Syria — 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 Syria, a nation in western Asia. Its capital Damascus is among the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Scripture Reading— Psalm 72:12-14 NRSV

For he delivers the needy when they call,

the poor and those who have no helper.

He has pity on the weak and the needy,

and saves the lives of the needy.

From oppression and violence he redeems their life;

and precious is their blood in his sight.

Prayer for Peace

Betty Williams

Almighty One, we give praise and honor to you for a world you have made for us to live in and with more than enough to go around.

Your world is orderly, the seasons go by as we live and grow up and grow old. Yet in the world there is much suffering from war, and greed and indifference.

Please instill in our hearts the desire for peace right where we live and do our best right at our home.

Give us wisdom to teach our children to love, to respect, and to be kind to each other so they can grow up with peace in mind.

Let us share all good things that you provide to us on this Earth.

You are the one who does not hesitate to respond to our call and you are the cornerstone of peace.

Amen

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 135 in Community of Christ Sings, “All Things Bright and Beautiful.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 135.

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 Syria, 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.



