so they too may have faith.
We pray for all the lives lost, homes destroyed, lands burnt to the grounds and livelihoods gone. We pray for all the firefighters and volunteers for their strength to be renewed. We also lift up to You those who struggle with despair and unbelief in these trying times.
Provide a place for refuge and provision for everyone. Encourage us all in knowing that our sanctuary of love is eternal. We humbly ask You hear our prayers. Almighty Father, in the name of Your most precious son, Jesus. Amen.”
