Today in our prayers we remember the people of Tanzania.
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
Tanzania is in Eastern Africa. This large country is home to Africa’s highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, as well as vast wilderness areas.
Scripture Reading—Psalm 130:1-6 NRSV
Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord.
Lord, hear my voice!
Let your ears be attentive
to the voice of my supplications!
If you, O Lord, should mark iniquities,
Lord, who could stand?
But there is forgiveness with you,
so that you may be revered.
I wait for the Lord, my soul waits,
and in his word I hope;
my soul waits for the Lord
more than those who watch for the morning,
more than those who watch for the morning.
Prayer for Peace
Lillian Kirby
Dear Loving God,
We come today in the spirit of thanksgiving and to praise your holy name. We confess our shortcomings and ask forgiveness for those times we have not obeyed your commandments. We have followed the ways of the world and lost our humility.
We uphold the lonely, the oppressed, and those who stand in need. Forgive us when we have turned away from the cries of the brokenhearted, the hungry, and the suffering. Help us to see others as you see and move out with great love and care for all.
Clothe us now in kindness, humility, and gentleness. Give us patience as we bear one another’s burdens. Soften our hearts in bonds of love that your peace might be known in all the world.
In Christ’s name, I pray. 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 will begin with individuals and groups, then move out from this Temple of peace to include the human family and the planet.
You are invited to join in prayer and meditation as you close your eyes and imagine yourself held in God’s loving hands. Be aware of your current needs, known to you and the one who calls you by your name.
Pause
God of my life, may I receive your love, peace, and healing.
Pause
Imagine someone who is close to you being held in God’s loving hands. Perhaps this person is a good friend or someone with whom you are struggling.
God of relationships, may this person receive your love, peace, and healing.
Pause
Envision all the people of the world, every nation and tribe, every town and village. Imagine those that live in oneness, as well as those ravaged by war and violence.
God of all peoples, may these communities receive your love, peace, and healing. We remember all nations, including Tanzania, the country we pray for today.
Pause
Behold all that God has created. See the beauty of the Earth. Recognize the brokenness and destruction we have caused. Imagine all the beauty and the damage held in God’s loving hands.
God of creation, may this planet receive your love, peace, and healing.
Pause
May this spirit of peace and compassion for ourselves, others, all people, and the Earth remain alive in us this day. Amen.
Musical Reflection
Sending Forth
Take the peace you have found today in this sacred space with you into the world—renewed and inspired to act.
Go in peace.