I will use these prayers as a part of the liturgy on Sunday following a sermon based upon Isaiah 62: 1-12. . In this instance it is for a member of the congregation who is transgender, but I can see other times when we might use this.
It is not something entered into lightly but after much prayer and listening, reflection and meditation. We are all on a journey towards wholeness and while I know some folk will disagree with this I offer it anyway;
********************
Loving God, in Jesus you came,
to the powerless
to the nothings and the nobodies,
to the deaf, the lame, the blind,
the mournful and the grieving,
and the broken-hearted ones too,
you came and you gave them a new name,
you named them beloved, cherished and honoured in your sight.
To the whole world you came,
and you come still, meeting us on our journeys
finding us and seeking us in the muddle and the mess of life.
Loving God, today we come to you claiming your promise that all are welcome, that none should be turned away, we come freely as we are and without fear knowing that in you: “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male or female for ALL are one in Christ Jesus.” In the light of your promise we acknowledge our need of you, our need to receive your love, our need to receive your grace.
We come with your servant ******, giving thanks for the journey of awakening that has brought her/him to this moment, for his/her place amongst your people, and for his/her gifts and calling to serve you.
Today ***** claims his/her new name.
We hold before you our companion. Bless him/her with a new measure of grace as he/she takes this new name before you. Write him/her again in your heart and on your palm, and grant that we all be worthy to call ourselves Christians, for the sake of your Christ whose name is Love, and in whom with you and the Spirit we pray. AMEN
By what name shall you be know?
My name is *******
YOUR NAME SHALL BE ******
****** Bear this name in the Name of Christ, share it in the name of mercy, offer it in the name of Justice and of Love.
CHRIST IS AMONG IS MAKING PEACE RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW. THE PEACE OF CHRIST LIVES AND MOVES AMONG US.
( we continue to share the peace and to celebrate Communion together).)
This painting is from a series of paintings entitled " “The Passion of Christ: A Gay Vision" more on this can be found here.
Sources for Liturgy as follows:
