| L: | As we gather together this morning, we remember the deaths of over 200,000 men, women and children who were killed in the nuclear bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. |
| P: | God, forgive us for wanting to forget, for wanting to ignore the gruesome details of what happened (forty?one) years ago this week. |
| L: | We know much about the consequences of nuclear war; |
| P: | Help us to learn the consequences of peace. |
| L: | Teach us to choose peace where we can, |
| P: | To be aware of the possibilities in each moment to foster peace and compassion. |
| L: | Even small tasks, like changing a diaper or a tire, |
| P: | Preparing a meal or a field, |
| L: | Offer us opportunities to choose peace. |
| P: | As we hope to protect our loved ones from a nuclear war, |
| L: | Let us remember that families world round desire the same, |
| P: | And that our desire for peace is a connection with all mothers, fathers, grandparents, children, aunts and uncles in our global community. |
| L: | Help us to remember that the Holy Spirit will take our work for peace |
| P: | And expand it, multiply it, and move beyond it. |
| L: | When we feel powerless in our combat with nuclear powers, remind us that the power of the Spirit of God is greater than they are, |
| P: | And that prayer is the most powerful source of strength and hope for turning our world around. |
| L: | We are told that delicate lavender and yellow flowers soon grew from the blasted, pounded earth in Hiroshima. |
| P: | Let us also rise from the ashes of remembrance to create beauty in your world. |
| L: | Help us to live by the words of the prophet, Isaiah: |
| A: | "Integrity will give peace, justice will give lasting security, my people will live in a peaceful country." |
| L: | In the name of your messenger of peace, Jesus, |
| A: | Amen. |
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