Germany — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this sacred space where we are called to, “above all else, strive to be faithful to Christ’s vision of the peaceable Kingdom of God on earth. Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue peace.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Germany, a nation in western and central Europe, with Denmark bordering to the north, Poland and the Czech Republic to the east, Austria to the southeast, and Switzerland to the southwest. France, Luxembourg, and Belgium lie to the west, and the Netherlands to the northwest.

Scripture Reading— John 1:29-42 NRSV

The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and declared, “Here is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world! This is he of whom I said, ‘After me comes a man who ranks ahead of me because he was before me.’ I myself did not know him; but I came baptizing with water for this reason, that he might be revealed to Israel.” And John testified, “I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it remained on him. I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water said to me, ‘He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit.’ And I myself have seen and have testified that this is the Son of God.”

The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, “Look, here is the Lamb of God!” The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, “What are you looking for?” They said to him, “Rabbi” (which translated means Teacher), “where are you staying?” He said to them, “Come and see.” They came and saw where he was staying, and they remained with him that day. It was about four o’clock in the afternoon. One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first found his brother Simon and said to him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated Anointed). He brought Simon to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You are to be called Cephas” (which is translated Peter).

Prayer for Peace

Michael Menzel

O God, in this moment we come into your presence to say thank you, for the many blessings you have given us. To say thank you for all our talents, for the life we have, given through you.

Today we especially ask for peace for Germany. You know the many divisions this country is facing, between Germans and non-Germans, between refugees and many others who need help and the rich and wealthy, divisions between east and west.

We thank you, O God, for the chance to be reunited again—that families and friends could finally come together again. But now we must recognize that tearing down the walls was not enough. There is so much that separates us, and we must work on it and we need your blessings upon us.

We pray that this country may come together and unite, to stand for peace and justice in the world, that we may not only see where our profits will be but will stand up against any sort of injustice.

Let your church and all churches work together in this. We must not concentrate just on internal affairs. You’re calling us to go out, and touch the souls of the people, that they are constantly reminded of your Son, who is called the Prince of Peace, and who will guide us in all good things we try to do. So, we ask you to grant us your Spirit, that this country may learn more of peace, will promote peace and live in peace.

This we pray in the name of Jesus the Christ. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 12 in Community of Christ Sings, “Herr, du mein Gott.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 12.

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 Germany, 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.



