Daily Prayer for Peace
1:00 p.m.
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Algeria
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more about
Algeria?
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Gathering in Silence
Call to Prayer
Lighting of CandleInvitation |
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Welcome, and thank you for
coming to share in this time of prayer for peace. 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 Algeria in our prayers. Located in
northwest Africa on the Mediterranean coast, Algeria is the second
largest country in Africa after Sudan. The Sahara covers more than 80%
of the country. Over 90% of Algerians live along the Mediterranean
coast. Algeria became independent in 1962 after a century of rule by
France. Since 1991 Algerian politics has been dominated by violence
between the military and Islamic militants. Longstanding problems
continue to face the current government, including the ethnic minority
Berbers' ongoing autonomy campaign, large-scale unemployment, a shortage
of housing, unreliable electrical and water supplies, government
inefficiencies and corruption, and the continuing - although
significantly degraded - activities of extremist militants. Algeria must
also diversify its petroleum-based economy, which has yielded a large
cash reserve but which has not been used to redress Algeria's many
social and infrastructure problems.
As we light the Candle of Peace, let us reflect on the absence of peace
and its effect on our world. (silence) Now let us worship together as we
seek new ways to pursue peace and dedicate ourselves to ongoing peace. |
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| Scripture Reading: Philippians 4:7 NASB |
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The peace of God, which surpasses all
comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. |
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Prayer for Peace by Donna M. Pratt, Des
Moines, Iowa |
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Heavenly Parent,
Out of the silence we come to You.
To You who gives voice to the thunder and to the laughter of children,
To You who allows us to see the beauty of your earth which was created
for us to use wisely,
Who allows us to smell the new-mown hay as well as the bread freshly
baked for your Holy Sacrament,
or to share with a neighbor,
Who allows us to touch hands in friendship and to soothe the brow of
those who are at times troubled and
weary.
We ask that you create in us a new being,
a being that is hungering for peace,
One that would go the second mile, and the third, and the fourth.
Help us to have hearts that respond
positively when we think that we are wronged,
Help us to see "the other side" of every situation in which we are
involved
For we know, dear God, that it is through our faith in You
That we are blessed.
And this blessing can, when used correctly,
Bring about that Peace for which we have yearned so long.
As we observe the lighted peace candle, let us center our thoughts on
peace.
Peace...what a beautiful sound.
Let it start with me. Amen. |
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Hymn - Lord, I Give You (vs.1-5) - Sing
for Peace #32 |
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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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Great God of all nations, races, and creeds, we praise
you. You are our refuge in times of trial and our joy in times of
celebration. We thank you and praise you. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
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This day we especially pray for your blessings on the people and the
nation of Algeria. May they find the peace that only you may give. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
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We acknowledge those times when we have been less than you created us to
be. Heal our brokenness, and lead us into paths of peace as we praise
you. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
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We would also remember those who hunger and thirst for food, knowledge,
friends, shelter, or clothing. Open our hearts so we will be part of the
solution, not the cause of hurt in our world. |
| 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. |
| The People Pray in Silence |
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O God of Peace, may your truth radiate from this place as we seek to be
your people of peace in the world. Amen. |
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| Sending Forth |
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We conclude our service today with ministry of music. We
invite you to remain in the quiet of this place to pray or meditate for
as long as you may wish.
Let us go from this house and be the people of peace we are called to
be. May the God of all people help us to keep our good resolves this
day.
Go in peace. Amen. |
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| Ministry of Music |
