Canada — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this sacred space that “stand(s) as a towering symbol of a people who knew injustice and strife on the frontier and who now seek the peace of Jesus Christ throughout the world.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 161:2b

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Canada, a nation in North America. It extends from the Atlantic to the Pacific and from the United States to the Arctic Ocean. Canada is home to the world’s northernmost settlement, found on Ellesmere Island.

Scripture Reading—Doctrine and Covenants 162: 8a-b

You are a good and faithful people, but sometimes you fail to see the power that is resident in your own story and fellowship. Look carefully, listen attentively, and sense the Spirit among you.

Do not be unduly concerned with numbers. Be fervent in your witness, passionate in your disciple-ship, and vigorous in your labor on behalf of peace and justice. Where two or three such disciples form community, there will the Spirit be. Many will come to see.

Prayer for Peace

Sharon Foster

Lord,

Today as we pause and pray for peace in this crazy unjust world, we are reminded that we are a family of faith. We love, we share, and we listen. We know that it is important to follow in your paths. We know that there are injustices in the world. We ask for your help in our own lives to see these injustices and strive to correct and make better these circumstances. We see the hatred, greed, and lack of understanding and ask you to show us how we can make our community better so that simple acts will spread to other communities to make the world a more just place to live.

Lord, we thank you for this time that we pray for peace. Guide and direct us as we continue in our day. Stay with us to offer your guiding hand, for Lord, you are our Rock.

In the name of our heavenly Father, we pray. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is “God Who Cares for All Creation” number 14 in Community of Christ Sings. Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text.

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 Canada, 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.



