14 June 2017

Prayers for Peace [Church of Scotland]

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Once again I have been moved to post these prayers which come from the Church of Scotland (Presbyterian).  

Before we find ourselves suddenly engulfed in warfare or violence on every side, let us pray for God's Peace and the Divine Will to prevail over the hearts and wills of all those who would sew division, create chaos, and inflict violence and pain on everyone.



A Prayer in time of war.
from The Book of Common Order of the Church of Scotland

God of infinite mercy, we trust in your good purposes of peace for all your children. We pray for those who at this time face danger in the defence of justice. Watch over those in peril; support those who are anxious for loved ones; gather into your eternal purpose those who will die. Remove from the hearts of all people the passions that keep alive the spirit of war, and in your goodness restore peace among us; for the sake of the Prince of peace, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


A Prayer that the Will of God may prevail.
from The Book of Common Order of the Church of Scotland


Lord God, Sovereign over all, bring in the day of the splendour of your kingdom and draw the whole world into willing obedience to your reign. Cast out the evil things that cause war, and send your Spirit to rule the hearts of people in righteousness and love. Repair the desolations of many generations, that the wilderness may rejoice, and the city be made glad with your law. Confirm every work that is founded on truth, and fulfil the desires and hopes of your people, through the victory of Christ our Lord. Amen.


A Prayer for Guidance and Protection.
from The Book of Common Order of the Church of Scotland

God of light and love, in your tender compassion you sent your Son to shine on those who sit in darkness and to guide our feet into the way of peace. Grant us, in our doubts and uncertainties, the grace to ask what you would have us do. By your Spirit of wisdom, save us from false choices. And since it is by your light that we are enlightened, lead us and protect us, and give us a straight path to follow, that we may neither stumble nor fall; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


By thy love and pity, save us, O Lord Christ.