PRAYER FOR THOSE AFFECTED BY RECENT HURRICANES, MONSOON FLOODS & EARTHQUAKE

Today on Rosh Ha-Shanah, the birthday of the world, our thoughts are with all those whose lives have been devastated by the recent ferocious weather and earthquakes.

We think of the millions of people, affected by the overwhelmingly destructive monsoon floods in India, Pakistan, Nepal and Bangladesh that have led to the deaths of more than 1200 people.

We also think of the people of the Caribbean, Texas and Florida, following the devastation wrought by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and, most immediately, Maria.

Our thoughts also turn to the people of Mexico, following two earthquakes in the past month, most recently the earthquake that struck on Tuesday and has claimed 248 lives so far, including at least 20 children, following the collapse of their school.

Let us pause to reflect.

As we think of all those whose homes and communities have been shattered, let us pray that they soon feel the benefit of relief operations, and supported by a spirit of humanitarian concern, find the courage and strength to rebuild their lives.

And let us say: Amen.

Rabbi Elli Tikvah Sarah

Brighton and Hove Progressive Synagogue