Today in our prayers for the people of South Africa.

Prayer for Peace

Katie Harmon-McLaughlin

Tender and merciful God,

Somewhere a candle is burning,
Stretching light into darkness
In a temple, a church, a home,
A bright signal, a deep commitment
Guiding our feet into the way of peace.

We hold these candles into darkness,
The blessed night that holds and forms us,
Trusting that it still matters
To be here, dedicating this day,
This moment to the pursuit of peace.

Don’t fear when it feels the night is endless.
Trust that we have exactly what we need.
Deep faith is made for these times,
When our courage is summoned
To keep lit our candles in bold hope.

When it feels like everything is ending
and all you see is suffering, destruction, despair,
Light this candle of peace wherever you are–
In your home, with your children, in the center of the city,
In your own quiet solitude and desperate prayer.

Light your candle and walk this way.
Imagine how the world might change
As we keep holding this light into darkness.
Imagine who right now is yearning
For the very light you dare to hold.

Creation is still yearning for peaceful humanity.
The vision that calls us has not changed.
It is time to remember who we claim to be,
To light these candles of persistent prayer
That guide our steps in the way of peace.
Amen.