Prayer in a time of gun violence

A Prayer for an End to Violence

God of life,

Every act of violence in our world, in our communities, between myself and others, destroys a part of your creation.

Stir in my heart a renewed sense of reverence for all life.

Give me the vision to recognize your spirit in every human being, however they behave towards me.

Make possible the impossible by cultivating in me the fertile seed of healing love.

May I play my part in breaking the cycle of violence by realizing that peace begins with me.
In the name of Christ, who is our peace, Amen.

(adapted from St. Ethelburga’s Centre for Reconciliation and Peace, “Prayer for an End to Violence,” www.stethelburgas.org/prayer.html)

Listing of the numbers killed and injured by gun violence - Click here

Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord today by guns.

+++

From the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America ...

Lord of mercy, we call to you in this time of violence. We pray for all law enforcement officers, especially those who died last night during protests in Dallas and those who are injured, we pray for our brothers and sisters of color and we pray for all of your people who struggle and mourn. Be our light in the darkness. Lord in your mercy...