[Anglican Communion News Service –Auckland, New Zealand] The members of the Anglican Consultative Council, meeting in Auckland, New Zealand, Oct. 31 (local time),  expressed their concern, compassion and prayers for all those caught up in the impact of Hurricane Sandy. Members heard of the scale of lives lost in the Caribbean, in the eastern United States and Canada, and of the devastation wrought in the wake of the hurricane.

Condolences were expressed to the Anglican Province of the West Indies, the Episcopal Church, the Anglican Church of Canada and the Diocese of Cuba.

A prayer used in ACC’s Evensong service Oct. 31
Creating God, you have set us in a world beyond our control yet promised never to allow its captivity to decay to destroy us.

We now pray for all those experiencing the havoc of storm and tempest in the Caribbean and North America, especially those who have lost homes or loved ones. Give courage to those who work in emergency services, wisdom to those leading communities and nations, and compassion and patience to families and friends as they seek safety together, share the grief this time, and work to rebuild cities and neighborhoods.

Hasten that day when the whole creation shall be renewed and we live at peace and in harmony with the world and its peoples.

Accept our prayer through Jesus Christ, who himself calmed the storm and taught us not to fear but to trust you as the God who dwells with us in every circumstance.

Amen