In the midst of these new acts of violence and tragedy in  El Paso ad Dayton, we come in prayer before and acknowledge God’s presence with us.

Where there is hurt, we pray for healing.

Where there is hatred, we pray for love

Where there is sorrow, we pray for comfort.

Where there is despair, we pray for hope.

Where there is fear and violence, we pray for peace.

Help us support and love one another. Help us to care for and respect one another. We pray for the families and friends of the victims of the senseless act in El Paso and Dayton. Surround them with your love, grace and mercy. Comfort them in your grief.

Grant all of us your peace, give us hope and strengthen our faith. We pray that you hold all who are hurting today in your loving embrace.

And finally, O God, continue to call us and our country forth to be your people in a world that is so often wracked by violence and distress. Help us to be people of faith, love, non-violence and hope in the midst of chaos. Help us to know that however small, our acts of kindness and our efforts to end violence of all forms does make a difference. We ask this knowing well that you hear us. Amen.