from Patriarch Alexei II, Russia

A petition from Patriarch Alexei II, to be read in all Russian Orthodox Churches. Note the omission of the country invaded, and all of its Orthodox inhabitants. Nontheless, prayers for peace are welcome.


*Prayer for Peace in the Caucasus *

O Master Who lovest mankind, King of the ages and Bestower of good things,
Who hast destroyed enmity and givest peace to the human race: Grant peace
even now unto all Thy servants who dwell in the lands of the Caucasus, and
especially to the much-suffering people of South Ossetia. Establish among
our nations love one for another; quell every uprising; and allay all
dissent and temptations. Grant unto them, O Lord, health and oneness of
mind, protect them from all tribulations, afflictions and sudden death;
bring an end to all enmity and malice which ariseth through the activity of
the devil. Plant peace, O Lord, through the intercessions of the holy
Theotokos, of the holy Apostle Andrew the First-called, of the first
hierarchs of Moscow, of the holy Nina, Equal-to-the-Apostles, and of the
Great Martyr George the Victorious. For Thou art our peace, and we send up
glory unto Thee≈the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit≈now and ever, and
unto the ages of ages. Amen.