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John 14:27       New International Version
‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid’.

Gracious God, as we acknowledge the International Day of Peace which was marked by the United Nations yesterday, we pray for all those in the midst of violence and conflict. Lord, we know that we live in a world where many suffer through the impact of war and conflict in different settings and situations. Too often, what we see and hear makes us feel sad and powerless to help, but we acknowledge that it makes You sad too, and that You are a God who feels the suffering of Your people. And so we come to You in prayer. We pray that Nations and World Leaders may unite to bring about peace across our world. We pray that in the midst of conflict and destruction, Your light will shine into the darkness. We pray for those whose voices are silenced, for whom hope has disappeared. And finally Lord God, we pray that you will help us and guide us to strive for justice, so that the voices of all people are heard. God of peace, may we unite as communities to bring Your justice, love, hope and peace into our world this day, and in the days to come. In the name of Jesus, the Prince of Peace we pray, Amen.