As fires rage across Tasmania, church leaders are thankful for the prayerful support for those affected by the flames.

Uniting Church of Victoria and Tasmania moderator Isabel Thomas Dobson and Synod Liaison Minister Carol Bennett say the Uniting Church is seeking information on how best to offer care for Tasmania at this time of natural disaster.

“Please pray for all who have experienced losses, for those who are still seeking information about family, friends or property, for people whose properties are still under threat, for all who are fighting the fires, for essential service workers, and for those offering support and care.”

Jill McCoy, rector of the Anglican parish of Sorell, Richmond and Tasman has sent a message of thanks for prayer for the parish region and throughout Tasmania.

“I’m deeply moved and thankful to God for all your messges of support and offers of help for those affected by the fires…Give thanks to God for the preservation of human life. For the many who have offered support. For the wonderful response of the local community,” McCoy wrote on Sunday.

McCoy and the parish region have asked for urgent prayer: for weather that will help “quell the remaining fires”, for “loved ones left behind, wherever they may be”, for those “who have lost pets, livestock and property”, for “peace among neighbours – that one family’s decision to evacuate will be accepted as good by those who chose to stay (and vice-versa).”

The St Martin’s Church building at Dunalley, where some of the most intense fires have caused destruction over the past couple of days, is still intact. It has been offered for use in the relief effort. Others, however, have not been so lucky.

“We’re sad to report that some members of our parish have been dislocated by the Forcett fire, particularly associated with the destruction through Copping, Dunalley and Murdunna,” writes McCoy.

“Our focus is and will continue to be for the welfare of the members of the affected communities and their families. Regardless of religious affiliations we are happy to offer support in any way we can.”

Anglican Bishop of Tasmania, John Harrower has called for a time of prayer after visiting City Hall in Hobart, being used as an evacuation centre and information hub during the fire crisis.

“It gave me a small window into the wide and complex tragedy of bushfires that is currently engulfing Tasmania,” Harrower writes on his blog.

“Amidst the tragedy of the bushfires the deep bonds of our humanity are being strengthened. I see generosity, empathy, goodwill, constructive attitudes and a heart to work together for the benefit of those suffering loss. Community organisations are working together and individuals are also contributing assistance.”

Harrower offered a prayer in time of bushfire from the Anglican prayer book:

All things look to you, O Lord,
to give them their food in due season:
look in mercy on your people,
and hear our prayer for those whose lives and possessions are threatened by fire.

Give protection and wisdom to fire fighters and other emergency service personnel.
Encourage our generosity to those who suffer loss.
In your mercy restore your creation and heal our land.
So guide and bless your people,
that we may enjoy the fruits of the earth
and give you thanks with grateful hearts,
through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.