Almighty God, you are our defender and shield against all evil and oppression. We beg your Divine protection upon all Your children who face persecution and violence for the sake of Your Name. May Christians around the world unite their struggles with the Cross of Christ whenever they are faced with mockery, injustice, exile or bodily harm. Help all those displaced from their homes, those sold into slavery and any who have gone missing in the chaos of war. Have mercy on all the dead who have lost their lives rather than deny their faith in You. Restore peace and joy to the lives of your suffering people and may all senseless fighting and hatred cease. God of Mercy and Justice — Father, Son, and Holy Spirit — we place all our trust in you. Amen