Sarah and Abraham in their old age were blessed with a child they deeply cherished, help us cherish children.

 

Saul of Tarsus persecuted and abused the followers of
Jesus, help abusers and the abused be transformed.

 

Peter denied Jesus and fled in fear, give us the courage to protect victims and challenge abusers.

 

Jesus spoke with conviction and challenged authorities. Help
us be prophets bringing justice to the abused.

 

Jesus loved the oppressed and outcast persons. Help us
foster laws that safeguard and respect the abused.

 

The first Christians were abused emotionally and physically,
being cast out of synagogues and shunned by neighbors and
Friends.  Give counselors wisdom and understanding hearts to
heal abusers and abused.

 

Mother Theresa saw Christ in the suffering and dying,
and welcomed them with loving care. May the hearts of all
of us be filled with such love.

Loving God, we gather here today to remember those who are affected by violence and abuse and for whom we are concerned.  We come with our requests to you and ask that you hear our prayer.  Alone we can do nothing.  With your guidance and blessing we can move mountains.  Open us to the problems both in our neighborhoods and in the neighborhoods of others.

 

Ever-living and loving God, you provoke us to the challenge of our time.  Keep us constantly aware to the concerns of violence.  Inspire each of us to know the urgency of your call to address the many needs that surround us.  Give us the fortitude to respond to the tasks before us according to Your will.  Be with us today, loving God, comfort us but not protect us from the work that needs to be done.

 

Let us leave this gathering more concerned about issues of violence and abuse that surround us.  We ask You for the strength to share our convictions, the compassion for the abused, the wisdom to plant seeds that encourage people to think and ponder these serious issues.  Watch over with care, those who are violated and those who strive to do your work in your name. Amen.

Lord God,
Your own Son was delivered into the hands of the wicked,
yet he prayed for his persecutors
and overcame hatred with the blood of the cross.
Grant those who stand against violence peace of mind
and a renewed faith in your protection and care.

 

Protect us all from the violence of others,
keep us safe from the weapons of hate,
and restore to us tranquility and peace.

 

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.