Gracious and holy God, you have made us in your image, male and female you have made us. Help us to see you on the faces of our sisters and brothers, particularly those who suffer the unlovely gaze and unholy actions of others. Your son was born a helpless child to a woman who seemed shameful to many. We are all those helpless babes and those despised women, and we are those who hurt and hate. Keep us mindful that we see and touch you, and heal us toward your purpose for us all. We pray in the name of that babe. Amen
The Most Reverend Katharine Jefferts Schori Presiding Bishop