Taiwan — 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 Taiwan, a nation off the southeastern coast of mainland China. The shape of the main island of Taiwan is similar to a sweet potato seen in south to north, and therefore, Taiwanese often call themselves “children of the Sweet Potato.”

Scripture Reading— Matthew 16:21-28 NRSV

From that time on, Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and undergo great suffering at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “God forbid it, Lord! This must never happen to you.” But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; for you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.”

Then Jesus told his disciples, “If any want to become my followers, let them deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life?

“For the Son of Man is to come with his angels in the glory of his Father, and then he will repay everyone for what has been done. Truly I tell you, there are some standing here who will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.”

Prayer for Peace

Dan Gregory

Our God and Walker of the Way,

How we long to follow in your path. We want to be known among our friends and in our communities as the people of peace. We want to reflect the Light that comes into our lives wherever we find ourselves looking into Your face.

Your Spirit quickens within us—let us hear!

Your peace brings comfort—let us breathe!

Your vision draws us beyond the horizon—let us walk!

Lift our eyes to the vision of what must be, not just what might be. Remind us we do not walk the way alone but are strengthened as we draw close to You and one another. When we falter, forgive us. When our hearts harden, break them open. When we encounter weary spirits, may we extend the invitation to come and see the One who revives us and brings us peace. For we yearn to walk in the way that leads to Your dream of Shalom.

Comfort our fears.

Strengthen our resolve.

Surprise us along the way.

Open us to new understandings and dimensions of Your grace.

Soften our hearts that we might see You and walk with You and live peacefully and passionately, following in the footsteps of the Living Christ.

We pray for peace in the name of Jesus, the Christ. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is “Kanisa Litajengwa” number 338 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 Taiwan, 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.