September 15: Holy Cross Day (Transferred)
Isaiah 45:21-25 (There is no other god but me; turn to me and be saved)
Psalm 98:1-5 (The Lord has gained victory, shown steadfast love to Israel)
1 Corinthians 1:18-24 (Folly of Cross. Christ crucified is the power and wisdom of God)
John 12:20-33 (Jesus speaks of his death and glorification)
Opening hymn: Look, O Look/ Look Ye Saints, the Sight is Glorious LBW #156, LSB #495
Hymn of the Day: Lift High the Cross: LBW #377, ELW #660, LSB #837
OR Upon the Cross Extended: LSB #453 (Beautiful words, familiar tune)
Communion Hymn #1: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross: LBW #482, ELW #803, LSB #425/6
Communion Hymn #2: My Faith Looks Up to Thee: LBW #479, ELW #759, LSB #702
Closing Hymn: Onward, Christian Soldiers: LBW #509, LSB #662
OR Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578
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Trusting in the goodness of the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us pray in the power of the Holy Spirit for the Church, the world, and one another.
A brief silence
Father, thank you for your steadfast love, even when we don’t deserve it. Thank you for your apparent weakness and folly, which are stronger than human might or wisdom. Thank you for Jesus, who from his Cross draws us to himself.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Grant that your Church always proclaims Christ crucified and raised from the dead. Let it constantly confess Jesus as your only-begotten Son and beloved Servant, who bears and heals the world’s sin, sorrow, and suffering.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Persecuted Christians throughout the world bear their cross in faithful obedience to Jesus. Sustain, protect, bless, and provide for them. Help us, whose crosses are lighter, to bear their burdens however we can.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Increase the faith of everyone in this congregation, dear Lord. Don’t let our fear of looking foolish prevent us from sharing the strong saving love of your Son. Don’t let our fear of failure or persecution keep us from introducing other people to the Savior who longs to embrace them.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Many church programs are starting up! Bless and prosper all that glorifies you and builds up the Body of Christ. Increase our love of learning, zeal for service, and warmth of spirit. Especially we pray for teachers, discipleship guides, choirs, committees, and all who shine the love of Jesus upon those who do not know him well.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Grant humility and wisdom to the leaders of nations and captains of industry, the giants of culture and icons of sport, the legislators and judges, the researchers, teachers, philosophers, and others who shape our world. Remind them that all they have is from you, given in trust for the benefit of all people. Give everyone the desire and ability to live justly and kindly with each other, despite our differences.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We pray for our military, first responders, and all who stand in harm’s way to defend freedom and life. We therefore earnestly pray that you should beat our swords into plowshares and our spears into pruning-hooks. Soften every heart to receive, cherish, and share your love for us. Remind us that we are all created in your image and offered forgiveness and salvation through the Cross of Christ.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Keep us steadfast in faith as we pray for all who suffer. Remind us all that Jesus has indeed “borne our sickness and carried our infirmity.” In his name we pray for: {List}.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Most holy God, keep in your tender care our beloved dead. Help us to encourage one another in faithful prayer and holy living. Receive us into the glorious company of all the redeemed. Draw us to yourself, so that with angels and archangels and all the hosts of heaven, we may praise and adore you forever – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
