THE PRAYERS, 

16^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 18, Cycle B (September 9, 2018)

 

Trusting, through the power of the Holy Spirit, in the goodness of our heavenly Father, let us pray in Jesus’ name for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Heal and restore your church, O Lord, purchased with the precious blood of your dear Son. Drive from it all partiality and false teaching. Enliven its faith so that, through its words and its works, many may hear the Good News, turn with confidence to Jesus, and receive forgiveness, life and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Give a spirit of trustfulness to your Church wherever it is persecuted because it confesses Christ as Savior; and grant repentance and regeneration to its foes; until all hearts turn to you in adoration and praise. Bless, protect, and guide missionaries of your Gospel throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to the people of this congregation such confidence in the love of Christ, that they trust his holy Word, treasure his life-giving Sacraments, and constantly tell others of his great mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Help us to never put road blocks in the way of non-Christians if they seek to learn more about your forgiveness, healing, and love. And grant that many who do not yet believe, may yearn for the rich morsels of mercy that fall from your table.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are Lord of all the nations; and to you all the rulers of the earth shall bow down and give an account of their deeds. Teach them to act with wisdom and without partiality; to care for the widows and widowers, orphans, and destitute; to seek justice within and peace beyond their borders; and to be examples of integrity, fairness and compassion to their citizens.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. 

Protect and guide all in our military, and all who stand in harm’s way. Bless those who tend them when they are wounded; and give strength and patience to their families. Bring them home swiftly, and use their skills, whether here or abroad, to establish the blessings of liberty, justice, and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that all who cry to you for help and healing; for forgiveness and restoration; or for guidance and comfort, may find your grace sufficient for their need. Especially we lift before you {prayer list}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Holy and gracious Father, we entrust into your care all who clung to your promises in this life, and whose death we now mourn. Grant us such a sure and confident hope in our Lord Jesus, that our sorrow may be turned to joy. Give us the power to console, encourage and assist one another throughout our earthly pilgrimage. By your great mercy, bring us to your house, where we are fed not crumbs under the table, but the rich banquet fare of the Lamb’s high feast. And there, by the power of your gracious Spirit, let us, in the company of all the redeemed, worship and adore your infinite majesty, which shines in the face of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

15^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 17, Cycle B (September 2, 2018)

 

Trusting, through the power of the Holy Spirit, in the goodness of our heavenly Father, let us pray in Jesus’ name for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy Lord, in this broken and fallen world, you array your Church in the armor of light and call it to words and deeds of valor. Make it a faithful, true, and bold doer of your strong Word. Form it into your strong fortress and safe haven for all who cry to you for help.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Strengthen the Church when it is attacked by those who despise your name. Grant that it should wield the weapons of the Spirit not in anger or retaliation, but in confident and humble witness to the Prince of Peace. Bless, protect, and guide missionaries of your Gospel throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Prosper the words and work of this congregation, so that many might hear the Good News, turn to you, and live. Make your light, love and light shine through our words and deeds, and shed its healing radiance upon those around us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Thank you for the dignity of work, the joy of relaxation, and the opportunity to shape the raw material of your creation into useful or beautiful “secondary creations.” Give everyone who is able to work, the satisfaction and just reward for the honest labor of hand and mind. Help us to provide relief for those who cannot find employment; and teach us to honor even the smallest talent and effort that is done with an upright heart.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Shine the light of your countenance upon all who lead the nations. Give them such wisdom, humility and integrity that their people may confidently turn to them for justice and may live in safety.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Clothe in the armor of light all who risk their lives for the sake of defending the innocent and restoring justice and freedom. Heal their hurts; support their loved ones; and help this nation to use their skills for peaceable purposes when their tour of duty is ended.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant healing, hope, and strength to all who are afflicted by the forces of sin, evil, and death. We lift before you the needs of: {List}. Surround them with your holy angels; give refreshment, cheerfulness, and confidence to all who care for them; and restore them to the joy of fellowship with all of us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most gracious Father, we thank you for the lives of all the faithful departed who were, by grace, faithful doers of your Word. Grant that each of us may honorably wear the shining armor of light which you bestow upon your people; may rightly wield the weapons of the Spirit; may fight the good fight; and may lay hold of the life, joy, and crown won for us by the merits of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Captain and our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

14^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 16, Cycle B (August 26, 2018)

 

For the Church, the world, and needs of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Lord God, clothe your Church in the spotless raiment and trusty armor of Jesus’ righteousness. Make it his radiant and faithful bride, adorned with beauty, holiness, goodness and grace. Make it his valiant soldier, adorned with courage, integrity, faithfulness, and perseverance. In all circumstances, use it to draw many afar off to saving faith in Jesus, their Savior, Captain, Bridegroom and Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Defend and restore your Church when it is abused and persecuted for the sake of Christ. Exchange its sackcloth of suffering for the festal robes of salvation; and remove from it all stain of sorrow or sin. Bless, protect, and guide missionaries of your Gospel throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation with your protection and favor. Make us ever mindful that as part of your Church on earth, we reflect Jesus’ name and character to the world. Keep us faithful, generous, and kind, sharing with others the gifts of the Spirit that you have given to us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Bless husbands and wives, parents and children, sisters and brothers, and all whom you have entrusted to us to cherish as family. Knit us together in enduring bonds of affection, respect and fidelity. Bring healing and peace to all households fractured by sin, sorrow, and suffering.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Conform the minds of earthly leaders to your commandments; and grant them strength to accomplish their responsibilities in accordance with your will. Remove from among us the allure of sin, the temptation of power, and the seduction of earthly gain. Teach us to live peaceably with one another, and to share generously and wisely the gifts of your creation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep safe all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others, especially those in our military and all first responders. Give them cool heads and steady hands as they accomplish their duties, and grant success to all they do that serves your will. Give them swift and happy reunions with all who love them; and though we value and honor their service, we long for the day when that service is needed no more.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You hear the cries of the righteous, and of all who suffer. Hear, therefore, and graciously answer our prayers on behalf of all who are afflicted by pain, sorrow, loneliness, despair, abuse, or any other evil which troubles them, including: {List}. Give a spirit of compassion and gentleness to all who care for them; and restore them to communion with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We entrust our beloved dead into your faithful care, Dear Father. Ease the pain of those whose grief is raw and deep. And since we still walk by faith and not by sight, we pray that you would sustain us throughout our earthly pilgrimage with the Cross of your dear Son, and the grace and comfort of your Holy Spirit. Bring us, in your good time, into the bright courts of heaven, where we and all whom you have redeemed shall forever feast on Christ, our Living Bread and our Cup of Salvation.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

13^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 15, Cycle B (August 19, 2018)

 

For the Church, the world, and needs of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Lord God, nourish the Church with your words of Spirit and life. Fill it with the Body and Blood of your dear Son. Make its members children of your heavenly light, filled with wisdom and righteousness. By that same light, guide those who do not yet know you, to the salvation you desire for all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Give wisdom, graciousness and prudence to all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake; and use their witness to strengthen our faith and to call their tormentors to repentance and salvation. Bless, protect, and guide missionaries of your Gospel throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Feed the members of our church with the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, and joy in your presence; and grant that we gladly and graciously share this feast with our families, neighbors, friends, and communities.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

We ask your blessing upon parents, foster-parents, and all who care for the precious lives of your little ones. Fill them with the bounty from Wisdom’s table, so that they may raise up their children in godliness and integrity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As Wisdom sets her feast before everyone, move the hearts of our earthly leaders to heed her invitation and sit long at her table. Give them the sustenance they need to think, speak, and act in accordance with your will, so that all who are entrusted to their care might prosper and live in peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for the service of those in our military, and all first responders. Give them wisdom, courage, and competence in dangerous situations. Heal those who are wounded, and shelter those who fall in the line of duty. Bring swiftly and safely home those whose work is not yet done; and grant us all your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You hear the cries of the righteous, and of all who suffer. Hear, therefore, and graciously answer our prayers on behalf of all who are afflicted by pain, sorrow, loneliness, despair, abuse, or any other evil which troubles them, including: {List}. Give a spirit of compassion and gentleness to all who care for them; and restore them to communion with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O gracious heavenly Father, we praise and adore you for the eternal life won for all whom you redeem through the death and resurrection of your dear Son. Especially we remember our beloved dead, including: {List}. Strengthen our faith and fill us with your Holy Spirit, until that day when with all your people, especially those we love and miss the most, you raise us up to life everlasting in your glorious Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

Lessons and Suggested Hymns,

Pentecost 15- Christ the King, Cycle B

(Sept. 2 – November 25, 2018)

 

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

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

LSB (Lutheran Service Book)

ELW (Evangelical Lutheran Worship)

 

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. To be fair, 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 standard Revised Common Lectionary, 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.

 

September 2: 15^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 17 (Labor Day Weekend)

 Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9 (Keep God’s command fully and diligently)

Psalm 119:129-136 (Your decrees are wonderful; therefore my soul keeps them)

            ELW: Psalm 15 (Those who keep commandments may live on his holy hill)

Ephesians 6:10-20 (Put on the whole armor of God)

            ELW: James 1:17-27 (Be doers, not just hearers, of the Word)

Mark 7:14-23 (Defilement is from within, not without; evils arise in human heart)

            ELW: Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 (Jesus rebukes Pharisee’s criticism; omits a repetition)

 

Opening hymn: LSB #665, Be Strong in the Lord in Armor of Light (perfect for Ephesians text)

             OR LBW #389, Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus (LSB #660)   

OR (if not used 7/29) LBW #188, I Bind Unto Myself Today (LSB #604, ELW #450)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #232, Your Word, O Lord, is Gentle Dew (another nice Swedish folk tune!)

            OR LBW #480, O, That the Lord Would Guide My Ways (LSB #707, ELW #772)

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #754, Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ (ELW #674)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #469 Lord of All Hopefulness (LSB #738, ELW #765)

Closing Hymn: LBW #504, O God, My Faithful God (LSB #696, ELW #806)

 

September 9: 16^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 18

 Isaiah 35:4-7a (Promise of recompense, salvation, healing and joy)

Psalm 146 (God sets prisoners free, opens eyes of blind, lifts poor from the dust)

James 2:1-10, 14-18 (Warning against partiality; faith without works is dead)

Mark 7:24-37 (Syrophoenician woman’s faith; Jesus heals deaf man)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #87, Hail to the Lord’s Anointed (LSB #398, ELW #311)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #360, O Christ the Healer, We Have Come (ELW #620)

            OR LBW #426, O Son of God, in Galilee (LSB #841)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #530, Jesus Shall Reign Where’er the Sun (LSB #832, ELW #434)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #359, In Christ There Is No East or West (LSB #653, ELW #650)

Closing Hymn: LBW #425, O God of Mercy, God of Light (ELW #714; LSB #852, O God of Mercy, God of Might)

 

September 16: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 19

 Isaiah 50:4-10 (Suffering Servant’s humiliation and vindication)

            ELW: Isaiah 50:4-9a (eliminates punishment of Suffering Servant’s accusers, and also the verse

about obeying God while walking in darkness)

Psalm 116:1-9 (You deliver soul from death, eyes from tears, feet from stumbling)

James 3:1-12 (Taming the tongue)

Mark 9:14-29 (Jesus heals the boy with epilepsy)

            ELW: Mark 8:27-38 (Peter’s confession, Jesus’ rebuke, following him involves self-denial)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #156, Look, O Look, the Sight is Glorious (LSB #495, Look, Ye Saints, the Sight is Glorious)

OR LBW #233, Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness (LSB #578, ELW #511)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #537, O Jesus, King Most Wonderful (LSB #554)

           OR WOV 738, Healer of Our Every Ill (ELW #612)

           OR, if using ELW lectionary, ELW #667, Take Up Your Cross, the Savior Said (LBW #398)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #296, Just As I Am, Without One Plea (LSB #570, ELW #592)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #504, O God, My Faithful God (LSB #696, ELW #806)

Closing Hymn: WOV #777, In the Morning When I Rise (LSB #976, ELW #770)

 

September 23: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 20

 Jeremiah 11:18-20 (Jeremiah’s life threatened, like lamb led to slaughter)

Psalm 54 (Save me, O God, by your name; vindicate my by your might)

James 3:13-4:10 (Earthly versus heavenly wisdom and friendship)

            ELW: James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a (Eliminates “Adulterers! Friendship with world is enmity with God,”

and the exhortation to lament sin, humble self that God may exalt)

Mark 9:30-37 (Passion prediction; argument over who is greatest)

 

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

Hymn of the Day: LBW #123, Ah, Holy Jesus (ELW #349)

            OR LBW #111, Lamb of God, Pure and Sinless (ELW #357; LSB # 434, Lamb of God, Pure and Holy)

    OR LSB #550, Lamb of God (ELW #336)

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

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #419, Lord of All Nations, Grant Me Grace (LSB #844, ELW #716)

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

 

September 30: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 21

OR St. Michael and All Angels, Transferred

 

19^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 21

Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29 (Israel kvetches to Moses. Moses kvetches to God. God appoints 70 to

help him deal with aforementioned kvetching)

Psalm 104:27-35 (You give food in due season; your Spirit gives them breath)

            ELW: Psalm 19:7-14: (God’s perfect law keeps one from sin; let words of mouth, meditation of

heart be acceptable in his sight)

James 5:1-20 (Warning to rich oppressors; patience in suffering; prayers, anointing, and confession;

bringing one back from sin a great thing)

            ELW: James 5:13-20 (omits first 2 things)

 (Mark 9:38-50 (Who is not against me is for me; cup of cold water; solemn warning about temptations to sin)

 

Opening hymn: WOV #687, Gracious Spirit, Heed Our Pleading (ELW #401)

            OR LBW #508, Come Down, O Love Divine (LSB #501, ELW #804)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #308, God the Father, Be Our Stay (LSB #505, Triune God, be Thou Our Stay)

            OR LBW #423, Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service

(ELW #712; LSB #848, Lord, Whose Love Through Humble Service)

Communion Hymn #1:  LBW #448, Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound (LSB #744, ELW #779)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #441, Eternal Spirit of the Living Christ (LSB #769, ELW #402)

Closing Hymn: LBW #540, Praise the Lord! O Heavens, Adore Him (ELW #823)

 

St. Michael and All Angels, Transferred

Daniel 10:10-14; 12:1-3 (Michael, the angelic prince defending Israel)

Psalm 103:1-5, 20-22 (Join the heavenly hosts in praising the Lord)

Revelation 12:7-12 (War in heaven; Michael et. al. cast down Satan and minions)

Luke 10:17-20 (I saw Satan fall like lightning from heaven…)

Opening hymn: LBW #175, Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones (LSB #670, ELW #424)

            OR LBW #249, God Himself is Present (LSB #907)

            OR LSB #876, O Holy, Blessed Trinity (a marvelous paraphrase of Luther’s Morning Prayer.

May be sung to the Doxology.)

Hymn of the Day: LSB #521, Christ, the Lord of Hosts, Unshaken (Go get a license to use this if you don’t have

LSB. It is MUSCULAR, and really good!!)

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

Communion Hymn #1:  LBW #198, Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence (LSB #621, ELW #490)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #441, Eternal Spirit of the Living Christ (LSB #769, ELW #402)

Closing Hymn: LBW #540, Praise the Lord! O Heavens, Adore Him (ELW #823)

 

October 7: 20^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 22

 Genesis 2:18-25 (It is not good for the man to be alone; creation of woman)

Psalm 128 (The happy home of the faithful)

ELW: Psalm 8 (What is man, that you are mindful of him?)

Hebrews 2:1-18 (Pay attention to the message; if we ignore it, how can we escape penalty; Jesus

tested in all things as we are, not ashamed to call us brothers; is our merciful high priest)

            ELW: Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12 (Excellence of God’s Son; omits section from above on penalty for

drifting from message of salvation)

Mark 10:2-16 (Teaching on divorce; let the children come to me)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #512, O Blest, the House (LSB #862)

(If tune is unfamiliar, use tune for LBW #51, “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”)

OR LBW #370, Blest Be the Tie that Binds (LSB #649, ELW #656)

Hymn of the Day: WOV #749, When Love is Found

            OR LBW #357, Our Father, By Whose Name (ELW #640)

OR LSB #858, O Father, All Creating (You might get the license if you don’t have LSB; it’s good for today’s texts AND for weddings! And the tune is Aurelia, The Church’s One Foundation)

Communion Hymn #1: LSB #424, O Christ, You Walked the Road

            OR LBW #474, Children of the Heavenly Father (LSB #725, ELW #781)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #328/9, All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name (LSB #549, ELW #634)

Closing Hymn: WOV #778, O Christ, the Same (ELW #760)

 

October 14: 21^st Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 23

 Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 (seek good, not evil, that you may live)

Psalm 90:12-17 (Teach us to have wise heart; prosper our handiwork)

Hebrews 3:12-19 (Do not have evil, unbelieving heart; exhort against sin)

            ELW: Hebrews 4:12-16

Mark 10:17-22 (Rich man told to sell all, give to poor, and follow Jesus)

            ELW: Mark 10:17-31 (adds disciples perplexity over leaving riches, wondering how they’ll be

rewarded for following Jesus)

 

Opening hymn: WOV #764, Blest are They (LSB #982, ELW #728)

            OR LBW #406, Take My Life, That I May Be (ELW #583, 685)

(LSB #783, 784, Take My Life And Let It Be)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #304, Today Your Mercy Calls Us (LSB #915)

            OR ELW #798, Will You Come and Follow Me

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #783, Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God (LSB #712)

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

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

Closing Hymn: LBW #259, Lord, Dismiss Us With Your Blessing (LSB #924, ELW #545)

 

October 21: 22^nd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 24

 Ecclesiastes 5:10-20 (Pointlessness of amassing wealth)

            ELW: Isaiah 53:4-12 (Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows)

Psalm 119:9-16 (How can young remain pure? Follow God’s commandments)

            ELW: Psalm 91:9-16 (God promises deliverance to those whom he loves)

Hebrews 4:1-16 (Do not harden your hearts against God, lest you not enter his promised rest.

God’s word sharper than 2-edged sword; we may confidently approach High Priest who has

been tempted but did not sin)

            ELW: Hebrews 5:1-10 (Great high priest, deals gently with us because he himself has suffered)

Mark 10:23-31 (Hard for rich to enter Kingdom; followers promised much – with persecution)

            ELW: Mark 10:35-45 (James and John want special honors; true greatness is in suffering and

serving as Jesus does)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #744, Amazing Grace, How Sweet the Sound (LSB #448, ELW #779)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #423, Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service (LSB #848, ELW #712)

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

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #482, When I Survey the Wondrous Cross (LSB #425/6, ELW #803)

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

(If tune is awkward, sing it to the Doxology, which is always appropriate!)

OR ELW #809, Send Me, Lord (WOV #773, Send Me, Jesus)

 

October 28: Reformation Sunday

 Jeremiah 31:31-34 (God’s new covenant will be written on the heart)

Psalm 46 (The God of Jacob is our stronghold!)

Romans 3:19-28 (We are justified by faith, apart from works of the law)

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

 

Opening hymn: LBW #365, Built on a Rock the Church Shall Stand (ELW #652)

(LSB #645, Built on the Rock the Church Shall Stand)

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

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #369, The Church’s One Foundation (LSB #644, ELW #654)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #293/4, My Hope is Built on Nothing Less (LSB #575/6, ELW #596/597)

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

 

November 4: All Saints’ Sunday

 Isaiah 25:6-9 (A feast of fat things; God shall wipe away tears, remove shame, destroy death)

Psalm 24 (Who ascends the holy hill of God, enters temple? Those with clean hands and pure hearts)

Revelation 21:1-6a (The new heaven and earth, New Jerusalem; death is no more)

John 11:32-44 (Jesus raises Lazarus)

 

Opening hymn: LBW  #174, For All the Saints (LSB #677, ELW #422)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #516, Arise, My Soul, Arise (ELW #827)

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #702, I AM the Bread of Life (ELW #845)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #553, Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng (LSB #813)

(ELW #873/874, Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart)

Closing Hymn: LBW #552, In Thee is Gladness (LSB #818, ELW #867)

 

November 11: 25^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 27

 1 Kings 17:8-16 (Elijah and the widow of Zarephath)

Psalm 146 (The Lord watches over orphans, widows and strangers)

Hebrews 9:24-28 (Christ offered himself, once for all, as sacrifice for sin)

Mark 12:38-44 (Woe to scribes who devour widows and orphans! The widow’s mite)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #457/8, Jesus, Priceless Treasure (yes, I know it’s a repeat from earlier in the season.

Use the alternate tune and nobody will notice). (LSB #743, ELW #775)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #491, O God, I Love Thee (The words are gorgeous. If the tune really is unfamiliar, use

tune for “Abide With Me.” Trust me. It works.)

OR ELW #692, We Are an Offering

OR LSB #787, The Temple Rang With Golden Coins (a fine Herm Stuempfle hymn, specifically for this Gospel!)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #469, Lord of All Hopefulness (LSB #738, ELW #775)

Communion Hymn #2: WOV #721, Go, My Children, With My Blessing (LSB #922, ELW #543)

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

 

November 18: 26^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 28

 

Daniel 12:1-3 (Some will be raised to everlasting life, others to shame)

Psalm 16 (You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy)

Hebrews 10:11-25 (We have confidence to approach God, having been made clean. Let us persevere in faith)

Mark 13:1-13 (Jesus foretells destruction of Temple, persecution of his followers)

            ELW: Mark 13:1-8 (Omits persecution and testimony)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #318, The Lord Will Come and Not Be Slow (Can be sung with gusto to the tune of

 LBW #183, The Son of God Goes Forth to War)

OR LBW #498, All Who Would Valiant Be

OR ELW #438, My Lord, What a Morning (WOV #627)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #487, Let Us Ever Walk With Jesus (LSB #685, ELW #802)

OR LBW #510, O God of Youth (I know, I know. Don’t know the tune. No substitutes available. It’s pretty straightforward, and the words are outstanding. If it just won’t sing, then have folks READ the words aloud together!)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #341, Jesus, Still Lead On (ELW #624)   (LSB #718, Jesus, Lead Thou On)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #333, Lord, Take My Hand And Lead Me (LSB #722, ELW #767 )

Closing Hymn: LBW #549, Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven (LSB #793 , ELW #865)

 

November 25: Christ the King Sunday

 Daniel 7:9-10,13-14 (Vision of the Son of Man)

Psalm 93 (The Lord is King, robed in majesty)

Revelation 1:4b-8 (Vision of the glorified Jesus)

John 18:33-37 (Jesus before Pilate: What is truth?)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #172, Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor (LSB#534, ELW #475)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #537, O Jesus, King Most Wonderful (LSB #554)

            OR ELW #431, O Christ, What Can it Mean for Us

            OR LSB #538, Praise Be to Christ

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #158, Alleluia! Sing to Jesus (ELW #392)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #173, Rejoice, the Lord is King (ELW #430, Rejoice, for Christ is King)

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

 

 

 

THE PRAYERS, 

14^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 16, Cycle B (August 26, 2018)

 

For the Church, the world, and needs of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Lord God, clothe your Church in the spotless raiment and trusty armor of Jesus’ righteousness. Make it his radiant and faithful bride, adorned with beauty, holiness, goodness and grace. Make it his valiant soldier, adorned with courage, integrity, faithfulness, and perseverance. In all circumstances, use it to draw many afar off to saving faith in Jesus, their Savior, Captain, Bridegroom and Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Defend and restore your Church when it is abused and persecuted for the sake of Christ. Exchange its sackcloth of suffering for the festal robes of salvation; and remove from it all stain of sorrow or sin. Bless, protect, and guide missionaries of your Gospel throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation with your protection and favor. Make us ever mindful that as part of your Church on earth, we reflect Jesus’ name and character to the world. Keep us faithful, generous, and kind, sharing with others the gifts of the Spirit that you have given to us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Bless husbands and wives, parents and children, sisters and brothers, and all whom you have entrusted to us to cherish as family. Knit us together in enduring bonds of affection, respect and fidelity. Bring healing and peace to all households fractured by sin, sorrow, and suffering.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Conform the minds of earthly leaders to your commandments; and grant them strength to accomplish their responsibilities in accordance with your will. Remove from among us the allure of sin, the temptation of power, and the seduction of earthly gain. Teach us to live peaceably with one another, and to share generously and wisely the gifts of your creation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep safe all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others, especially those in our military and all first responders. Give them cool heads and steady hands as they accomplish their duties, and grant success to all they do that serves your will. Give them swift and happy reunions with all who love them; and though we value and honor their service, we long for the day when that service is needed no more.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You hear the cries of the righteous, and of all who suffer. Hear, therefore, and graciously answer our prayers on behalf of all who are afflicted by pain, sorrow, loneliness, despair, abuse, or any other evil which troubles them, including: {List}. Give a spirit of compassion and gentleness to all who care for them; and restore them to communion with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We entrust our beloved dead into your faithful care, Dear Father. Ease the pain of those whose grief is raw and deep. And since we still walk by faith and not by sight, we pray that you would sustain us throughout our earthly pilgrimage with the Cross of your dear Son, and the grace and comfort of your Holy Spirit. Bring us, in your good time, into the bright courts of heaven, where we and all whom you have redeemed shall forever feast on Christ, our Living Bread and our Cup of Salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

13^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 15, Cycle B (August 19, 2018)

 

For the Church, the world, and needs of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Lord God, nourish the Church with your words of Spirit and life. Fill it with the Body and Blood of your dear Son. Make its members children of your heavenly light, filled with wisdom and righteousness. By that same light, guide those who do not yet know you, to the salvation you desire for all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give wisdom, graciousness and prudence to all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake; and use their witness to strengthen our faith and to call their tormentors to repentance and salvation. Bless, protect, and guide missionaries of your Gospel throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Feed the members of our church with the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, and joy in your presence; and grant that we gladly and graciously share this feast with our families, neighbors, friends, and communities.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

We ask your blessing upon parents, foster-parents, and all who care for the precious lives of your little ones. Fill them with the bounty from Wisdom’s table, so that they may raise up their children in godliness and integrity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As Wisdom sets her feast before everyone, move the hearts of our earthly leaders to heed her invitation and sit long at her table. Give them the sustenance they need to think, speak, and act in accordance with your will, so that all who are entrusted to their care might prosper and live in peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for the service of those in our military, and all first responders. Give them wisdom, courage, and competence in dangerous situations. Heal those who are wounded, and shelter those who fall in the line of duty. Bring swiftly and safely home those whose work is not yet done; and grant us all your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You hear the cries of the righteous, and of all who suffer. Hear, therefore, and graciously answer our prayers on behalf of all who are afflicted by pain, sorrow, loneliness, despair, abuse, or any other evil which troubles them, including: {List}. Give a spirit of compassion and gentleness to all who care for them; and restore them to communion with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O gracious heavenly Father, we praise and adore you for the eternal life won for all whom you redeem through the death and resurrection of your dear Son. Especially we remember our beloved dead, including: {List}. Strengthen our faith and fill us with your Holy Spirit, until that day when with all your people, especially those we love and miss the most, you raise us up to life everlasting in your glorious Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. 

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

12^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 14, Cycle B (August 12, 2018)

 

For the Church, the world, and needs of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, feed your Church with the life of your dear Son; and by the power of your Spirit, raise it up on the last day as the very Bride of Christ. Grant that all pastors, priests, bishops, and theologians may feed your people with your living Word, so that many taste and see your graciousness, and are forever blessed for trusting in you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant strength, encouragement, and refreshment to all whose lives are in danger because they name Jesus as Lord. Make their witness shine the light of your judgment and your forgiveness in the hearts of their persecutors. Use your missionaries to feed many hearts with the Word of life and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Turn the hearts of all in this parish toward you, their life and salvation, their living bread and eternal hope. Bless our words and deeds, our worship and fellowship; and use them to glorify your name and nourish the hearts of our neighbors with food that satisfies.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Keep in your care all who are single by choice or by circumstance. Help them to find their joy and fulfillment in serving you, and in strengthening the ties of Christian love that bind one to another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Raise up among us wise and faithful rulers who are guided by your Word and anointed with your Spirit. Incline their ears to the cries of the needy, and to the instruction of your prophets. Help us all to know that true justice and lasting peace are founded upon your commandments alone; and give us strength to live accordingly.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Strengthen, guide, and shield those who serve in our military, and all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Bless their families and friends; and help all of us to appreciate and honor their service and their sacrifice. Grant them swift and joyous reunions when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You fed Elijah in the wilderness, and he journeyed forty days in the strength of that food. We pray that you would grant the bread of health and salvation those who dwell in the wilderness of suffering; that you would strengthen them in their pilgrimage; and that you would surround them with compassion, friendship, encouragement; and that you would keep them steadfast in faith and strong in hope. Today we especially plead on behalf of: {List}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We bless you for the lives of all those who have trusted in you, and who now taste and see the full measure of your gracious care – including: {List}.  Give us true and trustful hearts; draw us all to Christ, our Living Bread, our Resurrection and our Life; and raise us up at the last day to rejoice in the fullness of the salvation you have prepared for your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

11^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 13, Cycle B (August 5, 2018)

 

For the Church, the world, and needs of all people, let us pray to the Lord.

A brief silence

Holy Father, grant to your Church, which is the body of Christ, unity with him and unity in him. Fill it with your Holy Spirit, so that it may become fully mature, grown into the fullness of his stature and his likeness. When people hear its words and see its deeds, by your grace, let them see your love, forgiveness, and salvation, won for them by your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Help us to be ever mindful of our union with those who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake; and strengthen them with the knowledge that they are not forgotten by you or by the rest of the Church. Use your missionaries to feed many hearts with the Word of life and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Feed the people of this congregation with the living Bread of Heaven; and nourish us with the Cup of Blessing from Christ’s hand. Help us to know the depth, height, and breadth of your great love; and give us those gifts of your Spirit which help us to share that love with others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

We pray on behalf those who maintain food pantries, soup kitchens, community gardens, and all initiatives great and small which feed the hungry and help them to feed themselves. Grant that, as their bodies are nourished, their minds, souls and spirits also may be fed with the living Bread from Heaven.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide the deliberations and actions of our earthly rulers, so that your will may be done and your people may receive all they need to live in safety. Teach us to feed one another, not only with food that perishes, but also with your imperishable and holy Word; and establish your peace in our midst.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be with first responders and with all who serve in our military, here or abroad. Conform their actions to your will. When their task is done, grant them swift and joyful reunions with their loved ones. Help us to honor their service, and to provide tangible support for their transition to civilian life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You promise to open your hand and fulfill the desire of every living creature. Therefore, we pray: bestow the gifts of health and hope, comfort and guidance, strength and cheer, to all whose need is great – including: {List}. Feed them with faith and fill them with the life-giving and refreshing waters of your grace and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

With reverence and affection, we remember before you all our loved ones who have died and are at rest in you. Keep us in union with them through our common union in Christ Jesus. Strengthen our love and fellowship with our fellow pilgrims along life’s journey. Bring us all into the unimaginable joy and life you share with your Son and the Holy Spirit, and which you so graciously extend to those whom you have redeemed.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

10^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 12, Cycle B (July 29, 2018)

 

Let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Most holy God, you have rooted and grounded the Church in the life-giving body of your dear Son. Use it to feed, heal, teach, and draw many people to the foot of Jesus’ Cross.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Shelter and bless all who suffer greatly on account of naming Jesus as Lord, especially our sisters and brothers in Syria, Pakistan, North Korea, and Iraq. By their faithful endurance and charity, soften the hearts of their enemies and bring many to repentance and salvation. Use your missionaries to feed many hearts with the Word of life and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Nourish the people of this congregation with the living Bread of heaven. Heal us with your compassion and forgiveness. Give us boldness to proclaim your saving love to those around us who need to hear it most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Bless our young adults with lively faith and the strength of character to resist the fads and follies of the culture. Channel their energy and idealism to accomplish deeds of mercy and words of wisdom. Use them to introduce skeptical friends and cynical co-workers to you, the source of all goodness, truth, and beauty.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to those entrusted with leadership – in government, justice, education, industry, or the arts – upright and honest hearts. Teach them to love wisdom, justice, and mercy. Grant that, through their proper use of authority, all people may receive the blessings of food, health, safety, opportunity, and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for police, firefighters, our military, and all the unsung heroes who risk their lives on behalf of liberty, justice, and safety. Give them the wisdom, courage, and integrity they need to do their jobs faithfully and well. Help us to honor their service and sacrifice, and give them new opportunities to benefit their communities when their present duties are completed

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow your Holy Spirit upon all who cry out to you for help, especially those we name before you now: {List}. Graciously help, heal, restore, and strengthen them. Bless everyone who assists them in their time of need; and increase their faith and trust in you, their Strength and their Redeemer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep in your tender care, dear Father, all who have died trusting in your promises – especially those whose loss we feel most deeply. Heal our grief, strengthen our faith, and forgive our sins of doubt, despair, or bitterness. Nourish us with the Bread of Life and refresh us with your Holy Spirit. And lead us into your heavenly Kingdom, where with all the redeemed, we shall rejoice in your goodness forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Hear and graciously answer our prayers, dear Lord, as it is best for us and most glorifies your holy name. Amen.