Please Pray for COP 30

06/11/2025 by Lu Gale

God of blessings,

the universe sings of your glory.

Deepen our gratitude for all you have made

and awaken in us a renewed commitment

to care for the earth and each other.

Inspire world leaders at COP30,

with openness to listen to those most affected by climate change

and with courage to act urgently and wisely,

so that our common home may be healed and restored

and all people, and generations to come, may delight in it.

Amen.

https://cafod.org.uk/pray/prayer-resources/cop30-prayer

Prayers for the people of Jamaica and the Caribbean

05/11/2025 by Lu Gale

A message from The Rt Revd Dr Rosemarie Mallett, Bishop of Croydon:

Many of you would have seen and heard about the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa, which continues to sweep across the Caribbean – destroying homes, flooding neighbourhoods and leaving many people stranded. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been deeply impacted by this heart-breaking disaster and for those who have sadly lost their lives, especially the many staff and parish colleagues with Jamaican roots or heritage across our diocese and those with friends and family throughout the Caribbean. Let us pray for the people of Jamaica and the Caribbean at this time.

A prayer for the people of Jamaica and the Caribbean

Father God,

We pray for the people of Jamaica and the Caribbean, and all those affected by the destruction wreaked by Hurricane Melissa.

We pray for those who have lost lives and those who grieve their passing.

Grant relief to the many left vulnerable, needing shelter, food and water, and give them courage and resilience to face the challenges of recovery and rebuilding in the wake of the hurricane.

Strengthen the hands of all those offering emergency relief, aid and support, that they may work safely and effectively to restore calm, comfort, healing and hope.

In all the devastation, may they know God’s steadfast presence.

We ask this in the name of the triune God, creator, redeemer and sustainer.

Amen.

In response to this crisis, Croydon BME Forum and the Windrush Generation Legacy Association are coordinating a relief effort. Their Head Office at 56a Mitcham Road, Croydon CR0 3RG will be open – weekdays – 10am to 4pm and Saturday 9am to 6pm for donations. They are requesting items of tinned food, toiletries, and cleaning products specifically – see attached for the full list.

Over the coming weeks, volunteers will also be needed to help coordinate and deliver this vital support. If you can help, please contact: [email protected]

If you prefer to give financially, the Jamaican government has confirmed the following donation sites as legitimate and secure:

Jamaican Government site – Support Jamaica – Official Disaster Relief & Recovery Portal

Red Cross – Donate to Jamaica | Hurricane Melissa | Disaster Fund