Angola, Mozambique

Intercessions

We are thankful for:

• the rich natural resources in these countries, which God intends for the good of all
• the positive developments experienced since years of civil war
• village committees that seek to protect livelihoods and food security of the poor
• how the Lutheran World Federation and partners have pursued land rights in Mozambique.

We pray for:

• better sanitation, health services, and protection of the environment in these lands
• a healing of the lingering scars and memories from colonization and civil wars
• protection of the land rights of the people
• governments that are transparent and further the good of all the people, rather than being captive to foreign and business interests.

Prayers

God of love and compassion, we approach you full of grief and shame, because we just cannot understand how it is that you love us so much. We feel that we are living under the shadow of death. We find it difficult to understand that you have already brought us out from there and that you hope to see in us signs showing our faith and trust in the eternal life promised us by Jesus.  

Do not forsake us. Rather, guide us in ways of hope that one day Africa will know and live in peace, health and prosperity, through the grace and mercy given us by your Son, Jesus Christ, and by the Holy Spirit. Amen.

(Felicidade N. Cherinda, Mozambique. In: AfricaPraying – A Handbook on HIV/AIDS Sensitive Sermon Guidelines and Liturgy)

We sincerely thank you, O God,
for your powerful gift of hope
in the face of seemingly hopeless situations.
We thank you for your peace
in the hearts and minds of men and women
in this part of Africa
who believe you are the living God,
quick to save in time of danger.
You reign above all,
directing the course and destiny of the universe.

(Joao Makondekwa, Bible Society of Angola. WAGP p. 337)

Prayer of an African Christian

God,
enlarge my heart
that it may be big enough
to receive the greatness of your love.
Stretch my heart
that it may take into it
all those around the world
who, with me, believe in Jesus Christ.
Stretch it
that it may take into it
all those who are not lovely in my eyes,
and whose hands I do not want to touch;
through Jesus Christ, my saviour.

Song