Pray for Chile on Sunday, February 28, 2016

Lectionary Selection: Luke 13:1-9

Prayers for Chile:
God, You hear the prayers of our Chilean brothers and sisters as they lift their voices from the foothills of the Andes Mountains. We petition you today with their requests: for peace to surround both the political relationships of the Mapuche conflict and the protests occurring in Valparaiso. We pray for people of the church, that the young people of Chile will fall in love again with God, for strength within pastoral families and that the Shalom Center will continue to be a place of healing for many years to come. As a new school year begins, we pray for teachers who work with vulnerable children, that they may not only offer academics, but also refuge and hope. We lift up those working to heal their emotional traumas, those who have dared to share their stories and those who still remain silent. We pray for strength and perseverance as the Chilean people find their way through these challenges, being moved by Your guidance and perfect peace. Amen.

Mission Stewardship Moment from Chile:
Exuberant camp staff in overalls and straw hats scurry around the Shalom Center property preparing for and carrying out this summer’s theme: giving thanks on the farm. In our youth camps, we ask ourselves, “Am I sowing seeds in good soil? What fruits am I bearing?” In small groups we talk about these things, encouraging our teammates and celebrating their gifts: musical or athletic talent, service to others or the ability to give the benefit of the doubt. Another week, underneath those same tall oaks, we gather in a trauma healing workshop, learning about the cycle of grief and how to emotionally free ourselves from the hurts of our pasts. Like the incident in the Tower of Siloam, Chileans have experienced their share of natural disaster and tragedy, shaking them out of the day to day routine life. These incidents bring to the surface past traumas, the hurt of childhood abuse and violence, living in poverty or being publicly shamed. And while it’s scary to remember these things, we give thanks for the gardeners in our lives who till and fertilize the soil, allowing us another chance to heal and refresh so that we may move forward into new opportunities.

(Prayer and Mission Moment by Lauren Kabat)

Mission Partners in Chile:

More information on Chile: http://www.globalministries.org/chile

Global Ministries Missionary in Chile:
Lauren Kabat serves with the Pentecostal Church of Chile (IPC) assigned to the Shalom Center, Chile. Her appointment is supported by Week of Compassion, Our Churches Wider Mission, Disciples Mission Fund and your special gifts.