Côte d’Ivoire — 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 Côte d’Ivoire, also known as Ivory Coast. Located in West Africa, it has beach resorts, rainforests and a French-colonial legacy. It was named for its major resource and export, ivory.

Scripture Reading—Doctrine and Covenants 162:2b

Listen to its teachings and discover anew its principles. Do not yearn for times that are past, but recognize that you have been given a foundation of faithful service, even as you build a foundation for what is yet to be.

Prayer for Peace

Esther Steward

Yahweh:

May we be inspired by compassion, as we work as peacemakers. May we embrace: respect, healing, redeeming, restoring, strengthening and encouraging ways, so that all may know their great worth and potential for growth and service to you.

May we find new ways to build up, support, empower and allow those willing to be generous with their time and talents, and in their ministry, to use their giftedness with trust, not stifling or dictating to them.

May we someday know the wholeness of shalom envisioned by you, our Creator.

May we always speak the truth in a loving way.

We realize peacemaking was one of the central passions of Jesus’ life. May the Holy Spirit move, breathe and live among us until it becomes our passion as well.

Please look upon us now with mercy and grace, for we are divided in so many ways. Give us the Spirit of Jesus to make us one in faith, trust, joy, hope, love, peace and service. Please show us the way to make peace, finding unity in our diversity and, in response to the great worth you have for all persons.

Please give us clean hearts to build your peaceful kingdom. In the name of Jesus Christ, our Prince of Peace, we pray. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 570 in Community of Christ Sings, “God, Whose Grace Redeems Our Story.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 570.

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 this day begin with ourselves and then, enlarging life’s circle, move outward to include those we know and love, to strangers and enemies, to the entire world, and to all of creation.

Please join with me in today’s prayer and meditation; quiet your breathing and embrace God’s eternal grace as you become aware of your own responses to the guided prayers of the people.

Pause.

God, you are the still point of the circle within which all creation is found. I yearn to connect with your spirit of peace and experience the companionship of your presence in this moment. May I abide in the center of creation’s circle with you?

Pause.

Creator of horizons, help us draw the circle wider to include those I know and love, and even those I struggle to understand and accept. Fill this circle with the gifts of forgiveness, mercy, compassion, and peace. Give us the desire to include all whose paths cross ours into a place where acceptance is offered freely. Draw our circle wider.

Pause.

Giver of dreams, let the peace we’ve dreamed of expand to embrace all your children. We remember all nations, including Côte d’Ivoire, the country we pray for today. Within this circle may we see the other as brother and sister, and act as mutual stewards of one another. You call us to live without borders that exclude. Help us to draw the circle wider still.

Pause.

God of all living things, your world longs to be whole and in harmony. The dream of shalom includes caregiving for the water, earth, air and all that has life in one great family. You created us with interdependencies. Give us mutual respect and tender care for all. Let this be our song: Nothing on your created Earth stands alone, but lives in shalom with all other living things. Draw the circle wide open.

Pause.

Architect of life and peace, may we be blessed by your vision of shalom this day. May our minds, hearts, and spirits be wide enough for all to find a home. We pray in the name of Jesus Christ, God’s shalom. Amen.

Musical Reflection

Sending Forth

May blessings of peace

Be realized today

Through the Source, Savior, and Spirit.

Go in peace.



