Feature Article May 2008

Use the following prayers and quotations about peace for discussion and reflection with your students:

Prayer for Peace by Pope John XXIII

Lord Jesus Christ, who are called the Prince of Peace, who are yourself our peace and reconciliation, who so often said, "Peace to you," grant us peace. Make all men and women witnesses of truth, justice and brotherly love. Banish from their hearts whatever might endanger peace. Enlighten our rulers that they may guarantee and defend the great gift of peace. May all peoples on the earth become as brothers and sisters. May longed-for peace blossom forth and reign always over us all. Amen.

For Reflection: What thoughts or feelings in our hearts endanger peace?

Prayer for Peace by Pope John Paul II

O God, Creator of the universe, who extends your paternal concern over every creature and guides the events of history in the goal of salvation, we acknowledge your fatherly love when you break the resistance of mankind and, in a world torn by strife and discord, you make us ready for reconciliation. Renew for us the wonders of your mercy: send forth your Spirit that He may work in the intimacy of hearts, that enemies may begin to dialogue, that adversaries may shake hands and peoples may encounter one another in harmony. May all commit themselves to the sincere search for true peace which will extinguish all arguments, for charity which overcomes hatred, for pardon which disarms revenge. Amen.

For Reflection: How does pardon “disarm revenge”? Give examples.

“Peace begins with a smile – smile five times a day at someone you really don’t want to smile at … do it for peace (Blessed Mother Teresa).

For Reflection: Explain how a smile can spread peace.

"Peace is not the product of terror or fear. Peace is not the silence of cemeteries. Peace is not the silent result of violent repression. Peace is the generous, tranquil contribution of all to the good of all. Peace is dynamism. Peace is generosity. It is right and it is duty" (Archbishop Oscar Romero).

For Reflection: What does the Archbishop mean when he writes, “Peace is not the silence of cemeteries?”

Look at the lives of Pope John XXIII, Pope John Paul II, Blessed Mother Teresa, and Archbishop Oscar Romero and discuss how each gave great example for peace.