Today in our prayers we remember the people of Austria.
Invitation
In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this sacred space where we are called to, “above all else, strive to be faithful to Christ’s vision of the peaceable Kingdom of God on earth. Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue peace.”
—Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b
Austria is in central Europe, and characterized by mountain villages, baroque architecture, Imperial history and rugged Alpine terrain.
Scripture Reading – Doctrine and Covenants 161:7
The Spirit of the One you follow is the spirit of love and peace. That Spirit seeks to abide in the hearts of those who would embrace its call and live its message. The path will not always be easy, the choices will not always be clear, but the cause is sure and the Spirit will bear witness to the truth, and those who live the truth will know the hope and the joy of discipleship in the community of Christ. Amen.
Prayer for Peace
Patricia Pfann
I pray a prayer for peace dear Lord;
Peace for the fearful,
Peace for the troubled,
Peace for the down-trodden,
Peace for the war-torn,
Peace for the wounded.
I pray a prayer for peace dear Lord;
Peace for the forgotten,
Peace for the abandoned,
Peace for the homeless,
Peace for the hungry,
Peace for the unwanted.
I pray a prayer for peace dear Lord;
Peace for the hopeless,
Peace for the ignored,
Peace for the abused,
Peace for the sad,
Peace for the ill.
I pray a prayer for peace dear Lord;
Peace for the powerful,
Peace for the successful,
Peace for the careful,
Peace for the happy,
Peace for the loved.
I pray a prayer for peace dear Lord;
Peace for your children,
Peace for the world.
I pray a prayer for peace dear Lord,
In the name of thy son Jesus Christ. Amen.
Hymn
Choose a favorite hymn of peace and justice.
Prayers of the People
As we enter a time of guided prayer, meditation, and musical reflection, you are invited to offer silent prayers or meditate during the moments of quiet. The Prayers of the People begin with individuals and groups, then move out from this Temple of peace to include the human family and the planet.
Allow yourself to come reverently into the presence of the Divine and please join with me in prayer. Transformative encounters await you here with the Eternal Creator and Reconciler.
Pause.
Creator God, cleanse our hearts. Accept the confession of our flaws and failures, and make us whole. Transform us, O God, into the persons of peace and grace you created us to be.
Pause.
Redeeming God, bring to our awareness those persons and relationships that are broken, and make us conscious of the need for reconciliation and forgiveness. Transform us for relationships of wholeness once again.
Pause.
Saving God, allow us to feel your love and concern for your children in communities around the world, far and near. We remember all nations, including Austria, the country we pray for today. May we weep with your tears and act with compassion to heal those who are suffering.
Pause.
God of all creation, stir within us a deep connection with everything you have created; make us aware of the sacred nature of all that surrounds us and lead us into deep reverence that cultivates nurturing actions.
Pause.
May these prayers of concern, compassion, and transformation for ourselves, others, all people, and the Earth lead us into a world shaped by your unconditional love, O God. Amen.
Musical Reflection
Sending Forth
Cherish inner peace. Honor relationships.
Become communities of love, joy, hope, and peace.
Go in peace.