Trans Day of Remembrance

The opening words speak both of those in our history who paved the way for us to be here today, and also to our special observance on Trans Day of Remembrance, which falls on November 20 each year. They are: We Remember Them, by Sylvan Kamens and Rabbi Jack Riemer

At the rising of the sun and at its going down
We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of winter
We remember them.
At the opening of the buds and in the rebirth of spring
We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of summer
We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends
We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us
as we remember them.
When we are weary and in need of strength
We remember them.
When we are lost and sick at heart
We remember them.
When we have joy we crave to share
We remember them.
When we have decisions that are difficult to make
We remember them.
When we have achievements that are based on theirs
We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live;
for they are now a part of us
as we remember them.

Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring
By J. S. Bach
Public Domain
Performed by John Prescott and Eva Riebold

Community
Music: New Britain
Lyrics: Rev Dennis Hamilton
Performed by a past First UU Choir

Days of Rage and Days of Hope: A Pride Hymn
By Amanda Udis-Kessler
Used with Permission
Performed by the First UU Virtual Choir

For This Joy
Music: Susan LaBarr
Lyrics: Charles Anthony Silvestri
Permission Granted
Flautist: Nancy Holmer
Performed by the First UU Choir

The closing words are from Frederick E. Gillis.

May the Love which overcomes all differences, which heals all wounds, which puts to flight all fears, which reconciles all who are separated, be in us and among us now and always.