Indigenous Peoples of Europe
Daily Prayer for Peace
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Gathering in Silence |
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Invitation |
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Good afternoon. In the name of Christ, I welcome all who are gathered here and all who join us around the world in praying for peace who are represented by the empty seats among us. Each day in this Temple, dedicated to the pursuit of peace, we pray for peace and uphold the nations of the world. Today we remember the Indigenous Peoples of Europe in our prayers. Among others, these include the Basque, Romany, Saami, Livonian, and Chukchi peoples. They were the first inhabitants of Europe, wherever they may reside, and often they were driven from their homes to make way for another civilization. Lives have been shattered and cultures lost. We affirm and uphold the worth and dignity of all persons. As we unite in worship and prayer, we join with brothers and sisters of all nations in a common desire for just and holistic peace for all peoples. |
Scripture Reading |
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Therefore, let us conduct ourselves in ways that lead to peace and mutual growth. |
Prayer for Peace |
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Our Gracious and Loving Heavenly Parent, We come to you today with concerns for our world. Your children are at odds with each other and it is our desire to be the peacemakers among them. We know that peace can only exist where there is justice. And where great poverty exists along side wealth there is injustice. We know it is your desire that there is equality in your world – that the valleys will be exalted and the mountains made low as in Isaiah’s description of justice. We choose this justice. Help us to act as if we are already part of your Kingdom. Help us to side with the poor, the meek, the hungry, those in need – the ones Jesus promised His peace. We choose to respect all people as your children, listen to their stories, and respond to their needs. Let us remember that peace, like hate and anger, is a choice we make. We choose justice and peace. But we are only human and we need your constant guidance to be the peacemakers you have called us to be. So we claim the promise of the peace your Son brought – a peace the world cannot understand. When we carry this peace within us we see through the eyes of peace. We see your children as you see them. And we can love them in a different way, without judgment, without prejudice. We can love your way. Today we ask that you aid us in our choice to be at peace with all your children. We choose peace rather than conflict. We choose to imitate your son. In whose name we pray, Amen. |
Hymn |
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Prayers of the People |
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God of all persons, we give thanks for the many blessings of creation. We offer our praise and gratitude for knowing us and loving each of us as your beloved children. |
The People Pray in Silence |
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We uphold the concerns of all who are gathered here this day. We confess our shortcomings and seek your forgiveness for the times we have not been the persons you created us to be. |
The People Pray in Silence |
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We pray for the Indigenous Peoples of Europe. Bless all who struggle to reconcile traditional customs and culture with modern advancements. Help us embrace the diversity of all peoples and live in peace and mutual growth. |
The People Pray in Silence |
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Guide us in being wise stewards of all earth’s resources for the sake of all persons and all creation. |
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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Hear our prayer, O God, as we offer ourselves to be instruments of your peace in our world. In the name of the Prince of Peace, we pray. Amen. |
Sending Forth |
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Our service concludes with ministry of music, after which you are invited to remain in the quiet of this place and pray or meditate as long as you wish. Let us go from this time of worship and prayer to boldly proclaim Christ’s message of peace that is freely and generously offered for all. |
Ministry of Music |
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