Using prayer’s power for peace
Janine Marnien
As news of a possible war with Iraq greets residents on a daily
basis, the Justice and Peace Forum at St. Bede the Venerable
Catholic Church is turning to one of its most powerful weapons in an
effort to prevent violence: prayer.
The group will host an hourlong prayer service Wednesday to pray
for a peaceful ending to the conflict with Iraq. The event is
nonpolitical, said Katy Sadler, a participant in the service. Sadler
is also the assistant principal in charge of student affairs at
Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy.
“I just believe fervently that all avenues should be exhausted
before we result to arms,” she said. “I do believe firmly in prayer
moving mountains.”
The interfaith service will feature various prayers for peace
originating from various religions. Organizers are also hopeful to
have a representative from each of the faiths read their respective
prayers. Buddhism, Sikh, Jewish and other prayers will be read.
Two members of the Flintridge Sacred Heart dance team will perform
a liturgical dance, and Sadler will give a reflection. There will
also be some readings from Scripture and a candle-lighting ceremony
for peace.
Prayer is a critical element of interacting and interceding with
God, St. Bede Deacon Richard Pomphrey said.
“One can look at individual prayer versus community prayer,” he
said. “This is a matter of community coming together and praying
together.”
Prayer is something that transcends religions, he added.
“Because our society as a whole has a concern, we felt it was
important to bring together the community regardless of their
religious affiliation,” he said.