Today in our prayers we remember the people of Republic of Congo.
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
Republic of Congo is in the central-western part of sub-Saharan Africa, along the Equator.
Scripture Reading—Colossians 2:6 NRSV
As you therefore have received Christ Jesus the Lord, continue to live your lives in him.
Prayer for Peace
Jo Ann Heitmeyer
Dear creator of heaven and earth, the risen savior and sustainer of all faiths and peoples of the world, as we continue to celebrate with our Prince of Peace, we give joyful thanks.
We pray for the leaders, all people and youth of the world, that each may open their hearts and minds to one another, so that each may learn from the other, and be role models to all.
We pray that as we commit our lives to the pursuit of peace, we might be able to overcome racism and prejudice, and find hope, love and mercy.
We realize to be faithful disciples, we must be willing to give unconditional love.
As we are your instruments, and celebrate the presence of Christ in us, we pray that others might see this peace of God reflected in our lives. Amen.
Hymn
“Listen in the Silence”
Community of Christ Sings 153
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.
Within all aspects of our lives and our world exist situations and conditions that need the healing touch of the Holy. Will you join with me to listen to the voice that speaks peace to each of us from beyond the farthest hills, from the infinite heavens above, and the vast seas below?
Pause.
Listen to the voice that invites you to surrender your fears and frustrations, anger, and anxieties, and to await with an open heart the peace that only Christ can bring. Allow the one who seeks only the best for you to offer the comfort you seek.
Pause.
Listen to the voice that whispers the invitation to reconciliation with those whose lives, words, decisions, or actions have wounded you. May you find space in your heart for healing to occur in your relationships with brothers and sisters, as well as your enemies.
Pause.
Listen to the voice that calls all into unity and oneness. We remember all nations, including Republic of Congo, the country we pray for today. May we be attuned to hear the cries for mercy, forgiveness and generosity. Listen to the one who reminds us that in the welfare of another resides our own well-being.
Pause.
Listen to the voice that echoes across the eons of time and yet speaks anew in this moment. The Earth shudders in distress because creation’s natural and living systems are becoming exhausted from carrying the burden of our greed and conflicts. Listen to creation which struggles to provide life to the seas, the hills, and the heavens above.
Pause.
May the one who spoke calm to the storm and stilled the waves with a word, bring peace to us and through us. May we be among those whose lives whisper, shout, and proclaim peace to those far and near for the sake of God’s shalom. Amen.
Musical Reflection
Sending Forth
Be witnesses of hope,
Shed tears for injustice, and
Make a difference in the world.
Go in peace.