Bishop Supports Anglicare Bushfire Appeal
13 December 2006
The Anglican Bishop of Tasmania, the Right Reverend John Harrower, has urged Tasmanians to support the Anglicare Bushfire Appeal, launched today.
Bishop Harrower said, "I ask Tasmanians to give generously to the Anglicare Appeal for those affected by the bushfires on the East Coast. Like all Tasmanians, I greatly empathise with these people, especially just before Christmas, and ask that we show our support in whatever ways we are able."
The Bishop also asked Tasmanians to pray for all those affected by and fighting the fires. He said, "On behalf of the church I have written a prayer especially for this time of great stress and loss. I know that Anglicans will be praying for relief from the fires and the protection of those people in harm's way."
Donations to the Anglicare Appeal can be made at their local Anglicare office, or at the National Australia Bank BSB no. 087-007 account no: 86 687 7591 - all donations over $2 dollars are tax deductible. Donations of clothing, blankets and non-perishable items can be made at any Anglicare office state wide.
A prayer during bushfires
God of mercy and pity,
remember all those suffering from the effects of bushfires.
Especially we ask for those who have lost homes, animals, possessions.
Help us to minister to their needs,
and to be sensitive to all who have suffered loss.
Heal the distressed, the broken-hearted and the wounded:
comfort and sustain them in their need.
Give them wise and faithful friends,
and courage for the road ahead.
Help the firefighters to bring the fires under control
and protect them at all times.
Sustain them, the support workers and all volunteers,
in their myriad tasks, sacrifices and generosity.
Watch over all those involved
and give them the assurance of your presence.
These things we ask through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Bishop John Harrower
adapted from A Prayer Book for Australia pages 205-209
December 2006
Media Officer - Rev. Dr. Chris Jones 0419 585 247
Read previous media releases.