Lord, make us instruments of peace.
Bless all the women and men in this room who strive daily to bring peace, joy, and inspiration into their communities, their homes and their hearts. Give them strength to continue to do good works.
When they are faced with prejudice, inequality and gender disparities, let me sow great love.
When they suffer from the pain of war and violence, help them to become instruments of their own reconciliation and peace.
Forgive us all who let differences breed hate and discrimination. Let your example of unconditional love help us to see that we are equal partners in the stewardship of your world.
Where there is darkness and light; where there is untruth and truth, comfort everyone who struggles. May we stand together in light to acknowledge each other’s suffering and strive to remove the burdens of shame or embarrassment.
Together we pray for empowerment of all women and men to be their true selves through your everlasting love and faith. Help us to see the strength and goodness in all women and men. And may it transform our hearts to celebrate the love and grace of all people.
Thank you Lord for bringing us all together to celebrate these outstanding women of achievement, for giving them the will and heart to be all you created them to be, for giving them hearts full of love and compassion. Thank you for blessing us each and every day of our lives.
Lord, bless this good food and those who prepare it and for good friends & family with whom we share it.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen!
