Prayers of the Church, Christ the King Sunday – November 22, 2020

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

Prayers of the Church, Christ the King Sunday – November 22, 2020

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Holy Father, we praise and adore you for your Son, Christ Jesus, our Beautiful Savior, the King of Creation. We thank you for his holy life, his innocent suffering and death in our place, and his glorious resurrection that bestows life, forgiveness, health, and salvation on us. Though we are your poor unworthy servants, you have made us the sisters and brothers of your beloved Son and heirs of your Kingdom. Blessing and honor, praise and adoration be yours, Holy Father, for the sake of your Son, in the power of your Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son King of creation and head of your holy Church. Bind that Church to Christ with cords of love; make it unswerving in faith and bold in witness to him, especially where it endures persecution for his sake; and use it to draw all people to his Cross, there to acclaim him as Lord, King, and Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your persecuted Church a visible sign of the suffering of Christ himself. Grant that all who are afflicted for his sake may also, like the sun, moon, and stars, bear witness to the beauty of his holiness and the glory of his love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son our Savior and Lord. Fill the people of this congregation with your Holy Spirit, so that in all we say and do, among all people we encounter, we acclaim Jesus Christ as Son of God and Son of man.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made this land rich with resources, and resplendent with the virtues of freedom, justice, opportunity, and honesty. Grant that all who live here may be responsible stewards of those resources; tireless examples of those virtues; and thankful sharers of every blessing with which you have graced us.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son Lord of the nations. By your Holy Spirit, conform the hearts of rulers and people to the heart of Christ; and let his peace reign undisturbed in every land.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son our light, joy, and crown. Grant that his strong saving love might accompany those who serve our country, here and abroad. Fill them with honor, courage, and wisdom; and bring them home in safety.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made your Son fairer than sunlight, stars, meadows, or woodlands. Let his beauty, healing, and compassion cause all sorrowing hearts to sing, especially: {List}. Deliver them from their afflictions, and restore them to the fellowship of all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, you have made your Son to shine more brightly than all of heaven’s angels. We thank you for the lives of the faithful departed, who already see his glory face to face. Fill us with such faith and love that, in your good time, we shall join them in singing, “Glory and honor, praise, adoration, now and forever more be thine.”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, 24th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 28 – November 15, 2020

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

Prayers of the Church, 24^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 28 – November 15, 2020

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Father, thank you for entrusting to us the treasures of your Kingdom and the gifts of your Holy Spirit.

Thank you for your confidence in us – for commending wise risk taking and condemning fearful inaction. Give us grace to be faithful stewards of your bounty, to your glory and for the good of your people.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give your Church pastors, bishops and theologians who rightly and tirelessly proclaim your Word of Law and Gospel. Make the Church shine with the holiness and humility of Jesus, guiding many, by the light of his Cross, to seek his promised forgiveness and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make the faithful witness of your suffering Church into a beacon of hope for all who love Christ, and into an urgent warning to all who hate him. Give to us, who can scarcely comprehend the suffering of our persecuted sisters and brothers, the willingness to defend and provide for them as we can; and to adorn their sacrifices with our smaller acts of faith and love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make this congregation into a “Discipleship Boot Camp,” in which we learn, strive, and grow in taking risks in your service. Help us to be daring and bold in forgiving one another; in telling others about the hope that is in us; in shining the light of Jesus’ holy love in the ugly corners of sin-darkened lives; and in easing the burdens of others for whom he gave his life.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for all who have been richly blessed with skills of mind and hand, and gifts of imagination and wise judgment. Guide them in using their gifts to your glory and for the benefit of others. We also pray for those whose talents seem meager; who are afraid to use them; or are convinced they are worthless. Give them the grace to value what you have given them, and to use all their resources to their utmost. Help all of us to risk much as we seek to please you, help our neighbor, and heal our world. Remind us that you have prepared for us joys that are infinitely greater than any treasure we lay at your feet.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give teachable minds and willing hearts to the leaders of the nations. Remind them that they must give you an account of their stewardship of power, authority, and talents. Do not let them squander these gifts through hard hearts, rivalries, misuse, or disuse. Give to each of us the gifts of kindness, humility, and generosity, so that all our lives may be touched by happiness and brightened by hope.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Deep and solemn skills are needed by those who risk their lives to protect the lives and liberty of others. Abundantly grant them all they need, dear Lord. Use their skills to bring calm in chaos, and justice in troubled places. Shield their loved ones from fear; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We beseech you to come speedily to the rescue of all who cry out for healing of body, mind, heart or spirit – especially: {List}. Deliver them from their afflictions, and restore them to the fellowship of all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Keep in your sheltering arms all those who have died trusting in your promises. And as you have called us to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown, we pray: Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us, until you bring us home, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, 23rd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 27 – November 8, 2020

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

Prayers of the Church, 23^rd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 27 – November 8, 2020

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, we are sometimes foolish, not wise; scatterbrained, not prudent; reactive, not responsive. Forgive our less commendable words and deeds. Remind us of the wonderful honor and high privilege of being called to your Son’s wedding feast! Give us the grace and wisdom of your Holy Spirit. Let us always rejoice; believe; and show the light of faith, hope, and love even in this dark world.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make your Church wise, faithful, pure, and watchful, rejoicing in the near approach of her Bridegroom and Savior. Make her worship joyful and pleasing in your sight. Make her labors glorify you and help those in distress. Make her feasts a foretaste of your heavenly wedding banquet, feeding all with truth, righteousness, and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give patience, kindness, comfort, and hope to your persecuted Church. Help us provide for their needs and bear witness to their suffering. Turn the hearts of their enemies to seek your forgiveness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Make this congregation, and each of us, into lamps shining with your light and love. Do not let us grow weary in praising you and serving others. Fill us to overflowing with your Holy Spirit, so that we may constantly share your grace and favor with those whose lights are flickering out.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Let your justice roll down like waters upon this parched and broken world. Let your righteousness fill the hearts and minds of all who are entrusted with authority. Especially we pray for our elected and appointed leaders. Give them your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, so that they may bring concord, peace, prosperity, justice, and healing to our land.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

On this Veteran’s Day weekend, we pray for all who have honorably served their country. Grant wisdom, courage, integrity, and sound judgment to everyone currently serving in the military, and to all who risk their lives on behalf of community and country. Use their skills to bring freedom, safety, and justice wherever they serve. Keep them safe; shield their loved ones from grief and fear; and grant them a swift and joyful homecoming.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Let all who seek your help in their times of trial find deliverance from all that troubles them. We remember before you: {List}. Grant them health and salvation; justice and comfort; hope and guidance. When their lamp of faith seems ready to flicker and fade, rekindle them with the grace and comfort of the Holy Spirit. And give a double portion of that same Spirit to all who minister to their needs.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we grieve for our dead, but not without hope. Thank you for receiving them into your merciful care. Renew our confidence in your goodness in this time of our earthly pilgrimage. Help us to encourage and help one another along the way. Lead us, by the Cross of Jesus, into the Kingdom which you have prepared for all who have been redeemed by his suffering, death, and resurrection.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, All Saints Day – November 1, 2020

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

Prayers of the Church, All Saints Day – November 1, 2020

Let us approach the Throne of Grace, there to pray for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Thank you, dear Father, for all your saints. Thank you for the ones who shaped our faith and molded our lives. Thank you for the great heroes and martyrs, the scholars and confessors, who have kept your Church, by your Spirit, “one, holy, catholic, and apostolic.” Thank you for the nameless and forgotten faithful, known only to you, whose humble lives perfume the very airs of heaven. Thank you for joining us to Jesus, and thereby, to all your saints, past, present, and future.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Grant that the Church may forever proclaim your living and holy Word to the world, so that many more sinners are made your saints, your Church, and your beloved children.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless, as you have promised, those who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Crown their faithful endurance with his triumphant victory over sin and death; and adorn them with the robes of his righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Touch with your beauty and goodness the hearts of everyone in this congregation. Make our words gracious and our deeds lovely. Let the light of Jesus so shine in all our words and deeds that, when anyone sees or hears us, they get a glimpse of his great love for them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

With reverence and affection, we remember before you those who have shaped our faith and influenced our lives in godly ways. We entrust to your tender care our beloved dead who are now at rest in you. {Here the names of the faithful departed may be read, with tolling of the bell}. Thank you for their witness, love, and encouragement. Grant that we may likewise help others – especially the young and those who do not know you – to seek your face and rejoice in your goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

As many of us approach a national election, we pray for your Spirit to guide us. Give us minds able to discern the outlines of your will; hearts to seek the good of our whole country, not just our partisan desires; and spirits that are teachable, humble, repentant, and righteous. Strengthen those responsible for overseeing and tallying votes. Bring a spirit of concord and a willingness to work together, no matter who is elected, to your glory and for the good of our communities, states, and country.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Inform the minds, soften the hearts, and strengthen the wills of all who take counsel for the nations, especially our own. Teach them to use wisely and well the authority and power entrusted to them, so that all people may prosper and live peaceably with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Ransom the lives of your servants who are bound by cords of suffering, sorrow, confusion, shame, doubt, or despair. Especially we pray for: {List}. Grant that they may look upon you and be radiant; that they may taste and see your gracious favor; and that they may be strengthened in body, mind, heart, and faith, to praise your saving deeds and rejoice in your great goodness.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Most holy and gracious Father, receive into your Kingdom our beloved dead. Keep us faithful and true, holy, and steadfast, as we walk the narrow Way established by your dear Son. Give us joy along that way, and help us to encourage and help one another along it. Bring us safely into that Kingdom of light, life, and love which you have vouchsafed to all whom you redeem by the sufferings of Christ. And there let us see you face to face, and experience the unspeakable joy of abiding in your love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Hear our prayer; and graciously grant all that glorifies you and benefits our poor broken world, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons and Suggested Hymns, The Second Half of the Season of Pentecost, Cycle A (September 13 – November 22, 2020)

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

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.

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. 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.

Let us pray. Heavenly Father, we humbly offer to you the gifts of our treasures, talents, and time. Use them to you glory, and for the benefit of all your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 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.

Lessons and Suggested Hymns,

September 13: 15^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19)

Or Holy Cross Day, Transferred

15^th Sunday after Pentecost lessons and Hymns

Genesis 50:15-21 (Joseph forgives his brothers)

(ELW, Ezekiel 33:7-11, You are a sentinel, so warn those who sin. I do not desire the death of sinners, but that they turn to me and live)

Psalm 103:1-12 (Bless the Lord, O my soul; he has not dealt with us according to our sins)

Romans 14:1-12 (Don’t quarrel with those weaker in faith over opinions;

whether we live or die, it’s unto the Lord)

Matthew 18:21-35 (Parable of the unforgiving servant)

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Opening Hymn: Praise to the Lord, the Almighty (nice Psalm paraphrase)

(LBW #543, ELW #858 Note: ELW #859 is the politically correct “re-translation”; LSB #790)

OR (if you’re up for a challenging but dance-like tune and a paraphrase of the Psalm)

My Soul, Now Praise Your Maker (LSB #820)

Hymn of the Day: Come Down, O Love Divine (LBW #508, ELW #804, LSB #501)

Communion 1: I Lay My Sins on Jesus (LBW #305, LSB #606)

OR Bread of Life, Our Host and Meal (ELW #464)

Communion 2: Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive (LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843)

Closing Hymn: Son of God, Eternal Savior (LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842)

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Holy Cross, Transferred, Lessons and Hymns

Isaiah 45:21-25 (I am God; there is no other. To me every knee shall bow)

OR Numbers 21:4-9 (Moses fashions a bronze serpent; those bitten

by serpents look and are healed.)

Psalm 98:1-5 (Let all creation and all God’s people praise his vindication and victory,

his steadfast love and mercy.

1 Corinthians 1:18-24 (The message of the Cross is foolishness and a stumbling block

to those who perish; for the redeemed, it is the power and wisdom of God.

John 12:20-33 (“I, when I am lifted up, will draw all people to myself; Father, glorify thy name!”)

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Opening Hymn: Lift High the Cross (LBW #377, ELW #660, LSB #837)

Hymn of the Day: There in God’s Garden (WOV #668, ELW #342)

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

OR Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross (ELW #335)

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

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

September 20: 16^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20)

OR St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist (Transferred)

16^th Sunday after Pentecost Lessons and Hymns

Isaiah 55:6-9 (Seek the Lord; he will abundantly pardon, for his ways are not our ways)

(ELW, Jonah 3:10-4:11, Jonah’s ticked at God’s mercy; God’s rejoinder)

Psalm 27:1-9 (The Lord is my light and salvation, whom then shall I fear?)

(ELW, Psalm 145:1-8, Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised)

Philippians 1:12-14, 19-30 (To live is Christ, to die is gain; for your sake, I will remain; only live lives worthy of your calling in Christ)

(ELW, Philippians 1:21-30)

Matthew 20:1-16 (Parable of the 11^th-hour workers in the vineyard)

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Opening Hymn: Evening and Morning (LBW #465, ELW #761, LSB #726)

OR for a Hispanic paraphrase of Psalm 27, The Lord is My Light (LSB #723)

OR (If using the Jonah text) There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy (LBW #290, ELW #588)

Hymn of the Day: Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling (LBW #381, LSB #827)

OR How Clear is Our Vocation, Lord (lovely, fairly familiar tune) (LSB #853)

Communion 1: For Me to Live is Jesus (LSB #742)

OR O Jesus, I Have Promised (LBW #503, ELW #810)

Communion 2: Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service (LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848)

Closing Hymn: Lord of All Hopefulness (LBW #469, ELW #765, LSB #738)

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St. Matthew, Transferred, Lessons and Hymns

Ezekiel 2:8-3:11 (The prophet eats the scroll filled with God’s word.

God makes him hard-headed to speak to stubborn people)

Psalm 119:33-40 (Teach me your statutes; turn my heart to your decrees)

Ephesians 2:4-10 (In great love, God forgives our trespasses; through grace we’re saved.

We’re created for good works in Christ, which he prepared before we were born)

OR Ephesians 4:7-16 (God gives gifts – some are evangelists – to build up the body of

Christ to full maturity, rooted and grounded in him.)

Matthew 9:9-13 (The calling of Matthew)

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

Hymn of the Day: By All Your Saints in Warfare (LBW #178, v. 1, 18, 3; ELW #421 “By all your saints still striving,” v.1, 20, last; LSB #518, v. 1, 25, 3)

OR Preach You The Word and Plant It Home (LSB #586; this is a fantastic hymn.

If you can get the licensing from CPH for it, by all means do so!)

Communion Hymn #1: O Jesus, I Have Promised (LBW #503, ELW #810)

Communion Hymn #2: Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service (LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848)

Closing Hymn: God’s Word is Our Great Heritage (LBW #239, ELW #509, LSB #582)

September 27: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21)

Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32 (you are responsible for your own sins; turn from them and live!)

Psalm 25:1-10 (Lead me in your truth and teach me!)

Philippians 2:1-18 (Be of one heart and mind – the mind of Christ; act without grumbling;

be his lights in this broken world, that Paul may boast in you!)

Matthew 21:23-32 (By what authority does Jesus act? Parable of two sons who act

contrary to their words; which are you like?)

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Opening Hymn: Herald, Sound the Note of Judgment (LBW #556, LSB #511)

OR (echoing Psalm) Lead Me, Guide Me (ELW #768, LSB #721)

Hymn of the Day: Forth in Thy Name, O Lord, I Go (LBW #505, LSB #854)

OR The Lord Now Sends Us Forth (ELW #538)

OR O Master, Let Me Walk with You (LBW #492, ELW #818)

Communion 1: Jesus Calls Us; O’er the Tumult (LBW #494, ELW #696)

Communion 2: O God, My Faithful God (LBW #504, LSB #696)

Closing Hymn: Strengthen for Service, Lord, the Hands (LBW #218, ELW #497)

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October 4: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22)

Isaiah 5:1-7 (Love song about beloved vineyard turns to lament over its wild grapes)

Psalm 80:7-19 (Come to the aid of your vineyard, against those who trample it!)

Philippians 3:4b-14 (My richest gains I count but loss because of surpassing excellence

of knowing Christ)

Matthew 21:33-46 (Parable of the wicked tenants in master’s vineyard)

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Opening Hymn: Judge Eternal, Throned in Splendor (LBW #418)

OR Fight the Good Fight (LBW #461) (NOTE: tune that can be substituted with any decent LM (8888) hymn tune. LSB #664 uses “Mendon,” much more singable. In LBW, Mendon is used for “Thee We Adore, Eternal Lord, #547)

OR As Saints of Old Their Firstfruits Brought (LBW #404) (aw heck. I hate when great hymns are set to bad or difficult tunes. Use “Forest Green,” the jaunty English folk melody used for “I Sing the Almighty Power of God.” That’s what is used in ELW #695!)

Hymn of the Day: There in God’s Garden (if you didn’t do this for Holy Cross Day, transferred, do it now.)

(WOV #668, ELW #342)

OR Wide Open Are Thy Hands (LBW #489)

OR We Sing the Praise of Him Who Died (easy tune, but if unfamiliar, use the

Doxology “Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow”) (LBW #344, LSB #429)

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

Communion 1: Son of God, Eternal Savior (LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842)

Communion 2: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (again, if you didn’t do Holy Cross, sing this today)

(LBW #482, LSB #425/6)

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

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

October 11: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23)

Note: even if your practice isn’t to have weekly communion, you might want to make an exception today! 😉

Isaiah 25:6-9 (On God’s holy mountain, a feast of fat things; death shall be destroyed)

Psalm 23 (You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies)

Philippians 4:4-13 (Rejoice in the Lord always; think on things excellent, honorable;

thanks for Philippians’ gift)

(ELW, Philippians 4:1-9, Stand fast in the Lord, rejoice, think on these things)

Matthew 22:1-14 (The wedding feast…and its, er, substitute guest list)

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

Opening Hymn: Arise, My Soul, Arise (LBW #516, ELW #827)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #313, A Multitude Comes From the East and the West (LSB #510)

OR At the Lamb’s High Feast (LBW #210, ELW #362, LSB #633)

OR The Feast is Ready (ELW #531)

Communion 1: Come, Let Us Eat, For Now the Feast is Spread (LBW #214, ELW #491, LSB #626)

Communion 2: Soul Adorn Yourself with Gladness (LBW #224, ELW #488/9, LSB #636)

Closing Hymn: Thine the Amen, Thine the Praise (WOV #801, ELW #826, LSB #680)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

October 18: 20^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24) OR St. Luke, Evangelist

St. Luke Lessons and Hymns

Isaiah 35:5-8 (Gracious promise of return to Holy Land on God’s Highway)

Psalm 147:1-11 (God loves Jerusalem, cares for the poor, tends the land,

and cherishes those who trust his steadfast love)

2 Timothy 4:5-18 (Paul’s valedictory to Timothy, recounting his own trials,

and commending Luke as a faithful companion)

Luke 1:1-4; 24:44-53 (Why Luke wrote his Gospel. Also, risen Jesus opens disciples’ minds

to understand scripture, instructs and blesses them, and ascends to heaven.)

OR Luke 10:1-9 (The mission of the seventy)

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

Opening Hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name (LBW #328/9, ELW #634, LSB #549)

OR Come, All You People (ELW #819)

Hymn of the Day: Holy God, We Praise Your Name (LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940)

OR Sing Praise to God, the Highest Good (LBW #542, ELW #871, LSB #819)

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

Communion 2: Take My Life, That I May Be (LBW #406, ELW #583, 685, LSB #783/4)

Closing Hymn: Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus (LBW #389, LSB #660)

OR We Are All One in Mission (ELW #576)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

20^th Sunday after Pentecost Lessons and Hymns

Isaiah 45:1-7 (God anoints Cyrus on behalf of his Chosen People)

Psalm 96: 1-13 (Declare God’s glory among the nations, whose gods are but worthless idols)

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 (Paul commends Thessalonians for turning from idols to Christ)

Matthew 22:15-22 (Render to Caesar, and to God, what is due each)

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

Opening Hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name (LBW #328/9, ELW #634, LSB #549)

OR Come, All You People (ELW #819)

Hymn of the Day: Holy God, We Praise Your Name (LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940)

OR Sing Praise to God, the Highest Good (LBW #542, ELW #871, LSB #819)

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

Communion 2: Take My Life, That I May Be (LBW #406, ELW #583, 685, LSB #783/4)

Closing Hymn: Gracious God, You Send Great Blessings (LSB #782) (really nice hymn!)

OR God, Whose Giving Knows No Ending (LBW #408, ELW #678)

Note: if tune is unfamiliar, sing it to “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling”

October 25: Reformation Sunday

Revelation 14:6-7 (Angel with eternal Gospel: fear God, give glory, hour of judgment)

(ELW, Jeremiah 31:31-34, A new heart, engraved with God’s Word)

Psalm 46 (A mighty fortress is our God!)

Romans 3:19-28 (All have sinned, fallen short of God’s glory; but his righteousness is grasped by faith, not works)

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

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

Opening Hymn: Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty (LBW #250, ELW #533, LSB #901)

Hymn of Praise: All Glory Be to God on High (LBW #166, ELW #410, LSB #947)

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

Communion 1: Word of God, Come Down on Earth (WOV #716, ELW #510, LSB #545)

Communion 2: Now Thank We All Our God (LBW #534, ELW #839/840, LSB #895)

Closing Hymn: A Mighty Fortress is Our God (LBW #228/9, ELW #504; note, #505 is a gender-neutral version; LSB #656/7)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

November 1: All Saints’ Sunday

Revelation 7:9-17 (Behold a host, arrayed in white! Blessing and honor and glory and power

be unto God and the Lamb!)

Psalm 34:1-10, 22 (O taste and see how gracious the Lord is; look upon him and be radiant;

the Lord ransoms the lives of his servants)

1 John 3:1-3 (We are God’s children now; we shall be like Jesus, for we shall see him as he is)

Matthew 5:1-12 (The Beatitudes)

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

Opening Hymn: For All the Saints

(LBW #174, ELW #422, note: it’s been edited to be less martial, LSB #677)

OR Blessing, Honor, Glory to the Lamb (ELW #433)

Hymn of Praise: Blessing and Honor and Glory and Power (LBW #525, ELW #854)

OR Alabare (WOV #791, LSB #799/800)

OR Cantad Al Senor (WOV #795, ELW #822)

Hymn of the Day: Behold a Host, Arrayed in White (LSB #676)

Who Is this Host, Arrayed in White (LBW #314)

Behold the Host Arrayed in White (ELW #425)

OR Blest are They (WOV #764, ELW #728)

Communion 1: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling (LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700)

Communion 2: Thee We Adore, O Hidden Savior, Thee (LBW #199, LSB #640)

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

Closing Hymn: Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng! (LBW #553, LSB #813)

Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart (ELW #873/4)

November 8: 23^rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 27)

Amos 5:18-24 (Woe to those who desire the Day of the Lord! He despises your feasts

and sacrifices; let justice, righteousness roll down like streams of water)

Psalm 70 (Let those who seek you find deliverance)

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 (Do not grieve as those without hope; Christ will come with trumpet)

Matthew 25:1-13 (Parable of the wise and foolish virgins)

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

Opening Hymn: Rejoice, Rejoice, Believers (LBW #25, ELW #244, LSB #515)

Hymn of the Day: Wake, Awake, For Night is Flying

(LBW #31, ELW #436 [funky translation warning!], LSB #516)

Communion 1: Let Justice Roll Like Streams (WOV #763, ELW #717)

OR Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise (LBW #526, ELW #834, LSB #802)

Communion 2: My Lord, What a Morning (WOV #627, ELW #438, LSB #968)

Closing Hymn: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less (LBW #293/4, ELW #596/597, LSB #575/6)

OR Let Streams of Living Justice (great tune!) (ELW #710)

OR The Bridegroom Soon Will Call Us (LSB #514)

November 15: 24^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28)

Zephaniah 1:7-16 (The Day of the Lord comes as darkness and judgment for the complacent)

Psalm 90:1-12 (O God, our help in ages past! Teach us to number our days

and apply our hearts to wisdom)

1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 (Be sober, watchful – the Lord will come like a thief in the night;

therefore act as children of the day)

Matthew 25:14-30 (The parable of the servants given talents)

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

Opening Hymn: Lo! He Comes with Clouds Descending (LBW #27, ELW #435, LSB #336)

OR Christ is Surely Coming (LSB #509)

Hymn of the Day: The Night Will Soon Be Ending (great words and tune!) (LSB #337)

OR Lord of Light, Your Name Outshining (LBW #405, ELW #688)

Communion 1: O God, Our Help in Ages Past (LBW #320, ELW #733, LSB #733)

Communion 2: I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light (WOV #649, ELW #815, LSB #411)

Closing Hymn: Through the Night of Doubt and Sorrow (LBW #355, ELW #327)

OR One Thing’s Needful; Lord, This Treasure (LSB #536, v. 1, 3-5)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

November 22: Christ the King Sunday

Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 (God himself will be King and Shepherd to his people)

Psalm 95:1-7a (The Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods)

Ephesians 1:15-23 (Glorious inheritance given those who believe in Christ,

whom the Father has exalted high above all rulers and authorities)

Matthew 25:31-46 (Parable of the Last Judgment and the sheep/goat divide)

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

Opening Hymn: O God Beyond All Praising (WOV #797, ELW #880)

OR Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor (LBW #172, LSB #534, ELW #475)

Hymn of the Day: Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us (LBW #424, ELW #707, LSB #851)

OR O Christ, What Can It Mean for Us (familiar tune) (ELW #431)

Communion 1: Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love (WOV #765, ELW #708, LSB #980)

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

Closing Hymn: Crown Him with Many Crowns (LBW #170, ELW #855, LSB #525,)

Prayers of the Church, Reformation Sunday – October 25, 2020

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

Prayers of the Church, Reformation Sunday – October 25, 2020

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the world, the Church, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the faith and zeal of reformers who sought to recover or preserve the precious pearl of great price, the Gospel of salvation. Thank you for all the faithful people in every land and every age who have preferred nothing whatsoever to Christ Jesus, and him crucified. Keep us in their company, and keep our faith warm and pure through the life-giving fire of your most Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, please 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. Defend it from evil. Reform and purify it from sin and error. And bestow on it your saving peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Graciously protect and guide the people of this congregation, O Lord, our Strength and our Redeemer. Gladden our hearts with the joy of your saving love. Cause us to brim over with the gifts of your Holy Spirit, so that we may refresh, nourish, instruct, and invite our neighbors into your presence.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless the work of those faithful theologians and teachers who establish dialog, clarify doctrine, correct misunderstandings, and strive to heal the fractures within your Church. Direct their labors with your Spirit’s wise promptings. Give them holy charity in service of witnessing to the truth of your holy Word. And keep their hearts and their work centered in the Gospel of your Son, Jesus Christ, crucified and resurrected to forgive our sins and to grant life and salvation to all who will receive him.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We long for you to break the bow, shatter the spear, and make war to cease throughout the world. Until that day, we pray that you would strengthen, protect, and guide all who risk their life on our behalf. Be their very present help in times of trouble and places of danger; prosper all they do that accomplishes your will; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Exalt yourself among the nations, and speak your holy word to the leaders of the world. Establish among all peoples that peace which the world cannot give; and teach us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We lift before you the needs of all whose lives are shaken and troubled by suffering of mind, body, or spirit. Especially we pray for: {List}. Be in their midst; let them not be overthrown; bring them your saving help; say to them, ‘be still, and know that I am God;’ and restore them all to health and hope, that they may proclaim the awesome things you have done.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Holy Father, thank you for the lives of all your faithful people: prophets, apostles, and martyrs; theologians and confessors, teachers and pastors; and all the ordinary saints 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 live in your Word; and cheerfully serve in your Name. Bring us, through the merits of our Savior, into your eternal home, where with all the redeemed, we shall glorify you in the power of your most holy Spirit forever and ever and unto the ages of ages.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

For Jesus’ sake, grant the fulfillment of all we ask that conforms to your holy will. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, St. Luke, Evangelist – October 18, 2020

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

Prayers of the Church, St. Luke, Evangelist – October 18, 2020

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the world, the Church, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Thank you, dear Lord, for St. Luke. Thank you for his orderly, clear, loving portrait of Jesus’ words and deeds. Thank you for his remembrance of the founding of your holy Church. Help us to treasure his words; to follow his Savior and ours; and to proclaim the Gospel of salvation to the ends of the earth.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Imprint the blessed image of your dear Son upon the Church. Conform its worship and teaching to the Gospel proclaimed to Jew and Gentile alike. Use it to lead many people to a living faith in Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for our fellow Christians who suffer persecution because they name Jesus as Lord. By their faithful witness, lead their enemies to repentance and amendment of life.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Help this congregation to render to you all honor, glory, worship, and praise. Help us to render to one another the kindness, forgiveness and compassion which is their due. And help us to render to our neighbors the love, respect, and justice which you command.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You called Luke to write his Gospel and the book of Acts. Today you call men and women to proclaim your word to a world as pagan and brutal as in Luke’s own time. We ask your blessing upon seminarians, missionaries, and all teachers, theologians, and writers who share the Good News. Make them faithful, eloquent, zealous and gracious. Let their ministry be a blessing to many.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Until your peace reigns undisturbed throughout the world, direct the thoughts, words and actions of our military personnel, police, first responders, and all who risk their lives to bring safety and justice to others. Prosper all they do that serves your will. Bring healing to the wounded, hope to their families, and honor to all who have honorably served.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

As you anointed Cyrus to accomplish your will for Israel when it was captive, we ask that you anoint the leaders of this and every nation upon earth. Equip them to do whatever accomplishes your will for all who are captives to injustice, poverty, or violence. As many of us are preparing to vote in an important national election, teach us to put our trust in you, to seek your will for the nation, and to live honorably, peaceably, and kindly with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of all who are afflicted by pain, sorrow, turmoil, or any other assault of the Evil One. Especially we lift before you the needs of: {List}. Come to their aid; heal all that is wounded; and restore them to wholeness of body, mind, and spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Holy Father, we entrust into your never-failing care our beloved dead. Continue in us the work, begun at our Baptism, which fashions us into the blessed likeness of your dear Son. Grant us faith, through your Holy Spirit, to commend ourselves, one another, and our whole lives to Christ our Lord. Bring us into that eternal Kingdom where we shall see him face to face, and shall behold his image, perfectly restored, in the faces of everyone whom you have redeemed by his blood.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

For Jesus’ sake, grant the fulfillment of all we ask that conforms to your holy will. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, 20th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 24 – October 18, 2020

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

Prayers of the Church, 20^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 24 – October 18, 2020

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the world, the Church, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Thank you, dear Lord, for creating us in the image and likeness of your beloved Son. Thank you for making us his image-bearers to a world seduced by idols, pretenders, and fakes. Give us a double portion of your Spirit, so we constantly honor and serve Jesus, and show him to everyone we meet.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Imprint the blessed image of your dear Son upon the Church. Conform its worship, teaching, fellowship and outreach to his likeness. By faithful proclamation of your Word, and through right administration your Sacraments, use your Church to lead many people from vain idols to life-giving trust in you, the true and only God.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for our fellow Christians who suffer persecution because they refuse to render to anyone or anything that true worship and love that is due to you alone. By their faithful witness, lead their enemies to repentance and amendment of life.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Sometimes we who bear Christ’s name display such a blurred, shabby, and distorted image of him that others are scandalized and dismayed. Forgive us, and sanctify us, so that Jesus’ love and mercy shine clear and bright in our lives, to his glory and for the sake of those he came to save.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

For Jesus’ sake, grant the fulfillment of all we ask that conforms to your holy will. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, 19th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 23 – October 11, 2020

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

Prayers of the Church, 19^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 23 – October 11, 2020

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the world, the Church, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Dear Father, you promise to throw a splendid and never-ending wedding feast for all whom you redeem through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Sometimes we act like it’s no big deal. Sometimes we look forward to the entertainment, so to speak, more than being joined to our heavenly Bridegroom in an eternal embrace of love and life. Thank you for your patience and kindness. Open our eyes and hearts to the rapturous joy you have set before us. Keep us forever centered in Jesus, our Savior and our true love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You have made the Church the bride of your beloved Son. Make it radiant with faithfulness and lovely with holiness. Adorn its words and deeds with such grace, that through them, many people may hear your invitation and gladly partake of your wedding-banquet of salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Prepare a table for your persecuted people in the presence of their enemies. Feed them with patience, perseverance and humble trust in you. Anoint them with the oil of mercy, and heal their hearts, minds, and bodies. By their faithful witness, soften the hearts of those who trouble them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless the people and ministries of this congregation. Help us to rejoice in your strong saving love; to speak gently and act with humility; to think on those things which are good, honorable and pleasing to you; and to encourage our family, friends, and neighbors to do the same.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for couples who are preparing for marriage, for newlyweds, and for all husbands and wives. Ground their love for each other in Christ, the true and faithful Bridegroom. Lavish upon them those gifts of your Holy Spirit that will sustain their marriage in difficult times, and bear rich fruit for their home life, for their community, and for your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Save our world and its people from natural disasters and from human malice. Take away the reproach of our sins and the death-shrouds of the evils that beset us. Give us leaders who are wise, honorable, just, and excellent; and give to each of us the blessing of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We remember before you all who walk through the valley death’s dark shadows, and all who are troubled by sorrow, anxiety, or despair. Especially we pray for: {List}. Teach them the truth of Paul’s words, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Revive their souls; restore their bodies; and refresh the hearts of all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the lives of your faithful servants who have entered the banquet-hall of eternal life with you. Keep us steadfast in faith as well. Give us grace and strength to live in ways which are good, true, lovely, pure, honorable, and praiseworthy. Grant us the joy of sitting with all your wedding-guests at the table you have prepared for those whom you have wedded to Christ forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

For Jesus’ sake, grant the fulfillment of all we ask that conforms to your holy will. Amen.

Prayers of the Church, 18th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 22 – October 4, 2020

written by Cathy Ammlung | October 20, 2020

Prayers of the Church, 18^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 22 – October 4, 2020

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the world, the Church, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Most holy Father, thank you for making us your beloved vineyard. Thank you for grafting us into your pleasant planting, your people Israel; and for uniting us with your true and precious Vine, your dear Son Jesus. Make us abound in the fruits of the Holy Spirit, to your glory and for the nourishment of a world starved for your love.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Uproot from your Church all malice, strife, false teaching, and unrighteousness. Defend it from those who would destroy it from within, or ravage it from without. Make Jesus, the strong Son of Man who sits at your right hand, its life and salvation. By Word and Sacrament, draw all people to the foot of the Cross; there to glorify your most holy Name.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give persecuted Christians the righteousness that depends on faith, so they may know Jesus and the power of his resurrection; may share his sufferings; and through him may attain the resurrection from the dead. Turn the hearts of their enemies toward you in repentance and humble faith.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Thank you for making this congregation your own, through Jesus Christ. Help us to count everything else – even the many gifts with which you have blessed us – as rubbish compared with the surpassing worth of knowing him as our Lord and Savior. Make us true disciples, sharing Jesus’ love with everyone whom we meet, and encouraging them to accompany us as we follow in the way of the Cross.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We pray for all those who toil at “dirty jobs” that are unpleasant, dangerous, and poorly paid. Help us to honor their labor and to ease their burden. Give them a glimpse of the surpassing loveliness of your dear Son. By your Spirit, shape their faithful work into “something beautiful for Jesus.”

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Raise up for yourself pastors, evangelists, missionaries, theologians, and other servants of your Word. Prosper the work of seminaries and church schools. The world hungers for the fruit of your living Vine, dear Lord; equip your servants to nurture and share it with starving souls.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give everyone entrusted with worldly power and authority a hunger for justice and a thirst for righteousness. Make them swift to build bridges of respect and concord, and slow to brandish weapons of war. Fill them with wisdom, patience, fairness, and kindness. Spread these virtues among all people, so that bloodshed and injustice cease, and all people live in peace and call upon your name with joy.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Restore the lives of all who cry out to you in their distress of body, mind, and spirit, especially: {List}. Shine the light of your countenance upon them, that they may be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

With gratitude and affection, we entrust our faithful departed into your care. Comfort all whose grief runs deep. Help and guide us, so that we may help one another through the sorrows and dangers of this life. Unite us with your dear Son, so that with all whom you have redeemed by his Cross and Resurrection, we may be welcomed into your pleasant planting, your beloved vineyard; and may rejoice in your presence forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

For Jesus’ sake, grant the fulfillment of all we ask that conforms to your holy will. Amen.