Lebanon — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this “Temple … an instrument of ongoing revelation in the life of the church. Its symbolism and ministries call people to reverence in the presence of the Divine Being. Transformative encounters with the Eternal Creator and Reconciler await those who follow its spiritual pathways of healing, reconciliation, peace, strengthening of faith, and knowledge.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:8a

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Lebanon, a nation in Western Asia. It is the smallest recognized country on the entire Asian continent. Evidence of early settlement in Lebanon was found in Byblos, which is considered to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating to earlier than 5000 BC.

Scripture Reading— Joshua 1:9 NRSV

I hereby command you: Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Prayer for Peace

Barbara and Richard Howard

Come be reconciled, my people,

In my body you are healed.

I am with you is my promise,

In my love am I revealed.

Let my spirit gently lead you,

Let my mercy all embrace;

To a world that yearns for freedom,

Give compassion; trust my grace.

May the Temple rise in beauty—

Shining symbol of my love.

To a world of war and anguish

May my peace come as a dove.

Let my Spirit move among you

Freeing you from hate and fear,

Healing wounds with love’s anointing,

Bringing peace and justice near.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 240 in Community of Christ Sings, “Light Dawns on a Weary World.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 240.

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 Lebanon, 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.



