I have always loved the “communion” prayer of high churches where we pray for the global church including local and global members and leaders. It assures me that I’m part of the bigger body scattered around the world. Though separate, I hope they are also praying for me. As a fellowship, how often do we pray for our siblings and leaders in other countries and continents, if at all?
"Mapagmahal na Bathala-Ikapati ipinagdarasal namin ang Metropolitan Community Churches na nakakalat sa sansinukob. Pagpalain mo ang lahat ng aming simbahang local kasama ng kanilang mga pastor at lay leaders saan man sila naroroon. Ipinagdarasal namin ang aming moderator na si Rev. Elder Cecilia Eggleston kasama ang Council of Elders, ang Governing Board at ang denominational staff. Pagpalain, gabayan at ingatan ang lahat ng aming mga members, leaders, mga taga-suporta at mga kaibigan. Sa kabila ng aming pagkakaiba at pagkakalayo, at sa kabila ng mga suliranin at hindi pagkakaintindihan, palagi mo kaming pagkaisahin sa kapuspusan ng iyong pag-ibig. Magkakaugnay at kaisa ng lahat ng mga Santo, eto ang aming dalangin sa pangalan ng lahat ng banal at mapagmahal at kay Hesu Kristo, na sa kanyang pangalan kami ay hinabi. Amen."
English Translation:
Loving Bathala-Ikapati (God), we pray for the Metropolitan Community Churches scattered all around the world. Bless all our local churches together with their pastors and lay leaders, wherever they are. We pray for our moderator, Rev. Elder Cecilia Eggleston together with the Council of Elders, the Governing Board and the denominational staff. Bless, guide and protect all our members, leaders, supporters and friends. Despite our differences and the distance; Despite struggles and conflicts, unite us always in the fullness of your love. One with each other and one with all the saints, this is our prayer in the name of all that is holy and loving and in Jesus Christ in whose name we have been weaved together. Amen.
