Liturgy for Transfiguration Sunday
Introduction
Transfiguration Sunday stands at the threshold between Epiphany and Lent. The light revealed throughout Epiphany now blazes in fullness as Jesus is transfigured before his disciples. Glory is unveiled, not to be held onto, but to prepare the way for descent—toward Jerusalem, suffering, and the cross. This day gathers awe and obedience together, calling the church to listen again to the beloved Son.
This liturgy follows the Revised Common Lectionary for Transfiguration Sunday (Year A) and is shaped by themes of glory, divine presence, revelation, and faithful listening.
The Lectionary Readings at a Glance
The readings for Transfiguration Sunday draw us into moments when God’s glory is revealed and God’s voice is heard.
In Exodus 24:12–18, Moses ascends Mount Sinai and enters the cloud of God’s presence. Glory covers the mountain, and Moses waits in obedience, reminding the church that encounter with God often requires patience, trust, and holy attentiveness.
Psalm 2 proclaims God’s sovereign reign and the authority of the one whom God has chosen, while Psalm 99 emphasizes God’s holiness and righteous rule. Both psalms frame worship as reverent response to a God whose glory demands awe and humility.
In 2 Peter 1:16–21, the transfiguration is remembered as eyewitness testimony. The glory revealed on the mountain confirms the prophetic word and anchors faith not in clever stories, but in God’s revealed truth.
Matthew 17:1–9 recounts Jesus’ transfiguration before Peter, James, and John. As Jesus’ face shines and a cloud overshadows them, a voice declares him the beloved Son and commands the disciples to listen to him. Glory and obedience meet as the disciples are called to follow Jesus beyond the mountain.
Together, these readings mark a turning point—where revelation deepens trust and prepares the way for costly faith.
Have you checked out our Faith in Art articles? Read this one on The Transfiguration by Raphael: Divine Glory and Earthly Struggle
Christ, exalted above, and the turmoil of humanity below in Raphael’s The Transfiguration.
Call to Worship
One: The Lord calls us up the mountain, away from distraction and fear.
All: We come, longing to see the glory of God.
One: The voice of God speaks from the cloud, naming Jesus as the beloved Son.
All: We come to listen to him.
One: God reveals glory not to dazzle us, but to shape us for the journey ahead.
All: Let us worship the Lord with awe and obedience.
Opening Prayer
Holy and glorious God,
On the mountain you revealed the radiance of your Son and spoke words of love and authority. As we gather in worship, draw us into your holy presence. Open our eyes to see your glory, our ears to hear your voice, and our hearts to trust where Christ leads. Prepare us to follow him, even when the path leads downward into the world you love. Amen.
Prayer of Confession
God of mercy and light,
You reveal your glory, yet we confess that we often prefer familiar ground. We cling to moments of clarity and resist the call to keep moving. We listen selectively and follow halfheartedly. Forgive us, O God. Restore our trust, sharpen our listening, and lead us again in the way of your beloved Son. Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
Hear the good news: “This is my Son, the Beloved; with him I am well pleased.” (Matthew 17:5)
In Jesus Christ, the beloved Son, we are forgiven, restored, and called to follow.
Thanks be to God!
Prayer for Illumination
Holy God,
As your Word is read and proclaimed, overshadow us with your Spirit. Help us to see Christ clearly, to hear his voice faithfully, and to trust the truth you reveal. Shape us by your glory and send us forth ready to listen and obey. In Christ’s name we pray. Amen.
Prayers of the People
God of majesty and mercy,
We give thanks for moments when your glory breaks through the ordinary. We pray for your church, that it may listen to Christ and follow him with courage. We pray for a world marked by fear and division, that your light may bring healing and hope. We pray for all who stand at thresholds—facing change, loss, or uncertainty—that they may trust your presence on the mountain and in the valley. Lead us by your Spirit as we follow Jesus, the beloved Son. Amen.
Closing Prayer
Eternal God,
You have revealed your glory in Jesus Christ and called us to listen to him. As we go from this place, keep us attentive to his voice and faithful in following his way. Carry us from the mountain into the world, ready to bear witness to your light and love. Through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.
