Since September 11th, 2001, the world's attention has been focused on terror, fear and war. Behind the scenes, however, a global movement for a better world has been growing, bringing us hope for a more peaceful, just and sustainable future.

The United Nations, in choosing September 21st, has proposed a tangible goal that will help unite our global community and shift our consciousness. The world is joining together to create a global ceasefire and an intentional day of peace-making in our homes, our communities and between nations. You may want to use the prayer below or your own favorite.

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May we be filled with the strength to seek peace.
War will not end when the guns are silent.
Violence can never lead to peace.

May we be filled with the courage to seek peace.
We grieve for the harm to our own country,
The degradation suffered here and in Iraq,
The contagion of fear and distrust,
The restriction of freedoms,
The quashing of dialogue and dissent.
We grieve the terrible wounding
of those sent off to fight in a war
that is questioned all over the world.
We grieve the rupture of families here and in Iraq.

May we be filled with the compassion to seek peace
We are members of one human family.
We grasp the horror of war in all its forms.
And we struggle to embrace the suffering of all
with love and compassion.

May we be filled with the endurance to seek peace
Recognizing our weakness,
We call on the God of mercy and compassion
to guide us in the days ahead

May we be filled with the vision of peace.

(From the Fellowship of Reconciliation Interfaith Prayer)