Today in our prayers we remember the people of El Salvador.
In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this service of peace where “God is calling for a prophetic community to emerge, drawn from the nations of the world, that is characterized by uncommon devotion to the compassion and peace of God revealed in Jesus Christ.”
—Doctrine and Covenants 163:11a
El Salvador is located in Central America. This country is the smallest and most densely populated of nations in the area. Of the nearly 7 million people living there, the majority are Mestizos of European and Indigenous American descent. It is a small country that has known great violence.
Scripture Reading—1 Timothy 2:1-2 NRSV
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity.
Prayer for Peace
Norma Cross
“Oh, Lord, we come now seeking your Holy Spirit that calls to us and beckons us to follow you. We pray we shall be mindful of the direction you lead us and be joyful in that journey. We know if we follow you we will be lifted to a higher estate, or comfort zone, than we could ever attain on our own. For your Spirit will bring comfort when we are ill, in physical body, or just ill at ease over circumstances.
There are so many changes that come along for decision-making. Lord, we realize we’re very short-sighted at times because of where we live and our upbringing, our culture. We need your guidance to understand those changes and what is good, not only for us, but for your world. Your world is made up of so many different cultures and upbringings that we realize that only you can guide us with your love and understanding. Make us aware of your mercy, kindness, and love for all people.
As we seek to follow you, reach down to us, take our hands, hold us up, and help guide us through times that are hard for our finite minds to understand and a world that keeps changing. Open our minds and our hearts to make our journey widen, to always follow that Holy Spirit of yourself that goes before us and teaches us. We pray through the name of our example, the way to peace for all your people, Christ Jesus. 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 El Salvador, 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.