Prayers for the Gulf Coast

As Hurricane Gustav roars into the Gulf Coast, I know that many of us have friends and family in that region. Many of you have been to the Gulf Coast to assist in the aftermath of hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Tonight please let me offer a few prayers for all those who are in harm's way and those who are evacuating New Orleans. Here are a few prayers from the Book of Common Prayer:

Be our light in the darkness, O Lord, and in your great mercy defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the love of your only Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love's sake. Amen.

O God, our heavenly Father, whose glory fills the whole creation, and whose presence we find wherever we go: Preserve those who travel, especially those escaping from the path of Hurricane Gustav; surround them with your loving care; protect them from every danger; and bring them in safety to their journey's end; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.