Hi everyone,
The Peace Light ceremony was an evening to remember. My friend Stephan Slabicky walked down the aisle of church with a lantern and this is what he said:
Dear Friends,
The flame of this lantern originated in the city of Bethlehem in the country of Israel. We bring you this light in the spirit of the One who was born there over 2 000 years ago, Jesus Christ, the one that the Bible calls, the Light of the World and the Prince of Peace.
The prophet Isaiah, long ago spoke these words, 'The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them light has shined.'
This light gives us hope, that even though there is much darkness in the world, we can still see signs of loving and peaceful community. We can still see people living together in harmony, and working together for peace and justice.
Please receive the light of this lantern as a visible reminder of the mission we share. As believing people, our mission is to keep the hope of peace alive in our world, our communities, and our homes.
Then, it was my turn to thank him.
We thank you for bringing this peace light to us. May this flame inspire us to commit ourselves to peace, love, justice, and hope. may those we touch each day see this light shining in our lives. As Jesus said, May your light so shine before others that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. We wish you God's blessings and safety as you continue on your journey.
With the help of Stephan's mom, my candle was lit.
Then, Stephan read the concluding prayer.
Let us pray. Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you that your light shines in the darkness and the darkness cannot overcome it. Make us ambassadors of your peace in all that we do, think and say. Bless the flame that we carry and share with others. May it burn brightly in the lives of those who need to hear a word of hope. May it give courage and confidence to all those who face the darkness. Thank you God, for your light. Amen.
Then we walked round sharing the light (PEACE) with those we had gathered there.
Justin
