Hours before the Taliban took control of Afghanistan’s capital, Kabul, Pope Francis expressed his hope for the peace and safety of the country’s citizens. During his Angelus address on 15 August, the Pope said “I join in the unanimous concern for the situation in Afghanistan. I ask all of you to pray with me to the God of peace so that the clamour of weapons might cease, and solutions can be found at the table of dialogue.” 

Dear Heavenly Father, 

We pray for the small group of believers in the country, that they find strength, wisdom and peace in God’s promises. 

We pray for the displaced, for God’s protection and provision over them in their journeys. 

We pray for the women and for their protection. 

We pray for the sick, that the healthcare system will not collapse 

We pray that the country will not be a haven for extremists. 

We pray especially for the Afghans who have no choice but to stay. 

In you God we trust. 

Amen