THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH,  4th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 14, 2021)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, 

4th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 14, 2021)

 

Numbers 21:4-9 (The bronze serpent; look upon it and live)

Psalm 107:1-9 (Wanderers in desert wastes cry to the Lord; he delivers them

from their trouble)

Ephesians 2:1-10 (Dead in sin, now made alive in Christ by the grace of God)

John 3:14-21 (As Moses lifted up the serpent, so Son of Man is lifted up)

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

 Dear Father, we know the words by heart: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only-begotten Son.” Kindle your Holy Spirit in us, so these words burn bright and pure therein. Let them shine through all our thoughts, words, and deeds.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that through the Church’s faithful witness to your beloved Son, many people may know of your great love for them; believe in you; and receive everlasting life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give hope and healing when your Church experiences persecution. Lift it up as a sign of your saving love in a sin-darkened world.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

We ask for your blessing upon the people of this congregation. Center our hearts in your love, shown for us in Christ Jesus, and help us to share that love with others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We fervently pray that you will raise up pastors, teachers, missionaries, and evangelists whose hearts burn with the desire to share the Gospel of your strong saving love with those who do not know you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach the leaders of the nations the ways of wisdom, integrity, and humility. Keep them from being seduced by power and praise. Fill them with a hunger for justice; a love of mercy; and a desire to work for peace among all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Ease the burden of those who toil to keep your people healthy, safe, and free. Make them wise and brave, honest and good. We also pray that you would give prudence, common sense, and a dash of humility to each of us, to make their jobs a little easier.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As the Israelites looked upon the bronze serpent and were healed, grant that all who suffer may look upon the Cross of Christ and find healing, comfort, forgiveness, hope and life. Especially we pray for {List}. Restore them to our fellowship; and bestow upon us all the joy of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We praise you, heavenly Father, for receiving into eternal life those who believed on Jesus Christ in their mortal life. Keep also our minds and hearts firmly fixed on Jesus, so that we may journey safely through the wilderness of this world into the blessedness and joy of your Promised Land.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

 




THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH,  3rd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 7, 2021)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, 

3rd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 7, 2021)

 

Exodus 20:1-17 (God gives Israel the 10 Commandments)

Psalm 19 (Heavens tell the glory of God; his law is perfect, reviving the soul)

1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (Message of Cross is foolish, weak; but is God’s wisdom, strength)

John 2:13-25 (Jesus cleanses the Temple)

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, Father, for your dear Son. Thank you for making him your living Temple. Thank you for making him our eternal “house of prayer.” Give us faith to pray together, with him, “Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cleanse and purify your Church. Make it into a house of prayer for all people. Give it pastors, bishops, and leaders who preach, preside, and teach faithfully, and whose lives adorn the Gospel with holiness. Use it to draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless your suffering Church, that it may never be overcome by bitterness or despair, but may be a beacon of your saving love in a sin-darkened world.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Give to the members of this congregation such zeal for your house, so that we may worship you joyfully; care for one another tenderly; and proclaim your Word boldly.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for fathers and mothers; foster parents; and everyone entrusted with the care and nurture of your little ones. Give them the grace and faith to they may teach their children your commandments and to bring them to your House, there to receive your gracious Word and Sacraments.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide the rulers of the nations to seek your will, and give them the strength to do it. Teach us all to live by your commandments; give wisdom and prudence to our elected leaders; and grant us your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Give strength, wisdom, courage, and integrity to all who stand between us and the threatening dangers of this fallen world. We thank you for their labors and pray for their safety. Prosper all they do that helps to establish justice, health, peace, and unity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the strength of all who suffer and the joy of all who are sorrowful. Be present with your merciful care to all whose need is great, especially: {List}. Give them, and all who love them, grace to trust in Christ Jesus. He alone is their life, health, hope, and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious heavenly Father, we entrust into your merciful care all our departed loved ones. Comfort all who grieve. Keep our feet in the path of your commandments; our hearts firmly fixed on your forgiving love; and our eyes forever focused on the Cross of Christ Jesus, until you bring us safely into your welcoming embrace and eternal home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

 




THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH,  2nd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 28, 2021)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH, 

2nd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 28, 2021)

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy Father, thank you for Peter and all the apostles, saints, and martyrs who boldly confessed Jesus as Lord and God. Thank you for pastors and seminary professors, mentors and spiritual guides, who help us do the same.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Inspire your Church to boldly and faithfully acclaim Jesus to the world as your only Son, and as its only Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son did not shrink from suffering and death. Grant grace to all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake, so that they glory in his Cross, and rejoice in his resurrection.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Teach the people of this congregation to follow Jesus in humble service and cross-bearing. Let our worship, words and lives, glorify you and build up the Body of Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give courage and joy to our college students and to all seminarians. Keep their faith strong and true. Help them dedicate their energy, creativity and talents to caring for other people and glorifying your holy Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Through your covenant with Abraham and Sarah, you blessed all nations. Grant to all people the blessings of peace, freedom, and righteousness, which apart from you cannot flourish. Direct and guide our nation, that our words and deeds may please and glorify you, the Lord of the whole earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Look with favor on all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Give them wisdom, courage, and competence; protect them in times of danger; strengthen their loved ones; and when their task is done, bring them home swiftly and safely.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the needs and prayers of all who cry out to you for help, especially: {List}. Grant to them the joy of your saving help; bless all who care for them; and restore them to health and hope.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we thank you for fulfilling your promises to those who have died and are at rest in you. Wipe away the tears of those whose grief runs deep. Keep us calm and fearless, ever trusting your love which shines from Jesus’ Cross and lights our path throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Bring us, and those of every nation whom you have redeemed, to the final fulfillment of your blessing, won for us by Abraham’s glorious offspring, your Son, Christ Jesus our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

 




THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH 1st Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 21, 2021)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

1st Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 21, 2021)

 

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for the examples of Abraham and of your dear Son. Thank you for their steadfast faith. Thank you for the grace and comfort of the Holy Spirit, who kindles our faith and strengthens us in whatever trials and temptations we endure.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify your holy Church. When it is tempted by power, success, or convenience, turn its eyes to the Cross of your dear Son.  By the power of your Spirit, keep it faithful in its proclamation of repentance, forgiveness, and the close approach of your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and strengthen your persecuted people. Shield them from the temptation to forsake your Word. Keep them steadfast in faith and gentle in spirit. Help us, in our far smaller times of trial, to go and do likewise.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Purify and guide the people of this congregation. When we focus on peripheral matters, turn our eyes to Christ. Give us grace to prefer nothing whatsoever to him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and defend our youth. Strengthen them to resist the allure of popularity, dangerous pleasures, and anything that draws them away from loving and trusting you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and heal our sin-shadowed world. Let us not be seduced by promises or agendas that do not proceed from your holy will. Teach our earthly rulers that neither they nor their people can live on the bread of this world alone; they need the living Word that proceeds from you, the Lord of all nations.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify all first responders, and all medical and military personnel. Turn their eyes to you, their strength and their redeemer. Keep them faithful and honorable in all they do.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and heal all who suffer and cry to you for help —especially: {List}. When they are tempted to despair, turn their eyes to the Cross, on which was hung the life and salvation of the whole world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we commend into your keeping the lives of all who died trusting in your mercy. When we are tempted by doubt, confusion, fear, or pleasure, fix our eyes on Jesus, our hope and heart’s desire. Fill us with your Spirit, and keep us safely on the path that leads to your eternal home and welcoming embrace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.




THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH Ash Wednesday, Cycle B (February 17, 2021)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Ash Wednesday, Cycle B (February 17, 2021)

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for being full of mercy, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. Thank you for Jesus, the remedy for our sin and brokenness. Thank you for the Holy Spirit, who stirs up faith, hope, and love in our hearts.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on your Church. Cleanse it from false teaching, feigned holiness, and fake discipleship. Form it in the likeness of your dear Son, fill it with your Holy Spirit, and use it to draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on your persecuted servants. Cleanse them from bitterness or thirst for revenge. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and use them to lead the enemies of Christ to repentance and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Have mercy on this congregation. Cleanse us from apathy, inattention, and contention. Form us into the likeness of your dear Son, fill us with your Holy Spirit, and use us to draw our families, friends, and communities to the foot of Jesus’ Cross.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on all who doubt your existence or your goodness. Cleanse them from spiritual darkness, intellectual pride, or emotional despair. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and bless them with faith in you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy upon all who are entrusted with power and authority in this sin-shadowed world. Cleanse them from cruelty, lust for power, and deceit. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and use them to bring your blessings of peace, prosperity, and concord to all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Have mercy upon all who protect our health, safety, and freedom. Cleanse them from wrong judgment or base motives. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and use them to do your will in this broken world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on all whose lives are shadowed by any kind of evil. Cleanse them from all that troubles them and prevents them from turning to you, their Strength and their Redeemer. Form them into the likeness of your dear Son, fill them with your Holy Spirit, and restore them to wholeness and hope, in the company of all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy and gracious Father, we commend into your mercy our beloved dead. We who are ashes and dust beseech you to be merciful to us as well. Cleanse us from every sin which separates us from you and from one another. Form us into the likeness of your dear Son, fill us with your Holy Spirit, and use us to help lighten our neighbor’s burdens throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Lead us, with all whom you have redeemed by the Cross and Resurrection of Jesus, into your Kingdom, where, untroubled by sin, evil, or death, we may rejoice in your goodness and gaze upon your glory forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.




Lessons and Suggested Hymns, Ash Wednesday – Holy Trinity, Cycle B February 17 – May 30, 2021

Lessons and Suggested Hymns,

Ash Wednesday – Holy Trinity, Cycle B

February 17 – May 30, 2021

 

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

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)
ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry 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.

 

Color for the day is indicated for each Sunday. 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.

 

 

 

A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for Lent

 

P: 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.

P: Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal,

C: Have mercy and hear us. Though we are poor sinful creatures, have mercy and hear us. Though we have turned from you and grieved you, have mercy and hear us. Though we have hardened our hearts against you and against our sisters and brothers, have mercy and hear us. Though we deserve judgment, wrath, and condemnation, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, have mercy and hear us. Forgive us, heal us, and save us, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

P: God hates nothing that he has made and forgives the sins of all those who are penitent. He shall create in us new and contrite hearts, so that we who worthily lament our sins and acknowledge our wretchedness, may receive from him, the God of all mercy, perfect remission and forgiveness. This he promises through Jesus Christ, his Son, who is our Lord, our Savior, and our righteousness forever. AMEN.

 

A Spoken Gospel Acclamation for Lent:

 

            C: One does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes forth from the mouth of God. Your words, O Lord, are Spirit and life.

 

An Offertory Prayer for Lent

P: Let us pray.

C: What can we render to you, Lord, for all your benefits to us? All we have is yours. Our lives are in your hands. Receive, hallow, and use our time, talents, and treasures, for the love of your Son and the benefit of those he came to save. Amen.

 

A Proper Preface for Lent

 

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. You bid your faithful people cleanse their hearts, and prepare with joy for the Paschal feast; that, fervent in prayer and in works of mercy, and renewed by your Word and Sacraments, they may come to the fullness of grace which you have prepared for those who love you.. 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:

A Eucharistic Prayer for Lent

 

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.”

Sanctify these gifts of bread and wine 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.

 

A Post-Communion Prayer for Lent

 

P: Let us pray. Almighty and ever-living God,

C: You have given your only Son to be for us both a sacrifice for sin and also an example of godly life. Give us grace that we may always most thankfully receive these his inestimable gifts, and also daily endeavor to follow the blessed steps of his most holy life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

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A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for the Easter Season

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.

Lord Jesus, our risen Savior,

We confess to you our sinfulness. We believe anyone and anything but your holy Word. We prefer easy lies to hard truth. We are quick to judge, condemn, and exclude, but slow to forgive. We have lived for this world alone, and doubted our home in heaven. In your mercy, forgive us. In your goodness, resurrect us. Amen.

 

Our Savior Christ comes with healing, forgiveness, and life in his wounded hands. He breathes his Holy Spirit upon us, kindling renewed faith, hope, and love. Receive all he gives with humble joy, and share them with warm generosity, in the Name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.  Amen.

A Gospel Acclamation for the Easter Season

Alleluia. I am the way, the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father, except through me. Alleluia.

An Offertory Prayer for the Easter Season

Let us pray. Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated unto you; and then use us, we pray you, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

A Proper Preface for the Easter Season

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. But chiefly are we bound to praise you for the glorious resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; for he is the true Paschal Lamb, who was sacrificed for us, and has taken away the sin of the world. By his death he has destroyed death, and by his rising to life again he has won for us 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:

A Eucharistic Prayer for the Easter Season

We give thanks to you almighty God, through your beloved son Jesus Christ, whom you sent to us in former times as Savior, Redeemer, and Messenger of your Will. He is your inseparable Word, through whom you made all things, and in whom you were well-pleased. You sent from heaven into the womb of a virgin, who, being conceived within her, was made flesh, and appeared as your Son, born of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary. It is he who, fulfilling your will and acquiring for you a holy people, extended his hands in suffering, in order to liberate from sufferings those who believe in you. Who, when he was delivered to voluntary suffering, in order to dissolve death, and break the chains of the devil, and tread down hell, and bring the just to the light, and set the limit, and manifest the resurrection, taking the bread, and giving thanks to you, said, “Take, eat, for this is my body which is broken for you.” Likewise the chalice, saying, “This is my blood which is shed for you. Whenever you do this, do this in memory of me.”

Therefore, remembering his death and resurrection, we offer to you the bread and the chalice, giving thanks to you, who has made us worthy to stand before you and to serve as your priests. And we pray that you would send your Holy Spirit upon your Holy Church. In their gathering together, give to all those who partake of your holy mysteries the fullness of the Holy Spirit, toward the strengthening of the faith in truth, that we may praise you and glorify you, through your son Jesus Christ, through whom to you be glory and honor, Father and Son, with the Holy Spirit, in your Holy Church, now and throughout the ages of the ages.

Amen. AMEN.

A Post-Communion Prayer for the Easter Season

P: Let us pray. Heavenly Father, C: We thank you for your great gift of love, your Son Jesus Christ. May we who have received his body and blood bear the light of his love into the world, to your glory and for the healing of our world. Amen.

February 17, 2021: Ash Wednesday

 

Joel 2:12-19 (Rend you heart, not your garments)

ELW: Joel 2:12, 12-17, OR Isaiah 58:1-12 (True fasting is doing justice)

 

Psalm 51:1-19 (Create in me a clean heart, O God)

 

2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10 (Ambassadors for Christ; now is the acceptable time

 

Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (Prayer, fasting, alms that are acceptable to God)

 

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Opening Hymn (may be omitted if Psalm 51 is spoken or chanted here):

O Lord, Throughout These Forty Days: LBW #99, ELW #319, LSB #418

 

Hymn of the Day: Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive: LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843

 

OR O Sun of Justice: WOV #659 (2nd verse great if you preach on 2 Corinthians text; tune is simple plainsong chant, or sing this to the Doxology)

 

Communion 1: Restore in Us, O God: ELW #328

           

OR O Christ, Thou Lamb of God: LBW #103

 

Communion 2: Today Your Mercy Calls Us: LBW #304, LSB #915

 

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

 

Closing Hymn: Strengthen for Service, Lord: LBW #218, ELW #497

 

 

 

 

February 21, 2021, 1st Sunday in Lent

 

Genesis 22:1-18 (The near-sacrifice of Isaac)

 

ELW: Genesis 9:8-17 (God’s rainbow covenant with Noah)

 

Psalm 25:1-10 (Be mindful of your mercy; do not remember the sins of my youth)

 

James 1:12-18 (God doesn’t tempt evil deeds; all good gifts come from Father of lights)

           

ELW: 1 Peter 3:18-22 (Christ suffered for all; the Flood points to baptism)

 

Mark 1:9-15 (Temptation in the wilderness)

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Opening hymn: O Lord, Throughout These Forty Days: LSB #99, ELW #319, LSB #418

OR The Glory of These Forty Days: ELW #320

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery, v.1-3; verse for Lent 1; end with “General” verse: ELW #334

Hymn of the Day: Oh Love, How Deep: LBW #88, LSB #544, ELW #322

Communion Hymn #1: I Want Jesus to Walk with Me: WOV #660, ELW #325

 

Communion Hymn #2: Jesus, Still Lead /Lead Thou On: LBW #541, ELW #624, LSB #718

Closing Hymn: A Mighty Fortress: LBW #228/9, ELW #503-505, LSB #656/7

OR The Lamb, the Lamb: LSB #547

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

 

 

 

February 28, 2021: 2nd Sunday in Lent

 

Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16 (God makes everlasting covenant with Abraham and Sarah)

 

Psalm 22:2331 (All nations, those who sleep in the earth shall bow before God

 and praise him)

 

Romans 5:1-11 (Justified, we have peace with God, boast in sufferings. At right

 time, Christ dies for the ungodly)

           

ELW: Romans 4:13-25 (God’s promise to Abraham received by faith)

 

Mark 8:27-38 (Peter’s confession; passion prediction; Christ’s rebuke; take up your

cross and follow me)

ELW: Mark 8:31-38 (only the section on taking up cross and following)

 

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Opening hymn: The God of Abraham Praise:

LBW #544, v. 1-4, 9-11, ELW #831, v. 1-4, 7-8, LSB #798, v. 1-4, 8-9

Hymn of the Day: Lord, Thee I Love with All My Heart:

LBW #325, ELW #750, LSB #708

OR Eternal Lord of Love, Behold Your Church: ELW #321(Good words; tune is the same as for “Turn back, O man, forswear thy foolish ways.”)

Communion Hymn #1: Praise and Thanks and Adoration: LBW #470, ELW #783

Praise to You and Adoration, LSB #692

OR Just A Closer Walk with Thee: ELW #697

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

Closing Hymn: Let Us Ever Walk with Jesus: LBW #487, ELW #802, LSB #685

OR I Am Trusting You, Lord Jesus: LBW #460, LSB #729

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery, v.1-3; verse for Lent 2; end with “General” verse: ELW #334

 

March 7, 2021, 3rd Sunday in Lent

 

Exodus 20:1-17 (God gives Israel the 10 Commandments)

 

Psalm 19 (Heavens tell the glory of God; his law is perfect, reviving the soul)

 

1 Corinthians 1:18-31 (Message of Cross is foolish, weak; but is God’s wisdom, strength)

 

John 2:13-25 (Jesus cleanses the Temple)

 

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

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

OR Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty: LBW #250, ELW #533

Hymn of the Day: God of Grace and God of Glory: LBW #415, ELW #705, LSB #850

OR These Are the Holy Ten Commands:  LSB #581

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery, v.1-3; verse for Lent 3; end with “General” verse: ELW #334

 

Communion Hymn #1: In the Cross of Christ I Glory: LBW #104, ELW #324, LSB #427

Communion Hymn #2: God Himself is Present: LBW #249, LSB #907

Closing Hymn: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross: LBW #482, ELW #803, LSB #425, 426

 

 

 

 

 

March 14, 2021, 4th Sunday in Lent

 

Numbers 21:4-9 (The bronze serpent; look upon it and live)

 

Psalm 107:1-9 (Wanderers in desert wastes cry to the Lord; he delivers them

from their trouble)

 

Ephesians 2:1-10 (Dead in sin, now made alive in Christ by the grace of God)

 

John 3:14-21 (As Moses lifted up the serpent, so Son of Man is lifted up)

 

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

Opening hymn: What Wondrous Love is This: LBW #385, ELW #666, LSB #543

Hymn of the Day: God Loved the World, So That He Gave (if tune is unfamiliar, you can

substitute the melody of “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come” or as ELW pairs it, to

“When I Survey the Wondrous Cross)

LBW #292, ELW #323, LSB #571

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

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

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery, v.1-3; verse for Lent 4; end with “General” verse: ELW #334

Closing Hymn: Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer: LBW #343, ELW #618

Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer: LSB #918

 

 

 

 

March 21, 2021, 5th Sunday in Lent

 

Jeremiah 31:31-34 (God promises to put his law in his peoples’ hearts)

 

Psalm 119:9-16 (I will delight in your statutes and meditate on your Word)

           

ELW: Psalm 11:9-16 or Psalm 51:1-12, (Have mercy on me; create in me

a clean heart)

 

Hebrews 5:1-10 (Jesus, as High Priest knows our weakness; he learned obedience

 through suffering and became the salvation of all who obey him)

 

Mark 10:32-45 (Passion prediction; “can you drink from my cup?”; those who wish

 to be greatest must become least; Son of man came not to be served but to

 serve, give his life as ransom for many)

                       

ELW: John 12:20-33 (We wish to see Jesus; My hour has come; when

I am lifted up I will draw all people to myself)

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

Opening hymn: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less:

LBW #293/4, ELW #596/597, LSB #575/576

Hymn of the Day: “Come, Follow Me,” the Savior Spake: LBW#455, ELW #799, LSB #688

OR Since Our Great High Priest, Christ Jesus: LSB #529

OR (if following ELW) Lift High the Cross: LBW #377; ELW #660, LSB #837

Communion Hymn #1: On My Heart Imprint Your Image LBW #102, LSB #422, ELW #811

Communion Hymn #2: Glory Be to Jesus: LBW #95, LSB #433

Closing Hymn: Lord, Help Us Walk Your Servant Way: LSB #857 (nice Herm Stuempfle hymn!)

OR O God, My Faithful God: LBW #504, ELW #806, LSB #696

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery, v.1-3; verse for Lent 5; end with “General” verse: ELW #334

March 28, 2021, Palm/Passion Sunday

 

 

Processional Gospel: John 12:12-19 (Entry into Jerusalem)

           

ELW: John 12:12-16 or Mark 11:1-11)

 

Zechariah 9:9-12 {Behold your lowly King!)

           

ELW: Isaiah 50:4-9a (Suffering Servant’s humiliation and vindication)

 

Psalm 31:9-16 (I hear the whispering of many as they plot to take my life.

14But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.”)

 

Philippians 2:5-11(Christ has humbled himself and become obedient unto death

 

Mark 14:26-15-47 {Passion narrative)

 

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

Processional hymn: All Glory, Laud and Honor: LBW #108, ELW #344, LSB #442

OR Prepare the Royal Highway: LBW #26, ELW #264, LSB #343

Hymn of the Day: Come, O Precious Ransom (This is really a great hymn for today. If tune is unfamiliar, it can be sung to the melody of “Holy God, We Praise Your Name”!) LBW #24

Come, Thou Precious Ransom, Come: LSB #350 

OR Alas, and Did My Savior Bleed: LBW #98, ELW #337, LSB #437

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross: ELW #335

OR Cross of Jesus, Cross of Sorrow: LSB #428

Communion Hymn #2: Beneath the Cross of Jesus: LBW #104, ELW #338

Closing Hymn: Ride on, Ride on In Majesty: LBW #121, ELW #346; LSB #441, different tune

OR O Sacred Head, Now Wounded: LBW #116/117, ELW #351/352, LSB #449/450

 

Thursday, April 1, 2021: Maundy Thursday

 

For foot-washing: John 13:1-7, 31b-35

 

Exodus 24:3-11 (Moses reads aloud the covenant; the people promise to abide by it; the

70 elders eat in the presence of God)

           

ELW: Exodus 12:1-14 (First Passover instituted)

 

Psalm 116:12-19 (What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits to me?

Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his servants)

 

1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (This bread is the body of Christ; we are all one body)

           

ELW: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (Institution of the Lord’s Supper)

 

Mark 14:12-26 (The Last Supper)

 

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

Opening hymn: Thee We Adore, O Hidden Savior, Thee: LBW #199, LSB #640

Thee We Adore, O Savior, God Most True: ELW #476 

Foot-Washing Hymn: Where Charity and Love Prevail: LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845

OR Love Consecrates the Humblest Acts: LBW #122, ELW #360

OR Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love: WOV #765, ELW #708

Hymn of the Day: Victim Divine, Your Grace We Claim: LBW #202

OR By Your Hand You Feed Your People: ELW #469

Communion Hymn #1: For the Bread Which You Have Broken:  LBW #200, ELW #494

Communion Hymn #2: O Bread of Life from Heaven: LBW #222, ELW #480

Closing Hymn: If it’s not a chanted version of Psalm 22, try It Happened on That Fateful Night: LBW #122 (if tune is unfamiliar, use the melody for “Lord, Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word”)

OR Go to Dark Gethsemane LBW #109, ELW #437, LSB #436

Friday, April 2, 2021: Good Friday

 

Isaiah 52:13-53:12 (Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows….)

 

Psalm 22 or Psalm 31 (Psalms of the Passion)

 

Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9 (Again, Jesus our gentle and obedient High Priest;

he offered up loud cries and tears to the One who could save him from death)

           

ELW: Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9, OR Hebrews 10:16-25 (God remembers sin no

more; let us approach with bodies and hearts sprinkled clean)

 

John 18:1-19:42(The Passion According to St. John)

 

 

Since many people use very different services, I’m just offering hymn possibilities:

O Sacred Head LBW #116/117: ELW #351/352, LSB #449/450

Ah, Holy Jesus! How Hast Thou Offended: LBW #123, ELW #349

The 15-verse alternative translation is O Dearest Jesus, What Law Hast Thou Broken, LSB #439.

I commend it to you, especially if you use selected verses between sections of the passion reading

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross: LBW #482, ELW #803, LSB #425/426

Sing, My Tongue, the Glorious Battle: LBW #118, ELW #355/356 LSB #454;

There in God’s Garden: WOV #668, ELW #342

The Tree of Life: LSB #561

Jesus, Your/Thy Blood and Righteousness: LBW #302, LSB #563

They Crucified My Lord: ELW #350

 

 

 

 

April 3, 2021: The Vigil of Easter

 

For the Service of the Word portion: The great acts of salvation, as taken shamelessly from the ELW periscope If fewer than 12 readings (snort) are used,

make sure to use the ones marked with an asterisk

 

*Genesis 1:1-2:4a: Creation

           

Response: Psalm 136:1-9, 23-26

           

OR How Marvelous God’s Greatness LBW #515, ELW #830 (Easy Swedish tune)

 

 

Genesis 7:1-5, 11-18; 8:6-18; 9:8-13: The Great Flood

           

Response: Psalm 46

 

OR Thy Holy Wings WOV #741, ELW #613

 

 

Genesis 22:1-18: God tests Abraham, commanding him to sacrifice his son

           

Response: Psalm 16

           

OR God Loved the World (So That He Gave) (Even I don’t know the tune in LBW,

so use the tune suggested in ELW, used often for “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”)

            LBW #292, ELW #323, LSB #571

 

 

*Exodus 14:10-31; 15:20-21: Deliverance of Israel at the Red Sea

           

Response: Exodus 15:1b-13, 17-18

           

OR Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer LBW #343, ELW #618, LSB #918

           

OR The God of Abraham Praise, v. 1, 3, 5 LBW #544, ELW #831, LSB #798

 

 

*Isaiah 55:1-11: Salvation freely offered to all

           

Response: Isaiah 12:2-6

           

OR I’ve Just Come From the Fountain WOV #696

 

 

Proverbs 8:1-8, 19-21; 9:4b-6: The wisdom of God

           

Response: Psalm 19

 

OR Let All Things Now Living LBW #557, ELW #881

 

 

Ezekiel 36:24-28: God promises to give a new heart and spirit to his people

           

Response: Psalms 42 and 43 (combine them)

           

OR As Pants the Hart for Cooling Streams LBW #452

           

OR As the Deer Runs to the River ELW #331

 

 

Ezekiel 37:1-14: The valley of the dry bones

           

Response: Psalm 143

           

OR O Happy Day When We Shall Stand LBW #351, ELW #441

 

 

Zephaniah 3:14-20: The gathering of God’s people

           

Response: Psalm 98

           

OR Joy to the World (hey why not?!) LBW #39, ELW #267, LSB #387

 

 

Jonah 1:1-2:1: Jonah’s faithlessness and deliverance

           

Response: Jonah 2:2-9

           

OR Great is Thy Faithfulness WOV #771, ELW #733, LSB #809

 

 

Isaiah 61:1-4, 9-11: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me” to proclaim good news to

all who suffer; God clothes his servant in the garments of salvation

           

Response: Deuteronomy 32:1-4, 7, 36a, 43a

           

OR In Thee Is Gladness LBW #552, ELW #867, LSB #818

 

 

*Daniel 3:1-29: Shadrach, Meshach, and a Bean to Go (www.abeantogo.com. Great coffee.

Motto: “Master Roasted Never Burnt”!)  are delivered from the fiery furnace

 

Response: Song of the Three (LBW Canticle #18)

 

OR All Creatures of Our God and King LBW #527, ELW #835 (de-gendered, de-kinged –

it’s All Creatures of Our God Most High)

 

 

During the order for Holy Baptism or Affirmation of Baptism

 

The Litany of the Saints (ELW Service Music, #237) may be sung

 

The Service of Holy Communion

 

Romans 6:3-11: We are baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ:

dead now to sin, alive in Christ!

 

John 20:1-18: John and Peter race to the tomb; Mary Magdalene meets the risen Jesus

 

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

 

Hymn of the Day: We Know That Christ is Raised and Dies No More

            LBW #189, ELW #449, LSB #603

 

Hymn During Communion: I Know That My Redeemer Lives

            LBW #352, ELW #619, LSB #461

 

Closing Hymn: This Joyful Eastertide WOV #676, ELW #391, LSB #482

April 4, 2021, Easter Sunday, The Resurrection of Our Lord

 

Easter Sunrise:

 

Exodus 15:1-11(Sing to the Lord, for he has triumphed gloriously)

 

Psalm 118:15-29 (I shall not die but live, and declare the works of the Lord)

 

1 Corinthians 5:6b-8 (Christ our Passover has been sacrificed for us)

 

John 20:1-18 (John and Peter at tomb; Mary Magdalene meets risen Jesus)

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

Opening hymn: Christ the Lord is Risen Today (this is the one that DOESN’T have the alleluias at

the end of each line!): LBW #130, ELW #373, LSB #469

Hymn of the Day: This Joyful Eastertide:

LBW #149 (has only 1 verse), WOV #676, ELW #391, LSB #482

Communion Hymn #1: Let Us Break Bread Together: LBW #212

Communion Hymn #2: Now the Green Blade Rises: LBW #148

Closing Hymn: The Day of Resurrection: LBW #141, ELW #361, LSB #478

(I’d suggest singing the LBW version to the tune for Lead On, O King Eternal, which LSB uses)

OR Come, You Faithful, Raise the Strain: LBW #132, ELW #363, LSB #487

 

 

 

 

Easter Day, Main Services

 

Isaiah 25:6-9 (A feast of fat things; God will swallow up death forever)

           

ELW: Isaiah 25:6-9 OR Acts 10:34-43 (Peter preaches Gospel to Gentiles)

 

Psalm 16 (My heart is glad; my body rests secure;10 you do not let your faithful one

see the Pit.)

            ELW: Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 (This is the gate of the Lord; the rejected stone

now head of the corner)

 

1 Corinthians 15:1-11 (Christ died for our sins, was buried, rose in accordance with

Scripture; and appeared to many, including Paul)

           

ELW: I Corinthians 15:1-11 OR Acts 10:34-43, as above)

 

Mark 16:1-8 (Angel announces Resurrection to the women)   

           

ELW: Mark 16:1-8 OR John 20:1-18 (Foot race to tomb; Magdalene and Jesus)

 

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

Opening hymn: Jesus Christ is Risen Today: LBW #151, ELW #365, LSB #457

Hymn of the Day: Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands:

LBW #134, ELW #370, LSB #458

OR (if using ELW Gospel): O Sons and Daughters, Let Us Sing (version 2): ELW #387

OR (if preaching on 1 Corinthians) Christ is Risen, Christ is Living: LSB #479

Communion Hymn #1: I Know That My Redeemer Lives: LBW #352, ELW #619, LSB #461

Communion Hymn #2: At the Lamb’s High Feast LBW #210, ELW #362, LSB #633

 

Closing Hymn: Thine is the Glory LBW #145, ELW #376

 

 

 

April 11,2021, 2nd Sunday of Easter

 

Acts 4:32-35 (The believers share their possessions)

 

Psalm 148 (Praise for God’s universal glory)

           

ELW: Psalm 133 (The blessedness of unity)

 

1 John 1:1-2:2 (We declare what we have seen, heard, touched; Christ is our advocate

when we confess our sins)

 

John 20:19-31 (Jesus appears to disciples – and Thomas)

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

Opening hymn: This Joyful Eastertide:

LBW #149 (has only 1 verse), WOV #676, ELW #391, LSB #482

Hymn of the Day: O Sons and Daughters of the King: LBW #139, LSB #470/471

O Sons and Daughters, Let Us Sing, ELW #386, version 1

OR We Walk By Faith and Not By Sight: WOV #675, ELW #635, LSB #720

OR Three Things Did Thomas Count as Real: LSB #472

OR The Risen Christ: ELW #390

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

Communion Hymn #2: Alleluia! Jesus is Risen!: WOV #674, ELW #377, LSB #474

OR Good Christian Friends, Rejoice and Sing!: LBW #144, ELW #385, LSB #475

Closing Hymn: In Thee Is Gladness: LBW #552, ELW #867, LSB #818

 

 

 

April 18, 2021, 3rd Sunday of Easter

 

Acts 3:11-21 (Peter preaches: “you acted in ignorance; repent, believe in Jesus,

be forgiven”)

            ELW: Acts 3:12-19)

 

Psalm 4 (The Lord has set apart the faithful for himself; in him, we may lie down

in safety)

 

1 John 3:1-7 (We are God’s children now; we shall be like Jesus, for we will see

 him face to face)

 

Luke 24:36-49 (Risen Jesus appears to disciples; opens their minds to

understand Scriptures)

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

Opening hymn: Christ the Lord is Risen Today; Alleluia!: LBW #128, ELW #369, LSB #463

 

Hymn of the Day: Christ is Risen! Alleluia!: LBW #131, ELW #382

Communion Hymn #1: Children of the Heavenly Father: LBW #474, ELW #781, LSB #725

Communion Hymn #2:  I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light:

WOV #649, ELW #815, LSB #411

Closing Hymn: The Day of Resurrection!: LBW #141, ELW #361, LSB #478

(NOTE: The LBW version of this hymn has a dorky tune. It works MUCH better to tune

“Lancashire,” (Lead On O King Eternal) – used for this in LSB, or “Ellacombe,” (O Day of

Rest and  Gladness), the tune used in ELW)

 

 

 

April 25, 2021, 4th Sunday of Easter (Good Shepherd Sunday)

 

Acts 4:1-12 (Upon healing the lame man, Peter says: “there is no other name under

heaven given among mortals by which we must be saved.”)

           

ELW: Acts 4:5-12

 

Psalm 23 (The Lord is my Shepherd)

 

1 John 3:16-24 (Believe in the name of Jesus, and love one another)

 

John 10:11-18 (The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. There will be one

 flock, one shepherd)

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

Opening hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name:  LBW #328/329, ELW #634, LSB #549

Hymn of the Day: The King of Love My Shepherd Is: LBW #456, ELW #502, LSB #709

OR, With God as Our Friend: LBW #371 (I have a soft spot in my heart for this hymn, as a friend composed an anthem version for my installation at my first congregation after I was ordained. It’s a gently rhythmic Swedish folk tune.)

Communion Hymn #1: Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us:  LBW #481, ELW #789, LSB #711

(Note: LSB and ELW both use the tune most people remember for this hymn)

Communion Hymn #2: The Lord’s My Shepherd; I’ll Not Want:

LBW #451, ELW #778, LSB #710

Closing Hymn: O/Oh For a Thousand Tongues to Sing: LBW #559, ELW #886, LSB #528

 

 

 

 

May 2, 2021, 5th Sunday of Easter

 

Acts 8:26-40 (Philip explains Suffering Servant to Ethiopian eunuch)

 

Psalm 150 (Let everything praise the Lord!)

           

ELW: Psalm 22:25-31 (Everyone shall bow down and worship!)

 

1 John 4:1-21 (Test spirits to see if they are from God. Love one another,

for love is of God)

 

            ELW: 1 John 4:7-21 (no testing of spirits!)

 

John 15:1-8 (I am the vine; you are the branches; my Father prunes you

so you bear much fruit)

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

Opening hymn: Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven:

LBW #549, ELW #865 (note: 864 is the gender-neutral version), LSB #793

OR We Know That Christ is Raised and Dies No More:

LBW #189, ELW #449, LSB #603

Hymn of the Day: Alleluia! Jesus is Risen: WOV #674, ELW #377, LSB #474

OR Fruitful Trees, the Spirit’s Sowing: LSB #691

OR (especially if there’s a baptism) All Who Believe and Are Baptized:

LBW ##194, ELW #442, LSB #601

Communion Hymn #1: Let All Things Now Living: LBW #557, ELW #881

Communion Hymn #2: Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee: LBW #551, ELW #836, LSB #803

Closing Hymn: Oh, That I Had A Thousand Voices: LBW #560, ELW #833

 

 

 

 

May 9, 2021, 6th Sunday of Easter; Mothers’ Day

 

Acts 10:34-48 (Peter preaches to Gentiles, who receive Holy Spirit and are baptized)

           

ELW: Acts 10:44-48 (having preached to them a couple of weeks ago 😉,

now Peter baptizes Gentiles)

 

Psalm 98 (Let all creation praise the Lord, the Judge of the world!)

 

1 John 5:1-8 (We know we love God’s children when we love him,

obey his commandments and believe Jesus is his Son.)

           

ELW: 1 John 5:1-6 (stops short of obeying his commandments…)

 

John 15:9-17 (Love one another as I have loved you. You didn’t choose me –

I chose you to bear much fruit)

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

Opening hymn: All People That on Earth Do Dwell: LBW #245, ELW #883, LSB #791

OR This is the Spirit’s Entry Now: LBW #195, ELW #448, LSB #591

Hymn of the Day: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

OR Eternal Ruler of the Ceaseless Round: LBW #373 (trust me on this.

The words are gorgeous and fit the Epistle and Gospel)

Communion Hymn #1: In Christ There Is No East or West:

LBW #359, ELW #650, LSB #653

Communion Hymn #2: O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts: LBW #356, ELW #658

 

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

 

 

 

 

May 16, 2021, 7th Sunday of Easter, or Ascension (Transferred)

 

7th Sunday of Easter

 

Acts 1:12-26 (Matthias chosen to replace Judas)

           

ELW: Acts 1:15-17, 21-26 (no references to Judas)

 

Psalm 1 (Blessed is the one whose delight is in the law of the Lord!)

 

1 John 5:9-15 (11And this is God’s testimony: God gave us eternal life, and this life

is in his Son. 12Whoever has the Son has life; if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.)

           

ELW: 1 John 5:9-13 (nothing about praying according to his will)

 

John 17:11b-19 (Jesus prays that his Father would protect and sanctify all who

 believe in him)

           

ELW: John 17:6-19 (adds “They have known everything I have from you”)

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

Opening hymn: By All Your Saints in Warfare:

LBW #177, v. 1, 12, 3; ELW #420, v. 1, 12, “last”; LSB #517, v. 1, 13, 3

OR Blessing and Honor: LBW #525, ELW #854

Hymn of the Day: Up Through Endless Ranks of Angels: LBW #159, LSB #491

(Note: If tune isn’t familiar, use melody for Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence, “Picardy”)

OR Alleluia! Sing to Jesus: LBW #158, ELW #392, LSB #821

Communion Hymn #1: O Christ, Our Hope, Our Heart’s Desire: LBW #300, LSB #553

Communion Hymn #2: Beautiful Savior: LBW #518, ELW #838, LSB #537

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

 

 

Ascension (Transferred)

 

Acts 1:1-11(Promise of Holy Spirit and ascension of Jesus)

 

Psalm 47 (God has gone up with a shout! He rules over the nations)

 

Ephesians 1:15-23 (Paul’s prayer for eternal inheritance in Christ, whom God has

 raised, given all power and authority, and made him head over all things

 for the Church, his body)

 

Luke 24:44-53 (Jesus reminds followers of Scriptures; blesses them and ascends)

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

Opening hymn: Look, The Sight is Glorious:  LBW #156

Look, Ye Saints, the Sight is Glorious: LSB #495

OR Alleluia! Sing to Jesus: LBW #158, ELW #392, LSB #821

Hymn of the Day: Up Through Endless Ranks of Angels: LBW #159, LSB #491

If tune isn’t familiar, use melody for Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence, LBW #198)

OR Blessing, Honor, Glory to the Lamb: ELW #433

Communion Hymn #1: Beautiful Savior: LBW #518, ELW #838, LSB #537

Communion Hymn #2: Blessing and Honor: LBW #525, ELW #854

Closing Hymn: At the Name of Jesus: LBW #179, ELW #416, LSB #512

OR Thine the Amen, Thine the Praise: WOV #801, ELW #826, (LSB #680

 

 

 

 

May 23, 2021, Day of Pentecost

 

Ezekiel 37:1-14 (Mortal, can these bones live?!)

           

ELW: Ezekiel 37:1-14 OR Acts 2:1-21 Spirit descends; disciples proclaim;

“All who call on Name of Lord shall be saved!”)

 

Psalm 139:1-16 (You search and know us; none can escape from your Spirit)

           

ELW: Psalm 104:24-34, 35b (God’s manifold works; he gives food in due

 season; bless his name. Oh, v. 35a is omitted, the bit about the wicked

            being no more…)

 

Acts 2:1-21(The Spirit descends upon the followers of Jesus; “All who call on the

 Name of the Lord shall be saved!)

           

ELW: Romans 8:22-27 (Creation groans, waiting for our redemption; Spirit

 intercedes in sighs too deep for words)

 

John 15:26-27; 16:4b-15 (The Advocate Spirit will testify; prove the world wrong;

guide you in all truth; glorify me by taking what is mine and giving it to you)

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

Opening hymn: Come Holy Ghost, Our Souls Inspire: LBW #472/473

Come Holy Ghost, Creator Blest: LSB #498/499

Creator Spirit Heavenly Dove: ELW #577/578 (nice variant; has all 7 verses)

Hymn of the Day: Gracious Spirit, Hear Our Pleading: WOV #687, ELW #401

OR Come, O Come, O Quickening Spirit: LBW #478

OR Come, Holy Ghost, God and Lord: LBW #163, ELW #395, LSB #497

 

Communion Hymn #1: O Spirit of Life: WOV #680, ELW #405

Communion Hymn #2: Come Gracious Spirit, Heavenly Dove: LBW #475, ELW #404

Closing Hymn: Holy Spirit, Ever Dwelling: LBW #523, ELW #582, LSB #650

May 30, 2021, The Holy Trinity

 

Isaiah 6:1-8 (“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts!”)

 

Psalm 29 (The voice of the Lord is a powerful voice; in his temple, all cry, “Glory!”)

 

Acts 2:14a,22-36 (“This Jesus, God raised up… 33having received from the Father the

promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this, that you both see and hear”)

           

ELW: Romans 8:12-17 (We have received the Spirit of adoption, cry out

“Abba, Father”)

 

John 3:1-17 (Jesus and Nicodemus; the Spirit blows where it wills;

 God gave his only-begotten Son….)

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

Opening hymn: O Worship the King: LBW #548, ELW #842, LSB #804

Hymn of the Day: All Glory Be to God on High: LBW #166, ELW #410, LSB #947

OR my versification of the Nicene Creed, sung to “The Strife is O’er”

 

Credo, credo, credo in_ unum Deum!

Almighty Father, Creator blest, worlds sprang to life at his behest;

Seen and unseen, his name they confessed: Credo, credo!

Lord Jesus Christ, his only Son, in truth and substance, they are one;

Pure Light from Light, in him life’s begun: Credo, credo!

For us poor sinners, mortal and weak, he came from heav’n, the lost to seek,

God’s Word made flesh, salvation to speak. Credo, credo!

Born of the virgin, Mary most pure, and of the Spirit, to be sin’s cure,

Christ became man; let praises endure! Credo, credo!

For us, ‘neath Pilate’s judgment he died; for us, our Lord was crucified,

For us, he rose again, glorified: Credo, credo!

Ascended to the Father’s throne, he shall return, to judge everyone,

And rule fore’er, as God and Lord: Credo, credo!

Most Holy Spirit, life-giving Lord, one with the Father and Son, adored,

Inspiring prophets’ holy word. Credo, credo!

Making one holy Church in the world, one with apostles, martyrs and Lord,

One through baptism with water and Word. Credo, credo!

From sin forgiven, we are made free, Christ’s life from death our future shall be,

Forever praising the Trinity: Credo, credo!

(final refrain: as in opening)

Credo, credo, credo in_ unum Deum!

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

Communion Hymn #2: Holy, Holy, Holy: LBW #165, ELW #473, (LSB #507

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

 

 

 

Hymn Paraphrases of Liturgy, for Lent and Easter Seasons

 

LENT

Kyrie

Meter: Common Meter Doubled (CMD, 8 6 8 6 8 6 8 6)

Tune: “My Shepherd Will Supply My Need”, sung antiphonally

 

A: In heav’nly peace, we pray to Thee. C: Have mercy, Lord, on us.

A: For peace, salvation, unity, C: Have mercy, Christ, on us.

A: For world, for Church, for this dear place, C: Have mercy, Lord on us.

A: Grant comfort, help, defense and grace. C: Amen, Lord Christ, amen.

 

 

Lenten hymn (Yes, I know.)

 

Meter: 88 88 88

Tune: St. Catherine, “Faith of Our Fathers.”

Use refrain as opening line by cantor.

 

A: Glory we give you, God of Grace! In Jesus’ Cross, you grant us peace.

C: Father almighty, great God and King,

Glorious, gracious, merciful, true,

Our praise and worship and blessing we bring;

Receive it, Lord, as homage due.

Glory we give you, God of grace! In Jesus’ Cross, you grant us peace.

Lord Jesus Christ, your Father’s true Son,

Sin-bearing Lamb, the world’s one true Light,

Grant life and mercy from your heav’nly throne.

Our praise make perfect in your sight.

Glory we give you, God of Grace! In Jesus’ Cross, you grant us peace.

Most Holy Spirit, great God and Lord,

You give us grace to bless and adore

One with the Father and with the Word,

To you be glory forevermore!

Glory we give you, God of Grace! In Jesus’ Cross, you grant us peace.

 

Nicene Creed

 

Meter 10 10 10 10 10

Tune: Old 124th, “Your Kingdom Come; O Father, Hear Our Prayer”

 

Thrice Holy, mighty and immortal Lord,

Three-personed God, confessed, praised, and adored.

Father, you spoke: by your might and your grace,

All things, all creatures, all time, and all space,

Burst into being, and were giv’n their place.

Lord Jesus Christ, the Father’s well-loved Son,

Only-begotten, with him you are one.

True God from God, true light from endless light,

Worlds sprang from you, O Word who spoke them right.

In you we live and move and take delight.

For us, to save and to redeem your bride,

Spirit- and Virgin-born, come to our side.

Flesh of our flesh, who under Pilate died:

Risen, ascended to your Father’s side,

Returning as Judge and King, glorified.

Life-giving Spirit, come from Fath’r through Son,

Holy and glorious, with them you are one.

Advocate, Comforter, Guide, God’s own Breath,

You spoke through prophets; you bring life from death.

You form the worldwide Church in all its breadth!

Built on the Rock, that Church confesses faith

Professed by martyr, apostle, and saint.

One in our baptism, bride of our Lord,

Heirs of his Kingdom, forgiven, restored,

By us fore’er will God’s name be adored!

 

 

 

 

 

Lamb of God

Meter: SM, 6 6 8 6

Tune: Southwell, “Lord Jesus, Think on Me”

Christ Jesus, God’s own Lamb,

True man, yet great I AM,

Our sins you take, slain for our sake.

Have mercy, Lord, on us.

Christ Jesus, Lamb and Lord

By heav’n and earth adored,

This sad world’s sin you bear within;

Have mercy, Christ, on us.

O Christ, thou Lamb of God,

You die beneath sin’s rod,

And rise with life to heal our strife.

To us, O Lord, grant peace.

 

Sanctus

 

Meter: 12 9 12 12 9

Tune: Wondrous Love, “What Wondrous Love is This, O My Soul”

 

Holy, most holy God, holy Lord God of hosts,

Your glory fills all heaven and earth.

“Hosanna!” angels cry; “hosanna!” we reply;

“Hosanna, God most high, Lord of love, high above;

Hosanna, mighty Lord, God of love.”

Blest be the One who bears God’s blest name unto us,

Blest be the holy name of our Lord.

Let Jesus’ name be blest, by all the world confessed;

Our highest and our best praises ring, anthems sing:

“Hosanna, Christ our Lord, God and King!”

 

 

Nunc Dimittus

 

Meter: LM, 8 8 8 8

 

Tune: Walton, “O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts”

Or Distress, “We Place Upon You Table, Lord”

Or Rockingham Old, “When I Survey the Wondrous Cross”

 

Lord, let your servant go in peace, your faithful Word you have fulfilled.

This Word made flesh I now embrace: the sure salvation you have willed!

With my own eyes I see the lamp of glory giv’n to Israel,

The light for nations lost; the peace that makes your wounded people well.

Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son,

Your light no darkness overtakes, while endless ages ever run!

 

EASTER

Kyrie

 

Meter: 7 7 7 7 and Alleluias

Tune: Llanfair, “Christ the Lord is Ris’n today! Alleluia!”

 

A: In Thy peace, we pray to Thee. C: Lord, have mercy on us.

A: For our life and unity, C: Christ, have mercy on us.

A: For the world, for this dear place, C: Lord, have mercy on us.

A: For Thy all-sufficient grace, C: Lord, have mercy. Amen.

Hymn of Praise

Meter: Peculiar

Tune: In Dir Ist Freude, “In Thee is Gladness”

 

This feast of gladness triumphs o’er sadness; Jesus, Lord, the victor now.

The Lamb, once slain now lives again! Every knee to him shall bow.

Joy in full flower! Blessing and power, honor and praises all heaven raises,

And earth shall echo: Alleluia!

Sing of his glory, for Christ is worthy of adoration; and our salvation

In love he wins for us. Alleluia!

Nicene Creed

 

Meter: 10 10 10 10 10

Tune: American Hymn, “Blessing Honor and Glory and Power”

 

Thrice Holy, mighty and immortal Lord,

God in three persons, confessed and adored.

Father, you spoke: by your might and your grace,

All things, all creatures, all time, and all space,

Burst into being, and were giv’n their right place.

Lord Jesus Christ, God the Father’s dear Son,

Only-begotten, with him you are one.

True God from God, endless light from true light,

Worlds sprang from you, O Word who spoke them aright.

In you we live and move and take our delight.

For us, to save and to redeem us, your bride,

Spirit- and Virgin-born, come to our side.

Flesh of our flesh, under Pilate you died:

Risen, ascended to your Father’s right side,

You shall return as Judge and King, glorified.

Life-giving Spirit, come from Father through Son,

Holy and glorious, with them you are one.

Advocate, Comforter, Guide, God’s own Breath,

You spoke through prophets; you bring life out of death.

You form the Church throughout the world in it breadth!

Built on the Rock, that Church confesses the faith

Professed by martyr, apostle, and saint.

One in our baptism, bride of our Lord,

Heirs of his Kingdom, forgiven, restored,

By us forever will God’s name be adored!

OR

 

Meter: 8 8 8, with Alleluias

Tune: Victory, “The Strife is O’er”

 

Refrain, before first and after last verse; note, “in” is sung on two notes):

 Credo, credo, credo in_ unum Deum!

Almighty Father, Creator blest, worlds sprang to life at his behest;

Seen and unseen, his name they confessed: Credo, credo!

Lord Jesus Christ, his only Son, in truth and substance, they are one;

Pure Light from Light, in him life’s begun: Credo, credo!

For us poor sinners, mortal and weak, he came from heav’n, the lost to seek,

God’s Word made flesh, salvation to speak. Credo, credo!

Born of the virgin, Mary most pure, and of the Spirit, to be sin’s cure,

Christ became man; let praises endure! Credo, credo!

For us, ‘neath Pilate’s judgment he died; for us, our Lord was crucified,

For us, he rose again, glorified: Credo, credo!

Ascended to the Father’s throne, he shall return, to judge everyone,

And rule fore’er, as God and Lord: Credo, credo!

Most Holy Spirit, life-giving Lord, one with the Father and Son, adored,

Inspiring prophets’ holy word. Credo, credo!

Making one holy Church in the world, one with apostles, martyrs and Lord,

One through baptism with water and Word. Credo, credo!

From sin forgiven, we are made free, Christ’s life from death our future shall be,

Forever praising the Trinity: Credo, credo!

(final refrain: as in opening)

Credo, credo, credo in_ unum Deum!

 

 

 

Lamb of God

 

Meter: CM, 8 6 8 6

Tune: Dundee, “My God, How Wonderful Thou Art”

OR Winchester Old, “When All Your Mercies, O My God”

Lord Jesus Christ, God’s blessed Lamb,

True man, yet great I AM.

Our sins you take, slain for our sake.

Have mercy, Lord on us.

O risen Christ, our Lamb and Lord,

By heav’n and earth adored,

Victorious over sin and death,

Have mercy, Christ, on us.

O Christ, our Lamb and Priest and King,

Forgiveness to us bring.

Let hatred cease, let love increase;

Grant mercy, Lord, and peace.

Sanctus

 

Meter: 11 10 10 11

Tune: Noel Nouvelet, “Now the Green Blade Rises”

 

Holy, holy, holy, God of power and might,

Heav’n and earth are glorious with your splendid light.

“Hosanna!” angels cry; “hosanna!” we reply;

All creation sings hosanna in the heights!

Blessed is our Savior, bearing God’s own Name,

Coming to redeem us from our guilt and shame.

Glad, now we stand and see him face to face,

Shouting our hosannas, saved by his dear grace!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nunc Dimittus

 

Meter: LM, 8 8 8 8

Tune: Old Hundredth, “Praise God, From Whom All Blessings Flow”

Or Mendon, “Thee We Adore, Eternal Lord!”

 

Lord, let your servant go in peace, your faithful Word you have fulfilled.

This Word made flesh I now embrace: the sure salvation you have willed!

With my own eyes I see the lamp of glory giv’n to Israel,

The light for nations lost; the peace that makes your wounded people well.

Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son,

Your light no darkness overtakes, while endless ages ever run!

OR

 

Meter: LMD, Long Meter Doubled, 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8

Tune: He Leadeth Me, “He Leadeth Me, O Blessed Thought”

Note: this is identical to the one above, except it uses the last verse as a refrain.

 

Lord, let your servant go in peace, your faithful Word you have fulfilled.

This Word made flesh I now embrace: the sure salvation you have willed!

Refrain: Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son,

Your light no darkness overtakes, while endless ages ever run!

 

With my own eyes I see the lamp of glory giv’n to Israel,

The light for nations lost; the peace that makes your wounded people well.

Refrain: Glory and praise, blest Trinity, dear Father, Holy Spirit, Son,

Your light no darkness overtakes, while endless ages ever run!

 

 

 

 




Prayers of the Church, The Transfiguration of Our Lord, Cycle B (February 14, 2021)

The Transfiguration of Our Lord, Cycle B (February 14, 2021)

 

2 Kings 2:1-12 (Elisha sees Elijah being taken up into heaven in fiery chariot)

 Psalm 50:1-6 (Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God shines forth)

2 Corinthians 4:3-6 (God has shone in our hearts to give the light of knowledge of

his glory, shown in the face of Christ)

 Mark 9:2-9 (The transfiguration of Christ)

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

With gratitude for the gift of Christ, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.

A brief silence

 

Most holy Father, thank you for showing us Jesus “unmasked!” Thank you for showing us what we will look like when we truly see him as he is. Even now, “unmask” us enough that other people see Jesus’ forgiveness and love for them, shining through us.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Let your Son rule gloriously in the Church throughout the world. Through its words and deeds, shed the light of Jesus’ forgiveness and mercy on all who need them. Make the Church your new Zion, so that many are drawn to the perfection of Christ’s beauty, and are saved.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Shed the light of Jesus’ love on Christians who suffer at the hands of others for his sake. Let that holy love touch, purify and transform them and even those who hate them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give grace to this congregation. Let all who gather here in Jesus’ name day by day see him more clearly, love him more dearly, and follow him more nearly.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We ask a special blessing on little children – not only those dear to us, but each of them throughout the world.  Shelter them from every evil. Shine the light of your love upon them. Give them the grace to hear Jesus’ voice in our words, and to see his dear face in our deeds.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Moses the Lawgiver and Elijah the Prophet bore witness to your Son, the King of the nations. Grant their wisdom and righteousness to the leaders of the world. Through their decisions and actions, let them bear witness to their coming King. Help them use authority with wisdom and integrity. Help them to lead their people into paths of justice, righteousness, and peace.

 

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Clothe in the armor of light all who risk their lives to protect the innocent and to defend liberty and justice. Grant that all they do may serve your purpose. Help us to honor their service; care for their wounds; support their families; and rejoice when their tasks are completed.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We beseech you to shed the light of your strong saving love upon all who sit in the darkness and shadows of pain, fear, loneliness, despair or sorrow. Especially we name before you: {List}. Let them see the light of your countenance, and grant them your saving help.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Father, through the passion, death and resurrection of your dear Son, you bestow the imperishable light of your glory to all who die trusting in you. We commend into your keeping our departed loved ones. Let Christ be the lamp to our feet and the Light to our pilgrim path. Give us ears eager to listen to him and eyes willing to see him, alone, in every circumstance of life. Bring us to that day when, with all the redeemed, we gaze upon his face and worship him in the splendor of light and life which he shares with you and the Holy Spirit, God forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers and petitions, dear Father, as may be best for us and to your greater glory, thorough your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.




Prayers of the Church, 4th Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 3, Cycle B (February 7, 2021)

4th Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 3, Cycle B (February 7, 2021)

 

Isaiah 40:21-31 (Those who trust the Lord will renew strength, rise like eagles)

Psalm 147:1-11,20c (The Lord cares for creation, lifts up downtrodden)

1 Corinthians 9:16-23 (Paul became all things to all people so some may be saved)

Mark 1:29-39 (Jesus heals Peter’s mother-in-law, then many people))

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

With gratitude for the gift of Christ, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.

A brief silence

 

Father, we know that “Becoming all things to all people” doesn’t mean selling out, being hypocrites, or lying. It means understanding other people so well that we know the best word or action that might lead them one step closer to trusting and loving Jesus. Give us that kind of sympathy and wisdom, so that by all means, some may come to faith in him!

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen your Church. Grant wings to its words, so that hearts are touched by the Gospel of salvation. Make it swift speak and enact forgiveness and mercy in your name. Make it tireless in bearing witness to you. Conform it to your will. Use it to draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen all who suffer for the sake of Jesus. Help them to constantly trust in his love.  Help us, who do not experience such suffering, to pray for them; defend them; provide for them as we are able; and to live in a way that glorifies you and honors their witness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen this congregation. Give us confidence to willingly wait upon you for guidance, and to gladly obey what you command. Use us to encourage our families, friends and neighbors, especially those who most need to know your love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen your servants who are nearing or are in retirement. Fill them with your Spirit, so that they may continue to walk tirelessly in the way of faithfulness and service which you set before them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen the leaders of the nations. Grant them wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord. Guide them to care for their people, especially the poor and all who suffer from natural disaster or manmade calamities. Make all of us eager to learn what makes for righteousness and peace in our communities and world.

 

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Renew and strengthen all who work to bring us justice, safety, and healing in these troubled times. Grant them courage and integrity, and use their labors to accomplish your will. Shield them and their loved ones from harm.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Renew and strengthen all those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit—especially {List}. Give them hope: to wait upon your gifts of health and wholeness. Give them faith: to rise above doubt, despair and sorrow. Give them your love, shared through each of us: to strengthen, shield, and surround them always.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Most blessed and glorious Lord, thank you for the great and final healing you bestow upon all who died clinging to your promises. Grant us joy in sorrow; patience in suffering; courage in danger; wisdom in choosing; compassion and mercy in service. Vouchsafe to us the joy of being welcomed, with all whom you have healed from sin and death, into your eternal kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers and petitions, dear Father, as may be best for us and to your greater glory, thorough your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.




Prayers of the Church, 4th Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 3, Cycle B (January 31, 2021)  

4th Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 3, Cycle B (January 31, 2021)

 

Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (I will raise up a prophet, put my words in his mouth;

listen to him alone)

Psalm 111 (God is faithful and just; praise him for his righteous deeds)

1 Corinthians 8:1-13 (Caring for brethren with weak consciences;

eating food offered to idols)

Mark 1:21-28 (Jesus drives out a demon in Capernaum on Sabbath)

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

With gratitude for the gift of Christ, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.

A brief silence

 

Holy God, thank you for being stronger than the demons, doubts, and despair that trouble us. Thank you for bold prophets, faithful teachers, gentle caretakers, and ordinary saints who serve you by mentoring, guiding, healing, and challenging us. Give us grace to go and do likewise.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Raise up in your church leaders to faithfully speak your Word with boldness, clarity, and charity. Give its members hearts that listen with faith, obedience, and gladness. Give to those who have not heard or heeded your Word, ears to hear rightly, ponder patiently, and believe firmly.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give your persecuted disciples steadfastness, courage, and gentleness of heart, to rightly confess Christ before their enemies. By your mercy, bring their tormentors to repentant faith.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We ask your dearest blessings upon this congregation, so that in all we say and do, we proclaim the strong saving love of Christ. Strengthen our families, and make them into havens of safety, grace, and forgiveness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Have mercy upon all who are tormented by mental illness; post-traumatic stress; substance abuse; or anything else that clouds minds, distorts personalities, and shatters souls. Give them release from whatever has demonic control over their lives. Restore peace, sanity, relationships and hope to them and to their loved ones.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Drive out from this world the demons of hatred, violence, apathy and injustice. Fill the hearts and minds of earthly leaders, and the people entrusted to their care, with your Holy Spirit. Give us all a passion for caring for our neighbors, especially those who are despised and afflicted; and grant us your peace.

 

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Grant healing, strength, comfort and hope to all who are wounded in body, mind, or heart— especially {List}. Shield them from ever power of evil; drive from them the demons of despair; restore them to wholeness and to the company of all who love them; and fill them with the blessed peace of your Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Merciful Father, keep safe all who have died trusting in you. Comfort those who mourn.  Defend us in the presence of our enemies – sin, evil and death. Lead us into your eternal and glorious Sabbath rest, in which peace, wholeness and holiness are restored to all whom you have redeemed.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers and petitions, dear Father, as may be best for us and to your greater glory, thorough your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.




Prayers of the Church, 3rd Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 2, Cycle B (January 24, 2021)

3rd Sunday after Epiphany, Proper 2, Cycle B (January 24, 2021)

Jonah 3:1-5, 10 (Jonah preaches, Nineveh repents, God has mercy)

 Psalm 62:5-12 (God judges all justly; trust in him)

1 Corinthians 7:29-31 (the time as short; live accordingly)

Mark 1:14-20 (time fulfilled, Kingdom near, repent; I will make you fishers of men)

 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

With gratitude for the gift of Christ, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.

A brief silence

 

Heavenly Father, yet again you show your patience, even when we are slow to understand, obey, and proclaim your Word. We are often so much like Jonah! Forgive us when we are half-hearted, or worse, grumpy when someone we dislike actually repents.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You called Jonah to preach repentance to Nineveh; and your Son called his disciples to proclaim repentance and the coming of your Kingdom.  Give your Church boldness to preach of judgment, repentance, and forgiveness. And give it graciousness, so that many should gladly turn to Christ Jesus and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Many don’t want to hear your call to repent and believe the Good News. Some don’t tolerate those who do believe. Because of that, Christians suffer throughout the world. Have mercy on your servants; and do not let their witness falter.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Have mercy when, like Jonah, we want to run from the tasks you have called us to do! Renew our faith. Give us words that lovingly call others to repentance and trust in you. Shape our actions to model Jesus’ compassion. Help us to rejoice when someone surprises us with repentance or new-found faith.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray this day for our members in their middle years. Grant them the fire and enthusiasm of youth, and the wisdom and humility that comes with years. Form them into fishers of men and women, eager to make disciples for your Kingdom

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless the leaders of all nations, especially our own. Give them integrity, wisdom, humility, and sound judgment. {We pray for our President and vice-president, and for all who have taken an oath of office to serve the people of this nation in accordance with the Constitution.} Give us grace to live in concord and unity with one another. And give us peace.

 

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

We lift before you the needs of the lonely and bereaved; the forgotten and abandoned; the abused—and their abusers. Whatsoever they need, grant in double measure. Especially we plead on behalf of loved ones who seek our prayers, including: {List}. Grant them faith to firmly cling to your promise of health and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Holy Lord, we remember with reverence and affection our departed loved ones. Keep us united with them in bonds of faith and love. Turn our hearts in repentance and trust toward you. In your good time, deliver us into the fullness of that blessed Kingdom announced and promised to us by your beloved Son. With all the redeemed, let us praise and adore you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

 

Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers and petitions, dear Father, as may be best for us and to your greater glory, thorough your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.