Sweden

Daily Prayer for Peace

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Gathering in Silence
Call to Prayer
Lighting of Candle

Invitation

We light this candle representing our commitment to pursue just and lasting peace for all persons and for all creation. In the name of Christ, I welcome all who have gathered here today, and all who join us in praying for peace.

Each day in this Temple dedicated to the pursuit of peace, we pray for peace within and with one another, and uphold one of the nations of the world.

Today we uphold the people of Sweden in our prayers. Located in Northern Europe, the Kingdom of Sweden has not participated in any war in almost two centuries. Sweden's long-successful economic formula of a capitalist system interwoven with substantial welfare elements has recently been undermined by high unemployment, rising maintenance costs, and a declining position in world markets. Sweden has a relatively low population density and is known for its tolerant, secular and egalitarian society.

We join with brothers and sisters of Sweden, and all nations, as we unite in prayer and strive for justice and peace in all communities.

Scripture Reading —Galatians 5:21-23 NCV
	But the Spirit produces the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.
Prayer for Peace — Bob Kyser, Independence, Missouri, USA
	O God, Our Creator and Sustainer Today, in this moment of encounter with you We pause to express our gratitude For the assurance of your Divine presence with us. We acknowledge your gift of peace Which comes to us through the Spirit of Your Son Jesus Christ. As we seek to open that gift of Christ's Peace in our lives May we also commit to sharing that gift with others. May our lives be a living witness demonstrating the fruit of that peace Inviting all to share. We pray for peace in our relationships, especially in the context of family. May our family, your family refocus from what divides to that which unites us. Thus moving towards your Peaceable Kingdom May all your creation be blessed. In Christ's Name we pray, Amen
Hymn Gracious Spirit, Dwell with Me - Hymns of the Saints #284
Prayers of the People Please join us now, praying the “Prayers of the People. During the moments of quiet, you are invited to pray silently or meditate.
	Creating and Loving God, we give thanks for the gifts and blessings of life and the abundance of your grace and mercy.
The People Pray in Silence
	We confess our shortcomings and recognize our need for your peace in our lives. Forgive our selfishness and pride and guide us as we strive to know and do your will.
The People Pray in Silence
	We uphold the nation and people of Sweden, and seek communities of joy, hope, love and peace for the people of all nations.
The People Pray in Silence
	We lament the causes of injustice and seek enlightenment as we strive to understand better our responsibility in promoting peace in all the world.
The People Pray in Silence
	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
	This day, in response to your call, we offer ourselves as instruments of peace in your world. Amen.
Sending Forth
	Our service concludes with ministry of music, and you are invited to remain in the quiet of this place and pray or meditate as long as you wish. May our words bring help and healing where there is need, may our actions be bold for the cause of justice and peace, and may our lives reflect God’s love for all creation. Amen.
Ministry of Music