On August 6, the Feast of the Transfiguration, our Choral Evensong service included the Episcopal Church’s Service of Renaming, in which we acknowledged and celebrated the new name of an individual who has gone through a transition. Drew Sitton shared this reflection at the service, referring to St. Matthew’s version of the Transfiguration of Christ, Matthew 17:1-9.
By Drew Sitton
The Service of Renaming could take place any day of the year but scheduling it for the Feast of Transfiguration was intentional. Many queer theologians use this story [the Gospel story of the Transfiguration] as a trans allegory. As Pastor Richard said this morning, it is more revelation of who Jesus is (his divinity) than transfiguration.
As often happens when someone comes out, Jesus’ close friends do not know how to react. They fumble a bit and Jesus corrects them with grace. Throughout this process, the disciples do not turn away, instead embracing Jesus for who he is.
I want to thank everyone here and watching online for staying by my side. Thank you to this church community for celebrating and welcoming me in. Thank you to the people here who have been advocates and fighters, inspiration and comfort. Thank you for listening and learning. Thank you to my friends and family who have demonstrated their love and care. I see the image of God in each of you.
If we treat this story as a coming out narrative, then I think the most significant part is the Father declaring, this is my son, with whom I am well pleased. I am thankful for a God who made me as I am with intention, thoughtfulness and care. Although this world is hard, I rest in the joy, love and peace of God. God who loves all of his children. Thank you.
https://www.altliturgies.com/heteronormativeism/renaming-rite
The rite can be found on page 122 of The Book of Occasional Services.
