Côte d’Ivoire — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this sacred space where we are called to, “above all else, strive to be faithful to Christ’s vision of the peaceable Kingdom of God on earth. Courageously challenge cultural, political, and religious trends that are contrary to the reconciling and restoring purposes of God. Pursue peace.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 163:3b

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Côte d’Ivoire (koht de-VWAR), 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— Luke 1:47-48, 51-55, NRSV

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for he has looked with favor on the lowliness of his servant.

Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed; He has shown strength with his arm;

he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.

He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,

and lifted up the lowly;

he has filled the hungry with good things,

and sent the rich away empty.

He has helped his servant Israel,

in remembrance of his mercy,

according to the promise he made to our ancestors,

to Abraham and to his descendants forever.”

Prayer for Peace

Evalina L. Gustin

Dear Lord, our God, lead us, supply our needs as we strive to follow in answer to your call to bring your peace to your suffering world. Weed our hearts of weariness and cares; permit us to feel your affirming Spirit in our lives that we will take courage and continue in your light. Help us reflect the peace which comes from knowing of and striving to understand your ways, even as we meet clamor, chaos, troubles or griefs. We ask for and need your blessings in grace, strengths, compassion and love as we reach out to other lives. Grant these, we ask in your son’s name. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 404 in Community of Christ Sings, “Canticle of the Turning.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 404.

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 Côte d’Ivoire, 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.



