Last night, many were gathered to hear women’s voices as Maine-ly Harmony sang songs of joy and hope, faith and love.   Women’s voices filled our sanctuary to raise awareness about domestic violence and support the work of New Hope for Women.

During the concert, people were invited to write names of those whose lives were impacted by domestic violence on purple prayer flags. At the close of the performance, we walked outside.  The front doors were framed in purple lights. The moon was full and the skies clear. Cathy Anderson led us in song with the Taize chant, “Lord, Hear our Prayer.”  I held the halyard as people pinned the purple flags to it.

O Lord, hear my prayer
O Lord, hear my prayer
When I call, answer me

O Lord, hear my prayer
O Lord, hear my prayer
Come and listen to me

A community was gathered.  I raised the flags high in front of the church as we continued to sing, “Lord, hear our prayer…”  It was holy ground – a place where song and tears intersect.

In that sacred moment, I felt that those present were holding both the pain of domestic violence and deep deep transformational love.

PS.   If you have a first name or initial of women, child, or man whose life has been impacted by domestic violence and would like that name added to the display outside the church, email waldoucc@midcoast.com.