May 30th, 2022

Nation shall not lift up sword against nation,

  neither shall they learn war any more.

(Isaiah 2:4 & Micah 4:3)

“We work toward a world where wars cease”

(From the MCC Statement of Faith)

Metropolitan Community Churches remains steadfast in prayer for an end to the war in Ukraine as well as continuing conflicts in over 20 other countries around the world. The MCC church of Finland has been holding regular prayers for peace since the beginning of the conflict, praying for all those touched by this war.

Rev Tarja Pyykkö, Pastor of Elävä vesi MCC Helsinki says "This war is a world tragedy that we will continue to live with for decades, if not centuries to come. Our hearts go out to the Ukrainians who have been attacked brutally, forced out of their homes, and driven out of their own country. At the same time we want to remember the ordinary Russian people who oppose this war. Their oppression has reached unprecedented heights, and many have also left their country. We pray for a quick end to this war, rebuilding of Ukraine, and we pray for increasing democracy in Russia. We also pray for all those around the world who are impacted by this war through increasing food and energy prices. We are especially concerned about the rising probability of famine in many areas of the world due to the impact and consequences of this situation.

It has warmed our hearts to see the hands and feet of God working on earth in the many surrounding countries helping Ukrainian refugees and Ukrainians in general. Many ordinary people are opening their hearts and homes to the refugees. We pray for resilience in this situation, as it is likely the situation will not be resolved quickly and rebuilding will take time and much effort. At the same time, we want to remember all those in other conflicts around the world who are lacking the support they need. Let us open our hearts and minds to them as well.

Last but not least, I would like to share a prayer by John Birch that MCC Helsinki has modified a bit and have used to pray for peace:

We pray for all whose lives

have been touched by the Ukrainian war,

whether by accident

or a deliberate act.

For those who mourn,

immerse them in your love

and lead them through this darkness

into your arms, and light.

For those who comfort,

be in both the words they use

and all that’s left unspoken;

fill each heart with love.

We ask this through Jesus Christ,

whose own suffering brought us life,

here and for eternity. Amen.

MCC believes that war is preventable when strong connections are fostered and encouraged between countries: “blessed be the tie that binds” all of us together.