For a list of those memorialized in 2012, click the candle.

This day is saturated with the Sacred, set aside to remember our beloved transgender family members, friends, and colleagues.

As we gather and grieve we also express our longing and hope for the liberation of all those who are oppressed, persecuted, and held in bondage to the powers of fear and hate.

Knowing that we are One with those we love, One with all whom are created through God’s diverse and unconditional love, One with transgender persons past, present, and future; we enter into the light within to sit in silence with the Holy One.

Time of silence (trust your own timing).

Generous and Creative are You, O God. We remember the Hasidic teachers who tell us, “Every breath shall praise God, every breath is a prayer.” May each breath today, tomorrow and for as long as I live be a prayer; a prayer for those no longer with me, a prayer for this day with all its potential, and a prayer for hope in a future which truly reflects Your love for all.

May all my words and actions today be grounded in my connection with You and with my Beloved Community as I name those I love _____________________.

You remind us through our one star, the Sun, whose light hides the swirling galaxies and beautiful array of stars in the night, that many other wonders may be hidden from our view and understanding. Grant me/us the gift of vision, awareness, and hope; and the grace to live in perpetual wonder and trust in Your love. May I/we respond to this day, even with its grief, as divine gift.

Sacred are You, Sacred is creation, Sacred are all my transgender companions.

Blessed is this time to remember, to give thanks, and to move forward in Hope.

Amen.

Image source: By Bangin (Own work) [GFDL, CC-BY-SA-3.0 or CC-BY-2.5], via Wikimedia Commons