Belarus
Daily Prayer for Peace
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Gathering in Silence
Call to Prayer
Lighting of Candle
Invitation |
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In the name of Jesus Christ, I welcome all who are gathered here, and all who join us around the world in praying for peace and are represented by the empty seats among us. Each day in this Temple dedicated to the pursuit of peace, reconciliation and healing of the spirit, we pray for peace and uphold one of the nations of the world. Today we remember the people of Belarus in our prayers. Located in Eastern Europe, Belarus attained its independence in 1991 and has retained closer political and economic ties to Russia than any of the former Soviet republics. The people continue to suffer from serious health issues related to the 1986 nuclear disaster in Chernobyl. The Belarusian economy relies largely on agriculture and manufacturing and is battling high unemployment rates. The hope and peace of Jesus Christ is offered freely to the people of all nations. As we unite in worship, let us also be united in our desire to share the peace of Christ with all who dwell on the earth. |
Scripture Reading |
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We know that we have passed from death to life because we love one another. Whoever does not love abides in death. We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us—and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. How does God’s love abide in anyone who has the world’s goods and sees a brother or sister in need and yet refuses help? |
Prayer for Peace |
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Lord of all, you are both creator and sustainer of life. Lord of love, we give you thanks for the invitation to join you here in this peaceful environment to worship you in spirit and in truth. Lord of forgiveness, you enter our state of confusion and replace it with the spirit of peace. Lord of joy, teach us the joy of living and giving in order that our relationships may become fruitful to all we are surrounded by each day. Lord of integrity, help us to see our lives in the spirit of giving and forgiving, that peaceful manifestations would reveal to others the nature of your son, Jesus Christ. Creator of life, your presence is always fresh and available for us. You call us to be aware of human needs, to know the power of self-giving, and to rejoice in your presence in us. Loving God, we thank you for this time we are allowed to share with you and each other in this place. Our worship prepares us to go forth to serve. God of life, may we allow you to become known to us that we may gain greater humility and be able to capture the sense of commitment you have for us. God of redemption, who takes the simple things of life and transforms them into greater accomplishments, continue to share with us in this time of worship as we accept your forgiveness, receive your guidance, and are made whole again. In the spirit of peace that passes all understanding, Amen. |
Hymn |
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Prayers of the People |
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We thank you, God, for your gracious spirit ever present in our world. Grant that our hearts and minds might be opened so your love and grace will bring forth generosity of sharing your love with others. |
The People Pray in Silence |
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We seek your forgiveness for our sins and a keener sense of what is important in our living. Guide us as we seek to know and do your will. |
The People Pray in Silence |
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We pray for the nations of the world, and especially uphold the people of Belarus. May all persons know your peace and live in harmony with each other and with all creation. |
The People Pray in Silence |
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Guide church leaders, the members they serve, and all who passionately engage in the ministry of Jesus Christ. |
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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We pray in the precious name of Jesus, 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. May our lives reflect God’s love for all persons and all creation as we go forth to serve in the name of Jesus Christ. |
Ministry of Music |
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