Epiphany Pageants vs. Christmas Eve Pageants

Christmas Pageants on Christmas
by Caren Miles

Christmas Pageants are so much work. Like, so. much. work. But worth it.

There are two times of the year we know our parishes will have heaps of visitors, or even folks who only come a few times a year. Maybe they are there because the grandparents are in town and they insist on going to church. Maybe they make a whole day of it - dinner, fancy dress, go to church, sing Silent Night, open one present before going to bed. Sure they might be a little distracted, or not familiar with the liturgy. They might be looking for some kind of meaning to teach their kids beyond the consumerism that seems to hit full-force at midnight on Halloween.

Christmas Eve Pageants, whether you rehearse for months ahead of time, just a few days before, or have no rehearsals, can center a hectic holiday in meaning, scripture, fellowship, sharing, kindness, and spirituality.

When I worked in New York City our pageant had just over 130 kids, live animals, fancy lights, and two shows. All on Christmas Eve. There were families who had moved out of town who still came to the pageant every year because it held so much meaning to them. We had families who only participated in the pageant every year, and nothing else. But all were welcome, all were included, and everyone got to pet a lamb. Opening the church doors wide that day, we gave the families a place in which they saw themselves welcomed as members and ministers sharing the story. No matter where they went or how long they stayed away, they knew they had a church home with us.

Will the kids be hyped up on sugar and promises of Santa? Yes.
Will the parents take flash photos at inappropriate times? Yes.
Will the donkey make a mess somewhere it shouldn't? Absolutely.
Is there danger in handing a lit candle to a 5-year-old? Totally.
Will one of the children burst into tears and run away? Most certainly.
For me, that's all part of the swirling, messy, noisy, joyful, glitter-covered, grace-filled, gloriously fun part of the holy spirit that joins us in our humanity on Christmas. Welcoming the folks who are just there for the cute photos is all a part of how well your parish is equipped to be kind, gentle, and full of grace.

Why I love Epiphany Pageants
by Amy Cook

I worked as the Christian Education director in a church that had two services on Christmas Eve – the early service with a pageant, and the late service geared to adults.

The pageant was always difficult. Timing meant that a lot of the kids were used to dinner time about midway through the service. They were also on a sugar high from all the sweets of the season. But most of all, on Christmas Eve, the kids could only think about what Santa Claus was going to bring them. Yes, baby Jesus is fun, but their minds were only halfway with us. It was often more about impressing the grandparents who just wanted endless photos and video rather than worshipping as a community. This may sound snarky, but I just remember being exhausted by the pageants rather than ever feeling deeply moved in any way.

A few years later, I took over the Sunday school at the small parish I attended. The pageant had traditionally been Advent 3; but one year we just couldn’t get organized in time for a variety of reasons and pushed the pageant to Epiphany. Suddenly everyone could breathe a little easier. The kids took the pageant more seriously and seemed to really focus on the complete story. The adults of the church realized that having the pageant on Epiphany meant that they could just focus on the kids rather than all the things they are thinking of before Christmas. For my liturgical brain, I was happy that the kings were waiting to arrive until Epiphany. And the whole church learned to celebrate twelve days of Christmas.

After that year, my church decided that they didn’t want the pageant before Christmas. Instead we added a lovely service of Advent lessons and carols on Advent 3 which helped to slow folks down and help them meditate on the season. On Christmas Eve we worked to create a Christmas service for all ages with the Christmas story but not a pageant.

In a society where Christmas commercials start on Halloween and the sales start before December 20th, we felt we were being counter-cultural to still have our decorations up until January 6. When kids are hyped about presents, parties and visiting relatives, it gave them more time to learn lines and focus on the story. I am strongly in the Epiphany Pageant camp now.

Confirmations - June 26 - Sycamore Grove

(At the sound of the singing bowl, the people gather around the edges of the spiral.) 

Bishop Marc welcomes everyone.

Opening Acclamation

Bishop: Alleluia. Christ is risen.
People: The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.
Bishop: There is one Body and one Spirit;
People: There is one hope in God's call to us;
Bishop: One Savior, one Faith, one Baptism;
People: One God, Creator of all.
Bishop: God be with you.
People: And also with you.

Bishop: Let us pray.
O merciful Creator, your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature: Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts; through Jesus Christ our Savior, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and moves, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Priest: We acknowledge that this land is the traditional territory of the Muwekma and Chochenyo peoples. Their presence is imbued in the lands and waters surrounding us. May we nurture our relationship with our Native neighbors, and the shared responsibilities to their homelands where we all reside today. 

Blessing of Water

(The Bishop blesses the water in the center of the spiral first, saying)

Bishop: May God be with you.
People: And also with you.
Bishop: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give God thanks and praise.

Bishop: We thank you, Almighty God, for the gift of water. Over it the Holy Spirit moved in the beginning of creation. Through it you led the children of Israel out of their bondage in Egypt into the land of promise. In it your Son Jesus received the baptism of John and was anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Messiah, the Christ, to lead us, through his death and resurrection, from the bondage of sin into everlasting life. We thank you, Creator, for the water of Baptism. In it we are buried with Christ in his death. By it we share in his resurrection. Through it we are reborn by the Holy Spirit. Therefore in joyful obedience to your Son, we bring into his fellowship those who come to him in faith, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.  

(At the following words, the Bishop touches the water)
Now sanctify this water, we pray you, by the power of your Holy Spirit, that those who here are cleansed from sin and born again may continue for ever in the risen life of Jesus Christ our Savior. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen. 

The Universe Walk

Bell - Reader 1 moves to the center of the spiral

Reader 1:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through the Word, and without the Word not one thing came into being. What has come into being in the Word was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

Bell

Reader 2 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 2:
Fourteen billion years ago,
from that place that was no-place, from that time that was no-time, God calls forth the cosmos in a silent blaze of inconceivable brilliance, in which, all the light, energy, and potential for everything that will ever come to be is found.  

Reader 2 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the first knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 3 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 3:
Eight and a half billion years later,
our Grandmother Star becomes a supernova. She gives up her life in an explosion that gives rise to our Star, what we call the Sun. From her great disk of matter emerge all the members of our solar system. 

Reader 3 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 4 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 4:
For the next three hundred million years,
The Earth sweeps into herself solar system debris, swelling in size. In the dance of this creation, the Moon is born from within her. 

Reader 4 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 5 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 5:
Over the next six hundred million years,
the movement of Earth’s revolution brings quiet and peace; the breath of atmosphere begins to form.The first rains fall upon the Earth.

Reader 5 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 6 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 6:
Four billion years ago,
the Earth brings forth the sea, from whence comes forth the wonder of life in simple cells. Earth comes alive.

Reader 6 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 7 walks to the center of the spiral.  
Reader 7:
Five hundred million years ago,
complexity of life brings forth creatures of the sea. Some make their way to live on dry land, co-existing with creatures that remain in the sea.

Reader 7 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 8 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 8:
Four hundred twenty-five million years ago,
developing cells of wood, plants learn to stand upright, stretching towards the life-bearing light of the sun, living first along shores of oceans and rivers, then, over time, covering the earth.

Reader 8 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 9 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 9:
Two hundred million years ago,
the continents shift, crack, and drift apart.  Creation on earth expands and moves apart. 

Reader 9 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 10 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 10:
Six hundred and fifty thousand years ago,
the plates that form the San Andreas fault begin their dance. Shifting and sliding, squeezing and stretching, slipping and spreading, they create the San Francisco Bay. 

Reader 10 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 11 walks to the center of the spiral.  
Reader 11:
One hundred and forty thousand years ago,
modern Homo Sapiens emerge in the unfolding life process. Through humans, the universe realizes its capacity for conscious self-awareness.  

Reader 11 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 12 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 12:
Twenty-six hundred years ago,
the first of the sacred stories of our Scriptures are written down by people seeking God.

Reader 12 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 13 walks to the center of the spiral.  
Reader 13:
Two thousand years ago,
a woman named Mary gives birth to a child, Jesus, called Emmanuel, “God with us.” His struggle to embody, teach, and share God's love inspires followers who later became known as Christians. 

Reader 13 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell

Reader 14 walks to the center of the spiral.  
Reader 14:
Four hundred and forty-two years ago,
the advent of Anglican worship is borne to our western shore by Sir Francis Drake and the crew of the Golden Hinde in celebration of their arrival to this land. It marks the beginning of colonization driven by selfish interests, desire to dominate the land, and claim ownership for a foreign nation. 

Reader 14 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

 Bell

Reader 15 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 15:
Two hundred and fifty-two years ago,
missionaries from Spain, led by Junípero Serra, begin to make their way up the coast of California planting outposts that would become some of our largest cities. These missions contribute to the devastation of the traditional way of life for the people who had been living on this land for thousands of years. 

Reader 15 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

 Bell

Reader 16 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 16:
One hundred and seventy-two years ago, 
gold, formed in the cosmic dance of the earth, is discovered in California. It creates a shadow of greed and fear; the power promised from this metal disconnects us from God’s creation.  The poisons from the mining process continue to pollute the San Francisco Bay. 

Reader 16 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

 Bell

Reader 17 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 17:
Seventy-Six Years Ago,
harnessing the power of the atom, scientists create the first nuclear explosion, a discovery which has the potential to eradicate all life on earth but also has the potential to bring peace. In this valley sits a laboratory where more powerful weapons of mass destruction are designed. In that same place other minds seek ways to harness the power of the atom to bring peace. 

Reader 17 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

 Bell

Reader 18 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 18:
Forty-eight years ago,
humanity beheld the Earth in her entirety in the space of the cosmos, bringing perspective on the integral beauty of the world of God’s creation, of which we are part, with whom we relate, and of whom we are stewards.

Reader 18 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

 Bell

Reader 19 walks to the center of the spiral. 
Reader 19:
TODAY,
the Story of the Universe is being told as our Sacred Story. The Flaring Forth continues at this moment. Today, we remember that we are partners in relationship with the world. Today, we commit ourselves to this love: of God, of neighbor, of self, of All Creation. Today, all humans can know the story of our origin, our shared story with all creation living in this sacred Universe.  

 Reader 19 takes a small bowl, fills it with water from the center bowl, then walks the spiral until coming to the last knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Bell
Bishop: God be with you.
People: And also with you.
Bishop: Let us pray.
Creating and life-giving God, you have placed us in communities of people and in connection with all of life. Bring to us the awareness of your presence in the world around us, and to the commitment to care for all of life on this fragile earth, our island home. Let us love and support one another in the shared work of caring for the environment, that others in generations to come may always see your handiwork in the sky, land, and water. In the name of the one through whom all things came into being, Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen. 

Bell

Presentation and Examination of the Candidates

Bishop: The Candidates for confirmation will now be presented.
Presenters: I present these persons for Confirmation.
(we will go around the circle, congregation by congregation to present. Please do not name each person, just say “these persons/this person”) 

Bishop: Do you reaffirm your renunciation of evil?
Candidates: I do.

Bishop: Do you renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?
Candidates: I do and with God's grace I will follow him as my Savior.

Bishop: As the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement and as people who live the Way of Love, we long to grow loving, liberating, and life-giving relationship with God, each other, and God’s Creation. In this urgent moment, we have come forward to make a faithful pledge to protect and renew this good Earth and all who call it home. We trust that the body of Christ acting together will always accomplish more than any one could alone. 

Group: As followers of Jesus and as lovers of God and of all that God has created, we present ourselves to you. We ask for God‘s blessing on our commitment to sustain and renew the earth and all who call it home. 

Bishop: Will you share your stories of love and concern for the Earth and link with others who care about protecting the sacred web of life? 
Group: We will.

Bishop: Will you stand with those most vulnerable to the harmful effects of environmental degradation and climate change – women, children, poor people, communities of color, refugees, and migrants? 
Group: We will.

Bishop: Will you change your habits and choices in order to live more simply, humbly and gently on the Earth? 
Group: We will.

Bishop: Will you who witness these promises do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ, pray for your companions on the Jesus Way, and discover ways that you can also engage in new behaviors that help the whole creation to flourish? 
People: We will.

Bishop: Let us join with those who are committing themselves to Christ and renew our own baptismal covenant. 
Do you believe in God the Father?

People: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

Bishop: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?
People: I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried.  He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

Bishop: Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit? 
People: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. 

Bishop: Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers? 
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ? 
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Will you strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of the Earth and of every human being?
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Let us now pray for these persons who have renewed their commitment to Christ.  

Leader: Deliver them, O God, from the way of sin and death. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Open their hearts to your grace and truth. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Fill them with your holy and life-giving Spirit. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Keep them in the faith and communion of your holy Church. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Teach them to love others in the power of the Spirit. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Send them into the world in witness to your love. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Bring them to the fullness of your peace and glory. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 

Bishop: Almighty God, we thank you that by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ you have overcome sin and brought us to yourself, and that by the sealing of your Holy Spirit you have bound us to your service. Renew in these your servants the covenant you have made with them at their Baptism. Send them forth in the power of that Spirit to perform the service you set before them; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

For Confirmation

(The Bishop lays hands upon each one and says)
Strengthen, O Lord, your servant N. with your Holy Spirit; empower them for your service; and sustain them all the days of their life. Amen.

or this
Defend, O Lord, your servant N. with your heavenly grace, that they may continue yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more, until they come to your everlasting kingdom.  Amen.

For Reception

N., we recognize you as a member of the one holy catholic and apostolic Church, and we receive you into the fellowship of this Communion. God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, bless, preserve, and keep you.  Amen.

For Reaffirmation

N., may the Holy Spirit, who has begun a good work in you, direct and uphold you in the service of Christ and his kingdom.  Amen. 

For Care of Creation Blessing

N., may the Holy Spirit, guide you to make right decisions, not only for yourself but for the whole ecosystem and show you the way to form more loving, liberating, life-giving relationship with your Creator, with your neighbors and with the earth God made and loves. Amen. 

The Bishop concludes with this prayer:
Almighty and everlasting God, in the beginning you made all things and wove them together in interdependence and community. You have called us to tend and care for your creation and all the life within it. Give us wisdom, courage, reverence, strength, and delight in the ministry of Creation Care. And let your loving hand ever be over these your servants; let your Holy Spirit ever be with them; and so lead them in the knowledge and obedience of your Word, that they may serve you in this life, and dwell with you in the life to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Bishop: The peace of God be always with you.
People: And also with you.

Bishop:  Go forth into the world in peace.
Be of good courage.
Hold fast to that which is good.
Render to no one evil for evil.
Strengthen the fainthearted.
Support the weak.
Comfort the afflicted.
Be patient with all, but make no peace with oppression. 
Love and serve all that is Holy,
and the Blessing of God,
the Source of Life,
Incarnate Word,
and Spirit of Love,
be among you and remain with you
today and always.
Amen. 

Deacon: Let us go forth into the world, rejoicing in the power of the Spirit. Alleluia.  Alleluia. 
People: Thanks be to God.  Alleluia.  Alleluia.

Confirmations - June 12 - Marin

(At the sound of the singing bowl, the people gather around the edges of the spiral.)

Opening Song: “Open My Heart”

Bishop Marc welcomes everyone.

Opening Acclamation

Bishop: Alleluia. Christ is risen.
People: The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.
Bishop: There is one Body and one Spirit;
People: There is one hope in God's call to us;
Bishop: One Savior, one Faith, one Baptism;
People: One God, Creator of all.

Bishop: God be with you.
People: And also with you.

Bishop: Let us pray.
O merciful Creator, your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature: Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts; through Jesus Christ our Savior, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and moves, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Priest:   We acknowledge that this land is the traditional territory of the Coast Miwok and Graton Rancheria peoples. Their presence is imbued in the lands and waters surrounding us. May we nurture our relationship with our Native neighbors, and the shared responsibilities to their homelands where we all reside today. 

Blessing of Water

(The Bishop blesses the water in the center of the spiral first, saying)

Bishop: May God be with you.
People: And also with you.
Bishop: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give God thanks and praise.

Bishop: We thank you, Almighty God, for the gift of water. 
Over it the Holy Spirit moved in the beginning of creation. Through it you led the children of Israel out of their bondage in Egypt into the land of promise. In it your Son Jesus received the baptism of John and was anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Messiah, the Christ, to lead us, through his death and resurrection, from the bondage of sin into everlasting life.
We thank you, Creator, for the water of Baptism. In it we are buried with Christ in his death. By it we share in his resurrection. Through it we are reborn by the Holy Spirit.
Therefore in joyful obedience to your Son, we bring into his fellowship those who come to him in faith, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 

(At the following words, the Bishop touches the water)

Now sanctify this water, we pray you, by the power of your Holy Spirit, that those who here are cleansed from sin and born again may continue for ever in the risen life of Jesus Christ our Savior. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen. 

The Universe Walk

Bell

Reader 1: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through the Word, and without the Word not one thing came into being. What has come into being in the Word was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

Reader 1 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 2.  

Bell 

Reader 2: Fourteen billion years ago,from that place that was no-place, from that time that was no-time, God calls forth the cosmos in a silent blaze of inconceivable brilliance. It contains all the light, energy, and potential for everything that will ever come to be. 

Reader 1 walks the spiral until coming to the first knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 2 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 3.  

Bell 

Reader 3: Eight and a half billion years later,our Grandmother Star becomes a supernova. She gives up her life in an explosion that gives rise to our Star, what we call the Sun. The sun and a great disk of matter emerge. All the members of our solar system. 

Reader 2 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 3 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 4.  

Bell

Reader 4: For the next three hundred million years, Earth sweeps up solar system debris, swelling in size. Some of the outer layers of the molten Earth splash out into orbit, creating the moon. 

Reader 3 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 4 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 5. 

 Bell

Reader 5: Over the next six hundred million years, as Earth's surface quiets and cools, an atmosphere begins to form. The first rains fall upon the Earth. 

Reader 4 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 5 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 6. 

Bell

Reader 6: Four billion years ago, oceans are born and bring forth the wonder of life – simple cells. Earth comes alive. 

Reader 5 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 6 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 7.  

Bell

Reader 7: Five hundred million years ago, the first animals and plants move out of the waters onto the dry land, separating themselves from the creatures that remained in the waters of the oceans.

Reader 6 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 7 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 8.  

Bell

Reader 8: Four hundred twenty-five million years ago plants develop wood cells and learn to stand upright, stretching towards the sun, first living along the shores of oceans and rivers, and then covering the earth. 

Reader 7 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 8 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 9. 

 Bell

Reader 9: Two hundred million years ago, the continents shift, crack, and drift apart. Separate oceans are formed. Creation on earth expands and moves apart. 

Reader 8 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 9 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 10. 

 Bell

Reader 10: Six hundred and fifty thousand years ago, the plates that form the San Andreas fault began their dance. shifting and sliding, squeezing and stretching, slipping and spreading they created the San Francisco Bay.  

Reader 9 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 10 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 11. 

Bell 

Reader 11: One hundred and forty thousand years ago, modern Homo Sapiens emerge in the unfolding life process. Through humans, the universe realizes its capacity for conscious self-awareness. 

Reader 10 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 11 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 12. 

 Bell

Reader 12: Twenty-six hundred years ago, the stories that would later become the oldest part of the Bible are first written down by people seeking God. 

Reader 11 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 12 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 13. 

 Bell

Reader 13: Two thousand years ago, a woman named Mary gives birth to a child, Jesus, called Emmanuel, “God with us.” His struggle to embody, teach, and share God's love inspires followers who later became known as Christians. 

Reader 12 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 13 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 14. 

Bell

Reader 14: Four hundred and forty-two years ago, Sir Francis Drake and the crew of the Golden Hinde mark their landing near this place with the first Anglican worship service on the north American continent. The arrival of more colonizers driven by selfish interests desire to dominate the land and claim ownership for a foreign nation.  

Reader 13 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 13 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 15. 

Bell

Reader 15: Two hundred and fifty-two years ago, missionaries from Spain, led by Junípero Serra, began to make their way up the coast of California planting outposts that would become some of our largest cities. These missions contribute to the devastation of the traditional way of life for the people who had been living on this land for thousands of years.  

Reader 14 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 15 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 16. 

 Bell

Reader 16: One hundred and seventy-two years ago, gold is discovered in California. Overcome by greed, we became disconnected from God’s creation in the exploitation of the land for our own benefit. The poisons from the mining process continue to pollute the San Francisco Bay. 

Reader 15 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 16 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 17. 

Bell

Reader 17: Seventy-Six Years Ago, harnessing the power of the atom, scientists created the first nuclear explosion, a discovery which has the potential to eradicate all life on earth but also has the potential to bring peace. 

Reader 16 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 17 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 18. 

Bell

Reader 18: Fifty-five years ago, after spending 28 years of retirement in this pasture, being loved and cared for by Anthony Connell and the good people of this neighborhood, and serving as a reminder of our common commitment to care for all the creatures of the earth, Blackie, the beloved horse, died and was buried here.  

Reader 17 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

Reader 18 walks to the center of the spiral, takes a small bowl, fills it with water, then waits for Reader 19. 

Bell

Reader 19: TODAY, the Story of the Universe is being told as our Sacred Story. The Flaring Forth continues at this moment. Today, all humans can know the story of our origin, Our shared story with all creation living in this sacred Universe.  

Reader 18 walks the spiral until coming to the next knot, where they will place their bowl of water, then return to the outside of the spiral. 

 Bell

Bishop: God be with you.
People: And also with you.

Bishop: Let us pray.
Creating and life-giving God, you have placed us in communities of people and in connection with all of life. Help us to be aware of your presence in the natural world around us, and to commit ourselves to caring for all of life on this fragile earth, our island home. Let us love and support one another in the shared work of caring for the environment, that others in generations to come may always see your handiwork in the sky, land, and water. In the name of the one through whom all things came into being, Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen. 

Bell

Presentation and Examination of the Candidates

Bishop: The Candidates for confirmation will now be presented.

Presenters: I present these persons for Confirmation.
(we will go around the circle, congregation by congregation to present. Please do not name each person, just say “these persons/this person”) 

Bishop: Do you reaffirm your renunciation of evil?
Candidates: I do.

Bishop: Do you renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?
Candidates: I do and with God's grace I will follow him as my Savior.

Bishop: As the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement and as people who live the Way of Love, we long to grow loving, liberating, and life-giving relationship with God, each other, and God’s Creation. In this urgent moment, we have come forward to make a faithful pledge to protect and renew this good Earth and all who call it home. We trust that the body of Christ acting together will always accomplish more than any one could alone. 
Group: As followers of Jesus and as lovers of God and of all that God has created, we present ourselves to you. We ask for God‘s blessing on our commitment to sustain and renew the earth and all who call it home. 

Bishop: Will you share your stories of love and concern for the Earth and link with others who care about protecting the sacred web of life? 
Group: We will. 

Bishop: Will you stand with those most vulnerable to the harmful effects of environmental degradation and climate change – women, children, poor people and communities of color, refugees, migrants? 
Group: We will. 

Bishop: Will you change your habits and choices in order to live more simply, humbly and gently on the Earth? 
Group: We will. 

Bishop: Will you who witness these promises do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ, pray for your companions on the Jesus Way, and discover ways that you can also engage in new behaviors that help the whole creation to flourish? 
People: We will.

Bishop: Let us join with those who are committing themselves to Christ and renew our own baptismal covenant. 
Do you believe in God the Father? 
People: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. 

Bishop: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?
People: I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

Bishop: Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit? 
People: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.  

Bishop: Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers? 
People: I will, with God's help.  

Bishop: Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?
People: I will, with God's help.  

Bishop: Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ? 
People: I will, with God's help.  

Bishop: Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?
People: I will, with God's help.  

Bishop: Will you strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of the Earth and of every human being?
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Let us now pray for these persons who have renewed their commitment to Christ. 

Intercessor: Deliver them, O God, from the way of sin and death. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Intercessor: Open their hearts to your grace and truth. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Intercessor: Fill them with your holy and life-giving Spirit. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Intercessor: Keep them in the faith and communion of your holy Church. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Intercessor: Teach them to love others in the power of the Spirit. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Intercessor: Send them into the world in witness to your love. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Intercessor: Bring them to the fullness of your peace and glory. 
People: God, hear our prayer.  

Bishop: Almighty God, we thank you that by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ you have overcome sin and brought us to yourself, and that by the sealing of your Holy Spirit you have bound us to your service. Renew in these your servants the covenant you have made with them at their Baptism. Send them forth in the power of that Spirit to perform the service you set before them; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

For Confirmation

(The Bishop lays hands upon each one and says)
Strengthen, O Lord, your servant N. with your Holy Spirit; empower them for your service; and sustain them all the days of their life. Amen.

or this
Defend, O Lord, your servant N. with your heavenly grace, that they may continue yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more, until they come to your everlasting kingdom.  Amen. 

For Reception
N., we recognize you as a member of the one holy catholic and apostolic Church, and we receive you into the fellowship of this Communion. God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, bless, preserve, and keep you.  Amen.

For Reaffirmation
N., may the Holy Spirit, who has begun a good work in you, direct and uphold you in the service of Christ and his kingdom.  Amen. 

For Care of Creation Blessing
N., may the Holy Spirit, guide you to make right decisions, not only for yourself but for the whole ecosystem and show you the way to form more loving, liberating, life-giving relationship with your Creator, with your neighbors and with the earth God made and loves. Amen. 

The Bishop concludes with this prayer:
Almighty and everlasting God, in the beginning you made all things and wove them together in interdependence and community. You have called us to tend and care for your creation and all the life within it. Give us wisdom, courage, reverence, strength, and delight in the ministry of Creation Care. And let your loving hand ever be over these your servants; let your Holy Spirit ever be with them; and so lead them in the knowledge and obedience of your Word, that they may serve you in this life, and dwell with you in the life to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Bishop: The peace of God be always with you.
People: And also with you. 

Song: “Peace Before Us” 

Bishop: Go forth into the world in peace. Be of good courage. Hold fast to that which is good. Strengthen the fainthearted. Support the weak. Comfort the afflicted. Be patient with all but make no peace with oppression. Love and serve all that is holy, and the blessing of God, the Source of Life, Incarnate Word, and Spirit of Love, be among you and remain with you, today and always. Amen

Deacon: Let us go forth into the world, rejoicing in the power of the Spirit. Alleluia.  Alleluia. 
People: Thanks be to God.  Alleluia.  Alleluia.

Song: “Another Word/All Shall Be Well” 

Juneteenth Resources

In October of 2020 the Diocese of California adopted a resolution to recognize and celebrate Juneteenth as a Diocesan Feast Day and Holiday. (text of the resolution can be found HERE)

A liturgy was approved for congregations to use on that day. It can be found HERE.

For those who would like to know more about what Juneteenth is and what it celebrates, this article by Henry Louis Gates, Jr gives an in-depth answer to the question: What is Juneteenth?

Suggested Videos:

This Washington Post Interview with Naomi Mitchell Carrier, author of Go Down, Old Hannah and CEO of the Texas Center for African American Living History, speaks of the closeness of history as she tells her great-grandmother’s story.

This video from Vox helps make the connection between the history of slavery, emancipation, and the racism within our systems that led to the death of George Floyd and others.

If you’re looking for something longer, possibly to jumpstart a discussion group, this lecture from Dr. Shenette Garrett-Scott traces the history of Juneteenth from it’s inception in the freedmen colonies to the present community events.

Actions You Can Take: (all found in Anti-Racism Daily, a newsletter we recommend subscribing to)

Sign this petition to make Juneteenth a federally recognized holiday. This petition was created in 2019 by Opal Lee, a 93-year-old activist.

Tell your company to make Juneteenth a paid holiday. If your company already has, upload their information here.

Reflect with your family: Who was alive in your family when Juneteenth happened? How many generations ago was that? What part might they have played in emancipation?

Juneteenth Liturgy

At Diocesan Convention in the fall of 2020, the Diocese of California approved a resolution making Juneteenth a Feast Day.

Resources on the history of Juneteenth, how to teach about it, and other ways to mark the occasion can be found HERE.

The liturgy below was compiled by the Vivian Traylor Chapter of the Union of Black Episcopalians and approved by the Diocesan Liturgical Commission for use in DioCal. (An editable version can be found HERE)

Suggested Juneteenth Feast Day Order of Service/Liturgy

Prelude Medley 
See list at the bottom of this page for suggested music

Opening Hymn (Processional)
See list at the bottom of this page for suggested music

Opening Acclamation and Collect 

Blessed are you, holy and living One
You come to your people and set them free. 

The People and Clergy Pray together:
Almighty God, you rescued your people from slavery in Egypt, and throughout the ages you have never failed to hear the cries of the captives; We remember before you our sisters and brothers in Galveston, Texas who on this day received the glad tidings of their emancipation; Forgive us for the many grave sins that delayed that liberating word; Anoint us with your Spirit to bring good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim the year of your favor; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

OR

Holy and righteous God, you created us in your image. Grant us grace to contend fearlessly against evil and to make no peace with oppression.  Help us, like those of generations before us, resist the evil of slavery and human bondage in any form and any manner of oppression. Help us to use our freedoms to bring justice among people and nations everywhere, to the glory of your Holy name through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Confession
Deacon: Let us confess our sins against God and one another.
Almighty God, Source of all that is,
Giver of every good gift:
You create all people in your image
and call us to love one another as you love us.
We confess that we have failed to honor you
in the great diversity of the human family.
We have desired to live in freedom,
while building walls between ourselves and others.
We have longed to be known and accepted for who we are,
while making judgements of others based on the color of skin,
or the shape of features, or the varieties of human experience.
We have tried to love our neighbors individually
while yet benefitting from systems that hold
those same neighbors in oppression.
Forgive us, Holy God.
Give us eyes to see you as you are revealed in all people.
Strengthen us for the work of reconciliation rooted in love.
Restore us in your image, to be beloved community,
united in our diversity,
even as you are one with Christ and the Spirit,
Holy and undivided Trinity, now and forever.
Amen.

Absolution
Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.

Gloria
There are several settings to choose from in our hymnals 

Collect of the Day 
Presider: The Lord be with you
People: And also with you. 
Presider: Let us pray.

The Presider prays on behalf of the people:
Almighty and most loving God, through your Son Jesus, who came among us as a slave choosing rather to serve his disciples than to be served by them; help us in our weakness not to seek to oppress others, nor to make peace with any form of exploitation, but in all things earnestly and of our own free will to seek to serve each other following Christ’s good example, this we ask in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Old Testament Reading
A Reading from the Book of the Prophet Amos (5:18-24) 

Gradual Psalm
Psalm 137 

New Testament (Epistle) Reading
A Reading from St. Paul’s letter to the Galatians (3:23-29)

Sequence Hymn
See list at the bottom of this page for suggested music 

Gospel
Luke 4:14-21

Sermon 

Optional Musical Interlude
Music (See list at the bottom of this page for suggested music), interpretative dance or short film

Prayers of the People
Deacon: As we enter this Juneteenth holiday celebration, we offer prayers for ourselves and the world.  

Lay Person: That those entrusted with authority in our nation may support the changes needed in order to exercise leadership and promote healing it in an authentic, responsible, and peaceful manner, we pray . . .

People:  May we accept the call to be bearers of peace.

Lay Person:  That the fullness of justice and compassion may be extended to the victims and families who have been subjected to violence, abuse, discrimination, murder, or the threat of, we pray . . .

People: May we accept the call to be bearers of peace.

Lay Person:  That our communities and our schools may find ways to actively participate in efforts to eliminate violence, especially violence against black and brown people, so that this country may take the lead in fostering conditions for healing racial division, we pray. . .

People: May we accept the call to be bearers of peace.

Lay Person: That all who gather this week to remember Juneteenth be able to freely, peaceably, and in celebration with us, remember together, we pray . . .

People:  May we accept the call to be bearers of peace.

Lay Person: That we be courageous in living out the Gospel, we pray . . .

People:  May we accept the call to be bearers of peace.

(From: https://mercyedu.org/juneteenth-2020-prayer-service/)

Collect
We pray, O Lord, for change. Jesus you revealed God through your wise words and loving deeds, and we encounter you still today in the faces of those whom society has pushed to the margins. Guide us, through the love you revealed, to establish the justice you proclaimed, that all peoples might dwell in harmony and peace, united by that one love that binds us to each other, and to you. And most of all, Lord, change our routine worship and work into genuine encounter with you and our better selves so that our lives will be changed for the good of all. Amen. (From: https://www.archbalt.org/a-prayer-to-celebrate-juneteenth-a-light-of-hope-for-freedom-and-justice/)

Peace 

Announcements 

Offertory and Hymn
See list at the bottom of this page for suggested music

Doxology
https://hymnary.org/person/Brown_Grayson 

The Great Thanksgiving
Presider: The Lord be with you. 
People:  And also with you.
Presider: Lift up your hearts. 
People:  We lift them to the Lord.
Presider: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. 
People:   It is right to give God thanks and praise.  

Prayer D (https://www.bcponline.org)

Sanctus
LEVAS 255

Eucharistic Prayers and Words of Institution
Suggestion: Enriching our Worship Eucharistic Prayer 1

Lord’s Prayer (found on page 181 of The New Zealand Prayer Book)

Eternal Spirit,
Earth-maker, Pain-bearer, Life-giver,
Source of all that is and that shall be,
Father and Mother of us all,
Loving God, in whom is heaven:
The hallowing of your name echo through the universe!
The way of your justice be followed by the peoples of the world!
Your heavenly will be done by all created beings!
Your commonwealth of peace and freedom
sustain our hope and come on earth.
With the bread we need for today, feed us.
In the hurts we absorb from one another, forgive us.
In times of temptation and testing, strengthen us.
From trials too great to endure, spare us.
From the grip of all that is evil, free us.
For you reign in the glory of the power that is love,
now and forever. Amen.

The Fraction
Lamb of God: (https://hymnary.org/tune/lamb_of_god_mclin)

Communion Hymn
See list at the bottom of this page for suggested music

Post Communion Prayer
Celebrant: Let us pray.

Celebrant and People pray together:
Creator God,
May we who have been strengthened by this sacrament, strengthen those in weakness
We who have been fed, feed those in hunger
We who have been welcomed, welcome others
We who have been seen and known, see and know the needs of others
Give us your grace to respond always in loving service
Through Jesus Christ our Lord
Amen.  (Written by Revd Gemma Sampson, Diocese of Durham)

Blessing and Dismissal
And now, may God bless us with anger at injustice, oppression, exploitation of people, so that we may continue to work for justice, freedom and peace. Amen
May God bless us with tears to shed for those who suffer from pain, rejection, starvation and war, so that we may reach out our hand to comfort them and to turn their pain into joy. Amen
May God bless us with enough foolishness to believe that we can make a difference in this work, so that we can do what others claim cannot be done. Amen
And the Blessing of God Almighty, the One who creates, Redeems and Sanctifies, be upon you and all you love, this day, and forever more.  Amen.  

(A Four- Fold Franciscan Blessing by The Very Rev. Kim L. Coleman)

and

Go forth into the world in peace.
Be of good courage.
Hold fast to that which is good.
Strengthen the fainthearted.
Support the weak.
Comfort the afflicted.
Be patient with all,
but make no peace with oppression.
Love and serve the Lord,
rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Response: Thanks be to God. 

Closing Hymn

See list at the bottom of this page for suggested music

Suggested Musical Selections
1.   Wade in the water
2.   Oh, Freedom
3.   Go Down Moses
4.   Motherless Child
5.   We are marching in the Light of God https://www.riteseries.org/song/wlp/2034/
6.   Swing Lo Sweet Chariot
7.   I am so Glad Jesus Lifted Me (LEVAS 105)
https://www.riteseries.org/song/levs/1017/
8.   Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing (not to be used during any type of procession)
https://hymnary.org/hymn/LEVS1993/1
9.   On Jordan’s Stormy banks – LEVAS  9
10.  We Shall Overcome
11.   Go Tell it on the Mountain
12.  Teach Me, O Lord
13.  Just A Closer Walk with Thee
14.  Lead Me, Guide Me

EcoConfirmation - May 22 - Christ Church, Los Altos

(At the sound of the singing bowl, the people gather around the edges of the spiral.)

Opening Song: “Open My Heart”

Bishop Marc welcomes everyone.

Opening Acclamation

Bishop: Alleluia. Christ is risen.

People: The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.

Bishop: There is one Body and one Spirit;

People: There is one hope in God's call to us;

Bishop: One Savior, one Faith, one Baptism;

People: One God, Creator of all.

Bishop: God be with you.

People: And also with you.

Bishop: Let us pray.
O merciful Creator, your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature: Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts; through Jesus Christ our Savior, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and moves, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Rector: We acknowledge that this land is the traditional territory of the Mumekema, Tamyen, Ohlone, and Ramaytush peoples. Their presence is imbued in the lands and waters surrounding us. May we nurture our relationship with our Native neighbors, and the shared responsibilities to their homelands where we all reside today. 

Blessing of Water

(The Bishop blesses the water in the center of the spiral, saying)

Bishop: May God be with you.

People: And also with you.

Bishop: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

People: It is right to give God thanks and praise.

Bishop: We thank you, Almighty God, for the gift of water. Over it the Holy Spirit moved in the beginning of creation. Through it you led the children of Israel out of their bondage in Egypt into the land of promise. 

In it your Son Jesus received the baptism of John and was anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Messiah, the Christ, to lead us, through his death and resurrection, from the bondage of sin into everlasting life.

We thank you, Creator, for the water of Baptism. In it we are buried with Christ in his death. 

By it we share in his resurrection. Through it we are reborn by the Holy Spirit.

Therefore in joyful obedience to your Son, we bring into his fellowship those who come to him in faith, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 

 (At the following words, the Bishop touches the water)

Now sanctify this water, we pray you, by the power of your Holy Spirit, that those who here are cleansed from sin and born again may continue for ever in the risen life of Jesus Christ our Savior. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen. 

The Cosmic Walk

(The first walker takes their place at the center of the spiral, ready to start walking when the SECOND reader begins. Each subsequent walker and reader will synchronize, meaning sometimes the reader will have to wait for a walker to finish, or at times the next walker will have to wait for the previous reader to finish. 

Each walker will take a small bowl of water, walking slowly towards the appropriate station, where they will set the bowl down.)

Bell

Reader 1:
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through the Word, and without the Word not one thing came into being. What has come into being in the Word was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

Bell

Reader 2:
Fourteen billion years ago, from that place that was no-place, from that time that was no-time, God calls forth the cosmos in a silent blaze of inconceivable brilliance. It contains all the light, energy, and potential for everything that will ever come to be. 

Bell

Reader 3:
Eight and a half billion years later, our Grandmother Star becomes a supernova. She gives up her life in an explosion that gives rise to our Star, what we call the Sun. The sun and a great disk of matter emerge. All the members of our solar system. 

Bell

Reader 4:
For the next three hundred million years, Earth sweeps up solar system debris, swelling in size. Some of the outer layers of the molten Earth splash out into orbit, Creating the moon. 

Bell

Reader 5:
Over the next six hundred million years, as Earth's surface quiets and cools, an atmosphere begins to form. The first rains fall upon the Earth. 

Bell

Reader 6:
Four billion years ago, Oceans are born and bring forth the wonder of life – simple cells. Earth comes alive. 

Bell

Reader 7:
Five hundred million years ago, the first animals and plants move out of the waters onto the dry land, separating themselves from the creatures that remained in the waters of the oceans.

Bell

Reader 8:
Four hundred twenty-five million years ago Plants develop wood cells and learn to stand upright, Stretching towards the sun, First living along the shores of oceans and rivers, And then covering the earth. 

Bell

Reader 9:
Two hundred million years ago, the continents shift, crack, and drift apart. Separate oceans are formed. Creation on earth expands and moves apart. 

Bell

Reader 10:
Six hundred and fifty thousand years ago, The plates that form the San Andreas fault began their dance. Shifting and sliding, squeezing and stretching, slipping and spreading They created the San Francisco bay and the foothills that surround us. 

Bell

Reader 11:
One hundred and forty thousand years ago, modern Homo Sapiens emerge in the unfolding life process. Through humans, the universe realizes its capacity for conscious self-awareness. 

Bell

Reader 12:
Twenty-six hundred years ago, the stories that would later become the oldest part of the Bible are first written down by people seeking God. 

Bell

Reader 13:
Two thousand years ago, a woman named Mary gives birth to a child, Jesus, called Emmanuel, “God with us.” His struggle to embody, teach, and share God's love inspires followers who later became known as Christians. 

Bell

Reader 14:
Two hundred and fifty-two years ago, Missionaries from Spain, led by Junípero Serra, began to make their way up the coast of California planting outposts that would become some of our largest cities. These missions contribute to the devastation of the traditional way of life for the people who had been living on this land for thousands of years. 

Bell

Reader 15:
Two hundred and fifty years ago, Sir Francis Drake and the crew of the Golden Hinde mark their arrival with the first Anglican worship service on this coast of the north American continent. Human greed, selfishness, and the desire for “progress” led us to displace and enslave the gentle native people to serve selfish interests strengthened by their desire to dominate the land and claim it for a foreign power. 

Bell

Reader 16:
One hundred and seventy-two years ago, Gold is discovered in California. We became disconnected from God’s creation in our exploitation of the land for our own benefit. The poisons from the mining process continue to pollute the San Francisco Bay. 

Bell

Reader 17:
Eighty-eight Years Ago, Astronomers observe the expansion of the Universe. Humans learn we live on the outskirts of a continually developing Universe. 

Bell

Reader 18:
Seventy-nine years ago, Violence and hatred consumes the nations of the earth in the Second World War. Neighbors of Japanese descent are forcibly removed from their homes and interned. The Furiuchi family places their lands in the trust of Christ Church parishioners, who care for their nursery, and return their property to them after the war. Our capacity for mass destruction erupts in death camps and atomic bombs, Christians raised and sustained nonviolent protests against violence and oppression.  

Bell

Reader 19:
TODAY, the Story of the Universe is being told as our Sacred Story. The Flaring Forth continues at this moment. Today, all humans can know the story of our origin, Our shared story with all creation living in this sacred Universe.  

Bell

Bishop: God be with you.

People: And also with you.

Bishop: Let us pray.
Creating and life-giving God, you have placed us in communities of people and in connection with all of life. Help us to be aware of your presence in the natural world around us, and to commit ourselves to caring for all of life on this fragile earth, our island home. Let us love and support one another in the shared work of caring for the environment, that others in generations to come may always see your handiwork in the sky, land, and water. In the name of the one through whom all things came into being, Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen. 

Bell

Presentation and Examination of the Candidates 

Bishop: The Candidates for confirmation will now be presented.
Presenters: I present these persons for Confirmation.

(we will go around the circle, congregation by congregation to present)

Bishop: Do you reaffirm your renunciation of evil?
Candidates: I do.

Bishop: Do you renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?
Candidates: I do and with God's grace I will follow him as my Savior.

Bishop: As the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement and as people who live the Way of Love, we long to grow loving, liberating, and life-giving relationship with God, each other and God’s Creation. 

In this urgent moment, we have come forward to make a faithful pledge to protect and renew this good Earth and all who call it home. We trust that the body of Christ acting together will always accomplish more than any one could alone. 

 Group: As followers of Jesus and as lovers of God and of all that God has created, we present ourselves to you. We ask for God‘s blessing on our commitment to sustain and renew the earth and all who call it home. 

Bishop: Will you share your stories of love and concern for the Earth and link with others who care about protecting the sacred web of life? 
Group: We will.

Bishop: Will you stand with those most vulnerable to the harmful effects of environmental degradation and climate change – women, children, poor people and communities of color, refugees, migrants? 
Group: We will.

Bishop: Will you change your habits and choices in order to live more simply, humbly and gently on the Earth? 
Group: We will.

Bishop: Will you who witness these promises do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ, pray for your companions on the Jesus Way, and discover ways that you can also engage in new behaviors that help the whole creation to flourish? 
People: We will.

Bishop: Let us join with those who are committing themselves to Christ and renew our own baptismal covenant. 
Do you believe in God the Father?
People: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

Bishop: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?
People: I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

Bishop: Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit? 
People: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. 

Bishop: Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers? 
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ? 
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Will you strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of the Earth and of every human being?
People: I will, with God's help. 

Bishop: Let us now pray for these persons who have renewed their commitment to Christ. 

Leader: Deliver them, O Creator, from the way of sin and death. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Open their hearts to your grace and truth. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Fill them with your holy and life-giving Spirit. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Keep them in the faith and communion of your holy Church. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Teach them to love others in the power of the Spirit. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Send them into the world in witness to your love. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 
Leader: Bring them to the fullness of your peace and glory. 
People: God, hear our prayer. 

Bishop: Almighty God, we thank you that by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ you have overcome sin and brought us to yourself, and that by the sealing of your Holy Spirit you have bound us to your service. Renew in these your servants the covenant you have made with them at their Baptism. Send them forth in the power of that Spirit to perform the service you set before them; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

For Confirmation

(The Bishop lays hands upon each one and says)
Strengthen, O Lord, your servant N. with your Holy Spirit; empower them for your service; and sustain them all the days of their life. Amen.

or this
Defend, O Lord, your servant N. with your heavenly grace, that they may continue yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more, until they come to your everlasting kingdom.  Amen.

For Reception
N., we recognize you as a member of the one holy catholic and apostolic Church, and we receive you into the fellowship of this Communion. God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, bless, preserve, and keep you.  Amen.

For Reaffirmation
N., may the Holy Spirit, who has begun a good work in you, direct and uphold you in the service of Christ and his kingdom.  Amen.

For Care of Creation Blessing
N., may the Holy Spirit, guide you to make right decisions, not only for yourself but for the whole ecosystem and show you the way to form more loving, liberating, life-giving relationship with your Creator, with your neighbors and with the earth God made and loves. Amen.

The Bishop concludes with this prayer
Almighty and everlasting God, in the beginning you made all things and wove them together in interdependence and community. You have called us to tend and care for your creation and all the life within it. Give us wisdom, courage, reverence, strength, and delight in the ministry of Creation Care. And let your loving hand ever be over these your servants; let your Holy Spirit ever be with them; and so lead them in the knowledge and obedience of your Word, that they may serve you in this life, and dwell with you in the life to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Bishop: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.

Song: “Peace Before Us”

Bishop: Go forth into the world in peace. Be of good courage. Hold fast to that which is good. Strengthen the fainthearted. Support the weak. Comfort the afflicted. Be patient with all but make no peace with oppression. Love and serve all that is holy, And the blessing of God, The Source of Life, Incarnate Word, And Spirit of Love, Be among you and remain with you Today and always. Amen

Deacon: Let us go forth into the world, rejoicing in the power of the Spirit. Alleluia.  Alleluia.
People: Thanks be to God.  Alleluia.  Alleluia.

Song: “Another Word/All Shall Be Well”

If you would like to make a financial offering for this service, please click HERE 

May 8 - EcoConfirmation - Ocean Beach

(At the sound of the singing bowl, the people gather around the edges of the spiral.)

Opening Song

“Open my Heart” written by Ana Hernández and led by Bishop Marc

Opening Acclamation
Bishop         
Alleluia. Christ is risen.

People         
The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.

Bishop         
There is one Body and one Spirit;

People          
There is one hope in God's call to us;

Bishop         
One Savior, one Faith, one Baptism;

People         
One God, Creator of all.

Bishop         
God be with you.

People         
And also with you.

Bishop         
Let us pray.

O merciful Creator,
your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature: Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts; through Jesus Christ our Savior, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

We acknowledge that this land is the traditional territory of the Mumekema, Ohlone, and Ramaytush peoples. Their presence is imbued in the lands and waters surrounding us. May we nurture our relationship with our Native neighbors, and the shared responsibilities to their homelands where we all reside today. 

Blessing of Water
(The Bishop blesses the water in the center of the spiral saying)

Bishop         May God be with you.
People         And also with you.
Bishop         Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People         It is right to give God thanks and praise.

Bishop         
We thank you, Almighty God, for the gift of water. Over it the Holy Spirit moved in the beginning of creation. Through it you led the children of Israel out of their bondage in Egypt into the land of promise. 

In it your Son Jesus received the baptism of John and was anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Messiah, the Christ, to lead us, through his death and resurrection, from the bondage of sin into everlasting life.

We thank you, Creator, for the water of Baptism. In it we are buried with Christ in his death. By it we share in his resurrection. Through it we are reborn by the Holy Spirit.

Therefore in joyful obedience to your Son, we bring into his fellowship those who come to him in faith, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 

(At the following words, the Bishop touches the water)
Now sanctify this water, we pray you, by the power of your Holy Spirit, that those who here are cleansed from sin and born again may continue for ever in the risen life of Jesus Christ our Savior. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen. 

The Cosmic Walk

(The first walker takes their place at the center of the spiral, ready to start walking when the first reader begins. Each subsequent walker and reader will synchronize, meaning sometimes the reader will have to wait for a walker to finish, or at times the next walker will have to wait for the previous reader to finish. 

Each person will take a small bowl, fill it with water from the center bowl, then, walking slowly towards the appropriate station, where they will set the bowl down.)

Bell

Reader 1:

In the beginning was the Word,
and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through the Word, and without the Word not one thing came into being. What has come into being in the Word was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

Bell

Reader 2:

Fourteen billion years ago,
from that place that was no-place, from that time that was no-time, God calls forth the cosmos in a silent blaze of inconceivable brilliance. It contains all the light, energy, and potential for everything that will ever come to be. 

Bell

Reader 3:

Eight and a half billion years later,
our Grandmother Star becomes a supernova. She gives up her life in an explosion that gives rise to our Star, what we call the Sun. The sun and a great disk of matter emerge — all the members of our solar system. 

Bell

Reader 4:

For the next three hundred million years,
Earth sweeps up solar system debris, swelling in size. Some of the outer layers of the molten Earth splash out into orbit, Creating the moon. 

Bell

Reader 5:

Over the next six hundred million years,
as Earth's surface quiets and cools, an atmosphere begins to form. The first rains fall upon the Earth. 

Bell

Reader 6:

Four billion years ago,
Oceans are born and bring forth the wonder of life – simple cells. Earth comes alive. 

Bell

Reader 7:

Five hundred million years ago,
the first animals and plants move out of the waters onto the dry land, separating themselves from the creatures that remained in the waters of the oceans.

Bell 

Reader 8:

Two hundred million years ago,
the continents shift, crack, and drift apart.  Separate oceans are formed. Creation on earth expands and moves apart. 

Bell

Reader 9:

Six hundred and fifty thousand years ago,
The plates that form the San Andreas fault began their dance. Shifting and sliding, squeezing and stretching, slipping and spreading They created the San Francisco bay and the foothills that surround us. 

Bell

Reader 10:

One hundred and forty thousand years ago,
modern Homo Sapiens emerge in the unfolding life process. Through humans, the universe realizes its capacity for conscious self-awareness. 

Bell

Reader 11:

Twenty-six hundred years ago,
the stories that would later become the oldest part of the Bible are first written down by people seeking God. 

Bell

Reader 12:

Two thousand years ago,
a woman named Mary gives birth to a child, Jesus, called Emmanuel, “God with us.” His struggle to embody, teach, and share God's love inspires followers who later became known as Christians. 

Bell

Reader 13:

Two hundred and fifty years ago,
Sir Francis Drake and the crew of the Golden Hinde mark their arrival with the first Anglican worship service on this coast of the north American continent. Human greed, selfishness and the desire for “progress” led us to displace and enslave the gentle native people to serve selfish interests strengthened by their desire to dominate the land and claim it for a foreign power. 

Bell

Reader 14:

One hundred and seventy-two years ago, 
Gold is discovered in California. We became disconnected from God’s creation in our exploitation of the land for our own benefit. The poisons from the mining process continue to pollute the San Francisco Bay. 

Bell

Reader 15:

One hundred and thirty years ago, 
construction begins on The Presidio. Into the sacred land we carve platforms, we pave God’s creation with concrete and steel, on the batteries we place guns that we will never use in fear of an attack that never comes. 

Bell

Reader 16:

Eighty-eight Years Ago,
Astronomers observe the expansion of the Universe. Humans learn we live on the outskirts of a continually developing Universe. 

Bell

Reader 17:

Seventy-six years ago,
scientists detonated the first nuclear bomb, reaching new extremes in our capability to destroy each other and the world around us. For the first time humans have the power to fully eradicate all life on earth. 

Bell

Reader 18:

TODAY, 
the Story of the Universe is being told as our Sacred Story. The Flaring Forth continues at this moment. Today, all humans can know the story of our origin, Our shared story with all creation living in this sacred Universe.  

Bell

Bishop         God be with you.
People         And also with you.
Bishop         Let us pray.
Creating and life-giving God, you have placed us in communities of people and in connection with all of life. Help us to be aware of your presence in the natural world around us, and to commit ourselves to caring for all of life on this fragile earth, our island home. 

Let us love and support one another in the shared work of caring for the environment, that others in generations to come may always see your handiwork in the sky, land, and water. In the name of the one through whom all things came into being, Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen. 

Bell

Presentation and Examination of the Candidates

Bishop              
The Candidates for confirmation will now be presented.

Presenters       
I present these persons for Confirmation.

Bishop              
Do you reaffirm your renunciation of evil?

Candidates     
I do.

Bishop              
Do you renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?

Candidates      
I do and with God's grace I will follow him as my Savior.

Bishop             
As the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement and as people who live the Way of Love, we long to grow loving, liberating, and life-giving relationship with God, each other, and God’s Creation. 

In this urgent moment, we have come forward to make a faithful pledge to protect and renew this good Earth and all who call it home. We trust that the body of Christ acting together will always accomplish more than any one could alone. 

Group (those making a pledge to the care of creation)         
As followers of Jesus and as lovers of God and of all that God has created, we present ourselves to you. We ask for God‘s blessing on our commitment to sustain and renew the earth and all who call it home. 

Bishop              
Will you share your stories of love and concern for the Earth and link with others who care about protecting the sacred web of life? 

Group              
We will.

Bishop             
Will you stand with those most vulnerable to the harmful effects of environmental degradation and climate change – women, children, poor people and communities of color, refugees, migrants? 

Group               
We will.

Bishop              
Will you change your habits and choices in order to live more simply, humbly, and gently on the Earth? 

Group               
We will.

Bishop           
Will you who witness these promises do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ, pray for your companions on the Jesus Way, and discover ways that you can also engage in new behaviors that help the whole creation to flourish? 

People              
We will.

Bishop              
Let us join with those who are committing themselves to Christ and renew our own baptismal covenant. 

Do you believe in God the Father?

People             
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

Bishop              
Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?

People              
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

Bishop              
Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit? 

People             
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. 

Bishop              
Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers? 

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop              
Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop              
Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ? 

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop              
Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop              
Will you strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of the Earth and of every human being?

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop         
Let us now pray for these persons who have renewed their commitment to Christ. 

Leader              
Deliver them, O Lord, from the way of sin and death. 

People             
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader              
Open their hearts to your grace and truth. 

People              
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Fill them with your holy and life-giving Spirit. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Keep them in the faith and communion of your holy Church. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Teach them to love others in the power of the Spirit. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Send them into the world in witness to your love. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Bring them to the fullness of your peace and glory. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Bishop         
Almighty God, we thank you that by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ you have overcome sin and brought us to yourself, and that by the sealing of your Holy Spirit you have bound us to your service. 
Renew in these your servants the covenant you have made with them at their Baptism. 
Send them forth in the power of that Spirit to perform the service you set before them; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

For Confirmation
(The Bishop lays hands upon each one and says)
Strengthen, O Lord, your servant N. with your Holy Spirit; empower them for your service; and sustain them all the days of their life. Amen.

or this

Defend, O Lord, your servant N. with your heavenly grace, that they may continue yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more, until they come to your everlasting kingdom.  Amen.

For Reception
N., we recognize you as a member of the one holy catholic and apostolic Church, and we receive you into the fellowship of this Communion. God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, bless, preserve, and keep you.  Amen.

For Reaffirmation
N., may the Holy Spirit, who has begun a good work in you, direct and uphold you in the service of Christ and his kingdom.  Amen.

For Care of Creation Blessing
N., may the Holy Spirit, guide you to make right decisions, not only for yourself but for the whole ecosystem and show you the way to form more loving, liberating, life-giving relationship with your Creator, with your neighbors and with the earth God made and loves. Amen.

(The Bishop concludes with this prayer)

Almighty and everlasting God, in the beginning you made all things and wove them together in interdependence and community. You have called us to tend and care for your creation and all the life within it. Give us wisdom, courage, reverence, strength, and delight in the ministry of Creation Care. And let your loving hand ever be over these your servants; let your Holy Spirit ever be with them; and so lead them in the knowledge and obedience of your Word, that they may serve you in this life, and dwell with you in the life to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Bishop         
The peace of the Lord be always with you.

People         
And also with you.

Regathering Song “Peace Before Us”

Peace before us, peace behind us, peace under our feet.
Peace within us, peace over us, let all around us be peace.

Love before us, love behind us, love under our feet.
Love within us, love over us, let all around us be love.

Light before us, light behind us, light under our feet.
Light within us, light over us, let all around us be light.

Christ before us, Christ behind us, Christ under our feet.
Christ within us, Christ over us, let all around us be Christ.

Ocean Prayers and Sending Out 
(sections taken from Every Moment Holy vol 1: A Liturgy for Arriving at the Ocean) 

Bishop
We have traveled this day to the bounding sea, O Lord, to the far edge of the habitable land, as to the utter end of our own measure and ability and strength,

People:
to find here reminders of your limitless presence extended immeasurably beyond us. 

Bishop:
In this place may we recall our blessed smallness. May we on this lovely shore lay down our pretensions of power, shedding the burdensome dreams of our own grandeur,

People:
and may we find instead contentment in our creatureliness. 

Bishop:
We are your creatures.

People:
Alive because your breath has filled our lungs

Bishop:
We are your people

People:
restored because your salvation has found us. 

Bishop:
May we wade here in the wild waters of your presence,

People:
May we bask here in the golden light of your love. 

Bishop:
May the stresses of obligation, reputation, and deadline here dissolve.

People:
May we find rest in the renewed certainty that we need not be feared or respected or popular or successful or somehow perfect to be loved by you. 

Bishop:
In the ocean of your presence let us taste anew the freedom of children on holiday. 

People: 
Let us ride upon these waves of endless grace,

Bishop:
Unselfconsciously delighting in the scale of a creation, and of a creator, and of a redemption so much grander than ourselves. 

Amen

Bishop          
(Offers a closing blessing to the people)

Let us go forth into the world, rejoicing in the power of the Spirit. Alleluia.  Alleluia. 

People         
Thanks be to God.  Alleluia.  Alleluia.

Closing Song “All Shall Be Well/Another World” by Ana Hernández (adapted from a poem by Arundhati Roy)

All shall be well, all manner of things shall be well
All shall be well, all manner of things shall be well.

Another world is not only possible, she is on her way
On a quiet day, I can hear her breathing,
She is on her way.

If you would like to make a financial offering for this service, please click HERE

April 24 - Land Blessing Liturgy

(At the sound of the singing bowl, the people gather around the edges of the spiral.)

Opening Acclamation
Bishop         
Alleluia. Christ is risen.

People         
The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.

Bishop         
There is one Body and one Spirit;

People          
There is one hope in God's call to us;

Bishop         
One Lord, one Faith, one Baptism;

People         
One God and Father of all.

Bishop         
God be with you.

People         
And also with you.

Bishop         
Let us pray.

O merciful Creator,
your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature: Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

We acknowledge that this land is the traditional territory of the Bay Miwuk, Mumekema, and Yokuts peoples. Their presence is imbued in the lands and waters surrounding us. May we nurture our relationship with our Native neighbors, and the shared responsibilities to their homelands where we all reside today. 

Blessing of Water
(The Bishop blesses the water and seeds in the center of the spiral first, saying)

Bishop         May God be with you.
People         And also with you.
Bishop         Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People         It is right to give God thanks and praise.

Bishop         
We thank you, Almighty God, for the gift of water. Over it the Holy Spirit moved in the beginning of creation. Through it you led the children of Israel out of their bondage in Egypt into the land of promise.

In it your Son Jesus received the baptism of John and was anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Messiah, the Christ, to lead us, through his death and resurrection, from the bondage of sin into everlasting life.

We thank you, Creator, for the water of Baptism. In it we are buried with Christ in his death. By it we share in his resurrection. Through it we are reborn by the Holy Spirit.

Therefore in joyful obedience to your Son, we bring into his fellowship those who come to him in faith, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. 

(At the following words, the Bishop touches the water)
Now sanctify this water, we pray you, by the power of your Holy Spirit, that those who here are cleansed from sin and born again may continue for ever in the risen life of Jesus Christ our Savior. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen. 

(The Bishop then blesses the seeds in the center of the spiral, saying)
Loving God, bless these seeds, pregnant with vast potential and the Easter promise of new life from death and burial. May they burst forth soon with verdant growth from the earth, rain, and sun. All this we ask through Christ our Lord, Amen.  

The Cosmic Walk

(The first walker takes their place at the center of the spiral, ready to start walking when the first reader begins. Each subsequent walker and reader will synchronize, meaning sometimes the reader will have to wait for a walker to finish, or at times the next walker will have to wait for the previous reader to finish. 

Each person will take a handful of seeds, slowly spreading them as they walk, leaving most of them at the appropriate station.)

Bell

Reader 1:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The Word was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through the Word, and without the Word not one thing came into being. What has come into being in the Word was life, and the life was the light of all people. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not overcome it.

Bell

Reader 2:

Fourteen billion years ago,
from that place that was no-place, from that time that was no-time, God calls forth the cosmos in a silent blaze of inconceivable brilliance. It contains all the light, energy, and potential for everything that will ever come to be. 

Bell

Reader 3:

Eight and a half billion years later,
our Grandmother Star becomes a supernova. She gives up her life in an explosion that gives rise to our Star, what we call the Sun. The sun and a great disk of matter emerge — all the members of our solar system. 

Bell

Reader 4:

For the next three hundred million years,
Earth sweeps up solar system debris, swelling in size. Some of the outer layers of the molten Earth splash out into orbit, Creating the moon. 

Bell

Reader 5:

Over the next six hundred million years,
as Earth's surface quiets and cools, an atmosphere begins to form. The first rains fall upon the Earth. 

Bell

Reader 6:

Four billion years ago,
Oceans are born and bring forth the wonder of life – simple cells. Earth comes alive. 

Bell

Reader 7:

Five hundred million years ago,
the first animals and plants move out of the waters onto the dry land, separating themselves from the creatures that remained in the waters of the oceans.

Bell 

Reader 8:

Two hundred million years ago,
the continents shift, crack, and drift apart.  Separate oceans are formed. Creation on earth expands and moves apart. 

Bell

Reader 9:

Six hundred and fifty thousand years ago,
The plates that form the San Andreas fault began their dance. Shifting and sliding, squeezing and stretching, slipping and spreading They created the San Francisco bay and the foothills that surround us. 

Bell

Reader 10:

One hundred and forty thousand years ago,
modern Homo Sapiens emerge in the unfolding life process. Through humans, the universe realizes its capacity for conscious self-awareness. 

Bell

Reader 11:

Twenty-six hundred years ago,
the stories that would later become the oldest part of the Bible are first written down by people seeking God. 

Bell

Reader 12:

Two thousand years ago,
a woman named Mary gives birth to a child, Jesus, called Emmanuel, “God with us.” His struggle to embody, teach, and share God's love inspires followers who later became known as Christians. 

Bell

Reader 13:

Two hundred and fifty years ago,
Captain Pedro Fages and his group climbed the western slopes of Mount Diablo and discovered the potential of the River Delta. Human greed and selfishness drove their desire to dominate the land and 
claim it for a foreign power. 

Bell

Reader 14:

One hundred and eighty-four years ago, 
Dr. John Marsh became the first white man to acquire property in the area. Our desire for “progress” led us to displace and enslave the gentle native people to serve selfish interests; we disregarded their harmony with the land and became disconnected from God’s creation 
in our exploitation of the land for our own benefit. 

Bell

Reader 15:

One hundred and eleven years ago, 
Balfour, Guthrie and company discovered the potential of Brentwood’s rich soil and weather conditions. Coal mining desecrates the natural harmony of the land and the railroad interrupts its natural ways and divides its people. We forget to care for God’s creation and exploit it to satisfy human desire for more and better.   

Bell

Reader 16:

Eighty-eight Years Ago,
Astronomers observe the expansion of the Universe. Humans learn we live on the outskirts of a continually developing Universe. 

Bell

Reader 17:

Thirty years ago,
people’s desire for bigger houses for less money drives the growth of the city from less than 2,000 inhabitants to over 65,000. Agricultural land is sold for development; long commutes leave us little time for each other. We become disconnected from the land which is the source of our food, from each other, and from care for God’s creation. 

Bell

Reader 18:

TODAY,
the Story of the Universe is being told as our Sacred Story. The Flaring Forth continues at this moment. Today, all humans can know the story of our origin, Our shared story with all creation living in this sacred Universe.  

Bell

Bishop         God be with you.
People         And also with you.
Bishop         Let us pray.
Creating and life-giving God, you have placed us in communities of people and in connection with all of life. Help us to be aware of your presence in the natural world around us, and to commit ourselves to caring for all of life on this fragile earth, our island home. 

Let us love and support one another in the shared work of caring for the environment, that others in generations to come may always see your handiwork in the sky, land, and water. In the name of the one through whom all things came into being, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. 

Bell

Presentation and Examination of the Candidates

Bishop              
The Candidates for confirmation will now be presented.

Presenters       
I present these persons for Confirmation.

Bishop              
Do you reaffirm your renunciation of evil?

Candidates     
I do.

Bishop              
Do you renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?

Candidates      
I do and with God's grace I will follow him as my Savior and Lord.

Bishop             
As the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement and as people who live the Way of Love, we long to grow loving, liberating, and life-giving relationship with God, each other and God’s Creation. 

In this urgent moment, we have come forward to make a faithful pledge to protect and renew this good Earth and all who call it home. We trust that the body of Christ acting together will always accomplish more than any one could alone. 

Group              
As followers of Jesus and as lovers of God and of all that God has created, we present ourselves to you. We ask for God‘s blessing on our commitment to sustain and renew the earth and all who call it home. 

Bishop              
Will you share your stories of love and concern for the Earth and link with others who care about protecting the sacred web of life? 

Group              
We will.

Bishop             
Will you stand with those most vulnerable to the harmful effects of environmental degradation and climate change – women, children, poor people and communities of color, refugees, migrants? 

Group               
We will.

Bishop              
Will you change your habits and choices in order to live more simply, humbly and gently on the Earth? 

Group               
We will.

Bishop           
Will you who witness these promises do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ, pray for your companions on the Jesus Way, and discover ways that you can also engage in new behaviors that help the whole creation to flourish? 

People              
We will.

Bishop              
Let us join with those who are committing themselves to Christ and renew our own baptismal covenant. 

Do you believe in God the Father?

People             
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.

Bishop              
Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?

People              
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.

Bishop              
Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit? 

People             
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting. 

Bishop              
Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers? 

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop              
Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop              
Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ? 

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop              
Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop              
Will you strive for justice and peace among all people and respect the dignity of the Earth and of every human being?

People              
I will, with God's help. 

Bishop         
Let us now pray for these persons who have renewed their commitment to Christ. 

Leader              
Deliver them, O Lord, from the way of sin and death. 

People             
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader              
Open their hearts to your grace and truth. 

People              
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Fill them with your holy and life-giving Spirit. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Keep them in the faith and communion of your holy Church. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Teach them to love others in the power of the Spirit. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Send them into the world in witness to your love. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Leader         
Bring them to the fullness of your peace and glory. 

People         
Lord, hear our prayer. 

Bishop         
Almighty God, we thank you that by the death and resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ you have overcome sin and brought us to yourself, and that by the sealing of your Holy Spirit you have bound us to your service. 
Renew in these your servants the covenant you have made with them at their Baptism. 
Send them forth in the power of that Spirit to perform the service you set before them; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.  Amen.

For Confirmation
(The Bishop lays hands upon each one and says)
Strengthen, O Lord, your servant N. with your Holy Spirit; empower them for your service; and sustain them all the days of their life. Amen.

or this

Defend, O Lord, your servant N. with your heavenly grace, that they may continue yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more, until they come to your everlasting kingdom.  Amen.

For Reception
N., we recognize you as a member of the one holy catholic and apostolic Church, and we receive you into the fellowship of this Communion. God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, bless, preserve, and keep you.  Amen.

For Reaffirmation
N., may the Holy Spirit, who has begun a good work in you, direct and uphold you in the service of Christ and his kingdom.  Amen.

For Care of Creation Blessing
N., may the Holy Spirit, guide you to make right decisions, not only for yourself but for the whole ecosystem and show you the way to form more loving, liberating, life-giving relationship with your Creator, with your neighbors and with the earth God made and loves. Amen.

(The Bishop concludes with this prayer)

Almighty and everlasting God, in the beginning you made all things and wove them together in interdependence and community. You have called us to tend and care for your creation and all the life within it. Give us wisdom, courage, reverence, strength, and delight in the ministry of Creation Care. And let your loving hand ever be over these your servants; let your Holy Spirit ever be with them; and so lead them in the knowledge and obedience of your Word, that they may serve you in this life, and dwell with you in the life to come; through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Bishop         
The peace of the Lord be always with you.

People         
And also with you.

Rogation Prayers and Sending Out

Bishop
O merciful Creator, your hand is open wide to satisfy the needs of every living creature: Make us always thankful for your loving providence; and grant that we, remembering the account that we must one day give, may be faithful stewards of your good gifts; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Almighty God, whose will it is that the earth should bear its fruits in their seasons: bless the labors of those who work in the field, bless the increase of crops and grain and fruit-bearing trees, that bread and wine and wholesome food may be shared and enjoyed by all your people. Amen.

(Turning outward from the circle, we say the closing prayer together:)

All       
Heavenly Father, in your Word you have given us a vision of that Holy City to which the nations of the world bring their glory; behold and visit, we pray, the cities of the earth, and especially this city of Brentwood. Have mercy upon all who live and work here. Guide them into the way of justice and truth, establish among them that peace which is the fruit of righteousness, and hasten the time when the cities of this world shall become the Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Bishop          
(Offers a closing blessing to the people)

Let us go forth into the world, rejoicing in the power of the Spirit. Alleluia.  Alleluia. 

People         
Thanks be to God.  Alleluia.  Alleluia.

If you would like to make a financial offering for this service, please click HERE

It’s Just Like Riding a Bike

By Caren Miles
When I was about 4 years old, my dad broke his arm trying to teach my older brother how to ride a bike. My dad was riding and as he came up onto the curb the bike flew out from under him. My brother and I ran into the house yelling "daddy hurt himself trying to pop a wheelie!"

Anyone who has tried to teach a child to ride a bike knows there are generally two rules to follow: 1-You have to get off the bike so the kid can get on and 2-Eventually you will need to let go of the bike.

Every few years a cry goes up around the church asking where all our young leaders are. In response I ask who is training young people to lead? And how are we creating space for them to lead? 

Jesus’ disciples bickered about who was going to lead, while Jesus lead them to widen the circle so all were welcome. How can we follow his lead and widen our leadership circles and share the work that is to be done.

As Annual Meetings are being planned and Vestries are being elected, what young people have we identified for leadership? Do our vestry members have young people they are mentoring to eventually take over their position? What about our deanery and convention delegates? 

How can we run alongside our youth and young adults, helping them learn the intricacies of our Church governance, assisting them as they get their balance, encouraging them when they fall, and eventually letting go as they are able to ride beside us on their own. 

Faith Formation & the Annual Meeting

Make your virtual annual meeting not just a time for business, but a time of Faith Formation. The annual meeting can be a time of discernment as a body to take stock of the past year, look at where you are now, and discern where God is leading you.  We may be missing the potluck sharing, the hugs with friends, and gathering in the building, but there are gifts that a virtual annual meeting can offer.  Here are some practices to faithfully listen and discern. Feel free to get creative with anything mentioned and mix and match as it best suits your community.

-        Choose a scripture passage and then reflect on what that passage says about the past, the present, and the future of the congregation. Use short silences around the reading of the scripture to reflect and then share.  Read the scripture three times starting with the oldest reader for the past and ending with the youngest reader for the future. Gather the words, thoughts, and images that are shared. Choose a time in the future to revisit the scripture passage as a community.

-        Share some photos onscreen of the past year – both pre and post pandemic. Ask members to name the highs and lows of the past year in the life of the community. In both the highs and lows, ask members to identify God’s presence, faithfulness, or gifts during this past year. In larger meetings it’s best to move into breakout rooms for this sharing. Once in the large group, have people report back on small group sharing. Reflect together in gratitude for the community today and take the identifications of God’s presence and faithfulness into this next year.

-        Ask a few members to prepare short videos on the topic of “What I have learned from the pandemic, and what I want to take forward in my church community.” Short videos could be shared throughout the Annual Meeting.  Alternatively, this could be a discussion question for small break out rooms. Answers can then be shared as a word cloud using something like www.mentimeter.com.  The word cloud can then be saved and shared with everyone, or perhaps revisited in 6 months, or at the next Annual Meeting.

-        The pandemic has laid bare many inequalities in our communities and systems. Using this lens of Justice, have those present reflect on what they have seen and what they would like changed in their communities.  Reflect on this question of how God is calling the community to engage in justice. What have you done?  What could be done in the future? Use scripture as a way to engage in this work such as Psalm 106:3, Isaiah 1:16-18, Isaiah 9:7, or Amos 5:24. There are all kinds of possible verses that could be used, but let the words open up the spiritual imagination as a discernment practice. Use this discernment around justice to direct the church’s mission for the year.

-        Use broad areas of church life as way to examine the lessons learned in pandemic. Break into groups focusing on one of these areas: Worship and Liturgy, Spiritual Formation and Learning, Mission and Outreach, Leadership, and the Church Community and Fellowship. In each group ask what members have learned over the last year? Have each small group report back. How might the church use what has been learned to set new goals and priorities in the coming year?

These are just ideas to get you thinking about ways to use the annual meeting not just for the required business, but for a gathering of discernment and deepening of faith. Wrap everything in prayer, scripture, and some silence to hear what God is saying to the community. Embrace the gift of virtual gatherings that can allow for widespread participation as well as an interesting intimacy in small group sharing. 

Just for Fun:  Consider ways to add some fun into annual meeting.

-        If you film ahead for streaming your services, do you have outtakes? Could you create a funny blooper reel to laugh while acknowledging the hard work to get services online?

-        Consider sending out a few recipes for those gathered to cook ahead and share together during socially distanced meetings.  This is a great way to highlight a church recipe book or favorite recipes from staff or a variety of members.

-        Ask people to record a short answer to the question “What do you love about this church?” and create a short movie.

-        Get the children and youth to create a video: their own version of zoom worship, pictures to show in a slideshow, a gathering of their photos from the year? Perhaps there is something mentioned already that they could take on?

If you are interested in more ideas, or talking through annual meeting plans, feel free to reach out to me, amyc@diocal.org.

Blessings,

Amy Cook