Fiji

Daily Prayer
for Peace

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Gathering in Silence

Call to Prayer

Lighting of Candle

Welcome today to this sacred place, and we are happy to greet you in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus, our Savior.  Each day in this Temple dedicated to the pursuit of peace, we pray to God for peace in our world.  In addition, each day we pray for a different country.

Today we will remember the people of Fiji in our prayers.  A leader in education and health among the small island nations of the Pacific Ocean, the Fiji Islands comprise two main islands and more than 300 lesser ones, about a third of them inhabited.  Fiji became independent in 1970, after nearly a century as a British colony.  Democratic rule was interrupted by two military coups in 1987, caused by concern over a government perceived as dominated by the Indian community.  Amendments enacted in 1997 made the constitution more equitable.  Fijians still practice many traditional arts and crafts, and the narrative meke performances and dance are still strong. Community of Christ has been established in the Republic of Fiji Islands since 1968.

As we gaze upon our lighted candle, let us think upon other times and places where God’s truth has burst forth as the way from darkness into light.

Scripture Reading

Psalm 4:6-8 INT

So many are asking,
                   “Does good even exist anymore?”
Let the light of your face, Adonai, shine on us!
          You put joy in my heart—a joy greater than being full of bread and new wine.
In peace I’ll lie down, in peace I will sleep: for you alone, Adonai, keep me perfectly safe.

Prayer for Peace

by Donald Browne, Reno, Nevada

Today, Lord, I want to walk with you.  I want to open myself to your Spirit, to the peace that comes from you.  Instead of rushing through my tasks, preoccupied with details, schedules, errands, and assorted plans, big and small, I want to spend this day with you.

Draw my attention to the sunshine and the cool morning breeze, and help me to remember that your love binds all nature together.  There is peace in the surety that each day is a new opportunity to enjoy and experience your wonderful creation. 

As I visit and work with friends and colleagues, and listen to their triumphs and frustrations, help me to share your peace with them, to witness of your constant love that underlies all of life's happiness and sorrow.

In the smile of a tiny baby, and the clasp of an aged hand, reveal to me the joy of new life, and the mystery and hope of the future, and possibilities and new experiences yet to come.  Grant me the peace of knowing that ultimately, all of life, seen and unforeseen, is held in your hands.

In the pleasure of shared meals and fellowship, speak to me through the love from my fellow brothers and sisters with whom I journey through life.  Remind me of the peace and warmth that comes in knowing that I am loved and cared for by others.

In the satisfaction of tasks accomplished, goals achieved, even the little daily hurts and disappointments, speak to me and remind me that you, also, felt all these things in the life of your son.  Peace comes in remembering that you share and feel with me each day's varied successes and failures.

In the beauty of the sunset, the snowcapped mountains, the forces of heat and cold, show me how you shape and sculpt this incredible world.  When I walk under the stars at night, and hold up to you my hopes and fears, all those who are dear to me, the people whom I love, and even those I find difficult to love, I can feel your presence with me.  I feel your love and your peace fill and calm my soul.

Thank you, Lord, for sharing this day with me.  Help me to be open every day to your love and your spirit.  And may your peace, the hope and joy of your message, one day touch the hearts of all men and women, and bring peace to this world.

In the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, we pray. Amen.

Hymn

Thy Kingdom Come, O Lord— Hymns of the Saints #320

Prayers of the People

Great God, we praise you for sending the Prince of Peace. Help us to learn of the wisdom he tried to teach us, and live by His example.

The People Pray in Silence

We praise you for our families and friends, food and shelter, warmth and joy. We pray that all may be blessed with the necessities of life.

The People Pray in Silence

We praise you for holy forgiveness and claim its touch for our sins. In your compassion, guide us to become the best peacemakers we can become.

The People Pray in Silence

We praise you for all the peoples of the earth but especially remember the people of Fiji this day. May they know your peace.

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

Hear our prayer, O God, as we strive to be instruments of your peace in the world.   Amen.

Sending Forth

We will conclude our service today with Ministry of Music.  We invite you to remain in the quiet of this place to pray or meditate for as long as you may wish.

Now, may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit. Let us go forth and teach peace. Amen

Ministry of Music