“A Prayer for Peace in Our Time” is a heartfelt plea to God for peace in a world torn apart by violence and conflict. It invokes God’s wisdom, grace, and compassion to guide world leaders, convert those who have taken up arms, protect the innocent victims of war, and grant eternal life to those who have died. The prayer ends with an appeal to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, to intercede for peace.
A Prayer for Peace in Our Time
O God, author and giver of peace, in whose image and likeness each of us has been created with a human dignity worthy of respect on earth and destined for eternal glory, listen to the cry that rises from every corner of this fragile earth, from our human family torn by violent conflict.
Give peace in our time, O good and gracious God, that peace which, as your son Jesus Christ told us and as we have experienced in these days, is a peace which the world cannot give.
To world leaders grant the wisdom to see beyond the boundaries of race, religion, and nation to that common humanity that makes us all your children and brothers and sisters to one another.
To those who have taken up arms in anger or revenge or even in the cause of justice grant the grace of conversion to the path of peaceful dialogue and constructive collaboration.
To the innocent who live in the shadow of war and terror, especially the frightened children, be a shelter and strength, their haven and hope.
And to those who have already lost their lives as victims of human cruelty and chemical warfare, open wide your arms and enfold them all in the embrace of your compassion, healing, and everlasting life.
Grant this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord.
Mary, Mother of all and Queen of peace, pray for us.