This week we continue with our examination of the 2019 BCP’s Pastoral Rites section. Having examined Holy Matrimony the logical next rite is to look at the Thanksgiving for the Birth or Adoption of a Child.
Pastoral rites are just that, pastoral. They speak into the major life events of individuals and families. Note that this service is equally fitting in a hospital, a home, or in the middle of our Sunday worship.
The opening instructions and the first two prayers, given whether or not there is an adoption or natural birth are so important to mark the moment. In this moment we thank God for his grace and mercy and acknowledge that life will never ever be the same afterwards.
Note that both prayers begin by expressly stating “birth” or “adoption.” That is because birth and adoption are of the greatest value and importance.
The prayer for an adopted child also reminds us that we too are adopted children of God. This is both a reference to Romans 8:15, “For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father!” and John 1:12, “But to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God.” As stated in John 1:12, all Christians are adopted by our Heavenly Father and welcomed into the Christian family through baptism.
Both prayers conclude with the acknowledgment that the child is a blessing from God and both name the child. As seen in the service of Baptism, the naming of a child is an important act as names bear meaning, and to name someone gives both power over and the consequences of protecting the named.
Blessings and peace to you all!
|
|
No comments:
Post a Comment