Ukraine — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this “Temple … an instrument of ongoing revelation in the life of the church. Its symbolism and ministries call people to reverence in the presence of the Divine Being. Transformative encounters with the Eternal Creator and Reconciler await those who follow its spiritual pathways of healing, reconciliation, peace, strengthening of faith, and knowledge.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:8a

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Ukraine, a nation in Eastern Europe and bordered by Russia as well as six other countries.

Scripture Reading—Romans 8:28 NRSV

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.

Prayer for Peace

Steven O’Dea

Gracious God,

I pause in awe of the many marvels and wonders in this created world.

Yet I honestly ask, “why pray for peace?”

We do it week by week, day by day, yet surely a grand vision of world peace cannot be achieved.

Some would say that hope in impossible odds is a human flaw. Yet we do that in our daily lives.

We pray that those with cancer will beat it or last longer. We pray that those drowning in stress will remain steadfast and pull through. We pray that those who have hurt themselves will not suffer greatly and heal.

Help us to see that hope is not a human flaw, but a resilient strength that resides in each of us that you instilled. Help us to show that too.

With that resilience, may we pray for peace.

We are not fussy or bothered with the terms, but strongly hope that oppression can be overcome.

God, you know that peace can take many forms from a flowing river, to a compromise, to a ceasefire or even just being completely lost in something you love and enjoy.

Could you spare us something? Everyone knows you have a lot to prioritize, but we pray for just a little of your time, not just for us, but for others and for all.

A ripple can begin as something small, but it grows. We pray for something to grow into a crazy reality of a peaceful co-existence in this world.

Thank you for your creation. Inspire us to make a difference. Encourage us to hope so that peace can grow into something truly amazing and be sustained.

In Jesus’ name, I pray these things.

Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is “O Living God” number 183 in Community of Christ Sings. Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text.

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 Ukraine, 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.