Meditation
We are called to the kind of
Christian commitment that opens
doors and breaks down barriers
between people, that brings unity
to a divided world. Try to unlock
one door that is keeping someone
locked out of your heart.
— Joan D. Chittister, OSB
Prayer
O Key of David, rod and staff of the
house of Israel, one who opens and
no one closes, the one who closes
and no one opens. Come lead
prisoners caught in darkness.
You may chant this prayer with the sisters here.
A personal note: We had our Third Blue Christmas Service tonight and more than doubled our attendance. People came from Morris Plains and as far as Nutley. It helped that our service got a little press on Thursday with an article in the Star Ledger.
I only pray that more churches have this kind of service. It is, without a doubt, the most pastoral thing I do at Christmas.
By the way, Jeff Diamant, the Religion Editor at the Star Ledger, is officially 'on my list' for calling me 'Liz' - and doubly so for putting the word in my mouth.
Not to worry. He won't be on it for long, though. He's a good guy. And, it's almost Christmas.
P.S. You can find an example of our liturgy here.
EK - would you share your liturgy? I would love to do something like this next year. On a similar note, a priest I know in the Midwest held a service around All Saints for the mothers of miscarriages, abortions, stillbirths etc - very powerful. Attendance was very large the first year and then died off. Perhaps once every few years...
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Fr. Craig - the last link will take you to the first year's liturgy. We've adapted it twice since then, You are most welcome to adapt it to your own congregational needs.
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