Prayer against Crime and Violence
Lord God, crime is on the increase within our city and our country.
From the depths of our hearts we pray that you will comfort, heal, and bless all victims of crime.
We ask that you protect all people from the evil of crime and violence.
We pray especially for life-changing conversion for all criminals and the violent—
remove all evil form their hearts,
fill them with your goodness and love
that they may cease their evil works
and that our city and land be free from the
scourge of crime and violence.
We pray also for the grace to purge ourselves of all violence—
in our own thoughts and actions,
in our family life,
in our friendships,
in relationships with others
Lord, I personal commit to refrain from violent acts or words
To settle conflicts.
I further swear to teach others, especially our youth,
that violence is too quick an answer
that produces irreparable, life-long
and threatening results.
Amen.
This prayer was composed by the people of St. Dorothy Catholic Church in Chicago, Illinois. St. Dorothy’s mission statement is as follows: “St. Dorothy Catholic Church is committed to ending violence against everyone—by raising awareness and understanding, education and personal development, promotion of diversity and spiritual partnership.”
