Rise Up Shining

Rise up shining, sons and daughters

summoned as the light of earth!

All, created in Love's image,

manifest creation's worth.

Gay and lesbian, straight or searching,

bi, transgendered: called by name.

Blessed uniqueness, sacred bodies

each enkindled by God's flame.

This one speaks prophetic challenge,

that one hears a priestly call.

Singer, healer, counselor, teacher:

of Christ's body members all.

Shall the Church judge who the Giver

graces with each vital skill?

Shall we not affirm and nourish

all who seek to do God's will?

Listen to your sister's story,

look into your brother's heart.

Understanding births compassion,

welcome makes a Christly start.

Dialogue, not condemnation

shatters ignorance and fear.

Jesus' way of bold inclusion

builds a bridge to Love's frontier.

©2003 Laura Dillon

87.87D

Suggested tune: Hyfrydol