Kenya — 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 Kenya, a nation in east Africa with territory on the equator. Kenya’s diverse and expansive terrain includes beautiful lakes, tropical coastlines, savanna, deserts, forests and mountains. Kenya is known for its safaris, national parks, and Lake Victoria, the largest tropical fresh water lake in the world.

Scripture Reading—Psalm 117 NRSV

Praise the Lord, all you nations!

Extol him, all you peoples!

For great is his steadfast love toward us,

and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever.

Praise the Lord!

Prayer for Peace

Lawrence Omambia

O Lord,

We come before your holy throne of mercy, worshipping you and uplifting you. How wonderful is your name and how faithful you are, as you exist forever in our midst. Creation was made by your word, including humankind, and so we want to bring honor unto you. You gave Jesus as our mediator and friend, who forever intercedes for us in holiness.

Lord, we praise you for the whole world and for giving us leaders, of different races, countries and tribes.

Father, the whole world is yours, and so we sing praises and pray to you, especially today for Kenya, asking for your blessing for the land, that everyone can come to dwell in unity and love.

Days in Kenya have been long and nights never ending, for there has been little peace or love, and people have lived in fear of the killings. Lord come to their aid, for your people are immersed in tribalism and corruption, where the rich are far from the poor, and the poor often struggle for rights in the judicial system.

Terrible diseases and accidents overwhelm many of your children in Kenya, so Lord have pity and bring healing.

People fighting for the truth and justice are often silenced and this has contributed not to peace but to fear.

O Lord may your touch promote peace and accountability throughout, especially with the Kenyan leaders, so they will care for their people, and maintain peace and so their plans can succeed with truth and transparency.

Bless the Muslims, Christians and Hindus who work to bring peace and love among the many religions. For those who are far from religion, bring them Lord to your son, Jesus Christ.

Thank you, God, for your healing touch over all the world, especially in Kenya and for giving us peace.

In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is “Kanisa Litajengwa” number 338 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 begin with individuals and groups, then move out from this Temple of peace to include the human family and, ultimately, the planet.

Jesus Christ, the light of the world, invites you into his presence and his peace. Please allow yourself to breathe deeply and envision yourself in his all-embracing light as we share the prayers of the people.

Pause.

Radiant God, we come into your presence grateful for the light you have brought into the world; breathe your spirit into our very beings. May your love shine from within us as evidence that you continue to bless your creation with possibility and peace.

Pause.

Illuminating One, as we experience that light within us, help us radiate your love and light to those around us. May our friends, families, coworkers, and neighbors become aware of your light that emanates from within them as well, redeeming brokenness and creating peace.

Pause.

Light of the world, extend ever-increasing brightness within this circle of self and friends to those who live all around the world. We remember all nations, including Kenya, the country we pray for today. In places of darkness and hopelessness, may rays of your saving light break through and provide the way to hope and peace.

Pause.

Holy One, who created darkness and light, bless all your creation with the energy your light produces. Continue to sustain all forms of life—seen and unseen, for the welfare of your beloved creation. May the entire Earth be at peace.

Pause.

May the One who spoke light into darkness and substance out of the void hear our prayers. May the circle of light in which we live be enlarged to encompass all that was, and is, and is to be. Amen.

Musical Reflection

Sending Forth

As we depart in joy,

Confront injustices,

Be part of transformations toward peace, and

Generate hope for the world.

Go in peace.