Prayer of Remembrance

We remember with gratitude, those in this congregation and beyond who sacrificed their lives for freedom…all the veterans who served here or overseas in the wars of the last century. It is not just the minute or the hour we take to call their lives to mind. It is what we do with all of our todays that speaks volumes.

We bring to mind those who live in places where peace and harmony is yearned for. Places where oppression or conflict, war or hunger continue to be part of the fabric of lives of men, women, and children… where hatred and anger have turned neighbor against neighbor… yet where love is kept alive in the hearts of many, and the will to find peaceful solutions continues to be the vision and hope.

We call to mind all those who protect our lives and freedoms today. Those who work in our world, our country, and our communities to protect, to bring peace, to help people in distress. Our Canadian soldiers… our police, firefighters, paramedics… the many who put themselves in harm’s way for our safety and protection.

In trust we pray for a day when God’s love reigns everywhere…
when wars will have ceased, when communities will be places of healing,
and no one will live in fear.
That day is not only in the future, but begins today and each day…
within each of us…
God’s mercy and grace and wisdom… are new every morning… 
Guiding us to live in love and truth… forgiveness and healing…
God’s promise. Our common trust.

We pray for those close to our hearts here at home...in our families, our congregation and our community… those named and in our hearts…those in need of hope, healing, courage, wisdom, guidance… (silent prayer…)

 Amen