This evening on International Women’s Day a couple of dozen of us Prayed for World Peace in Kincardine Church of Scotland, holding before God the women of Ukraine.

God of the past, the present and the future,

On this International Women’s Day,
our thoughts and prayers
are with our sisters the women of Ukraine
in their fear and distress
We pray too for women in other regions of the world
where there is conflict, unrest or oppression.
We pray that
reconciliation will overcome hatred,
peace will conquer war,
hope will replace despair
and that your plans for the world and for all its people will be fulfilled.

God, in your mercy
Hear our prayer.

Holy God,

We hold before you all who live close to war and conflict;
and all who live close to the threat of war and violence.
We remember especially at this time, people in Ukraine and Russia.
We pray for nonviolence and peaceful resolutions of conflict.
Give us hearts of hospitality and sanctuary,
forgive us all our hostility and hatred.
Bring all people to the humanity you give us,
and to the reconciliation and healing for which you gave your life.
Strengthen us all to work with you to build justice and peace,
reconciliation and healing,
in our hearts and homes, in our streets,
in all communities, neighbourhoods and nations.
Bless all who live lives for the peace and wellbeing of others,
and make their service fruitful.
In the name of Christ.
Amen.