Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three…Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning everyone!

[Enter Bartholomew (we use a bunny puppet)]

Bartholomew: Good morning!

Sammy: Hello, Bartholomew! Happy Easter! 

Bartholomew: Happy Easter, Sammy! Hi Pastor! Happy Easter!

Pastor: How are you holding up, Bartholomew?

Bartholomew: I’m doing great. Last weekend was so much fun. I got to hide eggs for boys and girls all over the place. Did you all find some eggs? What did you find inside the eggs?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: These are great answers.

Bartholomew: I hid a lot of eggs–you guys found some really good ones. I wonder–did any of the adults find leftover eggs with the lawnmower? I try to leave some eggs in extra-challenging places so the moms and dads can have fun finding them too.

Pastor: I found a few lying around here and there. You are definitely good at your job, Bartholomew.

Sammy: Pastor, why does Bartholomew hide eggs? I mean, chickens lay eggs, not bunnies.

Pastor: That’s a great question, Sammy. Bartholomew is a bunny, and bunnies are symbols of new life. Eggs are symbols of new life, too.

Bartholomew: That’s right! And each Easter, I hide eggs around to remind boys and girls that Easter is not about the Easter bunny or eggs or chocolate. Easter is about Jesus. Jesus is risen, and we get to celebrate new life in him.

Sammy: I missed seeing you last week, Bartholomew. I wish you could have been here for worship on Easter. It was a beautiful day.

Bartholomew: You know, Sammy, Easter is more than just one week. We have an entire season in the church year dedicated to Easter. It is fifty days long.

Pastor: Get knowledge, Bartholomew. Easter begins on Easter Sunday and ends on Pentecost.

Bartholomew: When you are as old as I am Pastor, you know a few things.

Sammy: How old are you, Bartholomew? 

Bartholomew: I think I have been hiding eggs for children for about four hundred years now.

Pastor: You are definitely older than me, then.

Sammy: Me too.

Pastor: Let’s say a prayer together. Dear Jesus, thank you for the season of Easter. Help us to deepen our faith in you. Thank you for new life. Amen.

Sammy and Bartholomew: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, everyone!

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, May 24, 2026, Day of Pentecost, A/Memorial Day weekend

All: Numbers 11:24-30 (The Spirit descends on 70 elders)

                OR RCL/ELW:  Acts 2:1-11 (the Holy Spirit descends like tongues of fire)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 25:1-15 (Good and upright is the Lord; so he instructs sinners in the way.)

RCL/ELW: Psalm 104:24-34, 35b (The Spirit renews creation)

Sola/LSB: Acts 2:1-21 (The Holy Spirit descends; Peter comments)

RCL/ELW ditto; or if that was 1^st reading, then 1 Corinthians 12:3b-13(gifts of the Spirit)

ALL: John 7:37-39 (The Spirit wells up like living water in believers’ hearts)

                OR RCL/ELW: John 20:19-23 (Jesus breathes Spirit on disciples)

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

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

Creator Spirit, Heavenly Dove: ELW #577/578

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

(All of these are basically some version of the Latin hymn!)

Hymn of Praise: God of Tempest, God of Whirlwind: ELW #400

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

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

OR Holy Spirit, The Dove Sent From Heaven: LSB #502

Communion Hymn 1: Come Gracious Spirit, Heavenly Dove: LBW #475, ELW #404

Communion Hymn 2: Holy Spirit, Truth/Light Divine: LBW #257, ELW#398, LSB #496

OR O Spirit of Life: WOV #680, ELW #405

Closing Hymn: O Day Full of Grace: LBW #161, ELW #627, LSB #503

OR O Day of Rest and Gladness: LBW #251, ELW #521, LSB #906

*******

In the power of the Spirit, let us pray to God the Father, that through his dear Son, he would accomplish his will for the Church, the world, and all people for whom we pray.

A brief silence

Abba, Father! For Jesus’ sake, in the power of the Holy Spirit, we may call you Father. Thank you for giving us the same Spirit that filled your beloved Son. Thank you for the gifts of that Spirit, given so we may bless and praise you, and proclaim your love to those who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out your Spirit upon the Church. Kindle in it the flame of truth, holiness, and goodness. Make it steadfast in suffering, faithful in witness, generous in service, and ardent in worship. Conform it to Christ, so that, through your Spirit, many are drawn to faith in Him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

When they were persecuted, the martyrs’ joyful faith softened stony hearts. Do this also for your servants who suffer on account of Christ. Sustain them with your life-giving Spirit. Let their faithful suffering bear rich fruit, feeding even their tormentors with repentance and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Renew the hearts, minds, worship, and life of this congregation. Make us lovely and loving, joyful and kind, faithful and forgiving, generous and patient, humble and valiant. Make us look like Jesus, and use us to draw others into his nearer presence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Through your Spirit, you gave the apostles words to proclaim your saving truth to pilgrims from many nations. We pray for translators, editors, commentators, authors, and narrators; for speech therapists; for teachers, tutors, and theologians; and for all of us. Let us use words wisely and well. Give us a passion for speaking truth in love. By that same Spirit, discipline our tongues to refrain from words that hurt without cause, from convenient lies, and from rhetoric that inflames base passions. And to those who cannot speak, impart your Spirit who searches the heart and intercedes before you with sighs too deep for words.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Instruct the leaders of the nations in your ways, O Lord. Give them the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of you, their Lord; so that they, and the people in their care, may have joy in your presence. Teach all of us the things that make for peace; and give us a spirit willing to them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

On this Memorial Day weekend, we lovingly commend into your care all our beloved dead, especially those who gave their life in service of their country. Keep their memories fresh and bright. Spur us to deeds of faithfulness, generosity, and self-sacrifice. And hasten the day when wars shall cease, evil is vanquished, every tear is wiped away, and you are truly all in all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bring healing and hope also to everyone who has been afflicted by suffering, and who needs the grace of your life-giving Spirit. Especially we remember before you: {List}. Your Spirit brings renewed life to all creation. Grant that renewal to your servants, and to all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you, heavenly Father, for receiving our beloved dead into your arms. Thank you for the life, death and resurrection of your dear Son, who has bestowed the Spirit of life upon all who trust in him. Breathe that Spirit into our lives, and keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Raise us up in the power of the Spirit and in union with our dear Savior, so that with the whole redeemed and renewed creation, we may forever adore and worship you, the Lord of heaven and earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear our prayers, O Father, for the sake of Jesus your Son; and by the power of your Holy Spirit, bring what is pleasing in your sight to fruition in our lives. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers May 17, 2026, 7^th Sunday of Easter or Ascension (Transferred), A

7^th Sunday of Easter

Note: some petitions echo language in the hymns “O God Beyond All Raising” and “Beautiful Savior. Consider using either or both this Sunday!

All: Acts 1: (6-10), 12-26 (Matthias chosen to replace Judas)

All: Psalm 68:1-10, 32-35 (The holy God is also the protector of orphans and widows)

All: 1 Peter 4:12-19; 5:6-11 (Christian suffering; God of grace support, strengthen, establish you)

All: John 17:1-11 (Jesus’ High Priestly prayer; glorify yourself in them as you have in me)

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

Opening Hymn: When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW #546, ELW #853, LSB #807

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

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

Hymn of Praise:  Give to Our God Immortal Praise: LBW #520, ELW #848

OR Hymn paraphrase of “This is the Feast;” See Easter Sunday

Hymn of the Day: O One With God the Father (Use tune for “The Church’s One Foundation”): LBW #77

OR Hear Us, Father, When We Pray (Great words, ok tune): LSB #773

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

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

Closing Hymn: O God Beyond All Praising: WOV #797, ELW #880

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

#####

Ascension (Transferred)

All: Acts 1:1-11 (The Ascension of Jesus)

All: Psalm 47 (God has gone up with a shout!)

All: Ephesians 1:15-23 (The power of grace put into effect when God exalted Jesus

above every authority and power)

All: Luke 24:44-53 (Shorter account of Ascension; conclusion of the gospel)

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

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

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

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

Hymn of Praise: Look, the Sight is Glorious:  LBW #156

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

OR Hymn paraphrase of “This is the Feast;” See Easter Sunday

Hymn of the Day: Alleluia! Sing to Jesus: LBW #158, ELW #392, LSB #821

OR Alleluia, Alleluia! Hearts To Heaven: LSB #477 (Note: tune is “Ode to Joy!)

Communion Hymn 1: Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise (ELW #834, LSB #802)

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

Closing Hymn: A Hymn of Glory Let Us Sing: LBW #157, ELW #393, LSB #493 (which mercifully has left off excessive exclamation points)

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

*******

With joyful confidence, let us approach our Lord’s throne of grace, there to pray on behalf of the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

O God beyond all praising, we worship you and adore you. You have revealed your glory through your Son, who has risen and ascended and who reigns at your right hand forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church abide in Jesus, as he abides in you. May it always preach the Gospel of salvation and celebrate the Sacraments in accordance with that Gospel. Let it proclaim to the whole world your blessings without number and your mercy without end.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to your persecuted people a firm confidence in the hope that has been established through the steadfast obedience of Christ their Lord. Give them grace to triumph through their sufferings, and rise to serve you even in the presence of those who trouble them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Unite our hearts with fellow disciples of your Son, and with missionaries of your Gospel. Let us all be so united to your beloved Son and with one another, that in everything, we glorify your Name and spread the bounties of your mercy throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let the radiance of our Beautiful Savior fill the hearts and sanctify the ministries of this congregation. Make our worship into a joyful duty, and our service into a sacrifice of praise. Use us to lead others to Jesus, that with us, they may worship, honor, bless and adore him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You have appointed your Son as King of creation and Lord of the nations. Teach our leaders to praise your name, to love justice and righteousness, and to seek those things that make for peace. Come to the help of those whose lives are troubled by sorrow and hardship. Draw all people into the glorious and gentle rule of Christ their Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep in your care all who stand in harm’s way to right wrongs, establish safety, and protect life and liberty. Prosper all they do that serves your will. Bring them home safely and soon. Heal those who are wounded. Help us value their skills and insights when they return to civilian life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift our hearts to you on behalf of all whose lives are clouded by any sort of affliction or sorrow, including: {List}. Let the light of Jesus’ countenance heal and cheer them. Let all who care for them do so with tenderness and compassion. Grant that together we may praise you for your unending mercies.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Lord, those who have died trusting in your promises now see their Beautiful Savior face to face. Thank you for bestowing this blessing upon them. Continue to show to us your love. Though we are your unworthy servants, bless us with such good gifts as will sustain us and others in this life. Bring us into that endless life and light you share with all whom you have redeemed. Grant that into eternity we always sing, “Glory and honor, praise, adoration, now and forevermore be thine!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We praise and magnify you, most holy Father; we entrust our prayers and petitions to you in the strong name and for the dear sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, Prayers, May 10, 2026, 6^th Sunday of Easter (Also Mother’s Day), A

Sola/LSB: Acts 17:16-31 (Paul in Athens: What you worship as unknown, I proclaim to you)

            RCL/ELW: Acts 17:22-31 (Omits “setting the scene” with the Greek philosophers)

All: Psalm 66:8-20 (God has tested, delivered us; we will offer sacrifices and extol him)

All: 1 Peter 3:13-22 (Give account of hope within you with gentleness; suffer for doing

            good, as Christ did; baptism an appeal to God for good conscience, through

            Christ’s resurrection and exaltation)

All: John 14:15-21 (If you love me, keep my commandments; I will pray the Father,

            who will send you the Spirit)

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

Opening Hymn: Christ is the King! O Friends, Rejoice: LBW #386, ELW #662

OR All People That On Earth Do Dwell: LBW #245, ELW #883, LSB #791

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

OR Hymn paraphrase of “This is the Feast;” See Easter Sunday

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

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

Communion Hymn 2: Lord, Speak to Us, That We May Speak: LBW #403, ELW #676

Closing Hymn: May We Your/Thy Precepts, Lord, Fulfill: LBW #353, LSB #698

OR I Love to Tell the Story: LBW #390, ELW #661

*******

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

A brief silence

Thank you, Jesus, for your faithful servants who have openly proclaimed the greatest mystery: that you are true God and true man, crucified and Raised from the dead for the forgiveness of sin unto eternal life. Thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to teach, comfort and guide us in your Way forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Lord, grant that your Church always adores and proclaims you as the Redeemer of the world. Fill it with your Spirit. Equip it to defend the faith, even to nay-sayers, with gentleness and respect. Kindle such love for you that it beautifully keeps your commandments and draws many to faith in you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Come quickly to help your persecuted disciples throughout the world. Fill them with faith, hope and charity. Let those who revile their hope in you be put to shame.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give a double portion of your Spirit to missionaries, evangelists, and theologians. Raise up a new generation of pastors and other faithful witnesses to the Gospel. Give wisdom to all who teach the faith to the next generation of believers. Bless all they do that glorifies your name.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Give the members of this congregation the keen eye and quick wit of St. Paul, who proclaimed your Gospel to skeptical Greek philosophers. Though we may speak more simply, help us to relate to people around us with words and stories that help them draw closer to you. Help us to share the hope that is in us, and the love you bear for them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Bless all mothers, and everyone who acts with a mother’s care. Grant wisdom, a firm yet gentle hand, infinite patience, and plenty of sleep. Comfort those whose child is estranged, suffering, or deceased. Forgive and give new hope to women who have had an abortion for any reason. Shower your mercy on those who long to have children but cannot, who have miscarried, and upon all who grieve the loss of their own mothers. Give all of us grace to rightly honor them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

The nations do not know you, dear Lord. They suffer because they are starving for your Word of life, truth, and salvation. Bestow your Spirit on the world, so that our leaders seek to obey your Father’s will. Let all who blindly serve “an unknown god” learn to love and serve you, their Redeemer and Lord. Teach all of us to walk in your pathways of life and truth.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Deal gently with all who are afflicted by pain, confusion, sorrow, remorse, or despair, including: {List}. Heal every hurt they have sustained. Bring them into a place of refreshment, health, and hope. By your gracious Spirit, give compassion and patience to all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Most holy Savior, we bless and adore you. We commend to your care our beloved dead. Do not leave us as orphans, grieving as those who have no hope. Draw close to us and keep us in your care. Fill us with your Spirit. Make us abound in faith and good works. Help us to share these gifts with gentleness and respect. Gather us with all your saints into your arms. Lead us into the life, light, and love you share with your Father and the Holy Spirit forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We praise and magnify you, dear Jesus. Accept our prayers and lay them at the feet of your Father, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns gloriously as our Lord and our God, now and forever. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, May 3, 2026, 5^th Sunday of Easter, A

Sola/LSB: Acts 6:1-9; 7:2a, 51-60 (Deacons, including Stephen, are chosen; excerpts from

                Stephen’s speech; the stoning of Stephen)

                RCL/ELW: Acts 7:55-60 (The stoning of Stephen)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 146 (Happy are they whose help is from the Lord, who executes justice

for the poor)

                RCL/ELW: Psalm 31: 1-5,15-16 (Prayer for deliverance from enemies)

All: 1 Peter 2:2-10 (Come to Christ, the living Stone who will cause many to stumble;

                but you are his own people, a royal priesthood)

All: John 14:1-14 (I am the Way, Truth and Life; believe that the Father is in me, I am in him)

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

Opening Hymn: From God Can Nothing Move Me: LBW #468, LSB #713

OR The Son of God Goes Forth to War: LBW #183, LSB #661

OR Rise Up, O Saints of God: LBW #383, ELW #669

Hymn of Praise: Make Songs of Joy to Christ Our Head (easy tune!): LBW #150, LSB #484

OR Soli Deo Gloria: ELW #878

OR Hymn paraphrase of “This is the Feast;” See Easter Sunday

Hymn of the Day: You Are the Way: LBW #464, ELW #758, LSB #526

OR Give Me Jesus: WOV #777, ELW #770

Communion Hymn 1: My Life Flows On in Endless Song: WOV #781, ELW #763

Communion Hymn 2: Jesus, Thy Boundless Love to Me: LBW #336, LSB #683

OR Come, My Way, My Truth, My Life: LBW #513, ELW #816

Closing Hymn:, Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart: LBW #553, ELW #873

Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng: LSB #813

*******

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

A brief silence

Thank you, Jesus, for being the Way to your Father’s house, the Truth that sets us free, and the Life which frees us from sin and death. Thank you for being the Love that never lets us go. Give us grace to share your love with everyone we meet, especially those who have lost their way, strayed from the truth, and are haunted by death.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make the whole Church your house of living stones: holy, precious, your prized possession and beloved Body. Let its words and deeds proclaim the excellence of your salvation. Use it to call many people out of darkness into your marvelous light.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Like Stephen, even today Christians are tortured for proclaiming you as Lord. Give them the grace and strength that you gave Stephen: to fearlessly speak your truth in love; to forgive and pray for their enemies; and to remain faithful to the end.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, we want to be your disciples! But we’re afraid of ridicule, rejection, or persecution. Give us grace to be like Stephen, always praying for others to repent and believe in you. Let us always build up faith in you alone, our Head and Cornerstone.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for everyone in this congregation who supports the ministry of Word and Sacrament through their faithful work. Fill them with your Holy Spirit. Prosper all they do to share the Gospel. Give them joy in serving you and your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, there are so many who have lost their way in life. There are so many who insist there’s no such thing as real truth. There are so many who are dying without knowing your love. Please help us to notice them, walk with them, and find ways of slipping their hand into yours.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Remind our earthly rulers that you alone are King of the nations. Teach them to use authority and power to care for the poor and needy, to do justice and love mercy; and to walk humbly before you. Frustrate the way of the wicked. Make us all lovely with your righteousness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide, protect, and strengthen all who defend life and liberty here and abroad. May they walk in pathways of integrity and justice. When they are wounded, bring healing, hope, and peace to them and to their loved ones. When their task is done, bring them home in honor.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless, heal, comfort, and sustain everyone who cries out to you for help, including: {List}. With the Psalmist, cause them to say, “Happy are they who have the God of Jacob for their help; whose hope is in the LORD their God; who keeps his promise forever.”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, we hear your promise at funerals: “If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”  Therefore we entrust into your keeping our beloved dead. Give us grace to believe your promise. Help us grow in holiness. Strengthen us in compassion and service. Be for us, and for all whom you love, the Way to your Father’s house; the Truth which sets us free from bondage to sin, evil and death; and the Life which eternally transforms us into your likeness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We praise and magnify you, dear Jesus. Accept our prayers and lay them at the feet of your Father, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns gloriously as our Lord and our God, now and forever. Amen.

April 26, 2026, 4^th Sunday of Easter/ Good Shepherd Sunday

Acts 2:42-47 (The common life of the first believers)

Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd)

1 Peter 2:19-25 (Endure suffering for doing right; for you’ve returned to Shepherd

            and guardian of your souls)

John 10:1-10 (Sheep know Shepherd’s voice; Jesus is shepherd, gate for the sheep)

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

A brief silence

Thank you, Jesus, for being our Good Shepherd – even though we balk at being compared to sheep! Thank you for giving us abundant life, even as we walk through death-shadowed valleys.  Thank you for knowing us by name, even though we sometimes forget yours. Claim us and guide us every day, in spite of ourselves, until we are safely in your house forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are the Good Shepherd. Defend the Church from peril, provide for its needs, and lead it in paths of righteousness. Through its ministry, lead many to hear your voice and follow you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are the Faithful Shepherd for your people who are set upon by wolves and persecutors. Protect, guide, and bless them. Give them such grace under pressure that their enemies’ hearts may repent of evil deeds.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You call your sheep by name. Bless the work of theologians and seminary professors. Help them to identify and train faithful “holy sheepdogs,” called by you to help tend your beloved flock.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are the Good Shepherd of this congregation. Lead us with your Word. Prepare our table with your Body and Blood. Teach us to do your will with glad and faithful hearts. And use us to lead many into your safe keeping.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Lead our children, especially teenagers, in paths of righteousness and holiness. Defend them from every enemy that tempts them to stray from your side. Channel their energy, idealism and curiosity into ventures that glorify you and lift up others.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are the Gate of your sheep. Protect the people of every nation from false shepherds; from rulers who care nothing for their welfare; and from all the threatening dangers of this world. Bring peace in places of violence; rich pasture in places of poverty; and true righteousness in places of injustice.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are the Rod and Staff of all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Guide, protect, and strengthen them. Prosper all their works that make for peace, safety and justice; shelter and strengthen their loved ones; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

You are Shepherd who leads us through dark valleys shadowed by suffering. Be the strong Guide and sure comfort of all who call upon you, especially: {List}. Fill them with your abundant life; keep them steadfast in faith; and strengthen and bless all who care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, you prepare a table for us in the presence of our last enemy, death itself. Thank you for leading home all who listened to your voice in their earthly life. Be our Good Shepherd, too. Teach us to hear your voice, nourish us at your Table, and defend us from our great Enemy. Fix our eyes upon your Cross, and lead us through the valley of death’s dread shadows. Bring us into your Father’s house, where with all whom you claim as your dear flock, we shall receive the abundant life which you share with your Father and the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We praise and magnify you, dear Jesus. Accept our prayers and lay them at the feet of your Father, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns gloriously as our Lord and our God, now and forever. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, April 19, 2026, 3^rd Sunday of Easter, A

Note: Even if today isn’t a usual Communion Sunday, consider making it one!!

All: Acts 2:14a, 36-41 (Pentecost: Peter exhorts listeners to repent, be baptized)

All: Psalm 116:1-14 (15-19) (Thanksgiving for deliverance from illness)

All: 1 Peter 1:17-25 (You were ransomed not with gold, but the precious blood of Christ)

All: Luke 24:13-35 (The Road to Emmaus story)

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

Opening Hymn: Around You, O Lord Jesus: LBW #496, ELW #468

OR Day of Arising: ELW #374

Hymn of Praise: Christ the Lord is Risen Today: LBW #130, ELW #373, LSB #469

OR Hymn paraphrase of “This is the Feast;” See Easter Sunday

Hymn of the Day: Who Are You Who Walk in Sorrow: LSB #476

OR Alleluia! Jesus is Risen: WOV #674, ELW #377, LSB #474

OR Come, Let Us Eat: LBW #214, ELW #491, LSB #626

Communion Hymn 1: O Bread of Life/Living Bread From Heaven:

LBW #222, ELW #480, LSB #642 (this is a different tune)

OR What Is This Bread: LSB #629

Communion Hymn 2: Come With Us, O Blessed Jesus: LBW #219, ELW #501

OR Come, Lord Jesus, Be Our Guest: LSB #776 (sing 3x, or as round)

Closing: At the Lamb’s High Feast We Sing: LBW #210, ELW #362, LSB #633

            OR Abide With Me: LBW #272, ELW #629, LSB #878

*******

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

A brief silence

Thank you, Jesus, for walking with us on our Emmaus roads. Thank you for speaking clear words that bring Scripture to life in our hearts. Thank you for making yourself known to us in the breaking of the bread. Thank you for your patient kindness when we are sad and bewildered.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You ransom and purify your Church with your own precious blood. Grant that the Church glorifies you, lives in glad obedience to you, and preaches your Gospel to all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear the cries of those who are persecuted on account of you. Deliver them from suffering and sorrow. By their humble trust in you, cause the hearts of their tormentors to be cut to the quick, that they may turn to you and be saved.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let the teaching and testimony of missionaries, pastors, and theologians of the Church cause many hearts to burn with repentance, faith, and joy. Prosper the words and works all who walk in paths of discipleship, to your glory and for the building up of your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation with your dear presence. Let our hearts burn within us as we hear your Word. Come to us in the breaking of the bread at your Table. Kindle sincere affection and love between us all. Make us eager and tireless in telling our family, friends, and neighbors about your love for them, which has triumphed over sin and death.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the companion, comfort, and sure defense of everyone who is far from home and family. By your grace, grant that they all may find a true and eternal home with you.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Heal the suspicions, cruelty, and self-centeredness which afflict the people and leaders of every nation. Teach us reverent obedience to your Father, who judges impartially according to our deeds. Cut our hearts to the quick when we see hurts and injustices. Give us strength to help however we can. Make all of us slow to condemn and swift to show mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of all who suffer in body, mind, heart, or spirit – including: {List}. Rescue their lives from death, their eyes from tears, and their feet from stumbling. Let them walk again in the land of the living, and praise your steadfast love towards them.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

Dear Jesus, with gratitude and affection, we remember your servants whose death is precious in your sight. Stay with us who still walk the long Emmaus roads of life. Bestow on us the grace and comfort of the Holy Spirit. Deliver us from sin and sorrow; and teach us to love each other. Lead us into your Father’s house. There, with everyone whom you have delivered from death, we will lift your Cup of salvation; eat your Bread of Life; behold you face to face; and adore you in the power of the Spirit forever.

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

We praise and magnify you, dear Jesus. Accept our prayers and lay them at the feet of your Father, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns gloriously as our Lord and our God, now and forever. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, April 12, 2026, 2^nd Sunday of Easter, A

Sola/LSB: Acts 5:29-42 (Gamaliel counsels caution dealing with apostolic teaching, miracles)

            RCL/ELW: Acts 2:14a, 22-32 (Peter exhorts crowd to repent, be baptized)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 148 (Praise God for his universal glory)

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 16 (I keep the Lord always before me; I shall not be moved)

All: 1 Peter 1:3-9 (Christ’s resurrection promises new hope, imperishable inheritance)

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

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Opening Hymn: O Sons and Daughters of the King/Let Us Sing:

LBW #139, v.1-4, ELW #386, v.1-4, LSB #470/471 (Note: the latter LSB tune is the same as LBW, but the former is a well-known Easter tune also)

Hymn of Praise: Good Christian Friends, Rejoice and Sing: LBW #144, ELW #385, LSB #475

OR Hymn paraphrase of “This is the Feast;” See Easter Sunday

Hymn of the Day: We Walk By Faith and Not by Sight: WOV #675, ELW #635, LSB #720

OR Come, You Faithful, Raise the Strain: (I don’t know who has the Arthur Sullivan tune from SBH):

LBW #132, ELW #363, LSB #487

OR The Risen Christ: ELW #390

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

Communion Hymn 1: O Savior, Precious Savior: LBW #514, ELW #820, LSB #527

Communion Hymn 2: Jesus, the Very Thought of You: LBW #316, (ELW #754

Closing Hymn: O Sons and Daughters: LBW #139, v. 5-9, (ELW #386, v. 5-8, LSB #470/471)

********

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

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, when news seems too good to be true, we hesitate to lose our hearts to it. We’re afraid we might be losing our minds, too! Like Thomas, we want proof before we commit. Forgive our fears and strengthen our faith. Remind us that your Good News is too good not to be true.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Holy Spirit upon the Church, and fill it with your peace. Test and purify it, so that you are constantly praised and glorified in all it says and does. Use it to bring many to a sure faith in you, the Author of salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Holy Spirit upon Christians who are persecuted for naming you as Lord. Let their faithful endurance glorify you. Soften the hearts of their enemies. Give them the faith of the apostles, who rejoiced that they were considered worthy to suffer on account of your Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation with the imperishable inheritance that you have won for all who trust in you. Increase our love for you and for one another. Let our words be gracious and our deeds be generous. In all things, may our lives be filled with your holy love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Show yourself in mercy and power to those who reject the Gospel of truth. Give us the spirit of encouragement, so we can lead them closer to you. Give us faithful words and holy lives. Give us grace so that we do not become stumbling-blocks in their journey from disbelief to saving faith in you, their Lord and their God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your glory is proclaimed in the heavens and throughout the universe. Cause this world, so wounded by sin, suffering and sorrow, to also praise you. Turn every heart, especially the rulers of the nations, to seek your will. Bestow the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, so that we might accomplish it.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give wings to the words of missionaries, evangelists, and spiritual guides. Bless and direct the teachings of all within our seminaries, colleges, and schools. Help them to speak and to live the Good News of Jesus’ resurrection with confidence and charity.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you everyone who has been grieved by trials to body, mind, heart or spirit, including: {List}. Lead them safely through their suffering. Restore them to life, hope and love. Though they do not see you, give them grace to rejoice in your saving love for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O risen Savior, we entrust into your care our beloved dead. Comfort all whose grief runs deep. Fill our hearts with hope, joy, and confidence in the precious inheritance you have stored up for all who trust in you. Breathe your Holy Spirit on us, so that we may forgive one another and live together in your peace. Bring us into your presence, where we may gaze upon your glory and goodness, and may forever adore you, our Lord and our God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We praise and magnify you, dear Jesus. Accept our prayers and lay them at the feet of your Father, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns gloriously as our Lord and our God, now and forever. Amen.

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three…Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning everyone!

Pastor: Whew! It’s warm in here, isn’t, Sammy?

Sammy: I am a perfectly comfortable temperature. Wool is great like that–keeps me warm in the winter and cool in the spring.

Pastor: I don’t know, Sammy. I am pretty warm. 

Sammy: I am not surprised. I mean, look at you. You have all those layers of polyester fiber on you. Do you know what that fabric is made of, Pastor? It’s not wool.

Pastor: Well, Sammy, I know there’s a lot of places in our world that are pretty warm, and the very first Palm Sunday was celebrated in a warm place, too.

Sammy: It was?

Pastor: Yes, the very first Palm Sunday was in Jerusalem. It’s pretty warm there.

Sammy: I think you are warm too because of all the celebrating we just did. 

Pastor: That’s right! Today is a great day: Palm Sunday. We had a great time processing in and waving our palms and singing together, didn’t we?

Sammy: Why is today called Palm Sunday, Pastor?

Pastor: Well, Palm Sunday refers to Jesus riding into Jerusalem on a donkey. While he was riding into Jerusalem, the people put their coats on the ground for the donkey to step on. They waved palms, and said, “Hosanna!”

Sammy: What does “Hosanna” mean? 

Pastor: It means “save us.”

Sammy: Save us? Save who from what?

Pastor: Well, Sammy, the people were asking Jesus to save them from Romans. But Jesus didn’t come to save us from the Romans.

Sammy: Jesus came to save us from our sins.

Pastor: That’s right, Sammy. Jesus came to save us from our sins. He had to die on the cross. It was a warm day that first Palm Sunday, but you know, Sammy, I am starting to feel a little cold.

Sammy: What’s wrong, Pastor?

Pastor: I don’t know. I just feel cold now. 

Sammy: You are really struggling with temperature regulation today. Well, Pastor, I will pray and then I can give you a warm hug. Would that be okay?

Pastor: That would be great. Boys and girls, would you please fold your hands and bow your heads?

Sammy: Dear Jesus, thank you for Palm Sunday. Help us to always honor you as our Savior and King. We pray for Holy Week–please fill our hearts with love and help us to honor you and follow you this week. Amen.

Sammy: I need my hug, Pastor. Bye, everyone.

Pastor: Bye, Sammy.

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy and see if she is there. Ready? One, two, three…Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning everyone! It’s almost, Easter, Pastor!

Pastor: Yes it is, Sammy. 

Sammy: I cannot wait to see all of the kids looking for Easter eggs. 

Pastor: It’s a great time of year for hunting for eggs, Sammy, but that’s not what Easter is about.

Sammy: That’s right. It’s about celebrating the return of chocolate eggs and bunnies to the store. I just love chocolate eggs, chocolate bunnies, cream eggs, and all of the different Easter treats.

Pastor: That’s not what Easter is about, Sammy.

Sammy: Oh. Well I guess it’s about the Easter bunny, right? Seeing the Easter bunny at the mall or at our church.

Pastor: No, Sammy. That’s not what Easter is about, either. Boys and girls, do you know what Easter is about?

[Allow time for responses]

Sammy: Oh I get it! Easter is about the resurrection of Jesus from the grave. He died on the cross and rose again after three days. That’s what Easter is all about. Easter is all about Jesus.

Pastor: That’s right, Sammy. Easter bunnies and chocolates are wonderful, but they are not the reason for Easter. Easter is all about Jesus, God’s Son. 

Sammy: So what is going to be special about Easter at church?

Pastor: Easter is a time of baptism, renewal, and joy. We are going to have bells, trumpets, special music, and a special Gospel reading.

Sammy: You know, Pastor, I really like Jesus’ promise to us in this reading today. 

Pastor: I do too, Sammy. Jesus says, 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.”

Sammy: Jesus shows us exactly this with Lazarus and with how he raises from the dead, too.

Pastor: That’s right, Sammy. One day, all of us will live with Jesus in Heaven forever. Let’s pray: can everyone please fold your hands and bow your heads? Dear Jesus, thank you for Easter. Thank you for creating us. Thank you for being our God. We love you. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!