November 7 will mark the end of a very polarizing campaign year in our nation, after which we will continue to live together as citizens with a new President. Many parishioners have shared with me how distressed they are by both candidates, and also by fear-mongering that has been part of the race. One parishioner said that all she felt she could do was to pray for our nation.
Christians have a long tradition of praying for leaders & nations going back to the Apostle Paul (Romans, 1 Timothy) who invites prayers and obedience to kings and all in authority – which is rather profound when you realize that Christians were beginning to be persecuted by those in authority.
On the eve of the election, let’s join together in prayer, regardless of party (or no party) for a vespers service with candlelight (similar to Lenten Vespers), with extended prayers for our nation and leaders. The prayers will mainly come from the long tradition of Christian prayers for government, beginning with the New Testament (e.g., for peace, good order, justice good government, etc…)
—Pastor Ingrid Wengert