Syria: Let’s keep prayingAndy Freeman - 20 Sep 2013

It’s a reality that television and media news is a little fickle.  One moment a story is the biggest thing in the world, the next it’s relegated to the back pages.  Egypt has come and gone as a big story but the country continues to be in crisis.  Iraq may not make the headlines it used to, but car bombs continue to detonate in it’s cities.

Over the last weeks, Syria has been that big story.  Thanks for praying.  The potential agreement at the UN over concerted and agreed action by the international community over Syria’s use of chemical weapons seems a welcome step. 

But as Syria slips back in the news cycle lets not forget that country.  It’s estimated over 2 million people have now fled their country in search of help.   The refugee camp in Jordan is already one of the countries biggest cities - and it’s filled with tents.  72,000 have headed for Lebanon, and many churches are spearheading care for them.  It’s estimated 5,000 people are leaving Syria each day.  {Source: Tearfund}

Syria is also in the grip of a continuing two year civil war.  Regions of the capital Damascus and cities like Aleppo are seeing incredible suffering and violence on a massive scale. 

As Syria continues to suffer, lets persevere and continue to pray.  And lets continue to pray too for Egypt, and for Iraq, and for the many people suffering in the midst of conflict in the world.

As we prayed, many of you took note that the Pope had called the world to day of prayer for Syria that millions took part in on 7th September.  Speaking this week, Pope Francis urged continued prayers:

“My thoughts go out especially to our dear Syrian people, whose human tragedy can only be resolved through dialogue and negotiation, in the respect for justice and the dignity of each person, especially the weakest and the most defenseless''

Let’s keep praying.