Lead me, guide me along the way

For if you lead me, I cannot stray

Lord, let me walk each day with you

Lead me my whole life through

“Lead Me Guide Me”

Legal Uncertainty for Permanent Residents

News continues to expose the injustice faced by individuals caught in prolonged legal uncertainty as American courts struggle to keep up with swift changes under President Trump’s administration. For example, Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and lawful permanent resident married to a U.S. citizen, remains detained in Louisiana under a rarely used immigration rule citing foreign policy concerns. Despite no criminal charges, Khalil has been jailed over 72 days, waiting to hear if he can go free while awaiting his trial where he will face deportation due to his political activism. His case highlights the realities of rapid executive actions and the slower judicial process, leaving people trapped in fear, uncertainty, legal limbo and facing deportation from a country they have peacefully resided in for years.

We pray for situations like Mr. Khalil’s, where the balance between national security and individual rights is deeply tested. May the American Constitution and justice system uphold the freedoms of speech, religion, and due process that the founders intended. Grant wisdom and courage to those who defend these principles, so that America is a true democracy; a land where justice, freedom, and equality are accessible to all. 

Russia and Ukraine

The European Union (EU), composed of 27 European countries, has intensified its support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia. Recently, the EU implemented its 17th sanctions package against Russia, targeting sectors like energy and military operations. This aligns with the EU's foundational principles of democracy, human rights, and territorial integrity. By backing Ukraine, the EU reaffirms its dedication to these values, emphasizing the importance of a unified Europe that upholds the rule of law and supports nations striving for sovereignty and peace.

We pray for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. Thank you for the courage and integrity of the EU, whose targeted sanctions stand against aggression and support justice. May their actions inspire hope, protect human life, and help bring an end to this conflict. 

Microplastics

A recent article in the New York Times highlights that microplastics, tiny plastic particles, are now everywhere: in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. These particles come from things like synthetic fabrics, packaging, and industrial waste. They don’t break down easily and harm both wildlife and humans, causing health issues such as inflammation and respiratory problems. It highlights an urgent need for all God’s people to better attend to environmental impacts and consider environmental consequences of a consumerist society where plastic is a staple component of fabrics and packaging.

Grant us the wisdom to care for our planet and the courage to make choices that protect all living beings. Help us to count the cost and work together to restore and preserve the earth that you made, love, and charge us to steward. 

Canada Post Strike

A pending Canada Post strike could significantly affect older adults, underserved communities, and Indigenous Peoples who rely on regular mail for medications, pension payments, essential deliveries, and critical communication. In many remote Indigenous communities, Canada Post is the sole delivery provider, making potential delays a serious risk to health, wellbeing, and financial security. This disruption highlights persistent systemic inequities, where basic services remain less accessible to people with disabilities, Indigenous Peoples, older adults, and those living in remote or rural areas.

We pray for resolution to the pending postal strike. May fair dialogue prevail, and disruption be avoided. Move Canadian leaders to protect those who rely on the mail. Let compassion guide policy, and justice shape negotiations.

India

Rohingya, a Muslim ethnic minority in mainly Buddhist Myanmar, have lived in the country for centuries but have been denied citizenship since 1982, rendering them stateless. Speaking a unique dialect, they are not recognized among Myanmar’s official ethnic groups. India currently hosts around 40,000 Rohingya refugees but does not legally recognize them as such, as India is not a signatory to the 1951 Refugee Convention. Therefore, Rohingya also face detention or deportation from India. Adding to this, the U.N. is now investigating reports that Indian authorities forced Rohingya refugees onto naval vessels and expelled them into the Andaman Sea off the coast of Myanmar wearing only lifejackets. U.N. special rapporteur Tom Andrews condemned the act and urged India to stop inhumane practices and refrain from returning people to dangerous conditions.

God, you are the God who sees us.  And so, we lift up the Rohingya refugees, a people with no citizenship and status. Provide for them, and may they find safe shelter, freedom from persecution, and dignity as your beloved children. Hold accountable those responsible for cruel deportation practices. Stir nations to respond with compassion and courage. Thank you for those who speak and work on behalf of the Rohingya.

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Synod 2025 Prayer Support

Since you're a reader of Do Justice prayers we know that you regularly uphold items in prayer.  There are several ways that you can engage in prayer for our denomination around Synod.  Check out further information and pray alongside others.

Hearts Exchanged

How can our churches can become places of belonging and embrace God’s call to reconciliation with Indigenous neighbours?  Hearts Exchanged is one of the places that we can wrestle with deep questions like this one.  Express interest in joining a cohort!