Illumined

January 9, 2005

Today, I will be chrismated
into the Orthodox Church. I have
seldom known such anticipation,
nor such quiet, brooding joy.

"Thine own of Thine own..."
There is naught of us that we can give
which is not already Thine.

"We offer unto Thee..."
Only what Thou hast freely given,
being Love, unto humanity.

"On behalf of all..."
Not only your servant and priest,
but this Body of believers,
and all believers everywhere,
Your creation,
and those who,
in a mystery,
seek Truth...

"And for all..."
We offer all we were,
all we are,
and all we ever hope to be,
for the sake of all,
for the sake of Love,
and for Your Glory.

"In the name of the Father
and of the Son
and of the Holy Spirit,
...keep us in Thy holiness...
now and ever and unto ages of ages,
amen."