"Prayer and action can never be seen as contradictory or mutually exclusive.
Prayer without action grows into powerless pietism, and action without prayer degenerates into questionable manipulation.” - Henri Nouwen
Prayer is central to faith and is our main communication with God. It can have a profound impact on our lives and also has the potential to change the world around us. It can be tempting to simply pray for God to change things. While it is okay to seek or hope for divine intervention, it is more effective to draw upon prayer to help us adjust our own experiences and actions in the world.
Prayer can connect us with the person or situation we are holding before God. Sometimes meaningful action comes easily, such as reaching out to a person we know is hurting or feeling alone. At other times, it can be challenging to know which action to take, like in the wake of a natural disaster or during the war in Ukraine. Continuing to pray is important, for it can lead to clarity and provide valuable perspective.\
Another impactful practice in turbulent times is to donate funds to trusted organizations where 100% goes to relief efforts. If you’re looking for an avenue to contribute directly to those suffering in Ukraine, I encourage you to consider Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD). Your immediate support will help ERD provide humanitarian assistance to people fleeing the violence in Ukraine.
Please join me in continued prayer, that God may guide us and comfort those in need.
Blessings -
Fr. Paul
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