"In recent days, we have seen dreadful images from two nations where people who have suffered so much now face new hardships and fears.
"Dear God, have mercy on the people of Haiti and Afghanistan. We pray for an end to the destruction, violence, and chaos that the good people of these countries must endure once again. We pray for compassion and true justice for them. We pray for aid workers in Haiti, including those from the Diocese of Knoxville, who have given so much to help that nation over the years. We especially give humble thanks and pray for the lives lost and the injuries suffered by our nation’s brave military in the defense our national interests in Afghanistan. And we pray that you bestow grace and wisdom upon the people of our great nation and an understanding that we work best when we work together and place our differences and belligerent attitudes aside."