Comoros — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this “Temple [that] calls the entire church to become a sanctuary of Christ’s peace, where people from all nations, ethnicities, and life circumstances can be gathered into a spiritual home without dividing walls.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:8c

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Comoros, located off Africa’s east coast, in the warm Indian Ocean waters of the Mozambique Channel. It is a volcanic archipelago.

Scripture Reading—Romans 8:5-6 NRSV

For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.

Prayer for Peace

Delores Rains

Dear God,

In the name of the Prince of Peace we pray, wanting to express our deep gratitude for your abiding love and grace.

We pray for persons who are experiencing the turmoil of brokenness which separates them from others and from sensing your presence. May your peace bring wholeness where there is brokenness.

We pray for persons who are experiencing the agony of physical pain which prevents the expression of joyful living. May your peace bring comfort amid such pain.

We pray for your creation of plant and animal. May humankind be wise in its stewardship of your generous handiwork. May all persons strive for peaceful living with all of creation.

We pray for the earth’s children. May the youth experience a peace that passes all understanding. May the adult children of God leave a legacy of true shalom for future generations.

May the peace of God dwell in our hearts, in our words and in our actions as we engage each other throughout our days. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 325 in Community of Christ Sings, “Blest Be the Tie that Binds.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 325.

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 Comoros, 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.