Namibia — 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 Namibia, a nation on southern Africa’s western coast. This country, one of the least-densely populated in the world, enjoys political, economic, and social stability.

Scripture Reading—Psalm 34:14 NRSV

Depart from evil, and do good;

seek peace, and pursue it.

Prayer for Peace

Matthew Turner, Buffalo, New York

O God,

I feel that I have been wandering in the wilderness for many years

I have tried to be led by the Spirit

But I despair that I have unknowingly gone astray.

I have dedicated my life to thy service

But I feel lost

Unsure.

Have all my efforts been in vain?

Was my desire to serve thee and thy children

Just an illusion?

O God

Wilt thou comfort us?

Wilt thou send thy healing Spirit

To all those who feel doubt

Despair

And hopelessness?

Free us

O Lord

From the bondage of

Our own fears

And limitations.

O Lord

We beg

Thy peace.

Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is “I Need Thee Every Hour” number 188 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 Namibia, 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.



