Daily Prayer for Peace
1:00 p.m.
|
 |
Central African Republic
Would you like to learn
more about Central African Republic?
Visit
Lonely
Planet. |
Gathering in Silence
Call to Prayer
Lighting of CandleInvitation |
| |
Good afternoon, and thank you
for joining us for prayer today, and welcome to this sacred place. Each
day in this Temple dedicated to the pursuit of peace, we pray to God for
peace in our world. In addition, each day we pray for a different
country.
Today we will remember the people of the Central African Republic in our
prayers. Deep in the heart of the continent, the Central African
Republic was part of French Equatorial Africa before independence in
1960. Most of the country is savanna plateau, with rain forests in the
south. It is one of the world's least developed countries, with most of
the population engaged in subsistence farming. Timber and uncut diamonds
are sources of export revenue. Political instability continued with a
coup and rebellions in 2003.
Also today, we will remember the children of the world in our prayers.
In 1954 the General Assembly of the United Nations recommended that all
countries institute November 20 as Universal Children’s Day of each
year. It is to be observed as a day of worldwide fraternity and
understanding between children, and of activity promoting the welfare of
the world's children. It is the date in 1959 when the Assembly adopted
the Declaration of the Rights of the Child. As we pray, let us remember
places where severe conditions make childhood a difficult and fleeting
time. Let us pray for justice for every child in this world, and may we
become advocates of all the children wherever they may be and whatever
their needs might be.
Jesus said of little children, "of such is the kingdom." Today, as
children, we come with the desire that all of God's creation might know
peace. |
| |
| Scripture Reading: Luke 18:1-8 INT |
| |
Jesus told the disciples a parable on the
necessity of praying always and not losing heart: “Once there was a
judge in a certain city who feared no one—not even God. A woman in that
city who had been widowed kept coming to the judge and saying, ‘Give me
legal protection from my opponent.’ For at time the judge refused, but
finally the judge thought, ‘I care little for God or people, but this
woman won’t leave me alone. I’d better give her the protection she
seeks, or she’ll keep coming and wear me out!”
Jesus said, “Listen to what this corrupt judge is saying. Won’t God then
do justice to the chosen who call out day and night? Will God delay long
over them? I tell you, God will give them swift justice. |
| |
|
Prayer for Peace by Mildred Jordan, Houghton
Lake, Michigan |
| |
Our Gracious and Loving Creator,
We come to you today in behalf of all the young children and youth of
the world.
We are aware of the many who are neglected, abused, hungry and homeless.
Trying to survive on their own, they become confused, desperate and
lonely. They know no peace.
Lead by your Holy Spirit those who are in a position to better
conditions whereby they may find peace and come to know you as their
protector and friend.
Help each on of us to be aware of the children we meet. May we show them
our love and concern by sharing Your love and hope with them. May we be
understanding and sensitive, offering encouragement and acceptance.
As Christ took the children in his arms and blessed them, may we
encourage and love all those we see. Jesus has said, “Of such is the
Kingdom of Heaven.” It is in His name we pray.
Amen |
| |
|
Hymn - Jesus Loves the Little Children
- Hymns of the Saints #223 |
| |
Prayers of the People
Please join us now, praying the Prayers of the People. During the
moments of silence, you are invited to pray silently or meditate. |
| |
We praise you, God of all nations, for your mercy is
vast, and your greatness beyond our comprehension. In peace we pray to
you, and dare to ask your blessing for all children in their daily life;
for their families, friends, neighbors, and mentors. We raise up the
children of our world to you, and may they see new ways to bring peace
in this age. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
| |
We remember and ask for a blessing on the children who suffer from
sorrow, fear, or have special needs. Divine Creator, give us guidance to
fill the needs around us, and help us to share your perfect love which
casts out fear and binds us together in unity. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
| |
May we follow your example and minister in your stead. Grant your wisdom
as we teach our children of peace. We confess our shortcomings. Forgive
us, we pray, and may we go from here strengthened in body and mind for
the task before us. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
| |
We remember the concerns and needs of those gathered here. Lord, hear
our prayers, and send your Holy Spirit to be with us as we seek to do
your will. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
| |
Please use this space to pray for any
current concern or event in our community, city, state, nation or world
that you feel needs to be held up to God for prayerful consideration.
|
| The People Pray in Silence |
| |
In the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace we pray. Amen. |
| |
| Sending Forth |
| |
We now conclude our service for today with ministry of
music. We invite you to remain in the quiet of this place to pray or
meditate for as long as you may wish.
“The wolf shall live with the lamb, the leopard shall lie down with the
kid, the calf and the lion and the fatling together, and a little child
shall lead them.” Let us remember how important our children are to the
learning and sharing of God’s peace. |
| |
| Ministry of Music |
