Prayer for Nigerian Schoolgirls

CAFOD’s Nigerian partners have called on Catholics in England and Wales to pray for the freedom of more than 200 secondary school girls in northeast Nigeria, kidnapped by Jihadist group Boko Haram. Director of the Caritas Foundation of Nigeria, Father Evaristus Bassey spoke about the ongoing situation: “Even a single child abducted is one too many. We pray for their speedy rescue. It is through prayer that we do not lose hope. It is also important that we remind people not to descend into hatred. We are all human and people of God.”

God of Wisdom Open our ears to listen to one another That we may hear your words above our fears

God of Peace Open our eyes to see one another That we may recognise the friend behind our preconceptions

God of Unity Open our arms to one another That we may pray together that your will be done

God of Justice Open our minds to one another That above all we may seek truth and solidarity

God of Strength Take our wills and strengthen us That we may raise our voices to one end

God of Love Open our hearts to one another That we may stand side by side in faith and trust Until our children are safely home.

Claud Mba/CAFOD