The Diocese of Washington recently contacted us to share the news that they have proposed the inclusion of Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court Thurgood Marshall on the Church's liturgical calendar to the Standing Commission on the Prayer Book, Liturgy and Music. We will learn soon if the Standing Commission will recommend the proposal for consideration at General Convention 2009. Until that time, the Diocese of Washington has recommended that congregations throughout The Episcopal Church consider celebrating services in Marshall's honor during the month of May. Washington's diocese is recommending May 17th as the calendar day honoring Marshall as that is the anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education decision.

The proposal to include Marshall in the Church's liturgical calendar (which would include publication in Lesser Feasts and Fasts) comes from members of St. Augustine's in southwest D.C., the parish Marshall attended after moving to Washington. His wife Cecilia (Cissy) is still a member of St. Augustine's. This article from the May 2007 edition of Washington Window gives a history of the resolution and further details about Marshall's life.

Propers suggested by the Diocese of Washington.
Music suggested by students at Seabury-Western Seminary and St. Augustine’s Church, Washington, D. C.
 

Collect

Eternal and Ever-Gracious God, you blessed your servant Thurgood with special gifts of grace and courage to understand and speak the truth as it has been revealed to us by Jesus Christ. Grant that by his example we may also know you and seek to realize that we are all your children, brothers and sisters of Jesus Christ, whom you sent to teach us to love one another; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.  

Suggested scripture readings

Amos 5:10-15, 21-24
Psalm 34:15-22
I Corinthians 13:1-13
Matthew 23:1-11
 

Suggested music

Song of Praise
"Christ Has Arisen" from Lift Every Voice and Sing (LEVAS) 41
 
Sequence
Zimbabwe Alleluia
 
Offertory Hymn
"How Great Thou Art"  LEVAS 60
 
Memorial Acclamation Sung to the tune of We Shall Overcome:
 
Jesus Christ has died.
Jesus Christ is risen.
Jesus Christ will come again.
Oh, deep in my heart, I do believe,
Jesus Christ will come again.
 
Communion Hymn
"Just As I Am"  LEVAS 137
 
Processional Hymn (and Marshall’s personal favorite)
"Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory" LEVAS 226
 
View the text of the resolution the Diocese of Washington passed in 2006 requesting Marshal be added to the Church’s calendar.
 
A bio of Marshall from the St. Augustine’s (D. C.) parish newsletter.