Dominican Republic — 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 Dominican Republic, a nation in the Greater Antilles, occupying the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola with Haiti occupying the remainder of the island. In 1492, Christopher Columbus landed on the island which the Taíno people had inhabited since the 7th century.

Scripture Reading—2 Timothy 2:22 NRSV

Shun youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.

Prayer for Peace

Janet Rasmussen

Our Father, in thanksgiving and gratitude, we anticipate your loving spirit to touch and cradle us this day and always, forever knowing that peace and joy come to us only from you.

We pray for peace and love to find us together in fellowship with your holy spirit that we might radiate your son in our lives, love all people as you love, forgive, as you forgive us, and become peacemakers for you. We know this can happen when you are first in our lives.

We love you, we love the trinity, and we love your church restored. Thank you for your son Jesus, may we live for him as we grow spiritually and mature in our outreach in the world.

We pray in your son’s name, Jesus. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is “My Gratitude Now Accept, O God” number 614 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 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 Dominican Republic, 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.