THE PRAYERS, Reformation Sunday (October 30, 2022)

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

THE PRAYERS, Reformation Sunday (October 30, 2022)

Revelation 14:6-7 (Eternal Gospel announced to every person)

Psalm 46 (A mighty fortress!)

Romans 3:19-28 (We’re justified by faith apart from works of the Law)

John 8:31-36 (If the Son makes you free, you are free indeed)

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Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for all who love your Church. Thank you for raising up prophets, apostles, martyrs, theologians, and ordinary saints who treasure your holy Word and love your Church, even when she stumbles and sins. Thank you for Jesus, who makes the Church his Bride, and who even now makes her lovely with holiness, charity, and righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out your Holy Spirit upon your Church. Make it your holy habitation. Keep it steadfast in your Word. Strengthen it in the face of temptation and defend it from evil. Purify it from sin and error, and bestow on it your saving peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Graciously protect and guide the people of this congregation, O Lord, our Help and our Redeemer. Gladden our hearts by filling them with the gifts of your Holy Spirit. Use us to nourish, instruct, and invite our neighbors into your presence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the refuge and strength of Christians when they are persecuted for confessing Jesus as Lord. Cause the enemies of the Gospel to repent of their sinfulness, turn to you, and live.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Exalt yourself among the nations, and speak your holy word to your world, especially to the leaders of our country. Give them wisdom and a teachable spirit. Grant them the desire to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the work of faithful theologians who clarify doctrine, correct misunderstandings, and teach the faithful. Use them to educate seminarians and missionaries who will eagerly proclaim the Gospel: your Son, Jesus Christ, crucified and risen to forgive sins and open your Kingdom to all who will receive him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the needs of all whose lives are shaken and troubled by suffering, especially: {List}. Be in their midst and let them not be overthrown. Say to them, ‘be still, and know that I am God.’ Restore them to health and hope, that they may proclaim the awesome things you have done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Lord, we give you thanks for the lives of our beloved dead whom you have redeemed through the precious blood of your dear Son. Grant that we may humbly follow in their footsteps, boldly trust in your promises, faithfully proclaim your Word; and cheerfully serve in your Name. Bring us, through the merits of Jesus, into your Kingdom, where with all the redeemed, we shall glorify you in the unity of your most holy Spirit forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

THE PRAYERS, October 23: 20th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 25)

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

THE PRAYERS, October 23: 20^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 25)

Genesis 4:1-15: (Cain murders Abel)

ELW/RCL: Jeremiah 14:7-10, 19-22 (Condemnation of Israel for its sins, prayer for forgiveness; eliminates God’s command to not pray for them, especially the false prophets)

Psalm 5: (God doesn’t delight in wickedness. Spread your protection over those who love you)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 84:1-7 Beauty of God’s house; blessed are God’s pilgrims!)

2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18: (I have fought the good fight, I have run the race)

Luke 18:9-17: Parable of Pharisee and tax collector; Jesus blesses children)

ELW/RCL: Luke 18:9-14 (Eliminates blessing children)

*******

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, today’s Scriptures are a mixed bag! Help us listen to them, for one of them may carry the blessing or warning we need. Remind us that everyone’s life is a “mixed bag.” Help us to listen, see, and forgive one another. Help us to pray that your Word may warn and bless us, today and forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and guide your Church. When it is wrong, correct it. When it is divided, heal it. When it strays from your truth, lead it back to the proclamation of Jesus Christ, true God and true man, crucified and raised for the forgiveness of sin unto everlasting life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Look with kindness upon this congregation. Keep us humble and faithful. Help us to make this place a true hospital for repentant sinners, not a museum for self-proclaimed saints.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be merciful to your persecuted servants. They aren’t perfect, but they are justified by your Son’s righteousness. Let them always find shelter in your arms. Let their enemies repent and seek your mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As elections near, tempers flare and rhetoric gets inflamed. Breathe your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord into candidates and voters alike. Bring sanity and prudence to international relations, so your people across the world may enjoy a measure of peace and health.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, we need pastors who are zealous to speak the Gospel to those who don’t know you. We need spiritual guides and discipleship partners to walk with another believer. We need holy fire and deep love for Jesus to shine in our lives, so many may be led to faith. Make it so, dear Father! Make it so!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring your healing love to everyone who suffers in body, mind, or spirit, especially: {List}. Keep them in your merciful care, and bless everyone who comforts and assists them in their time of need.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we entrust our beloved dead into your care. Bring comfort and hope to all who grieve, especially those who have lost faith in you – or who never had any! Help us to bring the light and love of Jesus to them, and to everyone we meet on our earthly pilgrimage. Be merciful to us, and bless us, and bring us into the beauty and joy of your heavenly home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

THE PRAYERS, October 16: 19th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24) OR Luke, St. Luke, Evangelist

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

THE PRAYERS,

October 16: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24)

OR – and it is a stretch, but this is the year of Luke, St. Luke, Evangelist

Pentecost 19 lessons and prayers

Genesis 32:22-30 (Jacob wrestles with mysterious stranger, is wounded but named Israel)

Psalm 121 (My help comes from the Lord. He neither slumbers nor sleeps, will watch your going and coming)

2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 (All Scripture is inspired, useful for teaching and reproof; but people will have itching ears and refuse sound doctrine)

Luke 18:1-8 (Parable of widow and unjust judge; God hears cries of his chosen ones; but will Son of Man find such faith when he returns?)

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, sometimes our ears itch because we desire convenient untruths. Sometimes we wrestle with your Word and come away hobbling. Sometimes it’s hard to love, trust, and obey you! Thank you for hearing our prayers anyhow. Thank you for touching us with healing and blessing, not just rebuke and warning. Thank you for Jesus, who is your Truth, Blessing, Word, and Love incarnate.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church throughout the world always confess and preach that all Scripture is inspired, useful for teaching and reproof. Fill it with your Holy Spirit, so that it penetrates itching ears with the pure doctrine of Christ, crucified and raised from the dead for the forgiveness of sin unto life everlasting.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep everyone in this congregation in your merciful care. Conform our hearts to your will. Help us pray with bold faith and persistent hope. In all things, let us glorify you, bear witness to your holy and gracious Word, and lead lives worthy of our calling as your children.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Do not slumber or sleep, O Lord, while your suffering Church prays to you. Hear their cries and come to their aid. Soften the hearts of their unjust judges and persecutors. Make those repent of their evil and do what is right in your sight. Grant faith, persistence, and compassion to all who preach the Gospel to those who have not heard the name of Christ aright.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless our war-torn world with your peace. Give it leaders who do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly in your sight. Look with kindness upon the poor and needy, the widow and orphan, and all to whom justice has been denied. Spur us to give practical, compassionate help, so all receive your blessings.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for lawyers, judges, magistrates, and for all who make or interpret laws and administer justice. Give them uprightness of heart, and a passion for truth. Make them wise, fair, and impartial in their decisions. Through their work, accomplish your holy and gracious will in our midst.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear the cries of all who suffer, especially: {List}. Bring them safely through their trials, and give them faith in your gracious love. Bless and strengthen everyone who assists in their care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for our loved ones who have died and are asleep in your arms. Until we are reunited with them and with all whom you have redeemed, keep us steadfast in faith, persistent in prayer, and attentive to your Word. Let enter your presence in the company of all the saints, and forever worship, praise, and adore you for your love, given through your Son Jesus Christ our Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

**************************

St. Luke lessons and prayers

Isaiah 43:8-13 (I am your God and Savior; and you are my witnesses!)

Or Isaiah 35:5-8 (Promise that the blind shall see, lame shall run; there will be water, joy, and a highway in the desert)

Psalm 124 (The Lord was on our side, we have escaped our enemies!)

2 Timothy 4:5-11 (Paul has run his race, fought his fight; only Luke remains with him now)

Luke 1:1-4; 24:44 (…then Jesus said…)-53 (Why Luke writes; conclusion of Gospel)

********

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for Luke, your servant, whose Gospel is so dear to us. Thank you for Jesus, who is your Truth, Blessing, Word, and Love incarnate.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church throughout the world always confess and preach that all Scripture is inspired, useful for teaching and reproof. Fill it with your Holy Spirit, so many may hear and believe the Good News of Jesus Christ, crucified and raised from the dead for the forgiveness of sin unto life everlasting.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Jesus came to heal the sick and sinful, and his servant Luke was also a physician. We pray therefore for doctors, nurses, and everyone who practices the healing arts and cares for the sick and wounded. Through their wise and compassionate care, touch all who suffer with your own life-giving love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear the cries of all who suffer, especially: {List}. Bring them safely through their trials, and give them faith in your gracious love. Bless and strengthen everyone who assists in their care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

THE PRAYERS, October 9, 2022: 18th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23)

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

THE PRAYERS, October 9, 2022: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23)

Ruth 1:1-19a (Ruth’s love for Naomi)

ELW/RCL: 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15 (Naaman the leper healed by Elisha)

Psalm 111 (God is gracious, provides for those who fear him. His works, laws are trustworthy)

2 Timothy 2:1-13 (Paul encourages Timothy to be steadfast and diligent in his labors)

ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 2:8-15 (Eliminates exhortation to strive, even suffer; adds counsel to exhort against quarreling and to be worker approved by God)

Luke 17:11-19 (Jesus heals 10 lepers; one returns to thank and worship)

*******

For the Church, the world, and all people, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

A brief silence

Dear Lord, give us steadfast love and heartfelt gratitude for every good gift that comes from you! We are so blessed. Tune our hearts to sing your praise. Make our feet lovely with the eagerness to run to others with tokens of your mercy and goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to your Church the faithful love for you and for one another that Ruth had for Naomi. Stir up in it the thankful worship of the Samaritan leper. Grant it the bold and truthful witness of Paul and Timothy. Raise up righteous pastors, theologians, and other leaders. And use your Church to show your goodness toward those who fear you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for this congregation – its people, its ministries, and its mission. In all things, shape us into vessels of your generosity and holiness, so that many people may receive life and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Help us to remember, defend, assist, and walk with Christians who are persecuted for their faith in Jesus. Let their faith, hope and love be a shining witness in places of spiritual darkness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our world, broken by evil and bruised by violence. Give us teachable hearts that rejoice in, and strive to obey, your precepts. Give wisdom, integrity, and common sense to our elected and appointed leaders. Guide all who are entrusted with authority in government, commerce, education, and whatever else affects your people in their everyday lives.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be gracious and merciful to widows and widowers, and to all are embittered by loss and grief. Help us to walk with them in their sorrow, and to show them kindness, friendship, and understanding.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Our Lord Jesus, in his infinite compassion, healed ten lepers. We pray that he do so the same for everyone afflicted by disease, despair, or the shadow of death. Especially we life before you the needs of: {List}. Grant them healing, hope, and grateful hearts; and reunite them with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most Holy and blessed Father, bring your perfect, eternal healing to all who have died trusting in your promises. Comfort all who mourn. Give us devoted friendship, diligent service, and grateful hearts. For Jesus’ sake, deliver us from evil and forgive us our sins. Heal us in body, soul, mind, and heart, so with our whole being, we may love and praise you eternally in the company of everyone you have redeemed.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

The Prayers, October 2: 17th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22)

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

The Prayers, October 2: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22)

Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4 (Prophet mourns that he can only see evil and violence; but he will stand at his watch post; he must write God’s words large and bold)

Psalm 62 (For God my soul in stillness waits; he alone is my rock, strength, and salvation)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 37:1-9 (Commit your way to God; don’t fret over evildoers)

2 Timothy 1:1-14 (Rekindle gift given at ordination; never be ashamed of Christ)

Luke 17:1-10 (Again, don’t cause another to stumble! Forgive willingly; have mustard seed faith; do your work faithfully whether the Master is away or is present)

ELW/RCL: Luke 17:5-10 (Eliminates warning to not mislead little ones, rebuking brother, forgiving repeatedly if he repents)

*******

For the Church, the world, and all people, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

A brief silence

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for planting the mustard-seed of faith in us! Please water it with your Holy Spirit. Make its roots delve deep into your holy Word and Sacraments. Cause that seed to blossom and come to fruition, nourishing a hungry world with your son’s forgiveness and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask your protection, guidance and blessing upon your Church. Make it steadfast in faith; courageous in witness; truthful in teaching and preaching; and gracious in service. Use it to lead many souls to Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill this congregation with your Holy Spirit. Let us never seem ashamed of Christ, but instead share his holy and forgiving love with everyone we encounter.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow upon all missionaries strength to do their Master’s work faithfully and well until he comes in glory. Shield and strengthen our sisters and brothers who are persecuted on account of Jesus. Give them grace and courage to stand at their watch-post and to speak and live your Word boldly and truly. Let their tormentors repent of their evil ways and turn to you, the Lord of all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that the leaders of all nations, especially our own, acknowledge you as their Lord and Master. Let them faithfully and diligently do the work entrusted to them, knowing they must give to you an account of their actions. Help them to strive for justice tempered with mercy, and for peace wedded to righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant the watchman’s courage and faithfulness to all who protect and defend life from evil and violence. Especially we pray for our military, and all first responders. Prosper all they do that accomplishes your purposes. Be their mighty fortress when they are in peril. Reunite them safely with their loved ones. May we honor their service and benefit from their skills.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the rock and salvation, the hope and eternal possession of all who cry out to you in time of trouble. Especially we remember before you: {List}. Still their troubled souls, and heal them of wounds to body, mind, and spirit. Give to all who care for them tender hearts, gentle hands, compassionate service, and loving encouragement.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for fulfilling all your promises to those who have died trusting in you. Be the rock and salvation of all whose grief runs deep. Give them courage and hope. Make us gentle and tender-hearted with one another. Help us to forgive when the other sins, and to repent when we are wrong. When one stumbles, help the rest of us to support, guide, and encourage. Lead us safely through the evils and sorrows of this earthly life. Bring us into your Kingdom and into eternal fellowship with you and those whom you have redeemed through the merits of your beloved Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

THE PRAYERS, 16th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 21, Cycle C (September 25, 2022)

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

THE PRAYERS,

16^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 21, Cycle C (September 25, 2022)

Amos 6:1-7: (Woe to those who are at ease in Zion! The shall go into exile)

ELW/RCL: Amos 6:1a, 4-7 (Eliminates obscure reference to surrounding nations)

Psalm 146: (The Lord sets the prisoners free, saves those who perish)

1 Timothy 3:1-13: (Qualifications of bishops and deacons)

ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 6:6-19 (Temptations of riches; exhortation to Timothy to fight good fight of faith)

Luke 16:19-31: (The rich man and Lazarus)

*******

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for words of warning and wisdom. Sometimes we don’t want to hear how faith and finances are connected! And sometimes we think they’re about other people, not us. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so we can listen to your Word, think about our priorities, and faithfully do your will.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give your Church pastors, bishops, deacons, and theologians who adorn your Gospel with holy lives and grace-filled words. Through their wise leadership, lead many people to deeper faith, unshakable hope, and generous charity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Look with kindness upon the people and ministries of this congregation. Help us keep the main thing the main thing: loving you, and generously sharing your love with others, however and wherever we can.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the persecuted church, especially in Nigeria, Pakistan, and North Korea. Keep your people steadfast in faith. Help us to speak boldly in their defense. Turn the hearts of their tormentors away from their folly, and bring them to repentant faith in you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our country, and for its elected and appointed leaders. Heal the suspicion, division, and hatred that weakens and fractures us. Bless everyone who works to restore integrity, common sense, and impartial justice, tempered with mercy, in our common life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, it’s too easy to ignore the poor or blame them for their plight. It’s also easy to do unhelpful things, thinking we’re being compassionate. Give us wisdom as well as generosity. Help us to listen and see, to ponder and discuss, so we work with poor people to help them work for, and walk into, a better life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear and answer the prayers of all who cry out to you for help. Especially we pray for the needs of: {List}. Refresh them in their time of trial, and surround them with skilled and kindly care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear Father, thank you for gathering our beloved dead into your own bosom. Comfort all who mourn the loss of loved ones. Give us your Holy Spirit, so we encourage, challenge, and support each other as we strive to walk in your ways. Bring us, with all whom you have redeemed by the blood of Jesus, into the holy peace and eternal joy of your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

THE PRAYERS, 15th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 20, Cycle C (September 18, 2022)

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

THE PRAYERS,

15^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 20, Cycle C (September 18, 2022)

Amos 8:4-7 (God sees the deeds of the greedy who despoil the poor)

Psalm 113 (Praise God; he raises the poor from the dust!)

1 Timothy 2:1-15 (Pray for all, including rulers, so we may live at peace; women dress modestly and be silent in assembly)

ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 2:1-7 (gee, can you guess what’s missing?!)

Luke 16:1-15 (Parable of dishonest servant)

ELW/RCL: Luke 16:1-13 (Eliminates rebuke of Pharisees)

*******

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Dear Father, thank you for your holy Word, even when it makes us squirm. Thank you for being patient with us. Thank you for lifting us up when we fall away from your commands. Thank you for restoring us, when we have repented, to positions of trust and to the task of proclaiming the Gospel.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless your Church throughout the world. Fill it with faithful teachers and preachers of your Word. Kindle its worship to be a living flame of praise to you. Make it wise as serpents and innocent as doves as it bears witness to Jesus. Give it grace to lavish the treasures of your Kingdom on all who need them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, we may smile or shudder to hear the parable of the dishonest servant – especially at a time of year when stewardship is often lifted up. Bless this congregation in its stewardship of time, talents, treasures, and testimony. Help us to be honest, eager, and ingenious as we use whatever has been entrusted to us, for the sake of your Kingdom, and for the benefit of our neighbor.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give faithfulness and wisdom to theologians, evangelists, missionaries, and seminarians. Raise up new pastors, deacons, and discipleship guides, for the need is great. And give courage and grace to your suffering and persecuted church throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant integrity and common sense to our earthly leaders. Make them honest stewards of the power and authority granted to them, for they must give an account of their stewardship to you, their Master and King. Be the shield and defender of first responders and those in the military. Use their labors to accomplish your will in places of chaos and violence. Help us all to have a heart for the poor, and the will to assist them effectively and graciously.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless volunteers and workers, not only in this church, but throughout the world, who seek to serve you and neighbor. Multiply their gifts and talents, so that through their labors, many people receive mercy, comfort, and a clear sign of your providential care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You raise the poor from the dust and care for all who cry out to you. Therefore with confidence and hope, we remember before you all who are afflicted in body, mind, or spirit, including: {List}. Bring them out of darkness into your glorious light; and restore them to fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, receive into your Kingdom all the faithful departed, especially those dearest to us. Keep us steadfast in faith; diligent in service; truthful in word and honest in deed. Bind us together in cords of love and compassion for one another. Bring us, with all whom you have redeemed, into the fullness of your presence. Give us hearts, minds, and voices, forever to adore and glorify you, in the blessed communion you share with your Son and the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

THE PRAYERS, 14th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 19, Cycle C (September 11, 2022)

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

THE PRAYERS,

14^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 19, Cycle C (September 11, 2022)

Ezekiel 34:11-24 (God will be the Good Shepherd, will judge between strong and weak sheep)

ELW/RCL: Exodus 32:7-14 (Moses pleads for Israel after they make gold calf)

Psalm 119:169-176 (Teach me your statutes; I will sing your praises!)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 51:1010 (Have mercy on me for my wickedness and sin!)

1 Timothy 1:(5-11), 12-17 (The Law is good; meant to convict evildoers of their sin; yet Christ came to save sinners)

ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 1:12-17 (Eliminates warning against bad teachers, and discussion of why the law exists to convict the wicked)

Luke 15:1-10 (Jesus eats with sinners, parables of lost sheep, lost coin)

*******

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy God, thank you for Jesus! Thank you for making him our good Shepherd. Thank you for loving us so much that we are granted forgiveness, life, fellowship with you – and love beyond all telling – in your Son, crucified, raised, and ascended to your right hand for our salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, give your Church the grace and desire to faithfully follow Jesus. Give it leaders who rightly proclaim your Word. Give it your Holy Spirit, so it is a place of welcome, forgiveness, and transformation for every sinner who enters it.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give your grace to this congregation. Forgive us when, like unruly sheep, we head-butt and distress your flock. Help us to repent of thoughtless words, self-centered actions, and anything else that hinders one of your dear children from loving and trusting you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

On this day, we remember and grieve those who lost their lives in terrorist attacks. We thank you for those who risked, and often gave, their lives trying to bring safety and life out of chaos and death. We pray that hatred, violence, fanaticism, and injustice may cease throughout the world, and that your gracious and holy will should hold sway in every heart and every land.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Our nation continues to struggle with enemies within and beyond its borders; with discord, suspicion, and violence; and with a raucous political campaign that sometimes threatens to bring out the worst rather than the best in us. Shepherd us through these troubled times. Bring healing to our hearts, homes, and communities. Anoint our eyes to see one another as fellow citizens and as beloved children of the same heavenly Father. And bring a measure of your peace to this weary world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be merciful to all who are hurting, weak, abused, hungry, or grieving; or who in any way need the abundance of your grace. Especially we lift before you: {List}. Be their Good Shepherd, and bring them healing and hope. Help us all to be gentle, gracious, compassionate and kind to them, so that together, we may praise your goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear heavenly Father, we entrust into the care of Jesus our Good Shepherd, all our beloved dead. Comfort all who mourn; and fill us with your Holy Spirit’s wisdom and grace. Teach us to love each other tenderly and care for one another diligently; and keep us ever in Christ’s care. Of your goodness, grant that he should heal us from every sin and infirmity, and lead us into your Kingdom; so that as one flock we may praise, adore, and glorify our Good Shepherd forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.

Lessons and Suggested Hymns, September 11: 14th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19) – November 20, 2022, Christ the King

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

Lessons and Suggested Hymns,

September 11: 14^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19) –

November 20, 2022, Christ the King

NOTE: LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)

There are versions of some hymns that are superior in LSB and I recommend using them if possible. Also, there are some superb hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals. When I suggest one of the latter, I try to include an alternative from LBW or WOV. I recommend that a license and DVD of downloadable hymns from LSB be purchased if you are looking to expand your hymnody. There are, in ELW, some familiar hymns that have been drastically altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or has, interestingly, a more “traditional” translation or harmonization.

Primary liturgical calendar taken from Sola Publishing (www.solapublishing.org), based on LSB. Also, I include the lessons from the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) found in ELW and used in some congregations. It often overlaps the Sola/LCMS calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them.

Because some of the prayers of confession, as well as offertory and post-communion prayers, provided on certain resource pages lack theological heft or linguistic elegance, I have added some seasonal prayers that you are free to cut, paste, and revise as needed. They are modified from the copyright-free Online Book of Common Prayer, or are my own creation. These are found on the following pages. The regular prayers of intercession will, as usual, be provided weekly in their own Word documents.

For General/Green Season Use: A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept.

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.

For General/Green Season Use: The Gospel Acclamation (Spoken)

Alleluia. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life. Alleluia.

Alleluia. Your Word, O Lord, is truth; consecrate us in the truth. Alleluia.

For General/Green Season Use: The Offertory Prayer

Let us pray. Take, O Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my whole will. Thou hast given me all that I am and all that I possess: I surrender it all to Thee that Thou mayest dispose of it according to Thy will. Give me only Thy love and Thy grace; with these I will be rich enough, and will have no more to desire. Amen.

For General/Green Season Use: The Great Thanksgiving and Proper Preface

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give him thanks and praise.

It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. For you are the source of light and life, you made us in your image, and called us to new life in Jesus Christ our Lord; who on the first day of the week overcame death and the grave, and by his glorious resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:

For General/Green Season Use: The Eucharistic Prayer

Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself, and, when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself, in obedience to your will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world.

On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:

Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.

We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, with praise and thanksgiving. Recalling our Savior’s death, resurrection, and ascension, we pray that you would sanctify these gifts by your Holy Spirit, to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy, and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your eternal kingdom.

All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ: By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

And so, Father, we bring you these gifts. Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ our Lord.

On the night he was betrayed he took bread, said the blessing, broke the bread, and gave it to his friends, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.”

After supper, he took the cup of wine, gave thanks, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

Father, we now celebrate the memorial of your Son. By means of this holy bread and cup, we proclaim his death and resurrection, until he comes again. Gather us by this Holy Communion into one body in your Son Jesus Christ. Make us a living sacrifice of praise. By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

For General/Green Season Use: Post-Communion Prayer

Eternal God, heavenly Father, you have graciously accepted us as living members

of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, and you have fed us with spiritual food in the Sacrament of his Body and Blood. Send us now into the world in peace, and grant us strength and courage to love and serve you with gladness and singleness of heart; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Almighty and ever-living God, we thank you for feeding us with the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us that we are living members of the Body of your Son, and heirs of your eternal kingdom. Send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

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September 11: 14^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19)

Ezekiel 34:11-24 (God will be the Good Shepherd, will judge between strong and weak sheep)

ELW/RCL: Exodus 32:7-14 (Moses pleads for Israel after they make gold calf)

Psalm 119:169-176 (Teach me your statutes; I will sing your praises!)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 51:1010 (Have mercy on me for my wickedness and sin!)

1 Timothy 1:(5-11), 12-17 (The Law is good; meant to convict evildoers of their sin; yet Christ came to save sinners)

ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 1:12-17 (Eliminates warning against bad teachers, and discussion of why the law exists to convict the wicked)

Luke 15:1-10 (Jesus eats with sinners, parables of lost sheep, lost coin)

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Opening Hymn: Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us: LBW #481, ELW #789, LSB #711 (ELW and LSB tunes are way more familiar than the LBW one!)

OR The Lord’s My Shepherd; I’ll Not Want: LBW #451, ELW #778, LSB #710

Hymn of the Day: Jesus Sinners Will/Doth Receive: LBW #291, LSB #609

(NOTE: Although the LSB tune is more singable and familiar than is the LBW tune, if you don’t want to try either, I suggest setting this to LBW #535, Holy God, We Praise Your Name. The words to this hymn are good with the epistle and Gospel texts.)

OR In Adam We Have All Been One: LBW #372, LSB #569

OR How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds: LBW #345, ELW #620, LSB #524

Communion Hymn #1: Amazing Grace: LBW #448, ELW #779, LSB #744

Communion Hymn #2: One There is, Above All Others: LBW #298

OR Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling: WOV #734, ELW #608

Closing Hymn: Abide With Us, Our Savior: LBW #263

Abide, O Dearest Jesus: ELW #539, LSB #919

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September 18: 15^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20)

Amos 8:4-7 (God sees the deeds of the greedy who despoil the poor)

Psalm 113 (Praise God; he raises the poor from the dust!)

1 Timothy 2:1-15 (Pray for all, including rulers, so we may live at peace; women dress modestly and be silent in assembly)

ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 2:1-7 (gee, can you guess what’s missing?!)

Luke 16:1-15 (Parable of dishonest servant)

ELW/RCL: Luke 16:1-13 (Eliminates rebuke of Pharisees)

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Opening Hymn:, Lord of All Nations, Grant Me Grace: LBW #419, ELW #716, LSB #844

OR Where Charity and Love Prevail: LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845

Hymn of the Day: Seek Where You May to Find a Way: LSB #557 (neat old hymn!)

OR Jesus, Priceless Treasure: LBW #457/458, ELW #775, LSB 743

Communion Hymn #1: We Give Thee But Thine Own: LBW #410, ELW #686, LSB #781

Communion Hymn #2: Praise and Thanksgiving: LBW #409, ELW #689, LSB #789

Closing Hymn: God the Omnipotent!: LBW #462

OR O God of Mercy, God of Light/Might: LBW #425, ELW #714, LSB #852

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September 25: 16^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21)

Amos 6:1-7: (Woe to those who are at ease in Zion! The shall go into exile)

ELW/RCL: Amos 6:1a, 4-7 (Eliminates obscure reference to surrounding nations)

Psalm 146: (The Lord sets the prisoners free, saves those who perish)

1 Timothy 3:1-13: (Qualifications of bishops and deacons)

ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 6:6-19 (Temptations of riches; exhortation to Timothy to fight good fight of faith)

Luke 16:19-31: (The rich man and Lazarus)

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Opening Hymn: The God of Abraham Praise:

LBW #544, v. 1-4, ELW #831, v. 1-3, LSB #798, v.1-3

OR (if using ELW/RCL lectionary): Fight the Good Fight: LBW #461, LSB #664

OR God of Grace and God of Glory: LBW #415, ELW #705, LSB #850

Hymn of the Day: The God of Abraham Praise: LBW #544, v. 5-8, ELW #831, v.4-6, LSB #798, v. 4-6

OR Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven: LBW #549, ELW #865, LSB #793

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #504, O God, My Faithful God (LSB #696)

Communion Hymn #2: I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say:

LBW #497, ELW #332/611 (latter is familiar English folk tune), LSB #699

Closing Hymn: The God of Abraham Praise: LBW #544, v. 9-12, ELW #831, v. 7-8, LSB #798, v. 7-9

OR How Great Thou Art: LBW #532, ELW :856, LSB #801

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October 2: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22)

Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4 (Prophet mourns that he can only see evil and violence; but he will stand at his watch post; he must write God’s words large and bold)

Psalm 62 (For God my soul in stillness waits; he alone is my rock, strength, and salvation)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 37:1-9 (Commit your way to God; don’t fret over evildoers)

2 Timothy 1:1-14 (Rekindle gift given at ordination; never be ashamed of Christ)

Luke 17:1-10 (Again, don’t cause another to stumble! Forgive willingly; have mustard seed faith; do your work faithfully whether the Master is away or is present)

ELW/RCL: Luke 17:5-10 (Eliminates warning to not mislead little ones, rebuking brother, forgiving repeatedly if he repents)

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Opening Hymn: The Night Will Soon be Ending: LSB #337

OR Wake, Awake, For Night is Flying: LBW #31, ELW #436 (Warning: not the Bridegroom, but “her dear friend” comes in v. 2), LSB #516

Hymn of the Day: Awake, O Spirit of the Watchmen: LBW #382

(not real familiar, but not a tough tune, and the words bridge the 3 lessons well)

OR Lord, Help Us Walk Your Servant Way: LSB #857

OR Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word: LBW #230, ELW #517, LSB #655

Communion Hymn #1: Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive: LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843

Communion Hymn #2: Now Thank We All Our God: LBW #534, ELW #840, LSB #895

Closing Hymn: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less: LBW #293/294, ELW #596/597, (LSB #575/576)

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October 9: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23)

Ruth 1:1-19a (Ruth’s love for Naomi)

ELW/RCL: 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15 (Naaman the leper healed by Elisha)

Psalm 111 (God is gracious, provides for those who fear him. His works, laws are trustworthy)

2 Timothy 2:1-13 (Paul encourages Timothy to be steadfast and diligent in his labors)

ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 2:8-15 (Eliminates exhortation to strive, even suffer; adds counsel to exhort against quarreling and to be worker approved by God)

Luke 17:11-19 (Jesus heals 10 lepers; one returns to thank and worship)

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Opening Hymn: Entrust Your Days and Burdens: LSB #754 (Wonderful words! I’d sing it to “The Church’s One Foundation, as the suggested tune is unfamiliar)

OR Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

Hymn of the Day: O God Beyond All Praising: WOV #797, ELW #880

OR Jesus, Thy Boundless Love to Me: LBW #336, LSB #683

Communion Hymn #1: Blest be the Tie that Binds: LBW #370, ELW #656, LSB #649

Communion Hymn #2: I’ve Just Come From the Fountain: WOV #696

OR Day By Day: WOV #746, ELW #790

Closing Hymn: Lift Every Voice and Sing: LBW #562, ELW #841, LSB #964

OR Oh, Worship the King: LBW #548, ELW #842, LSB #804

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October 16: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24)

OR – and it is a stretch but this is the year of Luke, St. Luke, Evangelist

Pentecost 19 lessons and hymns

Genesis 32:22-30 (Jacob wrestles with mysterious stranger, is wounded but named Israel)

Psalm 121 (My help comes from the Lord. He neither slumbers nor sleeps, will watch your going and coming)

2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 (All Scripture is inspired, useful for teaching and reproof; but people will have itching ears and refuse sound doctrine)

Luke 18:1-8 (Parable of widow and unjust judge; God hears cries of his chosen ones; but will Son of Man find such faith when he returns?)

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Opening Hymn: Unto the Hills: LBW #445

OR God, Who Made the Earth and Heaven: LBW #281, ELW #564, LSB #877

OR Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing: LBW #499, ELW #807, LSB #686

Hymn of the Day: How Firm a Foundation: LBW #507, ELW #796, LSB #728

Communion Hymn #1: O God of Jacob, By Whose Hand: LBW #477

OR Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me: LBW #333, ELW #767, LSB #722

Communion Hymn #2: My Faith Looks Up to Thee: LBW #479, ELW #759, LSB #702

Closing Hymn: Great is Thy Faithfulness: WOV #771, ELW #733, LSB #809

OR On Eagle’s Wings (You Who Dwell in the Shelter of the Lord):

WOV #779, ELW #787, LSB #727

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St. Luke lessons and hymns

Isaiah 43:8-13 (I am your God and Savior; and you are my witnesses!)

Or Isaiah 35:5-8 (Promise that the blind shall see, lame shall run; there will be water, joy, and a highway in the desert)

Psalm 124 (The Lord was on our side, we have escaped our enemies!)

2 Timothy 4:5-11 (Paul has run his race, fought his fight; only Luke remains with him now)

Luke 1:1-4; 24:44 (…then Jesus said…)-53 (Why Luke writes; conclusion of Gospel)

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Opening Hymn: Hail to the Lord’s Anointed (for Is. 35): LBW #87, ELW #311, LSB #398

Hymn of the Day: Fight the Good Fight With All Thy Might: LBW #461 (dorky tune, but easily sung to Duke Street, the tune for “Give to Our God Immortal Praise), LSB #664

OR O Word of God Incarnate: LBW #231, ELW #514, LSB #523

Communion Hymn #1: There is a Balm in Gilead: WOV #737, ELW #614, LSB #745

Communion Hymn #2: Here I Am, Lord: WOV #752, ELW #574, LSB #727

Closing Hymn: O Zion, Haste: LBW #397, ELW #668

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October 23: 20^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 25)

Genesis 4:1-15: (Cain murders Abel)

ELW/RCL: Jeremiah 14:7-10, 19-22 (Condemnation of Israel for its sins, prayer for forgiveness; eliminates God’s command to not pray for them, especially the false prophets)

Psalm 5: (God doesn’t delight in wickedness. Spread your protection over those who love you)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 84:1-7 Beauty of God’s house; blessed are God’s pilgrims!)

2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18: (I have fought the good fight, I have run the race)

Luke 18:9-17: Parable of Pharisee and tax collector; Jesus blesses children)

ELW/RCL: Luke 18:9-14 (Eliminates blessing children)

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Opening Hymn: There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy: LBW #290, ELW #588 (also 587; I don’t know this tune)

OR Father, We Praise You, Now the Night is Over: LBW #267, LSB #875

Hymn of the Day: Just As I Am, Without One Flea: LBW #296, ELW #592, LSB #570

OR Jesus Loves Me, This I Know: ELW #595, LSB #588

Communion Hymn #1: O Christ, Thou Lamb of God: LBW #103, ,

Communion Hymn #2: What Wondrous Love is This: LBW #385, ELW #666, LSB #543

Closing Hymn: O Christ, Our Hope: LBW #300, ELW #604, LSB #553

OR, IF you didn’t do this last week for St. Luke…

Fight the Good Fight With All Thy Might: LBW #461 (dorky tune, but easily sung to Duke Street, the tune for “Give to Our God Immortal Praise), LSB #664

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October 30: Reformation Sunday

Revelation 14:6-7 (Eternal Gospel announced to every person)

Psalm 46 (A mighty fortress!)

Romans 3:19-28 (We’re justified by faith apart from works of the Law)

John 8:31-36 (If the Son makes you free, you are free indeed)

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Opening Hymn: Word of God, Come Down on Earth: WOV 716, ELW #510, LSB #545

Hymn of the Day: Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

OR The Church’s One Foundation: LBW #369, ELW #654, LSB #644

Communion Hymn #1: God Himself is Present: LBW #249, LSB #907

Communion Hymn #2: What Feast of Love: WOV #701, ELW #487

Closing Hymn: A Mighty Fortress is Our God: LBW #229, ELW #504, LSB #657 (In all hymnals, y’all are free to sing the non-metric version, which is the one prior to the hymn number listed)

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November 6: All Saints Sunday

Revelation 7:(2-8) 9-17 (The tribes of Israel are numbered; behold a host arrayed in white, praising the God who has delivered them)

ELW/RCL: Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18 (Vision of 4 great beasts; saints shall receive God’s kingdom forever)

Psalm 149 (Praise God for his deliverance – and his vengeance!)

1 John 3:1-3 (We are God’s children; when Jesus appears, we shall be like him.)

ELW/RCL: Ephesians 1:11-23 (Inheritance of saints in Christ; prayer for Spirit to enlighten, reveal Jesus’ greatness and gifts)

Matthew 5:1-12 (The beatitudes)

ELW/RCL: (Beatitudes and woes; do to others as you wish them to do to you)

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Opening Hymn: Behold a Host, Arrayed in White (superior translation!): LSB #676

Behold a Host, Like Mountains Bright: LBW #314

Behold the Host, Arrayed in White: ELW # 425

OR Alabare: WOV #791 LSB #800

OR Holy God, We Praise Your/Thy Name: LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940

Hymn of the Day: For All the Saints: LBW #174, ELW #422, LSB #677

OR Blest Are They: WOV #764, ELW #728

Communion Hymn #1: Shall We Gather By/At the River: WOV #690, ELW #423

Communion Hymn #2: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

Closing Hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328/3299, ELW #634, LSB #549

OR Blessing and Honor and Glory and Power: LBW #535, ELW #854,

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November 13: 23^rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28)

Exodus 3:1-15 (Moses at burning bush; God reveals his name; ‘Let My people go!’)

ELW/RCL: Malachi 4:1-2 (Day of Lord burns wicked like stubble; Sun of Righteousness dawns for those who fear Name of Lord)

Psalm 148 (All creation enjoined to praise God)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 98 (Sing a new song to God for his love, faithfulness!)

2 Thessalonians 2:1-8, 13-17 (As to the coming of Christ again, do not be deceived or dismayed; many tribulations must first come)

ELW/RCL: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-13 (Don’t be idle as we await Christ’s return)

Luke 20:27-40 (Jesus corrects Sadducees concerning marriage AND resurrection, using story of Moses at the burning bush)

ELW/RCL: Luke 21:5-19 (Jesus warns: persecution, destruction before his return)

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Opening Hymn: When Israel Was in Egypt’s Land (if using Exodus text): WOV #670

OR The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns: LBW #33, ELW #260, LSB #348

Hymn of the Day: Who Trusts in God, a Strong Abode: LBW #450 (bear with me: This is a sturdy German chorale, but nobody will know it. I want you to sing this to “The King of Love My Shepherd Is.” That means you’ll sing through the melody twice on each verse. But it’s the only tune I know that people will know, and the words are so powerful, especially if you’re using the ELW/RCL Gospel, Luke 21, that I don’t want you to miss out!)

OR All Depends on Our Possessing: LBW #447, ELW #589, LSB #732

OR We Know That Christ is Raised and Dies No More: LBW#189, ELW #449, LSB #603

Communion Hymn #1: Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise: LBW #526, ELW #834, LSB #802

Communion Hymn #2: Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer: LBW #343, ELW # 618, LSB #918

Closing Hymn: O Happy Day When We Shall Stand: LBW #351, ELW #441

OR O Christ the Same (gotta love singing O Danny Boy!): WOV #778, ELW #760

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November 20: Christ the King Sunday

Malachi 3:13-18 (God tells his people of their complaints against him; they listen and ponder his words; God will spare the righteous as a father spares his children)

ELW/RCL: Jeremiah 23:1-6 (God gives good Shepherd, righteous Branch for his people)

Psalm 46, again?!? (Kingdoms totter and fall into the sea, but God is our refuge and strength)

Colossians 1:13-20 (Jesus is the perfect image of God; in him all things hang together)

ELW/RCL: Colossians 1:11-20 (Adds prayer for strength, joy, endurance, thanks)

Luke 23:27-43 (From the Via Dolorosa to the Cross; Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom; Father, into your hands I commend my spirit)

ELW/RCL: Luke 23:33-43 (Eliminates Via Dolorosa)

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Opening Hymn: The Head That once Was Crowned With Thorns:

LBW #173, ELW #432, LSB #532 (if tune is unfamiliar, use “O For 1000 Tongues”)

OR Lift High the Cross, the Love of Christ Proclaim: LBW #377, ELW #660 (Beware, no more newborn soldiers of the Crucified!), LSB #837

Hymn of the Day: The Strife is O’er, The Battle Done: LBW #135, ELW #366, LSB #464

OR O Savior, Precious Savior: LBW #514, ELW #820, LSB #527

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Remember Me: WOV #740, ELW #616, LSB #767

Communion Hymn #2: Soon and Very Soon: WOV #744, ELW #439

Closing Hymn:, Crown Him With Many Crowns: LBW #170, ELW #855, LSB #525

Prayers, September 4: 13th Sunday after Pentecost, C (Proper 18; Labor Day weekend)

written by Cathy Ammlung | August 23, 2022

Prayers, September 4: 13^th Sunday after Pentecost, C (Proper 18; Labor Day weekend)

Deuteronomy 30:15-20 (Before you God sets life and death, blessing and curse; choose life!)

Psalm 1 (Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly; his delight is in the law of the Lord)

Philemon, whole thing (Paul’s artful persuasion on behalf of a runaway slave)

Luke 14:25-35 (Consider the cost of discipleship first!)

ELW/RCL: Luke 14:25-33 (Eliminates words about unsalty salt)

Let us pray in the name of Jesus to our heavenly Father for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Gracious Father, teach us what true discipleship is. By your Spirit, give us the faith and steadfastness to bear its cost. Thank you for so clearly setting before us the “way of blessing and curse, of life and death.” Thank you for the grace to choose the life you offer through the death and resurrection of your Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the Church around the world. Make it holy and blameless, wise and loving, fearless and compassionate in equal measure. Make it delight in your Law and proclaim your Gospel. Establish its roots in the living waters flowing from Christ its head and its life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for the people and ministries of this congregation. Help us to meditate on your Word day and night. Give us grace to forgive, faithfulness to serve, and joyfulness to worship. Use us to lead many people to those streams of living water in which is found true life in Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for persecuted Christians, for missionaries, for seminary professors and students, and for all pastors and evangelists. Give them wise and humble hearts. Use them to bring the healing and saving Gospel to those whom the world has despised and rejected.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our nation and its leaders; and for the people and leaders of every nation on earth. Help all of us to “walk not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stand in the way of sinners; nor sit in the seat of scoffers;” but instead to delight in your Law; to meditate on your will; and to practice doing it so that we may live before you in peace and righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son dignified our labor by sharing our toil. Be with your people wherever they work. Make leaders of industries and commerce of this land responsive to your will. Give us pride in what we do. Be the strong refuge of those who suffer want and anxiety from lack of employment. Help all who are able to work to find suitable and fulfilling employment, and receive just payment for their labor.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for everyone who needs your mercy and loving-kindness – especially: {List}. Refresh their hearts; heal whatever is wounded; and restore them to fellowship with all who love them. As we recall Paul’s words to Philemon, we lift before you the plight of all who, even this day, are slaves. Deliver them from bondage, and let us always claim them as kindred for whom Christ has died.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Holy and loving Father, with gratitude and affection we entrust into your care our beloved dead. Through your Holy Spirit, strengthen us in our vocation as disciples of the Lord Jesus, so that, not counting the cost, we always bear faithful witness to him. For his sake, bring us into your presence, to be numbered with all those who serve, worship, and adore you in glory everlasting.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. AMEN.