Prayer 9
Worship
Prayers for the Age of Technology
Object:
Dear Lord Of Life:
The responsibility of our newfound freedom is frightening. Nowhere is it producing greater anxiety than in the fields of genetics and bioengineering.
While we are deeply grateful for the promise of relief from much pain and suffering, and for a more healthy and satisfying existence, the alternative possibilities are shocking to contemplate. It's great to think of being able to transfer genes and exchange body parts, and childless couples will rejoice to have test-tube babies. But we tremble with anxiety as we think of the possible consequences of our meddling with these basic elements of our creation and existence. Are we going too far? Are we intruding on ground that even angels might fear to tread?
We are very aware of the danger of creating causes of new diseases and unthinkable biological monstrosities. Already we see conflict developing over parentage of babies, and black markets in human body parts are operating.
Dear Holy and All-wise One, mercifully endow us with the maturity of spirit and judgment to use wisely and compassionately the knowledge and skills being developed in these fields. Keep us on guard against thoughtless and perverse ones who would use these abilities to evil ends.
Save us from the hell on earth that we could be creating.
In the name of all that is holy, Amen.
The responsibility of our newfound freedom is frightening. Nowhere is it producing greater anxiety than in the fields of genetics and bioengineering.
While we are deeply grateful for the promise of relief from much pain and suffering, and for a more healthy and satisfying existence, the alternative possibilities are shocking to contemplate. It's great to think of being able to transfer genes and exchange body parts, and childless couples will rejoice to have test-tube babies. But we tremble with anxiety as we think of the possible consequences of our meddling with these basic elements of our creation and existence. Are we going too far? Are we intruding on ground that even angels might fear to tread?
We are very aware of the danger of creating causes of new diseases and unthinkable biological monstrosities. Already we see conflict developing over parentage of babies, and black markets in human body parts are operating.
Dear Holy and All-wise One, mercifully endow us with the maturity of spirit and judgment to use wisely and compassionately the knowledge and skills being developed in these fields. Keep us on guard against thoughtless and perverse ones who would use these abilities to evil ends.
Save us from the hell on earth that we could be creating.
In the name of all that is holy, Amen.
