Syria

Invitation

I welcome you in the name of Jesus Christ whose peace we seek for all creation.

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 remember the people of Syria in our prayers.  Located in the Middle East, the people of Syria are warm and welcoming, and hospitality is a cornerstone of Syrian life.  Syria has experienced a rather tumultuous period since independence in 1946.  Syria was under Emergency Law from 1962-2011 which suspended most constitutional protection to its citizens.  The nation is currently facing massive protests as a result of the Arab Spring.  A rapidly growing population, industrial growth, and water pollution remain major concerns. 

As we unite in worship and prayer, we seek reconciliation and peace for the people of Syria and all nations.

Scripture Reading
—Psalm 72:1-7 IP

O God, give your anointed one your judgment—
and your justice.

Teach your chosen one to govern your people rightly
and bring justice to the oppressed.

The mountains will bring the people peace
and the hills justice!

Your anointed will defend the oppressed among the people,
save the children of the poor.

The reign of the anointed will endure
as long as the sun and moon—
throughout the generations.

The rule of the chosen one will be
like rain coming down on the meadow,
like showers watering the earth.

Justice will flower through the days, and profound peace,
until the moon be no more.

Prayer for Peace
— Karen Anne Smith, Ludington, Michigan, USA

Our Creator and Sustainer of Life,

Forgive us our human frailty.  Cleanse us of all resentment that we may truly become your children.  We love your creation and claim all people as family. Our hearts ache to relieve the suffering in our world, to bring the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to the bruised and broken hearted.  But as much as we love each person, we know that you love them even more.  Your love is pure, unfathomable and unfailing.

Increase our love, dear Father, to include those who are "enmeshed in sin,” snared by the darkness of hate.  These are also your children and part of our family.   Fill our hearts with compassion that overcomes anger.  Please teach us how to listen to your direction that we may become instruments of peace and loving children of God.

In the name of Jesus the Living Christ we pray. Amen.

Hymn
Make Room within My Heart, O God - Hymns of the Saints #182

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 your presence in our times of greatest joy as well as in our moments of deepest sorrow.  Open our hearts and minds to your embracing and transforming spirit of love and peace.

The People Pray in Silence

Forgive our selfishness and pride and guide us as we seek to live in righteous relationship with you, with one another, and with all creation.

The People Pray in Silence

We uphold for your blessing of peace the nation and people of Syria.  Guide and bless all who work to restore justice, freedom and peace for the people of Syria, and all nations.

The People Pray in Silence

We pray for church leaders, members and all who work to bring Christ’s message of hope and peace to all inhabitants of the earth.

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

We pray in the name of Christ whose peace we celebrate and share.  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.

Go, with the assurance of God’s present and guiding spirit, and be messengers of Christ’s peace which is for all creation.

Ministry of Music