It is too soon after the experience to reflect on this morning's worship with anything beyond "Wow!"
Today was our Service of Celebration to mark our membership in Affirm United. It was a joy-filled celebration in which the Spirit danced and God was praised with song, dance, prayer, sacrament and word.
More, much more, later. But for now, here are a few highlights:
* Our son Fabulous attended with a friend of his and she brought her daughter L who is just about one year old. L sported a cool denim jacket and a button that says: "Boycott Homophobia." Preach it baby!
* Peter and his musician buddy M led us (via guitar) in a rousing rendition of "By the Rivers fo Babylon" -- it was marvelous. Thanks!!!
* S led the children in a wonderful children's story which included a tambourine for each child to take away with them. Hey, when there is a party, there simply must be music-making and S showed the children that God loves us all, and celebrates our joy with us. Thanks!!
* Our community's diversity was reflected in the service. The gospel was read in French by a Roman Catholic guest (usually she is one of the liturgical dancers, but she could not dance this time, so we invited her to participate in another way). Our communion servers were both straight and gay.
* The Sacred Dance group once again blessed our worship with their grace and the gift of interpreting scripture with body movement.
* Our guest preacher was the president of our Conference. He blessed us with his wisdom, energy and the depth of his faith. His partner blessed us with her amazing voice and her enthusiasm.
* The folks in the pews actually moved. Really. You have no idea how huge a deal that is to UCCan folks. There was swaying, clapping and even a few "Hallelujahs."
It was a good, good morning. Here are a few pics...
7 comments:
sounds like a wonderful day- I love the rainbow robe draped over the cross...
Wish I could have been there!
Sounds like it was great.
gosh - such great news in your blog lately! thanks for sharing the pictures too - you all look splendid.
Sally - the rainbow on the cross was the dance choreographer's idea. She is so very creative, and this turned out really well.
Gord - we missed you too. Another time perhaps? And thank you so much for the letter from the Inclusivity Committee.
Juniper - thanks. I don't often post my photo, but I made an exception for such a special day.
This is so fabulous. A dream for my church (ie TEC). Maybe in my lifetime. I am committed to it.
I am inspired!
Does that mean we should have called ourselves, "Buddy M"? {mischievous grin}
--sorry, couldn't resist...
Love it. Absolutely love it!
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