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Polynesia prays for soldiers' release

The Diocese of Polynesia is praying for the release of 44 Fijian soldiers held captive in the Middle East.

Taonga news  |  29 Aug 2014

Archbishop Winston Halapua has asked all parishes in the Diocese of Polynesia to pray for the safe release of 44 Fijian soldiers held captive by a militant rebel group in the Golan Heights.

We join with our leaders and with all people of faith in Fiji to pray for our soldiers who have been held captive,” Archbishop Winston said in a statement.

“We pray also for the families and communities whose loved ones are victims of violence in the Middle East.

“This situation of crisis for Fijians serving in UN Peace Keeping Force brings home to us strongly our deep connections with many other victims of violence.

“It brings home to us the need to work and pray peace for in our communities, our countries and our world.”

Archbishop Winston called on all parishes in Polynesia to pray intentionally this Sunday and the week following:

• for the well-being and the release of those held captive,

• for families and friends of Fiji soldiers,

• for the UN Peace Keeping Force and its mission.

Archbishop Winston encouraged parishes to use this prayer for peace from the NZ Prayer Book:

O God,
it is your will to hold both heaven and earth
in a single peace.
Let the design of your great love
shine on the waste of our wraths and sorrows,
and give peace to your Church,
peace among nations,
peace in our homes and peace in our hearts.

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