The Protestant Church in the Netherlands (PKN) is organising a time of prayer for Ukraine in the Domkerk in Utrecht on Ash Wednesday (2 March), 5.30 pm. This prayer for peace and justice in Ukraine will be broadcast live by KRO-NCRV, a Dutch public broadcasting company, and led by Rev. René de Reuver, General Secretary of PKN, and Msgr. Gerard de Korte, Bishop of ‘s-Hertogenbosch.

The event offers a place for believers and non-unbelievers alike to reflect, lay down their fears and worries, light a candle and write down a prayer.

“We look at the images from Ukraine with dismay. We cannot help but bring this to God: ‘Lord, we cry out to You for help. Have mercy on the people of Ukraine, see to all who are affected by the terrible violence of war,’” said the PKN General Secretary, who also urged local Protestant congregations to pray for Ukraine on Sunday.

A Prayer for Ukraine

God of love and faithfulness,

We pray for the people of Ukraine,

all those affected by the terrible violence. In astonishment we see the abominable images, Lord, have mercy on this land and its inhabitants. Let violence and clattering of weapons cease, the weapons be silent.

We pray for the Ukrainian community in our country,

they are deeply concerned about relatives and loved ones.

Lord, be close to them when all is so uncertain,

give them courage to persevere.

Lord, grant that images of enemies may not be magnified unnecessarily,

may Your vision of reconciliation and peace continue to carry us no matter what.

Grant that those voices that want to stay away from fear and struggle are heard,

give wisdom to all concerned leaders.

That weapons are not given a right to speak, that peace is sought and found.

Show us the way of looking after each other, of mildness, trust and gentleness.

Lord, have mercy on this world, in which mutual love is often so hard to find, give us a view of your hopeful future.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen

How you can help

For many years, Kerk in Actie, the diaconal program of PKN, has worked closely with churches and Christian organisations in Ukraine to reach out to the most vulnerable, and you can click this link to find out how to donate: https://kerkinactie.protestantsekerk.nl/verhalen/kerk-in-actie-start-noodhulp-oekraine/