Daily Prayer for Peace
1:00 p.m.
Angola
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Call to Prayer
Lighting of Candle
Invitation
Today we will remember the people of Angola in our prayers. Located in southern Africa, civil war has been the norm in Angola since independence from Portugal in 1975. But Angolans finally have some reason for hope - after more than 20 years of civil war that decimated the country, the government and UNITA rebels signed a cease-fire and peace agreement in early April 2002. The end of hostilities is just the first step in Angola's journey toward peace. War leaves scars: millions of displaced, homeless, maimed, orphaned, starving and diseased Angolans. This means no infrastructure, poor roads, crime, graft, up to 11 million landmines - and a glimmer of hope. Both sides have also promised to re-implement the 1994 Lusaka peace accord that had been abandoned since 1998. Angola is one of the world's poorest countries, with life expectancy, 40 years, among the lowest in Africa.
Let us unite as one in supplication to our God and Savior as we pray for peace on this day.
May God continue to be with the peacemakers who are working for justice in our world.
Prayer for Peace by Dolores McCormack, Thornhill, Ontario
You are God of the universe, the universal God, creator of all persons in all nations, with each one as diverse as the countries and continents from which they come. All have been touched with the beauty of your loving hand.
Because of your presence in the life of Jesus Christ, we are able to comprehend better your great love for all people.
Because of Christ's compassion and heartache in the experience of injustice, we know something of the anguish you must feel when wars and destructive causes bring suffering to your children.
We pray for the leaders and promoters of peace. May the stalwarts of every nation be strengthened in their resolve to fight injustice with love. May multitudes rise to support the process of peace.
Help us to uphold in our prayers the victims of violence as well as the champions of peace.
Help us to be aware that in our homes, in our communities, and in all of our relationships, peace must begin with us. May we be strengthened with Christ-like personalities that will enable us to love, to understand others, to be able to see another's point of view and accept their right to think differently.
Help all people to be the leaven of peace in their own sphere of influence. May we respond to your love.
In the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus the Christ, we pray. Amen.
Hymn - I Am Standing Waiting - Sing for Peace #27
Please join us now, praying the Prayers of the People. During the moments of silence, you are invited to pray silently or meditate.
We have spoken of and prayed for peace this day. Now, go in peace and share the peace of Jesus Christ in your world.