Dialogued Prayer on the Beatitudes
Based on Matthew Chapter 5 Verses 1-12

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
Keep us from being preoccupied with money and worldly goods and with trying to increase them at the expense of justice.

“Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth.”
Help us not to be ruthless with one another and to eliminate the discord and violence that exists in the world around us.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
Let us not be impatient under our own burdens and unconcerned about the burdens of others.

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they shall be filled.”
Make us thirst for you, God, the fountain of all holiness, and actively spread your influence in our private lives and in society.

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”
Grant that we may be quick to forgive and slow to condemn.

“Blessed are the clean of heart, for they shall see God.”
Free us from our senses and our evil desires, and help us to fix our eyes on you, God.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.”
Aid us to make peace in our families, in our country, and in the world.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of justice for the kingdom of heaven is theirs.”
Make us willing to suffer for the sake of right rather than to practice injustice; and do not let us discriminate against, oppress, or persecute our neighbors. Amen.