08 October 2011

A Prayer for the October 9, 2011 Elections in Cameroon

Almighty and Eternal Father we thank you for the gift of life,
the gift of a Nation, and the gift of peace in Cameroon.
All authority comes from you, and without you we are nothing.
Your children in Cameroon are going to the ballot box to select a leader.
This is a delicate moment with the risks of resurgence of violence,
division, intimidation and a threat of social cohesion.
We come to you Father, because unless you guard the city, the watch man stays in vain.
We aspire for lasting peace,
the peace which the Resurrected Christ offered to the world.
We long for peace that is not built on the violation of rights and justice,
Peace that integrates all dimensions of life.
Mary, Queen of Peace, come to our aid.
We plead to you Merciful Father,
That this election, beyond the choice of a president,
be the starting point for Cameroon
where good governance facilitates conditions
for an integral development of cities and villages;
where young people work with elation;
Where those who govern understand that
the exercise of authority is a service to humanity.
May this election lay the foundation for a radical change
in view of true peace in Cameroon.
We Pray through Jesus Christ your Son Our Lord,
Who reigns with You and the Holy Spirit,
One God for ever and ever. Amen

Exerted with modifications from "Pastoral Letter for Peace In Cameroon:
Before, During and After the October 9, 2011 Presidential Election",
by His Grace Samuel Kleda, Archbishop of Douala (http://www.leffortcamerounais.com/)