O God, who brought us forth and shaped our being,
*Blessed are you.*
O God, who showed us love and brings us salvation,
*Blessed are you.*
O God, who gives us grace and strengthens our hearts,
*Blessed are you.*
O God, Holy Trinity: Creator, Savior, Comforter,
*Blessed are you.*
We give you thanks, O God, for all that we have and for all that we are,
*We thank you, O God.*
For the knowledge of your love for us,
*We thank you, O God.*
For the gift of our sexuality,
*We thank you, O God.*
For the celebration of our pride,
*We thank you, O God.*
For the love of our friends and partners,
*We thank you, O God.*
For the support of our community,
*We thank you, O God.*
We pray to you, Holy One, in the name of Jesus Christ,
*Lord, hear our prayer.*
For all persons coming out, that they might find understanding and support, and not become victims of violence or exploitation; and for their parents, children, family and friends, that they would not turn away in fear or anger,
*Lord, hear our prayer.*
For all persons who have HIV, that your love and compassion might be shown to them through the love and compassion of others; and that they might have hope to live, not merely to survive,
*Lord, hear our prayer.*
For all who must live their lives hidden in closets, that they might not be alone and afraid anymore,
*Lord, hear our prayer.*
For those who fear us and hate us, that they might learn the meaning of love and acceptance,
*Lord, hear our prayer.*
For the end of all bigotry, hatred, fear, and violence; that openness and honesty might come for all,
*Lord, hear our prayer.*
Lord, have mercy.
*Christ have mercy.*
Let us pray.
As you led the Israelites out of Egypt into Canaan, you, O God, lead us now into the promise of freedom and celebration. Strengthen us, we pray, that we may achieve the liberation of our love and faith. Strengthen our families, our community, and our pride as we continue on the road to the Promised Land. In the name of Jesus the Christ. Amen.
Gregory Gadow lives in Washington state.