Prayer for Peace

Mother/Father, all-powerful and ever-living God,
we praise and thank you through Christ Jesus
for your presence and action in the world.
In the midst of conflict and division,
we know it is you who turn our minds
to thoughts of peace.
The Spirit changes our hearts:
enemies begin to speak to one another,
those who were estranged join hands in friendship,
and nations seek the way of peace together.
The Spirit is at work
when understanding puts an end to strife,
when hatred is quenched by mercy,
and when vengeance gives way to forgiveness.
For this we never cease to thank and praise you.
Amen.