Peace is a rose.
So lovely, so delicate, so fragrant,
so easily crushed.
Holy God, let peace flower in our damaged world.
In parched places, let peace take root,
in broken places, let peace send forth strong shoots,
in barren places, let peace bud and bloom,
that all may see her beauty,
feel her softness,
be overcome by her gentle perfume,
and tend her.
Amen.

Loving God,
May all that we learn
from you and alongside one another,
challenge and transform our thoughts, words and deeds.
May your message dwell richly in our hearts.
May it be treasured.
May it pour out from us in expressions of praise, proclamation and protest.
Help us to listen to all who have been marginalised
to hear what cannot be spoken.
Prepare us for the times when your message will pierce and break our hearts.
Change us as we join in your work as your body here on earth.
In the name of the One who came as Teacher, Justice Seeker and Defender of the Oppressed. Amen.