Light a candle, as a visible sign of the light of Christ, who is the light of the world. Take a deep breath. Feel the breath of God that has given you life.
Centre yourself and pray…

Loving God,
in the swirling maelstrom of violent conflict, we ask for your peace, your lasting peace,
a peace that turns those who seek to wage war into patient negotiators,
a peace that will not allow children to be harmed or older persons abandoned,
a peace that calms the fear of families faced with leaving their homes,
a peace that means that young men and women will not have to kill or wound,
a peace that speaks the truth and will not descend to lies or deceit.

Loving God,
your peace will become a reality as those who run from conflict are accepted and helped,
your peace will become reality as the powerful ones think twice before unleashing military might,
your peace will become reality as kindness is found amongst the war-horrors,
your peace will become reality as confrontation gives way to understanding.

We will know your peace as we listen and as we pray.
We will speak of your peace to those who have power and influence.
We will act in the spirit of your peace to give shelter and end conflict.

We pray in the name of Jesus, who knew violence but lived the hard but peaceful way.

Amen 

―David Sparks