Peace for Iraq

20 March 2003 | ACNS

PRAYERS

For the Human Family

O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For peace

Almighty God, all thoughts of truth and peace proceed from you. Kindle in the hearts of all people the true love of peace. Guide with your pure and peaceable wisdom those who take counsel for the nations of the earth; that in tranquility your kingdom may go forward, till the earth is filled with the knowledge of your love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

From the Book of Common Order of the Church of Scotland, St Andrew Press.

The Church’s Ministry to Those Who Serve

“O God visit and sustain the lives of our chaplains in their rounds, duties and deployments. Give them confident hearts in their service and protect our nation and its people in these difficult days. Never, Lord, let us abandon the character of righteousness in everything we do. Amen.”

+Bishop George Packard

Prayer for Peace

Lord Jesus Christ, who are called the Prince of Peace, who are yourself our peace and reconciliation, who so often said, “Peace to you,” grant us peace. Make all men and women witnesses of truth, justice, and brotherly love. Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace. Enlighten our rulers that they may guarantee and defend the great gift of peace. May all peoples on the earth become as brothers and sisters. May longed-for peace blossom forth and reign always over us all.

Pope John Paul II

Love is Stronger than Hate

Oh God, we stand before you with so many fears and uncertainties – imagined and real. Come into us and all people who truly seek your way. Bring into creation the chaos that is war and use us as your sons and daughters to show and live the way of peace and love. For we take our stand on your promise that love is stronger than hate, kindness greater than revenge. Turn our hearts, ever convert us to this truth and make us more whole as your Body in the world. Through your child, Jesus, who overcame violence and death with love and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit now and for eternity. Amen.

by Revd T Scott Allen, EPF Board

http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acns/special/2003gulf/prayers.html