Quote for the Day

The only theology worth doing is that which inspires and transforms lives, that which empowers us to participate in creating, liberating, and blessing the world. This is a basic tenet of feminist liberation theology and it is also Anglicanism at its best.

Carter Heyward

Prayer for Patience and Dialogue

Given the somewhat heated environment the Anglican Church finds itself these days (both at home and in the wider world), I' thought I would post this prayer:

Great God of all, who has created us all alike in your image and called us equally to your service: we ask that all who seek to serve you in the ministry of your church may be free to do so to the fullest extent of their calling.
We pray for those who struggle to bring light and freedom into your church by prising open closed doors and shuttered minds, dismantling barriers and overturning old prejudices. Give them strength to continue their work with courage, tenacity and an unquenchable sense of purpose and justice.
We pray for those who have been wounded on the way, asking you to restore their hope and dignity and continue to lead them in your service.
We pray for the members of Synod and Parliament with the power to make decisions, that they may be open to your will and resolute in carrying it out.
Especially we pray for those who restrict the freedom of others through their own ignorance, fear, greed or arrogant certainty. Soften their hearts and widen their understanding, so that they may see that allowing others to play a full part in building your kingdom does not threaten or diminish their own contribution.
Hear our prayers, O God, which we make with all the women who have witnessed and worked for you through the ages, and in whose glorious tradition we stand, through your son, our Saviour Jesus Christ.

The prayer was written by Rev Dr Margaret Joachim of the London WATCH committee.