An Immense Loss

The enormity of the loss from the the 7.6-magnitude quake in Pakistan is overwhelming with at least 40,000 dead and more than 2.5 million people in need of shelter. A BBC News article stated that

Many of the victims were schoolchildren, who had just begun classes when school buildings collapsed on top of them.

Children made up half the population of the affected area and were particularly vulnerable, the UN children's agency Unicef has said.

The BBC's Andrew North in Balakot, where two schools collapsed, says relatives have been frantically digging with bare hands for the several hundred children trapped inside but hopes are fading.

In prayer for those suffering in this great loss, We remember especially those who have lost their children. These prayers are from Enriching our Worship 2,

Merciful God, you grant your children an abundant entrance into your kingdom. In your compassion, comfort those who mourn for their children who died in this earthquake and grant us grace to conform our lives to those childrens' innocence and faith, that at length, united with them, we may stand in your presence in the fullness of joy; for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen.

God of compassion and strength: keep safe the soul of your children who have died in this earthquake now that their moment of pain and fear is passed. Send your healing to their parents, other family and all who mourn, that their suffering may find peace and resolution within your love, whose Spirit gives life in Christ our Savior. Amen.