We cry with those whose lands are ravaged from war.

We cry with those who, because of war and violence, have already lost their home.

We cry with those who leave behind what they know in search of a better life for their children and families.

We cry with Abdullah, the father of Aylan and Galip Kurdi, as he now faces life without his beautiful children and his companion in life.

We cry over Aylan and his brother Galip and their lives having been cut tragically short.

We cry over Rehan, their mother who wanted a better life for her children.

We cry over the thousands of children, women, and men who have already lost their lives in search of hope.

We also cry because of our complicity in causing and fueling the ongoing conflict that has displaced thousands around the world.

We cry because of our complicity as we continue to fool ourselves in thinking that more violence will bring about peace.

We cry because of our complicity in turning a blind eye, ignoring the suffering and plight of our brothers and sisters.

We cry because of our complicity in the systems and powers of this world that continue to oppress and dehumanize some for the privilege and comfort of others.

We cry because of our complicity in the systems and powers of this world that keep people at bay so that our security and comfort are not hampered.

We cry because of our complicity in not welcoming the foreigner in their time of need.

We cry because of our complicity in not hearing the cries of the other.

We cry because of the powerlessness and helplessness we feel in not being able to stop the conflicts that persist, the results of which are those who are displaced.

We cry because of the powerlessness and helplessness we feel in not being able to save those who have fallen into the sea.

We cry because of the powerlessness and helplessness we feel because we see the suffering of others.

We cry because we know this is not the way God wants us to treat each other.

We cry because we know that this is not the dream God has for the world.

We cry because we do not know what else to do.

God, be with Aylan, Galip, and their mother Rehan.

God, be with Abdullah, their father.

God, be with the thousands others who have died in search of peace and refuge.

God, be with us as we step out of our complicity so that we may embody the warmth, hospitality, and love to others that you have already shown to us.

God, be with us as we seek your peace in peace.

God, be with us all.

by Andrew Suderman, Secretary of the MWC Peace Commission