Prayer for the World January 28, 2026

Choosing Nonviolence as Gospel Witness

Introduction

We pray in earnest today that there will be a resolution to the violence and injustice that is occurring across our country especially in Minneapolis.  And we pray for ourselves, that we may each experience a greater peace in our own hearts.

Song:  Lord, I Want to Be a Chrisitan by Lori True

https://youtu.be/dGC5juqHH7Y?si=jxv9JkDOTcp6eZ6C 

In my heart, in my heart, Lord, I want to be a Christian in my heart.

Lord, I want to be more loving in my heart. (2X)

In my heart, in my heart, Lord, I want to be more loving in my heart.

Lord, I want to show compassion in my heart…

Lord, I want to welcome others in my heart…

Lord, I want to stop the raging in my heart…

Lord, I want to be more peaceful in my heart…

Lord, I want to be a Christian in my heart…

Reading for Reflection

The National Leadership Conference of Women Religious released this public statement on January 25^th after the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse protesting the actions of ICE officials:

At this moment in history, when fear is normalized, violence is amplified, and democratic life is under strain in the United States and across the world, the Leadership Conference of Women Religious (LCWR) raises a clear and unwavering moral voice: violence is not the Gospel response.

The way of Jesus calls us to a love that refuses harm, rejects domination, and insists on the dignity of every person. Love demands more than silence or neutrality. It requires truth-telling, moral courage, and a willingness to stand publicly with those whose lives and rights are threatened. Nonviolence is not passivity; it is disciplined, courageous action rooted in justice and hope.

Across the globe and within our own communities — from Ukraine to Minneapolis — we see the tragic consequences of aggression. Violence does not resolve conflict or restore peace; it deepens wounds and multiplies suffering. Nonviolence, by contrast, requires profound interior strength and sustained commitment. It must be cultivated personally and communally, and practiced intentionally within social, political, and global systems.

Women religious have long understood this truth through lived experience. Since arriving in what would become the United States in 1727, congregations of women religious have participated in the shaping of this nation through education, healthcare, advocacy, and service to those most at risk. Throughout the evolving life of this democracy, women religious have sought to embody gospel values in public life, especially in times of moral crisis.

In continuity with this witness, we unequivocally denounce the use of violence in any form. We call upon individuals and communities — and especially those entrusted with leadership in local, state, and federal government — to choose paths that uphold human rights, protect democratic processes, and honor the dignity of life at every stage.

In these times, the members of LCWR commit to a public, prophetic presence rooted in prayer and expressed through concrete action. We pledge to make visible the Gospel through advocacy for nonviolence, racial justice, humane immigration policies, and care for our common home. Our hope does not rest in force or fear, but in the transformative power of love lived boldly and together.

Silent Reflection

Action:  The Senate is scheduled to vote this week  on the bill requesting more funds for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)  and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).   Please call your Senators and ask them to “reject funding for DHS and ICE and to hold this administration accountable.”     This is essential for our democracy.  If you are unable to write pray that the Senate will do the right thing to bring a resolution to the violence and injustice that is occurring especially in Minneapolis.

Silent Prayer and Reflection

Song:  Lord, I Want to Be a Christian