Sweden — 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 Sweden, a nation in Northern Europe. It borders Norway and Finland and is connected to Denmark by a bridge-tunnel. About 15 percent of Sweden lies north of the Arctic Circle.

Scripture Reading—Doctrine and Covenants 163:10

Collectively and individually, you are loved with an everlasting love that delights in each faithful step taken. God yearns to draw you close so that wounds may be healed, emptiness filled, and hope strengthened. Do not turn away in pride, fear, or guilt from the One who seeks only the best for you and your loved ones. Come before your Eternal Creator with open minds and hearts and discover the blessings of the gospel anew. Be vulnerable to divine grace.

Prayer for Peace

Joyce Heath

O God, the eternal Father, we ask in the name of Jesus Christ to grant us inner peace. May we no longer live from the fears of past experiences. May we demonstrate an unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment. O God may we lose interest in judging ourselves and judging other people.

May we lose interest in conflict and interpreting the actions of others. O God may we rejoice with a feeling of connectedness with others, with nature and all your creation.

May we as your people be increasingly susceptible to love extended by others as well as the uncontrollable urge to extend it. O God may we experience overwhelming episodes of appreciation that causes us to smile repeatedly through the eyes of our heart. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 236 in Community of Christ Sings, “God! When Human Bonds Are Broken.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 236.

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 Sweden, 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.



