Luxembourg — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this service of peace where “God is calling for a prophetic community to emerge, drawn from the nations of the world, that is characterized by uncommon devotion to the compassion and peace of God revealed in Jesus Christ.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:11a

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Luxembourg, a nation in western Europe landlocked between Belgium, Germany, and France. This is one the world's top three nations in wealth, despite its wholesale destruction during World War II, and is known for its fairy tale-like beauty and charm.

Scripture Reading—Doctrine and Covenants 161:6b

Heed the urgent call to become a global family united in the name of the Christ, committed in love to one another, seeking the kingdom for which you yearn and to which you have always been summoned. That kingdom shall be a peaceable one and it shall be known as Zion.

Prayer for Peace

Bonnie Bailey

Creator God,

Another day passes and the desire for peace radiates from the lips of your creation. Cries for peace echo throughout our changing Earth. Empower our efforts as we strive to be better stewards of our Earth.

Give us the strength to stand up for justice in a world that often puts so little value on a person’s worth. May we see all people with eyes of loving concern and dare to speak up for equality for all genders. May children have opportunities to grow up without fear, have enough food water and a home that inspires them to accomplish their dreams. May they come to know a loving God. Surround them with caring people who will teach them loving ways.

May the desire for peace be a constant companion as we seek to do your will, O God of all. Thank you for good leaders who help us understand your will in times of struggle.

Enable us to take up our place in being a blessing in people’s lives. Thank you for Jesus who has taught us about a loving God and a people called to be servants. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 558 in Community of Christ Sings, “Take the Path of the Disciple.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 558.

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.

Allow yourself to come reverently into the presence of the Divine and please join with me in prayer. Transformative encounters await you here with the Eternal Creator and Reconciler.

Pause.

Creator God, cleanse our hearts. Accept the confession of our flaws and failures, and make us whole. Transform us, O God, into the persons of peace and grace you created us to be.

Pause.

Redeeming God, bring to our awareness those persons and relationships that are broken, and make us conscious of the need for reconciliation and forgiveness. Transform us for relationships of wholeness once again.

Pause.

Saving God, allow us to feel your love and concern for your children in communities around the world, far and near. We remember all nations, including Luxembourg, the country we pray for today. May we weep with your tears and act with compassion to heal those who are suffering.

Pause.

God of all creation, stir within us a deep connection with everything you have created; make us aware of the sacred nature of all that surrounds us and lead us into deep reverence that cultivates nurturing actions.

Pause.

May these prayers of concern, compassion, and transformation for ourselves, others, all people, and the Earth lead us into a world shaped by your unconditional love, O God. Amen.

Musical Reflection

Sending Forth

Cherish inner peace. Honor relationships.

Become communities of love, joy, hope, and peace.

Go in peace.



