I join many others today in prayer.  For the healing of our country.  For an end to violence.

I pray for the families and loved ones of the people slain in Charleston this week.  I invite you to pray, also, for a nationwide end to violence, and for justice and accountability, and for an end to racism.  We have many isms to address, but racism seems to be the thing that so many white people want to pretend does not exist.  Despite the overwhelming statistics — our prison system, our justice system, our economic system.  Whether you are among the privileged or the oppressed, I hope you will join me in prayer for peace and justice.

Great Spirit, forgive us our arrogance and our ignorance.  Help us to see each other, and to be of service to one another.  Guide us in the ways of peace and healing.  Amen.