A message from our Chaplains

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The Chaplains are watching the situation as it unfolds in Afghanistan and find the chaotic scenes and desperation of its people heartrending. We are conscious that there are members of staff who have formerly served in the armed forces and have seen active duty in Afghanistan. We understand the many emotions which may be evoked by what is occurring and offer our support to anyone who is affected by these events.

You may wish to join us in praying the words written by Rev Dr Marjory MacLean, convener of the Committee on Chaplains to Her Majesty's Forces, as we remember the sufferings of the people of that land and the sacrifices of our military personnel.

All-loving God, your hands have fashioned every lovely corner of this treasured planet, and the beautiful land of Afghanistan is as precious as every other place your children call ‘home'. By its rivers and mountains, its fields and gardens, its busy towns and ancient villages, it is the heart's desire of its people and the place where their lives and loves are nurtured.

We grieve today with those who grieve over Afghanistan, the people who call it home indeed, the people exiled or suddenly having to leave, and the men and women from other countries who have made sacrifices in recent years in the cause of that country's future.

We remember with renewed sadness the loss of lives of military personnel during the years of this country's involvement in Afghanistan, conscious of the questions that must today be troubling the minds of those in our community who were bereaved, those who were wounded on operations, and those who were forever changed by experiences suffered there.

We pray for peace, dignity, freedom and confidence for the men, women and children of Afghanistan; for courage, vision and generosity within the international community responding to such need; and for tranquillity of mind amongst our own Service community and its wider family.

In the name of Jesus Christ, the peace-giver, we pray, AMEN.

Published 21st August 2021