Partners in Health & Wholeness

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In the Trauma of War, We Pray for Ukraine

· by Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

O God, who loves each of us, wherever we are in the world
Who calls each of us by name
Who knows our hearts and knits us in our mother’s womb (Psalm 139:13).
God, who has a love for all that is global and personal,
We lift up every person, town, and community facing the war in Ukraine.

We pray for those impacted by the crisis in Ukraine.
We pray for the safety of all.
We pray for those whose loved ones are in danger.
We pray for those who are separated from their loved ones.
We pray for physical, emotional, and mental strength in the face of this war.
We pray for the resilience of Ukraine’s people and leaders.
We pray for protection of buildings that house people, offer medical assistance, and provide food and water.
We pray for the end of the attacks on Ukraine.
We pray for humility to those who pursue domination.
We pray for resolution of the conflict.
Most of all, we pray for peace.

Our God, who teaches us that all who live by the sword, die by the sword (Matthew 26:52),
Who teaches us to put our sword back in its place (Matthew 26:52),
To beat our swords into plowshares and our spears into pruning hooks (Isaiah 2:4)
That we do not wage war with the weapons of the world but with divine power that can demolish strongholds (2 Corinthians 10:4),
Remind us of these truths when we feel powerless.

When we feel isolated and unable to help,
Remind us that with you, O God, we can change the world.
We can be instruments of justice and peace that promote the welfare of all.

God of love, hope, peace, and resurrection,
We lift all of this to you.
Amen

RESOURCES TO SUPPORT UKRAINE

Real ways you can help Ukraine as a Foreigner.
Donate to Ukraine.
Stand with Ukraine: Find a march near you.

Additional resources:

About Rev. Jessica Stokes, Associate Director, Partners in Health and Wholeness, Mental Health Advocacy

Jessica Stokes is the Associate Director of Partners in Health and Wholeness leading our state-wide mental health advocacy efforts. Jessica earned her Master of Divinity from Wake Forest University and BS in Clinical Psychology from Averett University. She is an ordained Baptist minister and joined the Council’s staff in 2016 after directing an interfaith non-profit in Washington State. Jessica’s background includes non-profit work, hospital chaplaincy, interfaith campus ministry, and the local church. Her convictions are rooted in experiences that range from ministry in Appalachia, as a chaplain in a psychiatric hospital, to learning about systemic issues Eastern NC while living in Greenville and Wilmington, as a PHW Regional Coordinator. She seeks authentic and earnest conversation. Jessica’s work for PHW includes a focus on mental health education and advocacy, specifically tailored for faith communities. Jessica is based in Durham with her wife, Vanessa, and two pets.