A message from Fr Tuomas in Finland
A further deadly attack in a city in this diocese, this time in Turku, Finland.
The Area Dean for Finland, and Chaplain of St Nicholas, Helsinki, the Father Tuomas Mäkipää has written the message below to his people. We join our prayers with those of our Finnish sisters and brothers. May God renew our confidence and give us peace in our day.
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I have followed in shock the news from Turku where two persons lost their life and at least six others were injured in an attack by a man with a knife.
My prayers and thoughts are with those who are affected by this heinous crime. May those who have died violently and unprepared find rest and everlasting life in the mercy of God.
The rescue workers and the police are working to help the victims, to prevent any further acts and to investigate the motives behind these events. Many came to help putting their own life in danger. May God look with love on those whose sense of security has been scattered and may he bless those who defended the weak.
I wish to pray also for those whose minds are so troubled that they can not find any other solution than attacking innocent people. May God show them mercy and love so that they give up their evil plans.
We are gathering as usual to Sung Eucharist in Mikael Agricola Church on Sunday at 10h00. Prayers for peace and justice are said at that service. We remember in prayers our brothers and sisters in Turku Cathedral International Congregation.
I know that many of you are afraid for your own safety. You might also have questions on how this might affect your personal safety and living in Finland. The Anglican Church in Finland continues its ministry to serve all.
The Collect from today's Evening Prayer:
Almighty God,
who sent your Holy Spirit
to be the life and light of your Church:
open our hearts to the riches of your grace,
that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit
in love and joy and peace;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever.
With my prayers,
Tuomas Mäkipää, Chaplain
Fr Tuomas |
Bless you, St Nicholas pray for us all...
ReplyDeleteAmen! One thing is certain,the world will never bow to terrorism of any kind.
ReplyDelete