Norway — 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 Norway, a nation on the western portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula that includes islands and an archipelago. This beautiful country, bordered by Sweden, Finland, Russia, Denmark, and the North Atlantic Ocean and Barents Sea is known for its picturesque beauty. Norway’s fjords, glaciers, mountains, and wildlife make Norway one of the most beautiful countries on Earth.

Scripture Reading— 1 Peter 3:10-12 NRSV

For "those who desire life and desire to see good days, let them keep their tongues from evil and their lips from speaking deceit; let them turn away from evil and do good; let them seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer. But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil."

Prayer for Peace

Andy Horner

God, grant us peace.

God, grant us peace.

God, grant us peace.

God, grant us peace in our hearts.

God, grant us peace in our questions.

God, grant us peace in our minds.

God, grant us peace in our households.

God, grant us peace in our doubts.

God, grant us peace in our finances.

God, grant us peace in our relationships.

God, grant us peace in our shortcomings.

God, grant us peace in our actions.

God, make us instruments of your peace. May the things we do and say support the cause of peace. God, spark our creativity so that we may transform vexing circumstances into seedbeds of peace. God, show us how to nurture the seeds of peace to full maturation. God, let us join with you when the time comes to celebrate the harvest of peace.

God, grant us peace.

God, grant us peace.

God, grant us peace.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 658 in Community of Christ Sings, “Now Let Our Hearts within Us Burn.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 658.

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.

Within all aspects of our lives and our world exist situations and conditions that need the healing touch of the Holy. Will you join with me to listen to the voice that speaks peace to each of us from beyond the farthest hills, from the infinite heavens above, and the vast seas below?

Pause.

Listen to the voice that invites you to surrender your fears and frustrations, anger, and anxieties, and to await with an open heart the peace that only Christ can bring. Allow the one who seeks only the best for you to offer the comfort you seek.

Pause.

Listen to the voice that whispers the invitation to reconciliation with those whose lives, words, decisions, or actions have wounded you. May you find space in your heart for healing to occur in your relationships with brothers and sisters, as well as your enemies.

Pause.

Listen to the voice that calls all into unity and oneness. We remember all nations, including Norway, the country we pray for today. May we be attuned to hear the cries for mercy, forgiveness and generosity. Listen to the one who reminds us that in the welfare of another resides our own well-being.

Pause.

Listen to the voice that echoes across the eons of time and yet speaks anew in this moment. The Earth shudders in distress because creation’s natural and living systems are becoming exhausted from carrying the burden of our greed and conflicts. Listen to creation which struggles to provide life to the seas, the hills, and the heavens above.

Pause.

May the one who spoke calm to the storm and stilled the waves with a word, bring peace to us and through us. May we be among those whose lives whisper, shout, and proclaim peace to those far and near for the sake of God’s shalom. Amen.

Musical Reflection

Sending Forth

Be witnesses of hope,

Shed tears for injustice, and

Make a difference in the world.

Go in peace.



