Oman — 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 Oman, a nation on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. This Arab country has a rich heritage, strong sense of identity and pride in its ancient past. Oman presents both the modern face of Arabia as well as its ancient soul.

Scripture Reading—Doctrine and Covenants 161:3a-c

Open your hearts and feel the yearnings of your brothers and sisters who are lonely, despised, fearful, neglected, unloved. Reach out in understanding, clasp their hands, and invite all to share in the blessings of community created in the name of the One who suffered on behalf of all.

Do not be fearful of one another. Respect each life journey, even in its brokenness and uncertainty, for each person has walked alone at times. Be ready to listen and slow to criticize, lest judgments be unrighteous and unredemptive.

Be patient with one another, for creating sacred community is arduous and even painful. But it is to loving community such as this that each is called. Be courageous and visionary, believing in the power of just a few vibrant witnesses to transform the world. Be assured that love will overcome the voices of fear, division, and deceit.

Prayer for Peace

Esther Steward

Wise and Wonderful God of Shalom:

In this moment, in this place, in this time—we pray for peace. Peace within ourselves, with our friends and family, with the Earth, in our church and community, in our city, state, and country and on this Earth, you have so generously created.

May we rejoice in the many dimensions of Christ’s peace—the peace Christ came to bring, the peace made for us, the peace made in us, the peace we are to make and the peace yet to come.

Please prepare, guide and direct us in paths of confession, forgiveness, repentance, reconciliation, renewal, transformation and peace.

We ask to feel your presence and peace surround us, even now.

May your peace enlighten and surprise us in many new ways, as we grow and mature into our discipleship, service and callings.

May we be reminded to live out our lives for you, God, even when it’s not convenient for us.

May we be a light and work to spread peace, as living sanctuaries for others.

May we be peacemakers wherever we are.

May we truly model Jesus’ example of peace, justice, healing and wholeness.

May we be prepared with oil and lamps burning, for the coming of Christ.

May we strive to bring about total reconciliation and your ultimate will—shalom.

In the name of our Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 154 in Community of Christ Sings, “Come, Holy Spirit, Come.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 154.

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 Oman, 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.



