Heart thread - 05/22/2010

For the repose of the soul of Harry A. Doutt who passed away on May 19, 2010. His son, Brent, works where I do. May Brent and all the family find comfort.

For the Rev. Canon Scott Hayashi, elected to be the next Bishop of Utah. I knew Scott, at a distance, when he was Rector of Christ Church, Portola Valley (part of the Diocese of California). May he and the people of the Diocese of Utah enter a period of renewed ministry.

For Jonathan in transition.

For DF who just celebrated his birthday and for Doxy and DF on their first anniversary.

For all who perished in the Air India flight from Dubai to Mangalore, for their families and loved ones.

For the people of Thailand in the ongoing civil unrest.

For all creatures of the Gulf Coast, for an end to the leak and the healing of water and land.

For those killed in the derailment in China, triggered by a landslide.

For the restitution of the rule of constitutional law in my lifetime.

For our Jewish sisters and brothers celebrating Shavuot.

In thanksgiving for the witness of the Blessed Martyr Harvey B. Milk (22 May 1930-27 November 1978).

Almighty God, who created us in your own image: Grant us grace fearlessly to contend against evil and to make no peace with oppression; and, that we may reverently use our freedom, help us to employ it in the maintenance of justice in our communities and among the nations, to the glory of your holy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

For Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga, found guilty on May 18 of unnatural acts and gross indecency in Malawi where they dared to celebrate their relationship.

O God our Father, whose Son forgave his enemies while he was suffering shame and death: Strengthen those who suffer for the sake of conscience; when they are accused, save them from speaking in hate; when they are rejected, save them from bitterness; when they are imprisoned, save them from despair; and to us your servants, give grace to respect their witness and to discern the truth, that our society may be cleansed and strengthened. This we ask for the sake of Jesus Christ, our merciful and righteous Judge. Amen.

--the BB