Today in our prayers we remember the people of Nicaragua.
In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this time of prayer. The “Temple [that] calls the entire church to become a sanctuary of Christ’s peace, where people from all nations, ethnicities, and life circumstances can be gathered into a spiritual home without dividing walls.”
—Doctrine and Covenants 163:8c
Nicaragua is in Central America. It is the largest country in the isthmus and is home to the third largest city in the area, Managua. Though Nicaragua has undergone periods of political unrest, dictatorship, and fiscal crisis, because of its beauty and warm tropical climate it is also an increasingly popular tourist destination.
Scripture Reading—Psalm 13:1, 5-6 NRSV
How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me? But I trusted in your steadfast love;
my heart shall rejoice in your salvation.
I will sing to the Lord,
because he has dealt bountifully with me.
Prayer for Peace
Millie Olson
Dear Lord,
We come to this temple to worship you, as the only source of life and love and peace.
Therefore, we ask you to pour out abundantly that love and peace into our lives. Let it fill our hearts with love for you and all people—our brothers and sisters.
Let your spirit of peace through your Holy Spirit indwelling in us, spread your love and peace throughout your world.
In the name of Jesus, the prince of peace. Amen.
Hymn
“Sacred the Body”
Community of Christ Sings 140
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 Nicaragua, 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 then 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.