Brazil — map

Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Invitation

In the name of Jesus Christ, welcome to this sacred space where you are invited to “Become a people of the Temple—those who see violence but proclaim peace, who feel conflict yet extend the hand of reconciliation, who encounter broken spirits and find pathways for healing.”

—Doctrine and Covenants 161:2a

Today in our prayers we remember the people of Brazil, a nation in South America. This large country stretches from the Amazon Basin in the north to vineyards and massive waterfalls in the south. Brazil is the largest country with Portuguese as an official language.

Scripture Reading—Psalm 86:11a, 15 NRSV

Teach me your way, O Lord,

that I may walk in your truth;

give me an undivided heart to revere your name. But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious,

slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.

Prayer for Peace

Juanita Zion

O God of peace and reconciliation, we praise you for teaching us about love and how it heals our relationships. Thank you for your powerful demonstration of divine love that places eternal value on every person. As we come into your presence and experience your love for us, help us to radiate your love, thereby bringing healing to our cities, our nations, and people facing violence. Open our hearts to bring a ministry of love. Amen.

Hymn

Today’s hymn is “Oh, Sing to the Lord” number 88 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 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 Brazil, 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.