Francis Assisi

August 10th, 2010

Francis Assisi

5 Names For God When "father" Is Unacceptable

Survivors want to use names for God that are not toxic. Individuals abused by parents, family members or persons in authority require safe names for the Divine. In praying the Lord's Prayer, "Father" usually needs to be replaced with a user-friendly name. There are many possibilities, this article shares five, and there are many more.

1. "Beloved Creator." I love Nature, the animals, birds, vegetation, the mountains, the water, the winds, the skies, all that is part of creation, Mother Earth in all her glory. I identify with Francis of Assisi and native peoples who commune with the natural world. It is where I went as a child to find safety and to listen, look, and touch. Nature is where I found the presence of God. ."Beloved Creator, open my heart to your love."

2. "Jesus." I trust Jesus and know that he will do me no harm. He is my companion, comforter and counselor. ."Jesus, take hold my hand and gently guide me through the shadows, and fill me with joy and celebration."

3. "Refuge of Our Souls." I find in God that I have a refuge. I will never be turned away nor harmed by God. I am loved and treasured as a precious child. ."Refuge of our Souls, fill us with the assurance of your love and acceptance."

4. "God of Light." God's light brings to clarity what is murky. The true nature of experience and relationships are shown for what they are. The light opens the way, and the truth sets us free. In the words of the song, "This little light of mine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.". ."God of Light, show me the way to go, and strengthen me to do what is needed to be safe and to live your life of gentleness."

5. "Holy One." This name represents all that is truly holy and wise, not deceptive nor abusive. I trust the Holy One no matter what. Even when I'm navigating floods and walking through fires in my life, I trust the Holy One to sustain me. ."Holy One, give me this day the wisdom I need to be able to live in these hard times."

In praying the Lord's Prayer, what user-friendly name do you use for God? You will find articles for survivors and beliefs on forgiveness in my series on "Beliefs on Child Abuse and Forgiveness."

About the Author

Judy Brutz is author, spiritual director, retreat leader, and speaker. She enjoys,being in nature, photography, volunteering, and knitting for peace.

www.judybrutz.net

www.judybrutz.wordpress.com

www.committoblessing.blogspot.com