O God, this day we grieve your children who were lost,
and we, as one, are horrified by hatred's cost.
For people loved by you — your children, called and blest —
were murdered on their Sabbath Day of prayer and rest.

We grieve for those who died, for families left behind,
for those who wonder if this world can still be kind.
So many lives were changed, so many dreams were crushed.
There's so much hatred! God, what has become of us?

We thank you, God, for ones who bravely entered in,
to serve and to protect, so hatred would not win —
and for the ones who lead, we offer you this prayer:
May they be good examples of respect and care.

God, teach us all to love — and may we understand
that hatred cannot have a place in this good land,
and guns cannot secure the peace we pray will be.
May we, together, build a true community.

O God, unite us all, no matter how we pray,
and may we work together for a better day —
where all may safely live and have no cause for fear.
May we together seek your peace and justice here.