In this Time of Conflict in the Middle East

Prayers of the Faithful
In this Time of Conflict in the Middle East

In this difficult time of war and conflict, let us pray to our Father in heaven who created us in love and made us, as his children in Christ, brothers and sisters to one another.

Father, hear your children.

1. That the Holy Church, under the leadership of our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, may steadfastly call on nations to the path of peace and reconciliation and lead in efforts to engage conflicting parties in sincere dialogue. Let us pray to the Lord.

2. For all world leaders, that they may work together to restore harmony and order in places afflicted by war and violence and come to rescue and relieve those who are caught in the midst of conflict. Let us pray to the Lord.

3. For Israel, Lebanon and Palestine, that they may learn to transcend their pride and hurt for the sake of their people and walk with each other along the path of forgiveness, openness and solidarity. Let us pray to the Lord.

4. For all who are caught in the middle of conflict, especially the children, the poor and the helpless. That the charity of believers and non-believers alike, and their hope and faith in the mercy of God, may be a source of strength and consolation for them. Let us pray to the Lord.

5. For all of us here gathered, that we may continue to pray for peace and live as peacemakers in our own families and communities. Let us pray to the Lord.

Father of us all,
you reconciled Jacob and Esau,
and gather us all in your bosom
through the arms of Christ raised on the Cross.
Hear the cry of your people
and come to the aid of those in need.
Put an end to the shedding of blood,
teach all hearts forgiveness,
and guide our feet on the way to peace.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.


<bgsound src="http://members.tripod.com/texasmidi/MIDI/Prayer_Of_St_Francis.mid" loop="infinite">