Blessing for our new ARCWP Candidate Janet Blakeley Preparing for ordination to the ARCWP Diaconate.

 Introduction:

Today we extend a blessing for our new deacon candidate Janet Blakeley.  She has been accepted into candidacy by Bishop Bridget Mary for ARCWP. We welcome Janet and with extended hands call on our Loving God to be with us as we bless Janet who has been called to God’s service with the People of God and Mary Mother of Jesus.

Community:

“I have called you by name and you are mine”

Loving God, who calls women to the diaconate as well as men,

thank you for this gift to our Mary Mother of Jesus community.  

May we be present to Janet as well as all women in

discernment for the journey of being a woman deacon or priest. 

May we allow Janet to influence our lives and call us to live faithfully in a greater knowledge of you and your great love for us. 

May Janet and we always be open to the call of God which continues

throughout our lives. Amen.

Psalm:  Janet:

Blessed are those who walk hand in hand with goodness, for their delight is in the Spirit of our Loving God.  In God’s heart you dwell by night and by day.  Like trees we are planted by steams of water that yield fruit in due season and our leaves flourish in all that we do and we give life.  Loving God, you shall give us all spiritual gifts. Amen

Community:

And what our God requires of you Janet is to live justice, mercy and to walk humbly with our God.  May God give you holiness, freedom, and fullness of life.  Amen.

Closing prayer, Community:

O loving God, giver of all gifts, we thank you for your gift of this woman, Janet, for the building of your kindom on earth.  May she always have the courage to follow, promote, and encourage us on to seek justice for all your people.  May those touched by her life be transformed and show your love for justice and peace and equality forever.  We ask this through Jesus Sophia who taught us how to love.  Amen.