Today in our prayers we remember the people of Monaco.

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this sacred space where you are invited to “Become a people of the Temple—those who see violence but proclaim peace, who feel conflict yet extend the hand of reconciliation, who encounter broken spirits and find pathways for healing.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 161:2a

Monaco is in Europe. Officially the Principality of Monaco, this nation is on the French Riviera in Western Europe. Monaco has an area of less than a square mile (2.02 km) and a population of about 38,400.

Scripture Reading – Colossians 1:19-20

For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross.

Prayer for Peace

Esther Steward

God of All Creation:

As individuals coming together in community

As disciples brought together by Jesus Christ

And as people concerned about peace in this world

We ask you, O God of Justice and Peace, to:

• Advise us in times of question and concern;
• bring us to new ways of sharing peace;
• cultivate in us faith and obedience;
• direct our passions to peaceful pursuits;
• encourage us to speak up for those without a voice.
• Form us into your loyal disciples.
• Guide us to avenues of peacemaking;
• help us work for your cause;
• instill in us a tolerance for others.
• Join us in Spirit, to discern and do your will.
• Kneeling, we praise and thank you, Yahweh!
• Let us feel your Spirit’s presence;
• move our hearts to be full of love and compassion for others, never forgetting your great love for us, and generosity toward us.
• Open our ears to hear and better listen to you;
• prepare us to better address areas of injustice and unrest;
• quench our thirst for knowledge and wisdom in our relationships.
• Remind us to always be kind, considerate, and patient;
• soften our hearts in times of frustration and anger;
• turn our concerns to the needs of others.
• Unite us through Unity in Diversity, being very much aware of the Worth of All Persons.

We pray peace will be lived and shared worldwide!

Xanadu—paradise—shalom—the kingdom of God is our goal!

Yoke us together to work diligently as peacemakers, zealously building Zion!

May it be so. In your Son’s most holy name. 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, ultimately, the planet.

Jesus Christ, the light of the world, invites you into his presence and his peace. Please allow yourself to breathe deeply and envision yourself in his all-embracing light as we share the prayers of the people.

Pause.

Radiant God, we come into your presence grateful for the light you have brought into the world; breathe your spirit into our very beings. May your love shine from within us as evidence that you continue to bless your creation with possibility and peace.

Pause.

Illuminating One, as we experience that light within us, help us radiate your love and light to those around us. May our friends, families, coworkers, and neighbors become aware of your light that emanates from within them as well, redeeming brokenness and creating peace.

Pause.

Light of the world, extend ever-increasing brightness within this circle of self and friends to those who live all around the world. We remember all nations, including Monaco, the country we pray for today. In places of darkness and hopelessness, may rays of your saving light break through and provide the way to hope and peace.

Pause.

Holy One, who created darkness and light, bless all your creation with the energy your light produces. Continue to sustain all forms of life—seen and unseen, for the welfare of your beloved creation. May the entire Earth be at peace.

Pause.

May the One who spoke light into darkness and substance out of the void hear our prayers. May the circle of light in which we live be enlarged to encompass all that was, and is, and is to be. Amen.

Musical Reflection

Sending Forth

As we depart in joy,

Confront injustices,

Be part of transformations toward peace, and

Generate hope for the world.

Go in peace.