For someone harmed by a deepfake, voice clone, or fabricated image or video. This ritual may be offered by a pastor or chaplain, ideally in person. It can include a physical gesture—washing the hands, anointing the forehead with oil or water, or laying on of hands—if that feels safe and supportive to the person.
The wording below is an example only. Adapt it as appropriate, using words native to your tradition and context.
Opening statement
Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth, and you and me.
[Name], you are made in the image of God, loved and claimed by the Eternal One.
As a child of God, your dignity is steadfast and your belovedness assured. Nothing can take that away.
Naming the harm
Adapt this to the specific situation, allowing the person time to share what they would like.
What was made was not you.
What was said was not your voice.
What was shown was not your body.
It has no claim on who you actually are.
Hear this good news and receive it with heart, soul, mind, and strength.
Silence
A minute or more, unhurried.
Scripture reading
Psalm 139:1–12
Prayer of reclamation
Led by the pastor, or read together if the person wishes.
God, you knit [Name] together and called them good, long before anyone learned to counterfeit a voice or a face. What was stolen was not [Name]’s dignity—that was never available to be taken. We ask you to steady what has been shaken and calm what has been troubled. Release [Name] from any stress or shame that remains. Renew and transform [Name] in your good time and through your gracious healing presence, which was, and is, and always will be.
Gesture
Optional: use water on the hands, oil on the forehead, or a laying on of hands, with words of scripture or words native to your tradition.
Closing word
Pastor:
Go in the truth of who you are, and in the love of the One who made you and loves you, now and always.