United Methodists and others wishing to provide humanitarian assistance to the Ukrainian people in the wake of the Russian invasion of their country may contribute to Advance #982450, UMCOR International Disaster Response and Recovery. This fund will provide direct assistance to those in Ukraine as well as assistance to Ukrainians fleeing to neighboring countries.
Gifts to support the people of Ukraine can be made in the following ways:
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By toll-free telephone: 888-252-6174
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By check made out to Global Ministries/UMCOR with “Advance #982450-Ukraine” written on the memo line, either mailed and addressed to Global Ministries/UMCOR, GPO, P.O. Box 9068, New York, NY, 10087-9068 or given at or through any United Methodist church
One hundred percent of all Advance contributions go to the designated cause.
The United Methodist community in Ukraine, though quite small, is actively engaged in assisting neighbors in need. Global Ministries is in touch with the church’s leadership as well as with church leaders in countries welcoming those who are fleeing from violence in Ukraine.
A LITURGY OF PRAYERS FOR UKRAINE, RUSSIA & EUROPE
(Drafted by Sam Royappa, Lead Pastor, West Allis: First UMC, WI)
*Please take a moment of silence preparing to pray on behalf of the people of Ukraine, Russia, and Europe.
Let us share together the words of the Psalmist.
“The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” Psalm 46:11
Let us share together the words of Jesus.
“Peace, I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27
Let us share together the Social Principles (#164) of the United Methodist Church.
“We deplore war and urge the peaceful settlement of all disputes among nations. From the beginning, the Christian conscience has struggled with the harsh realities of violence and war, for these evils clearly frustrate God’s loving purposes for humankind. We yearn for the day when there will be no more war and people will live together in peace and justice.”
Let us offer the following prayers responsively: [based on The Lord’s Prayer]
You are our Father who is in heaven, hearing the prayers of your beloved children, on behalf of the people of Ukraine, Russia, and Europe.
Response: Lord, have mercy.
We, your children, bless your holy name which signifies your presence, your promise and your power that is available to the people of Ukraine, Russia, and Europe.
Response: Christ, have mercy.
Let your kingdom of love, mercy, and justice come upon the people of Ukraine, Russia, and Europe.
Response: Jesus, remember us and them when you come into your kingdom.
Let your will of the well-being of all people with peace and justice be done in the lands of Ukraine, Russia, and Europe as it is in heaven.
Response: God of peace, hear our prayer.
Let your grace be sufficient to the people of Ukraine, Russia, and Europe by providing their basic needs through all charities including UMCOR. Bless the hearts of those who generously express their hospitality.
Response: We praise and thank you, O God.
Though it’s hard, we pray for those who are with weapons of destruction, revengeful character, provocative nature of causing violence, and evil motives. Forgive those who do harm to humanity and bring them to repentance and accountability.
Response: Our hearts are heavy.
Always lead us to a place of prayer, praying day and night for Shalom in the God-created world.
Response: Comfort the crying and heal the hurt.
Deliver us from the sins of commission and sins of omission that we continue to remain as people of service, serving one another with generosity and unity.
Response: May we be strengthened in our faith with action.
We give you all glory and honor for blessing us with your peace and protection here and everywhere.
Response: To God be the glory, great things He has done, amen.