Honduras — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this Temple which is “dedicated to the pursuit of peace. …[and which] shall be for reconciliation and for healing of the spirit.” “You are called to create pathways in the world for peace in Christ.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 156:5a; 163:3a

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Honduras, a nation in Central America that is sometimes referred to as Spanish Honduras, to differentiate it from Belize, once known as British Honduras. Honduras was home to several important Mesoamerican cultures, including the Maya. It is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, though it is known for its growing textile industry and rich natural resources including minerals, coffee, and sugar cane.

Scripture Reading—Matthew 5:1-12 NRSV

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. Then he began to speak, and taught them, saying:

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they will receive mercy.

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

“Blessed are you when people revile you and persecute you and utter all kinds of evil against you falsely on my account. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

Prayer for Peace

Gene Vanderwood

Give us peace in the mountains,

Give us peace by the sea,

Give us peace in the valley,

O Lord I ask this of thee.

Work for peace in the mountains,

Work for peace by the sea,

Work for peace in the valley,

Christ ask this of me.

With peace in the mountains,

With peace by the sea,

With peace in the valley,

O Lord please come and see.

Now that peace is in the mountains,

Now that peace is by the sea,

Now that peace is in the valley,

Christ has given peace to me.

Dear Lord,

Please give us strength to continue to work for peace.

As we strive for peace may we be an influence on the world.

Let us find peace in family, peace in community, peace in country and peace for the world.

In Christ’s name. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is 378 in Community of Christ Sings, “Oh, How Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit.” Sing or silently reflect on the meaning of the text as it is sung. Hymn number 378.

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 Honduras, 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.