Background Notes

Throughout history there have always been people who model Jesus through their works and words. These are justice seekers and peacemakers. Jesus taught us the importance of loving others as we love ourselves; therefore, issues of justice are central for Christians. Working for justice includes respecting the rights of others, excluding no one, and learning to resolve disagreements in ways that honor and respect the needs of all. This prayer celebration focuses on the needs of others to which justice demands response.



"Peaceful People" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Becoming messengers of justice and peace
Materials		Prayer table, Bible, candle, copies of certificate and liturgy, ribbon, music Click here for a printable certificate
Reading		Philippians 4:4–7
Music		"Go and Listen," Blest Are We Music CD 2; "Come All You People/Uyai Mose," Gifts for a Lifetime Music CD)
Preparation		Before the prayer celebration, print out and photocopy certificates and liturgy, "Peaceful People," for participants. Fill in the certificates and then roll and tie each with a length of ribbon. Distribute during the prayer celebration. Practice your role as leader.
Adaptation		Have participants write a thank-you note to someone they know who "chooses peace." Or, they may choose to write thank-you notes to the holy people mentioned in the prayer celebration.
Additional Materials		"Go and Listen" Blest Are We Music CD 2 Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725). ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36653-0 Blest Are We Song Book Words and melody for children; contains music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36617-4 Blest Are We Accompaniment Book Contains accompaniment music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36618-2 "Come All You People/Uyai Mose" Gifts for a Lifetime Music CD ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36113-X Gifts for a Lifetime Song Book ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36103-2 Gifts for a Lifetime Accompaniment Book ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36104-0