Prayer for Peace

Dove over troubled waters

January

St. Francis Province, North India

Loving and Merciful God, as we step into this New Year 2026, we come before You with hearts open and trusting. You are our refuge and strength,“a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1).

Lord, we place this new beginning into Your hands. Like a gentle dove hovering over troubled waters, let Your Spirit descend upon our wounded world,bringing calm where there is chaos, hope where there is despair, and light where darkness still lingers.

Jesus, Prince of Peace, You said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you.
Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid” (John 14:27).
We ask You to plant this peace deep within us—peace in our hearts, peace in our families and communities, peace in our nations torn by division and violence.
For Your Word reminds us,
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9).

As the sun rises on this New Year, may it remind us of Your unfailing mercy:
“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you” (Numbers 6:24–26). Amen.

X