Daily Prayer for Peace
1:00 p.m.
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Ireland
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Gathering in Silence
Call to Prayer
Lighting of CandleInvitation |
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Welcome today to this quiet
place of prayer. We’re happy to have you here to pray with us. Each day
in this Temple dedicated to the pursuit of peace, we pray to God for
peace in our world. In addition, each day we pray for a different
country.
Today we will hold up the people of Ireland in our prayers. Ireland is
located in Western Europe. An island off the coast of Great Britain.
Ireland was controlled by the Celts, Iron Age warriors from eastern
Europe, for 1000 years; they left a legacy of language and culture that
survives today. English power in Ireland was consolidated under Henry
VIII and Elizabeth I; decisions from that time period sowed the seed for
division and dissension that lasted for centuries. After decades of war
between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, they seem to have
finally found peace. The Irish Republic Army turned in its guns and
ended its armed campaign in mid-2005. A power-sharing agreement was
successfully instituted in May 2007. The economy continues to grow,
creating challenges with increased immigration and pressure on Ireland’s
welfare and transport infrastructure.
As we meet together, let the God of all people guide our worship so that
we may be able to say, “Yes Lord, it is good to meet with you. Enlighten
us and teach us, we pray.” |
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| Scripture Reading: Isaiah 54:10 NRSV |
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For the mountains may depart, and the hills
be removed; but my steadfast love shall not depart from you, and my
covenant of peace shall not be removed, says the LORD, who has
compassion on you. |
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Prayer for Peace by Roxanne Rice,
Independence, Missouri |
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O God, we thank you for your ever-present vigil in our
lives.
As you walk with us this day, our spirits are stirred, for there are
persons in this world who are in need of your love and protection.
It is during this time that peace becomes our cry--peace instead of
war--peace instead of suffering--peace instead of doubt.
We consider the cause of peace and where it must begin-- here, Savior,
within us as you reside. Resolve the personal turmoil among your
children.
Guide us, O God, O that peace within us--that which you have called for
us to seek since the beginning.
Now, we hear you and remember to watch. That stay of peace within us is
our prayer. Bring to us that higher understanding. Amen. |
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Hymn - Lord, Who Views All People
Precious - Hymns of the Saints #459 |
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Prayers of the People
Please join us now, praying the Prayers of the People. During the
moments of silence, you are invited to pray silently or meditate. |
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Lord of all nations, we thank you for knowing us. We
thank you for family, friends, those who will be friends, the earth and
all its bounty. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
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We rejoice when one step is made toward peace between nations but know
the journey is long and the steps are many. On this day, please hear our
prayers concerning the nation of Ireland, its leaders and its people. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
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We lament the causes of injustice and seek enlightenment that we may
understand better our part in peace for the world. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
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O Loving God, we pray for our church leaders who are preparing for World
Conference in April. May we all be open to the Holy Spirit as we join
our hearts and minds to seek your will and direction.
The People Pray in Silence (20 seconds of silence)
We would not forget the need for peace in ourselves, our families, our
nation, and our church. We confess that we are less than you created us
to be and humbly ask forgiveness. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
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As our church prepares for World Conference
in April, we pray for our church leaders as they seek your guidance. May
we all be open to the Holy Spirit as we join our hearts and minds to
seek your will and direction. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
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Please use this space to pray for any
current concern or event in our community, city, state, nation or world
that you feel needs to be held up to God for prayerful consideration.
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| The People Pray in Silence |
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This day, in response to your call, we offer ourselves as instruments of
peace in our world. Amen. |
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| Sending Forth |
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We conclude our service today with ministry of music.
You are invited to remain to pray or meditate in the quiet of this place
for as long as you may wish.
Let us go from this house and be the peacemakers and peacekeepers we are
called to be. Go in peace. Amen. |
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| Ministry of Music |
