Paraguay — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this Temple which is “dedicated to the pursuit of peace. …[and which] shall be for reconciliation and for healing of the spirit.” “You are called to create pathways in the world for peace in Christ.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 156:5a; 163:3a

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Paraguay, a nation in central South America that borders Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia.

Scripture Reading— Colossians 3:12-17

As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Prayer for Peace

Donald Lents

We continue, O God, to express our appreciation for your love, your concern and interest. There are many times when your compassion for us is not warranted because of our actions as well as our thoughts. In our better moments we are very much aware of your desire for peace among your children the world over. However, here too, we are conscious that on occasion our deeds and thoughts hinder development of the deep-seated peace attributes and characteristics necessary to accomplish the peaceful existence you want us to attain.

With this awareness we yearn individually and collectively to alter our lives so that our communities and our world will be successful with you in making the necessary adjustments that will move us always forward toward success in our mutual endeavors.

This world, your world, is made up of many brilliant men and women who have been blessed with the touch of divinity. At the same time many with less ability have also responded to that touch and in turn have been richly blessed in their contributions. Our prayer, this day, is one of aspiration that all your creatures will recognize the divine spark within and be encouraged and inspired in their response to truly have a holy concern for the welfare of the fellow man. As this becomes a reality in the souls of your people a natural response will be the peace for which we pray.

Accept our gratitude for the privilege that is ours today in expressing our thoughts in your presence. As we leave this time of meditation help us go with the assurance of your acknowledgement of our hunger for peace. May this passion cultivate and produce a burning desire for each of us to consistently search for the confidence to aid in the peacemaking endeavor.

We offer this prayer and ask for the blessings indicated in the name of the great peacemaker, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 184 in Community of Christ Sings, “Kyrie Eleison.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 184.

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, ultimately, the planet.

Jesus Christ, the light of the world, invites you into his presence and his peace. Please allow yourself to breathe deeply and envision yourself in his all-embracing light as we share the prayers of the people.

Pause.

Radiant God, we come into your presence grateful for the light you have brought into the world; breathe your spirit into our very beings. May your love shine from within us as evidence that you continue to bless your creation with possibility and peace.

Pause.

Illuminating One, as we experience that light within us, help us radiate your love and light to those around us. May our friends, families, coworkers, and neighbors become aware of your light that emanates from within them as well, redeeming brokenness and creating peace.

Pause.

Light of the world, extend ever-increasing brightness within this circle of self and friends to those who live all around the world. We remember all nations, including Paraguay, the country we pray for today. In places of darkness and hopelessness, may rays of your saving light break through and provide the way to hope and peace.

Pause.

Holy One, who created darkness and light, bless all your creation with the energy your light produces. Continue to sustain all forms of life—seen and unseen, for the welfare of your beloved creation. May the entire Earth be at peace.

Pause.

May the One who spoke light into darkness and substance out of the void hear our prayers. May the circle of light in which we live be enlarged to encompass all that was, and is, and is to be. Amen.

Musical Reflection

Sending Forth

As we depart in joy,

Confront injustices,

Be part of transformations toward peace, and

Generate hope for the world.

Go in peace.



