God of all peoples, to whom all life flows as the rivers flow to the sea, we call you by many names, approach you through many paths. Yet we are one human family seeking together clarity amidst confusion, love amidst hate, success amidst struggle and truth amidst illusion. Although our traditions may differ, we know that our understanding of Truth is greater together than when we are alone.
We ask you to bless this gathering as we come together to remember all those from various faith traditions who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defense of freedom. Be with our veterans today as we honor them, and especially be with those who continue to struggle with the physical and mental wounds of war, that they may feel your healing presence.
Sanctify this gathering with your light. Be in our hearts this day as we depart from this sacred place. Help us to hear one another, respect our differences and honor everyone’s freedom of conscience. Help us to find paths of nonviolence and acknowledge our limited vision, that through such humility we may find greater clarity of mind and purpose. And may the leaders of our world finally come to surrender to YOU rather than seek the surrender of others.
We pray remembering the great teachers and prophets that have come before us, AMEN.
