by Rev. Gary Commins
O God, from every corner of creation, you brought together people of every tribe and language and culture and nation, and made them one in your Spirit; breathe your Word into us, enflame us with a passion for peace, and enliven our gifts that we may ever work for the common good and the coming of your Kingdom. Amen.
For the world, that it may be transformed from a valley of dry bones into a mountain where nations dwell as one in peace
Spirit of life, give us your peace
For our city/community, that it may be transformed from a cruel wilderness into an abundant garden
Spirit of justice, give us your peace
For the Church, that it may be transformed from a lifeless institution into life-giving bread
Spirit of wisdom, give us your peace
For those tormented by oppression, illness, or aimlessness, that they may be transformed by healing and hope
Spirit of fire, give us your peace
For those tortured in body, mind, or spirit, that they may be transformed by the soothing balm of love
Spirit of hope, give us your peace
For us, that our half-seeing eyes and our half-hearted faith may be transformed into clear vision and single-minded action
Spirit of power, give us your peace
For those who have died, that by your Spirit they may be transformed by your forgiveness and purified in holiness
Spirit of life, give them your peace
O God, without your spirit our power ebbs away, without love our gifts are nothing; start a fire within us that cannot be quenched or contained, a flame that halts the fiery arrows of evil, and turns the world bright with hope. Amen.
