THE PRAYERS, 

Nativity of St. John the Baptist, Cycle B (June 24, 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

Heavenly Father, grant that your Church should be like your servant John: Humbly and fearlessly pointing to the One who is greater, and who baptizes with the Holy Spirit and with fire. Make its proclamation urgent, faithful, and unambiguous. Use it to bring many to repentant faith in Jesus, that they may live.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 The message of repentance and baptism into Christ is scorned and rejected by many. Christians in Syria, Pakistan, and elsewhere are tortured for their faith. Keep them steadfast in faith, lovely with holiness, and persistent in their witness to Jesus, that their enemies may repent and be saved. We pray also missionaries of the Gospel, especially in dangerous places.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make this congregation a place of fervent worship and loving service in your name. Help us especially to reach out to those who are poor, hurting, or alienated from us and from you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Bless all farmers, gardeners, and other stewards of creation. Make them wise and generous in their care for the earth and its creatures. By their labors, give food, raiment, and refreshment to all your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant wisdom and righteousness to our earthly rulers, especially those elected or appointed to guide this country, state and community. Teach them to prefer integrity over re-election; justice for all, over special interests; and attentiveness to your will over party platforms or expediency.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Bless with courage, prudence and patience all who work to keep us safe. Give them such integrity and clarity of purpose that all who are in danger or distress may turn to them without hesitation or fear. Shield them from harm; shelter their loved ones in your mighty arms; and bring them home in safety when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who suffer in mind, body, or spirit – especially: {List}. Help us to proclaim the words of John’s father: “In the tender compassion of our God, the dawn from on high shall break upon us; to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep safe in your mighty arms all our beloved dead, and comfort all whose grief is raw and deep. Remind us that you indeed have come to your people to set them free from all that harms and vexes us. Keep our eyes firmly fixed on Christ, our hands constantly extended in prayer and service, and our hearts forever set on the joy you have set before all whom Jesus has redeemed.

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.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

5^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 7, Cycle B (June 24, 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, still the storms of division, heresy, and selfish ambition among your people. Make your Church an ark of safety for all who are overwhelmed by the floodwaters of sin and suffering; and make it a rock against which faithless words and evil deeds are dashed. Grant that through its words and works, many people may see your strong saving love in action, turn to you, and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Like Job, your persecuted servants cry out for a sign that their suffering has meaning; that their faithfulness is precious to you; and that their Redeemer lives and will vindicate them. Deliver them from evil; reveal your mighty arm and never-failing love; and reveal yourself to their tormentors, so that they should repent and believe in you. Shield and defend your missionaries, especially when they are met with hostility and rejection.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Speak your word of peace among the people of this congregation. Keep us steadfast in faith, fervent in worship, persistent in prayer, and tireless in loving service to all who find themselves sinking beneath the waves of suffering, sorrow or shame.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Bless all farmers, gardeners, and other stewards of creation. Make them wise and generous in their care for the earth and its creatures. By their labors, give food, raiment, and refreshment to all your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant wisdom and righteousness to our earthly rulers, especially those elected or appointed to guide this country, state and community. Teach them to prefer integrity over re-election; justice for all, over special interests; and attentiveness to your will over party platforms or expediency.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Bless with courage, prudence and patience all who work to keep us safe. Give them such integrity and clarity of purpose that all who are in danger or distress may turn to them without hesitation or fear. Shield them from harm; shelter their loved ones in your mighty arms; and bring them home in safety when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of all who are overwhelmed by waves of suffering and sorrow; who have been shipwrecked by abuse, abandonment or injustice; who have been cast adrift in the pathless seas of confusion, delusion, or doubt; and who cry out, fearing that you neither hear or care that they are perishing. Extend your mighty hand and outstretched arm and deliver them. Particularly this day we pray for: {List}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for bringing to safe harbor all who have died trusting in you. Give us ears to hear Jesus’ words, “Peace; be still” when all we hear are the wind and waves of turmoil, strife and fear. And, by his merits, bring us into your Kingdom, where with you and with all whom you have redeemed, we may dwell in joyful and blessed peace 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.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

4^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 6, Cycle B (June 17, 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 merciful Lord, clothe your Church with the beauty, holiness and righteousness of Christ. Nurture it with the living water of your Word and Sacraments, so that it may become the lovely dwelling-place for people of every nation, race, and tribe. Grant that its words and deeds may bear the fruit which you desire, and which last unto eternity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 We lift before you the plight of Christians around the world who are persecuted and reviled for your Name’s sake. Grant that their suffering may bear a rich harvest of faith, endurance, and forgiveness, until every knee should bow to adore you. Shield and defend your missionaries, especially when they are met with hostility and rejection.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Plant this congregation firmly in Christ, our living water; so that we may abide in his love, share his forgiveness, teach his commandments, and share in his righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Heavenly Father, in you all good and faithful earthly fatherhood finds its source, its guide, and its consummation. Bless all fathers, and all who act with a father’s love, not just this day but always. Fill them with holy wisdom, gentle strength, steadfast care, and patient hope; and grant that in their care, all children may find protection, guidance and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach our earthly rulers to walk not in the counsel of the ungodly; nor to stand in the way of sinners; nor to sit in the seat of scoffers. Teach them rather to delight on your Law; to meditate on it day and night; and to establish it as the source of justice, truth, and well-being among all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Keep in your special care all who take up arms in defense of life and liberty. Teach them your commandments; fill their minds with wisdom, their hearts with integrity, and their arms with courage and strength. Bless their loved ones, and grant them a swift and joyful homecoming.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to all who suffer in mind, body, or spirit, the refreshing waters of your compassion and healing; and grant that they may dwell in the safety of your care even in the midst of all that troubles them. Especially we remember before you: {List}.  Bless those who care for them; help us all to speak words of encouragement and offer deeds of kindness to them; and bring us all into the unending joy of your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for gathering into the spacious branches of your heavenly Kingdom all the redeemed who have gone before us, especially those we love and miss the most. Grant that we may always find refreshment in your Word, blessing in your Sacraments, guidance in your Spirit, and forgiveness in your Son, so that, with all your people, we may be gathered into the welcoming shelter of your embrace and may abide there in joy 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.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

3^rd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 5, Cycle B (June 10, 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

Holy Father, purify and renew your Church, so that all who are baptized should do your will, speak your word, care for your people, and live as true sisters and brothers of your Son, our Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cast out the forces of evil from this world which seek to destroy your suffering Church. Gather in your tender care all who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Savior, Lord, and Brother; and soften the hearts of all their foes, until they, too, repent and strive to do your will. Give a double portion of your Spirit to all missionaries of the Gospel, especially in places most hostile to its proclamation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew the people of this congregation day by day. Give us generous and willing hearts as we seek ways of serving you and sharing your love with those around us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer

Strengthen the bonds of affection, respect, and care in all families. Give peace and health to homes filled with discord, abuse or grief. Enthrone yourself in every heart, so that, in loving and serving you, our true and heavenly Father, family members also draw closer to one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give us leaders who work to do your will as they take counsel for the nations. We ask your blessing and guidance especially upon the elected and appointed leaders in our own nation and communities. Despite the brokenness of creation and the suffering inflicted by sin and evil, give your people a foretaste of the true freedom and lasting peace that only you can bestow.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 Arm those who stand harm’s way on behalf of others with courage, wisdom, integrity and skill. Crown with your blessing all they do which is in accordance with your will. Shield them when they fall, and give patient hope to their loved ones. Bring them home swiftly and safely when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you all who suffer, especially those who have asked for our intercession on their behalf, including: {List}. Refresh them with the healing power of your life-giving Spirit; help us to minister to them with compassion and gentle patience; and restore them to fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most merciful and gracious Father, we thank you for the lives of our loved ones who have died in the shelter of your embrace. Grant comfort to all whose grief runs deep. Keep us safely in your Son’s faithful care; cheer us with your Holy Spirit; guide our steps and shape our lives in accordance with your will; and bring us to the joyful homecoming with all whom Christ claims as sister and brother, mother and friend.

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.

 

THE PRAYERS, 

2^nd  Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 4, Cycle B (June 3, 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

Lord God, grant that throughout the world, your Church may enter into your Sabbath rest. Teach it to more perfectly love, praise, and worship you. Refresh and strengthen it for witness and service. And make it a haven of peace, joy, and fellowship where many may find health and salvation through the merits of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give renewed strength and courage to your persecuted servants. Make their words, deeds, and lives shine with the love of Jesus. By their faithful witness, confound and convert their tormentors. And give a double portion of your Spirit to all missionaries of the Gospel, especially in places most hostile to its proclamation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you all who must work on the Sabbath, on holidays, through the night, or in long or swing shifts. Renew their strength and dedication. Grant that they may pray and glorify you amid the challenges of their labors. And let them be an example and an encouragement to all with whom they work.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our earthly leaders – whether their responsibilities are in government, education, business, the military, or elsewhere in our culture, community, and country. Make them wise, good, and just. Remind them that they must give an account of their leadership to you, the Lord, Judge, and King of all nations. And grant that, under their guidance, all people may live peaceable and goodly lives.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 You delivered your people Israel from earthly bondage to cruel overlords. We beseech you on behalf of all who are in bondage. Some are slaves to drugs, violence, or pornography. Others have been coerced into hopeless, brutal servitude. Deliver them from evil, dear Lord; and help us to be instruments of your Sabbath peace to them as they heal.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

The healing you bring to all who suffer is a foretaste of your eternal Sabbath rest. Bestow it upon all who are burdened and sorrowful – especially {List}. Restore them to health and hope, and to fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, thank you for receiving our blessed dead into the perfect peace and abundant life of your Kingdom. Bring your comfort, strength, and peace to all who labor under sorrow’s load. Refresh all of our hearts, so that we may be of good courage throughout our earthly pilgrimage. And receive us, with all whom you have redeemed through the death and resurrection of Jesus, into that joy-filled Sabbath rest which has no end.

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.

 

Lessons and Suggested Hymns,

Pentecost 2- Labor Day Weekend, Cycle B

(June 3 – September 2, 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.

 

 

June 3: 2^nd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 4

Deuteronomy 5:12-15 (Observe Sabbath, let all rest in remembrance of how God delivered you from slavery)

Psalm 81:1-10 (Praise God who delivered you from bondage; have no other gods!)

2 Corinthians 4:5-12 (Proclaim Christ as Lord; this treasure in earthen pots; Paul’s sufferings for Gospel)

Mark 2:23-3:6 (Eating, healing on Sabbath: sabbath made for man, not vice versa)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #161, O Day Full of Grace (LSB #503, ELW #627)

     OR ELW #531, The Trumpets Sound, the Angels Sing

Hymn of the Day: LBW #251, O Day of Rest and Gladness (LSB #906, ELW #521)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #548, O Worship the King, All-Glorious Above (LSB #804, ELW #842)

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

      OR ELW #528, Come and Fill Our Hearts (sung several times)

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

 

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June 10: 3^rd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 5

 Genesis 3:8-15 (The consequences of the Fall)

Psalm 130 (Out of the depths…)

2 Corinthians 4:13 – 5:1 (Outer nature wasting away, but preparing for the weight of glory)

Mark 3:20-35 (How can Satan cast out Satan; who is my mother, brother, sister?)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #415, God of Grace and God of Glory (LSB #850, ELW #705)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #470, Praise and Thanks and Adoration (familiar tune)

 (ELW #783) (LSB #569, Praise to You and Adoration)

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

     OR WOV #668, There in God’s Garden (ELW #342)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #476, Have No Fear, Little Flock (LSB #735, ELW #764)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #370, Blest Be the Tie That Binds (LSB #649, ELW #656)

Closing Hymn: WOV #781, My Life Flows On In Endless Song (ELW #763)

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

 

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June 17: 4^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 6, Father’s Day

 Ezekiel 17:22-24 (God plants a cedar sprig on mountain of Israel where all may find shelter)

Psalm 1 (Blessed is the man who meditates on God’s Law day and night)

            ELW: Psalm 92:1-4, 12-15 (Praise God day and night; the righteous flourish like palm trees)

2 Corinthians 5:1-11 (We will be further clothed, in eternal life)

            ELW: 2 Corinthians 5:6-13 (We walk by faith, not sight; all must appear before judgment seat;

all done in Christ for others, not self)

Mark 4:26-34 (Parable of growing seed & mustard seed)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #560, Oh, That I Had a Thousand Voices (LSB #811, ELW #833)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #234, Almighty God, Your Word is Cast (LSB #577, ELW #516)

     OR LSB #586, Preach You the Word, and Plant it Home

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #771, Great is Thy Faithfulness (LSB #809, ELW #733)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #357, Our Father, By Whose Name (LSB #863, ELW #640)

Closing Hymn: LBW #362, We Plow the Fields and Scatter (ELW #680 [Spanish tune], 681)

 

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June 24: 5^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 7, OR Nativity of St. John the Baptist

 5 Pentecost, Proper 7:

 Job 38:1-11 (God answers Job from whirlwind)

Psalm 124 (If the Lord had not been our own side, the flood would have taken us)

            ELW: Psalm 107:1-3, 23-32 (God delivered those in peril on sea; praise him!)

2 Corinthians 6:1-13 (Now is the acceptable time to accept God’s grace! The sufferings of Paul)

Mark 4:35-41 (Jesus stills the storm)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #552, In Thee is Gladness (LSB #818, ELW #867)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #333, Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me (LSB #722, ELW #767)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #543, Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of Creation (LSB #790, ELW #858)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #334, Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me (LSB #715, ELW #755)

Closing Hymn: LBW #467, Eternal Father, Strong to Save (LSB #717, ELW #756)

_  _  _  _  _  _

Nativity of St. John the Baptist:

Malachi 3:1-4 (The prophet who goes before the Lord; refiner’s fire)

Psalm 141 (Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his servants)

Acts 13:13-26 (Brief history of Israel, Davidic line leading to Jesus, who was foretold by John)

Luke 1:57-80 (Announcement and birth of John the Baptist)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #36, On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry (LSB #344, ELW #249)

Hymn of the Day:  LBW #29, Comfort, Comfort Now My People (LSB #347, ELW #256)

     OR LSB #346, When All the World Was Cursed (It’s good, honest!)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #403, Lord Speak to Us, That We May Speak (ELW #676)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #379, Spread, O Spread, Almighty Word

     (ELW #663) (LSB #830, Spread the Reign of God the Lord)

Closing Hymn: LBW #178, v, 1, 15, 3, By All Your Saints in Warfare (LSB #518, v, 1, 18, 3)

     ELW #421, v. 1, 14, 3, By All Your Saints Still Striving [eye roll])

 

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 July 1: 6^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 8

 Lamentations 3:22-33 (God’s steadfast love & compassion never cease)

Psalm 30 (I cried to you for help; you healed me; what profit if I go into the Pit?)

2 Corinthians 8:1-9, 13-15 (Be generous in giving to needs of the saints)

            ELW: 2 Corinthians 8:7-15 (Omits example of Macedonians)

Mark 5:21-43 (A girl restored to life; a woman with flow of blood healed)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #401, Before You, Lord, We Bow (LSB #966, ELW #893)

Hymn of the Day:  LBW #453, If You But Trust in God to Guide You (ELW #769)

     (LSB #750, If Thou But Trust in God to Guide Thee)

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #738, Healer of Our Every Ill (ELW #612)

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

Communion Hymn #2: WOV #746, Day By Day (ELW #790)

     OR WOV 777, Give Me Jesus (ELW #770)

     OR LBW #460, I am Trusting You, Lord Jesus (LSB #729)

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

 

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July 8: 7^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 9

 Ezekiel 2:1-5 (God’s Spirit within the prophet called to speak to rebellious people)

Psalm 123 (Have mercy; we have had enough of contempt)

2 Corinthians 12:1-10 (Paul’s visions, and the thorn in the flesh)

Mark 6:1-13 (Jesus rejected in Nazareth; the 12 are sent on mission trip)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #383, Rise Up, O Saints of God! (ELW #669)

Hymn of the Day: WOV #756, Lord, You Give the Great Commission (ELW #579)

     OR LBW #238, God Has Spoken By His Prophets (LSB #583) (Tune may not be familiar, so use “Austria” –          “Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken.” It works great.)

     OR LSB # 856, O Christ, Who Called the Twelve

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #492, O Master, Let Me Walk With You (ELW #818)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #381, Hark, the Voice of Jesus Calling (LSB #827)

     OR WOV #752, Here I Am, Lord (ELW #574)

Closing Hymn: LBW #567, God of Our Fathers

     OR ELW #887, This is My Song (tune is Finlandia; nice words)

 

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July 15: 8^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 10

Amos 7:7-15 (Amos speaks of God’s judgment, and is told by king to take a hike)

Psalm 85:1-13 (Restore us again, O God of our salvation; righteousness and peace have kissed)

            ELW: Psalm 85:8-13 (Eliminates wrath, plea for forgiveness)

Ephesians 1:3-14 (Spiritual blessings in Christ, who has prepared our eternal inheritance)

Mark 6:14-29 (John the Baptist loses his head)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #499, Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing (LSB #686, ELW #807)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #322, The Clouds of Judgment Gather (tune is Irish, very nice, but you can

substitute the tune for “Lead On, O King Eternal”)

     OR LBW #454, If God Himself Be For Me (LSB #724) (ELW #788, If God My Lord Be For Me)

Communion Hymn #1:  WOV #627, My Lord, What a Morning (LSB #968, ELW #438)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #461, Fight the Good Fight (LSB #664)

     OR ELW #483, Here is Bread

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

 

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July 22: 9^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 11, OR St. Mary Magdalene

  9 Pentecost, Proper 11:

 Jeremiah 23:1-5 (God will replace Israel’s false shepherds; righteous branch of David)

Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd)

Ephesians 2:11-22 (Joined together in Christ, he is our peace through blood of his cross)

Mark 6:30-44 (Feeding the 5000)

            ELW: Mark 6: 30-34, 53-56 (Jesus teaches [before feeding 5000], and heals 

                    [after; will get feeding miracle from John])

 

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

     OR LSB #646, Church of God, Elect and Glorious (Really nice. Tune is same as “Lord, You gave

the great commission”.)

Hymn of the Day: WOV #716, Word of God, Come Down on Earth (LSB #545, ELW #510)

     OR LBW #235, Break Now the Bread of Life (ELW #515)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #212, Let Us Break Bread Together (ELW #471)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #474, Children of the Heavenly Father (LSB #725, ELW #781)

Closing Hymn: LBW #196, Praise the Lord, Rise Up Rejoicing (2^nd verse is perfect!) (ELW #544)

     OR LBW #481, Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us (LSB #711, ELW #789)

     OR LBW #371, With God as Our Friend (it sings like a Swedish folk dance tune, and the words are delightful)

_  _  _  _  _

St. Mary Magdalene:

Ruth 1:6-18 (Ruth steadfastly remains with Naomi)

Psalm 73:23-29 (Whom have I in heaven but you?)

Acts 13:26-33a (We are witnesses to the death and resurrection of Jesus)

John 20:1-2, 11-18 (Easter encounter: Mary and Jesus)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #94, My Song is Love Unknown (LSB #430, ELW #343)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #336, Jesus, Thy Boundless Love to Me (LSB #683)

     OR LBW #356, O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts (ELW #658)

     OR LSB #542, When I Behold Christ Jesus

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #385, What Wondrous Love is This (LSB #543, ELW #666)

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

     OR WOV #6932, For All the Faithful Women (LSB #855, ELW #419)

Closing Hymn: LBW #540, Praise the Lord! O Heav’ns (ELW #823)

 

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July 29: 10^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 12

Genesis 9:8-17 (God makes rainbow a sign of his covenant with Noah)

            ELW: 2 Kings 4:42-44 (Elisha feeds 100)

Psalm 136:1-9 (Give thanks to God; he is good; his steadfast love endures forever)

            ELW: Psalm 145:10-18 (All eyes look to you, you give food in due season

Ephesians 3:14-21 (Be strengthened by Spirit, rooted and grounded in Christ)

Mark 6:45-56 (Jesus walks on water, heals many in Gennesaret)

            ELW: John 6:1-21 (Feeding of 5000, walking on water)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #348, O Worship the King (LSB #804, ELW #842)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #333, Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me (LSB #722, ELW #767)

     OR (if using ELW texts) ELW #461, All Who Hunger, Gather Gladly

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #346, When Peace, Like a River (LSB #763)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #527, v. 1-3, 6-7: All Creatures of Our God and King

     (ELW #835: “All Creatures, Worship God Most High”– fewer verses, altered)

Closing Hymn: WOV #771, Great Is Thy Faithfulness (LSB #809, ELW #733)

     OR LBW #188, I Bind Unto Myself Today (LSB #604, ELW #450)

     OR ELW #482, I Come With Joy

 

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August 5: 11^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 13

Exodus 16:2-15 (Israelites complain, God sends quail, manna; Moses says compliant is against God)

            ELW: Exodus 16:2-4, 9-15 (less warning)

Psalm 145:10-21 (The eyes of all look to you, you give them food in due season)

ELW: Psalm 78:23-29 (Mortals ate bread of heaven)

Ephesians 4:1-16 (Unity of the Body of Christ, through the Spirit)

John 6:22-35 (My Father, not Moses, gives the true bread from heaven. I am the bread of life)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #343, Guide Me Ever Great Redeemer (ELW #618) 

(LSB #918, Guide Me, O Thou Great Redeemer)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #210, At the Lamb’s High Feast (LSB #633, ELW #362)

     OR WOV #711, You Satisfy the Hungry Heart (LSB #641, ELW #484)

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

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #197, O Living Bread From Heaven (LSB #642)

Closing Hymn:  LBW #353, May We Your Precepts, Lord, Fulfill (LSB #698)

OR ELW #649, Behold, How Pleasant

 

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August 12: 12^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 14

 1 Kings 19:1-8 (Elijah flees from Jezebel, is fed by angel that he might go where God leads him)

            ELW: 1 Kings 19:4-8 (No Jezebel!)

Psalm 34:1-8 (Look to the Lord, be radiant; taste and see how gracious the Lord is)

Ephesians 4:17-5:2 (Old vs. new life; rules of that new life)

            ELW: Ephesians 4:25-5:2 (No mention of lusts, licentiousness)

John 6:35-51 (I am the bread of life; I will raise you up at the last day)

            ELW: John 6:35, 41-51 (Omits Jesus’s words about doing Father’s will)

 

Opening hymn: WOV #702, I Am the Bread of Life (ELW #485)

     OR LBW #203, Now We Join in Celebration (ELW #462)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #172, Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor (LSB #534, ELW #475)

     OR LBW #207, We Who Once Were Dead (ELW #495)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #126, Where Charity and Love Prevail (LSB #845)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #200, For the Bread Which You Have Broken (ELW #494)

     OR WOV #706, Eat This Bread, Drink This Cup (LSB #638, ELW #492)

Closing Hymn: LBW Here, O My Lord, I See Thee (LSB #631)

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

 

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August 19: 13^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 15

 Joshua 24:1-2a, 14-18 (Renewal of covenant before entering Promised Land)

            ELW: Proverbs 9:1-16 (Wisdom sets feast, beckons all to eat)

Psalm 34:12-22 (Many are the afflictions of the righteous; the Lord rescues them from them all)

            ELW: Psalm 34:9-14 (fear, seek the Lord, pursue righteousness; omits verses about afflictions of righteous)

Ephesians 5:15-21 (Don’t be drunk on wine, but filled with the Spirit)

            ELW: Ephesians 5:15-20 (eliminates being subject to one another)

John 6:51-69 (My flesh is true food, my blood, true drink; Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of           eternal life)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #552, In Thee is Gladness (LSB #818, ELW #867)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #464, You Are the Way; Through You Alone (LSB #526, ELW #758)

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #205, Now the Silence (LSB #910, ELW #460)

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

 (ELW #476, Thee We Adore, O Savior, God Most True, a Gerard Manley Hopkins translation)

Closing Hymn: LBW #534/533, Now Thank We All Our God (LSB #895, ELW #839/840)

 

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August 26: 14^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 16

 Isaiah 29:11-19 (Wisdom of wise shall perish; poor and needy shall obtain joy, exult in the Lord)

            ELW: Joshua 24:1-2a, 14-18 (Chose the god you will serve; as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord)

Psalm 14 (Denunciation of fools who say, “There is no God”)

            ELW: Psalm 34:15-22 (Vindication of righteous, punishment of evildoers)

Ephesians 5:22-33 (Exhortation to wives and husbands; marriage as symbol of Christ and Church)

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

Mark 7:1-13 (You abandon commandment of God, hold to human tradition!)

            ELW: John 6:56-59 (The one who eats me, the living bread, will live forever)

 

Opening hymn: LBW #499, Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing (LSB #686, ELW #807)

Hymn of the Day: LBW #366, Lord of Our Life and God of Our Salvation (LSB #659, ELW #766)

     OR (if preaching on Epistle) WOV #751, As Man and Woman We Were Made (sprightly Christmas carol tune)

     OR (If preaching on John) ELW #464, Bread of Life, Our Host and Meal

Communion Hymn #1: LBW #230, Lord, Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word (LSB #655, ELW #517)

     OR LBW #219, Come With Us, O Blessed Jesus (ELW #501)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #263, Abide With Us, Our Savior (LSB #919, ELW #539, Abide, O Dearest Jesus)

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

 

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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)

 

THE PRAYERS, 

Holy Trinity, Cycle B (May 27, 2018)

In the power of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Gracious Father, bless and preserve your holy Church, purchased with the blood of your dear Son and sanctified with the fire of your Spirit. Keep it steadfast in faith; sound in doctrine; loving in service; generous in giving; ardent in worship; and holy in living. In all things, make it a lamp filled with the light of your presence, welcoming and guiding many to salvation in your holy Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the shelter, strength, and inheritance of all who are hated because of your holy Name. Give them courage, graciousness, and hope; and soften the hearts of their enemies. Visit with your light and salvation our sister synods and companion congregations; and prosper the work of your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Kindle the hearts and minds of the people of this congregation with your Spirit. Unite us to your Son, and use us to proclaim the gospel in words and deeds to all those we meet.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

This weekend in particular, we remember our beloved dead, especially those who have given their lives for their country. Keep them ever in your care; and hasten the day when sin, warfare, and death shall be no more, and your eternal peace reigns undisturbed in every heart.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

There is no other God beside you, who are Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Give your incomparable gifts of faith, wisdom, and righteousness to all people, especially to those who take counsel for the nations. Conform the hearts of all people to your will, and grant us grace to participate in your loving communion.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer. 

With your mighty hand and outstretched arm, protect, guide and defend all those who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Use them to establish safety and order in places of danger and chaos; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dearest Father, gather in your Son’s embrace all who suffer in body, mind or spirit, especially: {List}. Visit them with your salvation; and support them, and all who love, care, and pray for them, with your healing and holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most Holy and Blessed Trinity, we praise and adore you for welcoming into your eternal communion of life and love all who died trusting in you. Keep our hearts firmly fixed on you, the Lord and Giver of life, the Alpha and the Omega, the Creator, Savior, and Renewer of the world. Bring us, with the whole company of the redeemed of every time and place, every nation, tribe and tongue, into the joy of your presence, where we shall behold you face to face and adore you as Father, Son and Holy Spirit, our Lord and our God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, through the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, we are bold to ask these things in Jesus’ name. Whatever is in accordance with your will, grant us for your dear Son’s sake. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

Day of Pentecost, Cycle B (May 20, 2018) 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, let us pray for the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Come, Holy Spirit, and renew the Church. Fill it with boldness in witnessing to Jesus’ strong saving love. Fill it with faithfulness in proclaiming his Word and celebrating his Sacraments. Fill it with zeal for ministering to all people in his name – especially to the least of those whom he calls sisters and brothers.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and renew the faith of your persecuted Church. Give it grace to endure suffering for Jesus’ sake; and grant that its faithful witness may cause many to turn to Christ and live. Kindle the faith and inspire the proclamation of all missionaries of the Gospel, and of our sister congregations and synods.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and renew the people and the ministry of this congregation. Fill us with joyfulness in worship; eagerness in service; gentleness in fellowship; generosity in giving; and persistence in faithful witness in Jesus’ name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and stir up the faith in all who are confirmed today. Be for them the true Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, and joy in his presence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and renew the face of the earth. Fill the minds of worldly leaders with wisdom in guiding the nations towards peace and justice. Fill their hearts with humility as they wield power and authority. Fill the spirits of the world’s citizens with love for God, neighbor, and the world around them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and bring peace in all places of danger, violence and strife. Fill the minds and direct the actions of all who take up arms in defense of life and liberty. Strengthen and protect them; bless all they do that works for peace and justice; and bring them safely home when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and bring joy, peace, and healing to all whose need is great, especially: {List}. Fill them with the comfort of your presence and lead them into the joy of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Holy Spirit, and cheer the hearts of all who grieve the loss of loved ones. Fill them, and all of us, all with steadfast faith in you, the Lord and Giver of life; in the communion of saints in heaven and on earth; in the forgiveness of sins, in the resurrection of the body; and in the life everlasting.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant us, dear Lord, all that is in accordance with your will, to your glory, and for the building up of your people. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

The Seventh Sunday of Easter, Cycle B (May 13, 2018)

(May also be used for the Ascension of Our Lord)

Let us pray in the name of our risen and ascended Savior for the Church, the world, and for all people according to their needs.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, your Church worships and blesses you for the triumph of your Son over the powers of sin, evil and death. We praise you for his ascension to your right hand; and we pray that you would give your Church steadfastness, joy, and boldness to proclaim his rule to all the world, until he comes in glory.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Ease the suffering of all who are persecuted for naming Jesus as Lord; and give gentleness to their words and peace in their hearts. Bring to repentance and humble faith all who torment them. We also ask your gracious favor upon all missionaries of the Gospel, and upon our sister congregations and synods.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

This congregation thanks and praises you for the passion, resurrection, and ascension of Christ our Savior. Grant us grace to live in accordance with his commands; to proclaim his Lordship over the world; and to share his forgiveness and grace with those who need them most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You care tenderly for your people, especially the littlest who are laid in your arms. We therefore ask your blessing upon all mothers and those who act with a mother’s love. Give them your own patience, steadfastness, tenderness and wisdom. Share your deep gentleness and strong love as they care for their children.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son has ascended on high, and rules as king of all nations. Grant wisdom, humility, and fairness to the leaders of the earth; and teach all people to live together in peace and unity, until the day Christ comes to judge the living and the dead. Bless this nation with peace, honor, and goodness; and conform it to your will.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the sacrifices made by all who risk their lives on behalf of others, especially those who have been wounded; we thank you for those who gave their lives in defense of their country; and we ask your blessing and protection upon all who currently. Bless them, their loved ones, and those whose lives they protect and defend.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the needs of all whose lives are shadowed by suffering or sorrow— especially: {List}. Grant to them the abundant life promised by Jesus; fill them with the grace and comfort of your Holy Spirit; and bless those who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, as Christ has ascended to heaven to reign in glory forever, we await the coming of that day when we, too, shall live with you and with all of your people in joy and glory everlasting. We entrust into your care those who have died trusting your promised inheritance. Keep us in union with them, with all of your saints, and with you, in the power of your Holy Spirit, for the sake of Christ our Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear and graciously answer our prayers in accordance with your will, dear Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

The Sixth Sunday of Easter, Cycle B (May 6, 2018)

Let us pray to our victorious Savior on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their needs.

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, bless your Church with the continued power and presence of your Holy Spirit, so that your love fills and overflows it. Nourish it with Word and Sacrament; and through its words and actions, let the world see, desire, and dwell in your love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cheer the hearts and strengthen the spirits of all who are persecuted for your Name’s sake, and use their witness to cause many to repent and believe in you. We ask your richest blessing also upon our companion synods, sister congregations, and upon your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the people of this congregation with love, respect, and kindness towards each other, so that others in our community may truly know we are your followers. Fill us with wisdom and prudence, and through the gift of your Holy Spirit, make us glad to obey your commandments.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Cause your love and goodness to flourish in our young adults, so that they may be salt, light, leaven, and example to their friends, fellow students, and coworkers.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out upon the leaders of the nations the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might. Teach them to love justice; to act with mercy toward the poor and hungry in their lands; and to walk humbly before your Father. Grant to all people the blessings of peace and unity on earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, bless those in the military and all first responders, with courage, wisdom and integrity. Guide, protect, and strengthen them. Let their labors help create a safe, just world where the innocent may live in peace; and bring them home swiftly when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant the refreshment and joy of your life-giving Spirit to all who cry to you for help. Especially we pray for: {List}. Grant them wholeness of body and mind; a joyful and confident hope in your goodness, and the peace which the world cannot give them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, thank you for choosing, forgiving, and saving the faithful who have gone before us. Thank you for working those deeds in us as well. Do whatever is needed so that we may bear the rich fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. And gather us to your eternal Kingdom, where those fruits may fully ripen and be perfected, to your glory and to the delight of all whom you have redeemed.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to us all that is in accordance with your will, dear Jesus, and accomplish your salvation among us; for you are risen from the dead and dwell in majesty with your Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.