This Call to Worship prayer was shared by the Reconciling Ministries Network as part of the #NoSuchLaw guide, designed for use in local churches in anticipation of a Judicial Council ruling regarding several issues of consequence to LGBTQ+ clergy, including the election of Bishop Karen Oliveto.

Holy One, you have assured us that though we cannot see the Spirit herself, we can see the fruit of her work in one another, in our lives, and in the world. We know she is there wherever we see love, joy, peace, patience,
kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against these things, you have told us, there is no such law.

When we see gentleness in speaking to the belovedness of the ones the church has called “incompatible,” we proclaim that against these things:

There is no such law.

We know that whenever there is faithfulness to your call despite having to navigate ordination processes and episcopal elections steeped in discrimination and harm, you too are there. And we proclaim that against these things:

There is no such law.

We know that wherever there is patience enough to withstand 45 years of persecution and yet maintain joy, hold on to kindness, and grasp internal peace enough to push forward as a collective group, the Spirit has long been at work. And against these things we say with certainty:

There is no such law!

Against the fruit of your Spirit, no law can stand.

Thanks be to God!