images via The Associated Press, Turkey

God, we pray for those affected by the multiple rounds of earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. Thousands of lives have been lost, homes have been razed to the floor, and the extremely cold climate has hampered rescue work.

Give peace to those who have lost loved ones, hope to those who are still trapped in debris, and facilities and strength to those involved with rescue work.

May other countries quickly move to offer relief in the form of essential food and materials and human power for rescue and relief work. Guide us to support our brothers and sisters in these countries through our words and actions.

May humanity precede religion and love precede race. God, may children, women and men be moved to safe places and shelters so that the death toll does not increase due to surrounding problems and challenges. Amen.

Also Read: Yes, you can help Christians affected by the Turkey-Syria earthquake.

Fr. Jerry Kurian serves as a Priest of the Jacobite Syrian Orthodox Church