Transfiguration Worship Ideas

Observances

Christian churches including the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox and the Anglican Rite celebrate the Feast of the Transfiguration on Aug. 6 each year. The churches emphasize Christ's sacrifice on the cross. Protestant churches observe the transfiguration after the Epiphany with an emphasis on Christ's messiahship and sonship, according to Trinity Presbyterian Church.

Bible readings for Transfiguration Sunday vary according to a three-year cycle in some churches. Examples of readings include, but are not limited to Exodus 24:12-18; Psalm 2; 2 Peter 1:16-21 and Matthew 17:1-9. The narrative from Exodus reminds worshipers of the Law at Sinai in which the Lord surrounds Moses in a cloud of revelation and glory. In Psalm 2, Christians see the foretelling of the transfiguration and the father's words, "You are my son." Matthew's account of the transfiguration describes the awe with which the disciples respond to Jesus' appearance on the mountain.

The transfiguration of Jesus resonates with God's glory, reminds Christians of their spiritual ancestry and their proper relationship to Jesus who sits at the right hand of the father in heaven. Speak to a congregation about the mystery of the incarnation, that God became human without compromising the fullness of divine glory. Suggest that listeners practice approaching the cross of Jesus with the hope and courage that only Jesus can satisfy, according to the website Lectionary Worship Resources.

Eastern Orthodox icons offer opportunities for reflections on the transfiguration. Use an Orthodox icon of the Feast of the Transfiguration to inspire worshipers to prayer and reflection. Provide parishioners with color copies of the icon. Explain to the congregation that Christ occupies the "theological center" of the icon, blessing viewers in a divine palette of white and gold. Suggest that viewers meditate on Christ's glory toward which the faithful look for answers to all prayers. Ask worshipers to open their hearts and minds to Christ, bringing every thought and desire to the one who understands the human condition and sees it as God incarnate.