Prayer for Africa

Dear God
For the love of Africa
Hear my prayer

Africa is the cradle of your creation
Therefore, grant me patience
To nurture growth and goodness
In this great land

Africa is the rainbow of your heavens
Therefore, grant me tolerance
To celebrate difference and diversity
Across the wide continent

Africa is the drumbeat of your heart
Therefore, grant me courage
To offer comfort and compassion
In the face of her people's trials

Wherever Africa teachers her children
Share the lessons of my fading past
And where she dreams of tomorrow
Set my feet on the path of progress

Wherever Africa raises her leaders
Judge my support by democracy's voice
And where she breathes in community
Join my breath with inspiration

Wherever Africa cherishes her wilderness
Mark my celebration of nature's bounty
And where she cares for her people
Watch my spirit swell with love

-poem by Wayne Visser