Amen. So let it be.

For our several million brothers and sisters incarcerated in jails and prisons through out the country: May they recognize their transcendent goodness, the presence of God within them.

For those whose lives have been ravaged by violence: May they experience the healing power of the community's love and honest support.

For our society: May we cease imitating the violence we abhor, may we cease disguising vengeance as justice, and may we abolish death as punishment.

O Lord, our God, bind the forces of evil, those who turn against your little ones, and give strength to those of us who must suffer. Work in the hearts of aggressors so that they might receive your light and be healed and regenerated. In Jesus' name. Amen.

I pray for these two and all who suffer violence caused by hatred, ignorance, and predjuice. I pray that they do not fear, that they are safe and feel surrounded by love and all that is good.
I pray as well for those who commit these violent acts against the other or property of others whether it is born of hate or mischief may their hearts be softened and gentleness replace their anger, may they too come to feel the love of G-d, for themselves and for their neighbors.

Amen, sister.

Note that windshield smashing is not limited to hate crimes. Our next door neighbors' windshields have been smashed repeatedly (they're a straight white couple). We live out in the country but near a state university (UConn) and I suspect hooliganism on the part of some students. Also the sign (hand carved by a member, very professionally) for our Quaker meetinghouse, which is right off campus, was stolen. Not to belittle the hate crimes, at all. Just need to pray for these, too.

br. bruce

Long before I entered this Order, a kindred spirit and I "adopted" each other as brother and sister. My dear friend and spiritual "brother", David, and his partner, Robert, of Reading, PA have been the victims of several hate crimes: their house vandalized, the windshield of their car smashed. I am concerned for their safety.

I pray that the hearts of those persons who have harassed and threatened David and Robert be opened and freed from hatred and fear. I pray for the safety of two good men who simply want to live in peace, be good neighbors, contribute to their community. Please join me in praying for David, Robert and their persecutors as well.

Thank You, Brothers and Sisters.

Sophie Elisa