From my book Intercessions for a Hurting World, a prayer for animal welfare, commending to God all the creatures with which we share this planet.
Animal welfare
God of all,
we pray today for the animals you have given to share this
planet with us,
and for their welfare.
We think of creatures driven to the edge of extinction by human activity,
hunted for food,
ivory,
so-called medicinal purposes
or purely for sport;
poisoned by gamekeepers, fertilisers or pesticides;
driven from their habitats by logging, burning,
farming or urban development;
threatened by the impact of climate change.
Teach us to celebrate the diversity of life,
and to treat all creatures with respect.
We think of farm animals –
so many cruelly treated across the world,
made to live in inhumane conditions:
caged or battery hens and pigs;
cows bred to produce vast milk yields;
creatures slaughtered inhumanely;
unwanted animals callously disposed of.
Teach us to celebrate the diversity of life,
and to treat all creatures with respect.
We think of household pets,
most of them lovingly cared for,
but some abused by uncaring owners,
thrown out on to the street,
starved,
beaten,
denied exercise and veterinary care,
or kept in horrendous conditions.
Teach us to celebrate the diversity of life,
and to treat all creatures with respect.
We think of those who seek to safeguard the welfare of animals –
government and international bodies that legislate concerning standards,
regulations
and punishments for transgressing these;
agencies and charities that campaign against exploitation and cruelty;
local rangers and volunteers who strive to protect particular species –
all who work to promote greater respect for the animal kingdom.
Teach us to celebrate the diversity of life,
and to treat all creatures with respect.
Amen.