For When You're Done with Toxic Religion

A Centering Prayer

The weight of toxic religion has been pressing down on my soul for too long. It's the kind of faith that builds walls instead of bridges, that wounds instead of heals, that uses God's name to justify harm. But today, something shifted. Our church family gathered around a metaphorical fire, not just to warm our hands, but to release the burdens that keep us from embodying love for all.

In that moment, surrounded by people who are serious about walking in Jesus' footsteps, I felt a release. It was like shedding a heavy coat I'd been wearing for far too long. I could breathe again, be myself again, start to heal from the damage of toxic theology. This prayer is my way of holding onto that feeling, of committing to a faith that's about love, not division—a faith that truly reflects who Jesus is.

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For When You're Done with Toxic Religion
A Centering Prayer

Sacred Flame of Purifying Love,
I come to you weary and worn,
Done with religion that divides,
Done with faith that harms,
Done with beliefs that belittle,
Done with a God who doesn't look like Jesus.

Let your fire burn it all away:
The isms that separate,
The violence done in your name,
The hierarchies that crush,
The fears that keep me small.

I'm ready to let go,
To release what no longer serves,
To detox from toxic theology,
To find freedom in your love.

Thank you for this community
Where I can be fully myself,
Where we journey through wilderness,
Centered on Christ's way of love,
Partnering with you to cultivate
A garden of new creation
Even in the most barren places.

Amen.