Holy and loving God,
We come before you with open hearts.
We pray for peace in our world where there is violence,
for healing where there is pain,
for justice where there is inequality,
and for hope where people feel weary or afraid.

Teach us to be instruments of your love.
Give us courage to stand with the vulnerable,
wisdom to seek understanding,
and compassion to care for one another across every difference.

Bless our communities, our nation, and all people of the earth.
May your Spirit guide us toward a more just, peaceful, and compassionate world for all. Amen.

-Juan Perea, Chicago, IL