Prayer Celebration Directions

GATHERING SONG
INTRODUCTION
Leader		We listen to God who calls us to be people who bring justice and peace to our world. By living in the truth and seeking justice, we can create a more peaceful world. We can make a difference through our prayers and through our actions. We pray with confidence to God.
Side 1		God rules the world with justice,
Side 2		God judges the peoples fairly.
Side 1		The Lord gives strength to the oppressed,
Side 2		giving strength in times of trouble.
Side 1		Those who honor your name trust in you,
Side 2		because, Lord, you do not forsake those who seek you. (based on Psalm 9:8–11)
READING
Leader		A reading from Paul’s letter to the Philippians. (Read Philippians 4:4–7.) The word of the Lord.
All		Thank you, God.
RESPONSE
Leader		It is a holy thing to live in peace. It is a sacred act to create God’s kingdom in this world. Jesus showed the way and many have followed him. We give thanks, O Lord, for those among us who have lived out Jesus’ justice and peace. We ask to learn from them and to follow their example.
All		God of justice and peace, lead us in your way.
Leader		That we may follow the example of Joseph Cardinal Bernardin who saw everyone as his neighbor; who visited the sick, the poor, and the imprisoned.
All		God of justice and peace, lead us in your way.
Leader		That we may learn from Dorothy Day, who struggled daily for Catholic social principles.
All		God of justice and peace, lead us in your way.
Leader		That we may learn from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who led marches protesting injustice and discrimination.
All		God of justice and peace, lead us in your way.
Leader		That we may be strong like Sr. Thea Bowman who used her gifted voice to reach others through song and messages of justice.
All		God of justice and peace, lead us in your way.
Leader		That all men, women, and children may be strengthened to work for justice and peace in our times.
All		God of justice and peace, lead us in your way.
Leader		Let us share with one another a handshake of peace. (Participants quietly shake hands with those near them.)
Leader		We are encouraged by the loving example of those who have gone before us. We pray to be an example of justice and peace to those among us now.
All		Send us your Spirit, O Lord, to strengthen our resolve. Amen.
CLOSING SONG