Bhutan — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this service of peace. “The rise of Zion the beautiful, the peaceful reign of Christ, awaits your wholehearted response to the call to make and steadfastly hold to God’s covenant of peace in Jesus Christ.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 164:9b.

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Bhutan, a nation in South Asia. It borders the People’s Republic of China and India.

Scripture Reading— Romans 12:18 NRSV

If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.

Prayer for Peace

William Webb

Dear Lord, our Creator and our God: we look to you now in awe and praise you for your love and your plan for us. As persons created in your image, we acknowledge our need for your presence and power in our lives. We look to you now as we ask forgiveness for sins, both for sins committed and for acts not done that should have been done. Cleanse our hearts, purify our thoughts, and clear our minds to focus on the present task of making peace. We now unite our thoughts and our faith to seek your presence and to seek peace.

We recognize the dire needs in the world for peace, for understanding, for compassion and for love. There are many men, women and children trapped in the depths of poverty with needs so great it is hard for us to imagine the actual conditions of their lives. We pray now for these persons in need. Grant your blessings to alleviate their suffering. Help each of us do whatever we can to touch their lives and to help them find the things they need.

God of all the Earth, we also know that many persons suffer deprivation and lack of freedom because of child labor, driven by greed and selfishness. While many times, these conditions seem beyond the control of those who suffer, we pray that you will soften the hearts of those responsible for these conditions. We pray for justice and compassion for all such person. Help us find ways to bring the ministry of your Son to bear on these problems. Touch with your love and compassion all those who have authority over the disadvantaged. Help them find ways to fill the voids of need and correct the abuses of power. We pray for strength and power to do our part. Let your peace and your love rule in our hearts. May our will be done. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ your Son. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 657 in Community of Christ Sings, “Make Us, O God, a Church That Shares.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 657.

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 Bhutan, 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.



