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)

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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

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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)

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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.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, Easter Day, the Resurrection of Our Lord, A (April 5, 2026)

April 5, 2026, Easter Sunday, The Resurrection of Our Lord

Easter Sunrise:

All: Exodus 14:10-15:1 (Song of thanksgiving after crossing the Red Sea)

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

All: 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 (I handed on to you what I received: that Christ rose

                from the dead)

All: John 20:1-18 (Peter and John’s foot race; Mary Magdalene encounters risen Jesus)

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Easter Day

All: Acts 10:34-43 (Peter preaches Gospel to Gentiles)

                OR RCL/ELW: Jeremiah 31:1-6 (I have loved you with an everlasting love; You have found grace in the wilderness)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 16 (You do not give me up to Sheol, nor let your faithful one see the Pit)

                RCL/ELW: Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 (I shall not die but live, and declare the works

 of the Lord!)

All: Colossians 3:1-4 (your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth,

for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.)

OR RCL/ELW: Acts10:34-43 (God doesn’t show partiality, but accepts all who fear him)

All: Matthew 28:1-10 (Risen Jesus greets the women, bids them tell disciples to go to Galilee)

                OR RCL/ELW: John 20:1-18 (An apostolic footrace; Jesus and Mary Magdalene)

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

Hymn of Praise: Christ Has Arisen, Alleluia: WOV #678, ELW #364, LSB #466

OR Hymn paraphrase of “This is the Feast” by Cathy Ammlung. Tune: “In Thee is Gladness”

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

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

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

And earth shall echo: Alleluia!

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

In love he wins for us. Alleluia!

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

Hymn of the Day: Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands: LBW #134, ELW #370, LSB #458

OR Awake, My Heart, With Gladness: LBW #129, ELW #378, LSB #467 (This is a DANCE tune! Play it as a sprightly minuet, not a solemn dirge, and by, er, verse 7, folks will be warbling and swaying!)

Communion Hymn 1: Thine is the Glory: LBW #145, ELW #376

OR The Strife is O’er: LBW #135, ELW #366, LSB #464

Communion Hymn 2: I Know that My Redeemer Lives: LBW #352, ELW #619, LSB #461

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

*******

In the power of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to the Father of our risen Lord Jesus, on behalf of the world, the Church, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for the victory of Jesus over all that hurts and destroys your people. Tune our hearts to sing his praise. Purify our spirits so we may see his beauty forever. Fortify our minds to learn the depths of his love. Open our mouths to proclaim his triumph over our ancient enemy. Direct our hands – one to clasp his nail-scarred hand, the other to draw a fellow sinner closer to his loving embrace. Fill us with your Spirit, so that in all things, we bear witness to and his love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Look with kindness upon your Church as it worships your risen Son. Make it radiant in faith, lovely in holiness, and beautiful in charity. By its words and deeds, bring many to know and adore Jesus as Savior and Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill our persecuted sisters and brothers with faith, courage, and joy. Let their faces shine with confidence in the victory of Jesus. Let that light shine on their enemies, so they turn to him in repentant faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Feed the people of this congregation with the milk and honey of sincerity and truth. Make us lovely with your mercy, forgiveness, and goodness. Use us to draw many who are afar off into your adopted family, so together we sing: “Christ is risen! Alleluia!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask your blessing upon all who hear this Gospel with disbelief, doubt, bitterness, or scorn. Give us wise words and loving hearts, so we share the hope that is in us on account of Jesus’ resurrection. Give them new, or renewed, faith in Christ, for he is their hope and heart’s desire.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow your peace upon this sin-stained world. Teach all who wield authority and power, in any field or enterprise, to use those gifts wisely and humbly. And give to all – especially those who are poor, forgotten, grieving, or despairing – a foretaste of the joys you have prepared for all who love you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Even in this glad season, good men and women risk their lives to protect others from fear, sickness, injustice, and violence. Shield, strengthen and direct them. Let their words and deeds accomplish your will. Keep them safe, support their loved ones, and speed the day when war shall be no more.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray that Jesus’ triumph over sin and death may bless all who suffer in body, mind, or spirit, including: {List}. Turn mourning into singing, and exchange the sackcloth of sorrow for the mantle of praise and the garment of joy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O most kind and loving Father, thank you for the lives and the faithful witness of those who have already gone “farther up and farther in” to your glorious Kingdom. Let your Son accompany us along our pilgrimage, to lighten our load and brighten our path. Let your Holy Spirit fill us with confidence and compassion. And let us, with all the redeemed of every time and place, stand before your throne and sing your praise in strains of triumphant gladness for ever and ever.

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.

Hymns, Lessons, and Prayers, The Vigil of Easter, A,  April 4, 2026

The Service of Holy Communion

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

dead now to sin, alive in Christ!

All: John 20:1-18: John and Peter race to the tomb; Mary Magdalene encounters

the risen Jesus

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Hymn of Day: We Know That Christ is Raised and Dies No More: LBW #189, ELW #449, LSB #603

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

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

*******

Let us, with joyful confidence, pray to our risen Savior for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, “thanks” is too small a word, except that your Spirit searches our hearts, and utters what we cannot express for all you have done, and all that you are. We thank and adore you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill the Church with light of your life. Make it resplendent with holiness, charity, and truth. Let it shine the light of your love upon those who dwell in the shadows of sin and death, so with one voice we sing, “Christ is risen, Alleluia!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Shatter the hateful words and evil acts of all who persecute your followers. Raise up your suffering servants, and grant them courage and joy. By their faithful witness, lead their tormentors to repentance, so together they sing: “Christ is risen! Alleluia!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Feed the people of this congregation with the milk and honey of sincerity and truth. Make us lovely with your mercy, forgiveness, and goodness. Use us to draw many who are afar off into your welcoming embrace, so together we sing: “Christ is risen! Alleluia!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Clothe the newly baptized in robes of faith and innocence. Keep them in faith toward you and fervent love toward others. And teach them to constantly sing: “Christ is risen! Alleluia!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let peace and righteousness kiss; let mercy and healing overflow; and let wisdom and faith abound throughout the world. Grant that all people come to saving knowledge of you, their Shepherd, Healer, and Lord, so that with one voice they sing: “Christ is risen! Alleluia!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Keep safe those who risk their lives on behalf of others. Equip them with the belt of truth, the breastplate of righteousness, the shield of faith, the sandals of peace, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit. May your will be done in places of danger and injustice, so all may sing: “Christ is risen! Alleluia!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Raise up all who sit in the shadows of pain, despair, grief, and death. Bring comfort and forgiveness to those who cry out for mercy. Bestow your reconciling grace upon all who are estranged from you and from their loved ones. Grant us your perfect peace, so together all may sing: “Christ is risen! Alleluia!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O risen Lord Jesus, those who died trusting you already experience the Easter morning that knows no end. Wipe away our tears, banish our doubts, and fill us with courage and joy. Give us loving hearts, gracious words, and tireless hands to help one another along the way. Lead us through the waters of death, as if on dry ground. By your grace and favor, let us stand with you and with all whom you have redeemed, in your promised Kingdom that has no end, there to sing for all eternity: “Christ is risen! Alleluia!”

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.

Hymns, Lessons, and Prayers, Good Friday, A, April 3, 2026

All: Isaiah 52:13-53:12: The Suffering Servant bears our griefs and carries our sorrows

All: Psalm 22: My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?

All: Hebrews 4:14-16, 5:7-9: Jesus the great high priest learned obedience through

suffering and therefore obtained salvation for all who obey him

OR RCL/ELW: Hebrews 10:16-25: We have confidence to enter the Holy Place through Jesus’ blood; so let us urge one another to love, good deeds.

All: John 18:1-19:42: The Passion of Our Lord according to St. John

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Here are a number of hymns to use whether you use the above texts, have a Tenebrae service with 7 readings, or do the 7 last words of Christ.

Were You There: LBW #92, ELW #353, LSB #456

Ah, Holy Jesus: LBW #123, ELW #349

O Sacred Head: LBW 116, ELW #352, LSB #450 [rhythmic; note 7 verses in LSB makes it useful for separating portions of the Passion reading]

OR LBW #117, ELW #351, LSB #449 [more familiar; note ELW and LSB use Bach harmonization]

Jesus, in Thy/Your Dying Woes LBW #112, 113 {need to use both of these to get all 7 words}; LSB #447

O Darkest Woe: LSB #448 [if you have the old SBH, it’s #87]

Upon the Cross Extended: LSB #453 [Lovely Paul Gerhard tune, heartfelt lyrics, public

domain. If you want to use it, therefore, feel free to copy it!]

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

Go to Dark Gethsemane: LBW #109, ELW #347, LSB #436

There in God’s Garden: WOV #668, ELW #342 (wherever your last hymn appears in the service, and whatever form of Good Friday liturgy you use, I think this is a perfect “capstone” to our worship)

In Christ Alone (Such a powerful hymn! It’s not in any of our hymnals but readily available online. If you have a CCLI license, good!)

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Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

A brief silence

Forgive and save your Church, O God, when it turns away from trusting, proclaiming, and sharing the love of Jesus, its crucified and risen Redeemer.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and renew pastors, theologians, and other church leaders, when by treacherous words and shameful deeds they crucify Christ anew, and turn people from his salvation.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and guide each of us in this congregation, when in small and great ways we fail to love you with our whole heart, mind, soul, and strength, and do not love one another as Jesus has loved us.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and challenge everyone who says they believe in you, but make excuses for why they don’t worship, pray, forgive, or serve in your name.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and enlighten all who believe in other gods, or who have limited and distorted notions of who you are.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and rescue all who say they are “spiritual but not religious,” or who are fascinated by the occult or dark spiritual arts.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and teach those who do not believe in you at all, especially those who persecute believers.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and bring to repentance our enemies, personal and communal. Forgive all who slander, lie, and spew hate toward your beloved Son.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and transform all who break promises, break laws, and break hearts, especially when we still struggle to forgive.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and energize all who whine, complain, deny, and shift blame to others.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and reform everyone who seeks to divide, not build up; to sow suspicion, not trust; and who insists on their own way at any cost.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and liberate those who are enslaved by their desires, passions, fears, and addictions, or by their attraction to evil for its own sake.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive and heal all who are bound by illness, pain, depression, anxiety, regret, or shame.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

Forgive, save, transform, and redeem all of us.  If we are honest, we know we are numbered in the great and miserable fellowship of sinners. Dear Lord, forgive us when we despair, seek revenge, are cruel, selfish, bored, or apathetic. Forgive us who are thoughtless, clueless, heedless, merciless, and faithless.

Holy God, holy and mighty, holy and immortal, have mercy on us, and on the whole world.

By the suffering and passion of your holy and beloved Son, have mercy on us.  By his prayers from the Cross for our sake, have mercy on us.  By his sinless death and his descent into the depths of hell for the sake of sinners, have mercy on us. By his glorious resurrection and ascension, and by his promise to come again as victorious Lord of all, have mercy on us, heavenly Father. Crucify our sins and burn them in hell. But hide us, your poor sinful creatures, in the life-giving wounds of Jesus, and shelter us in his outstretched arms. Anoint us with the same Spirit he committed to you with his dying breath. Raise us, in the power of that Spirit, to share in the glorious resurrection life of Christ. And speed the coming of that great eternal day when all whom you have covered with your mercy are made fit to stand together before your throne, there to praise and adore you in the unity you share with your Son, our Savior and Lord, and with the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, April 2, 2026: Maundy Thursday

Sola/LSB: John 13:1-35 (for foot washing): Jesus washes disciples’ feet, explains significance

            RCL/ELW: Same; but this is the only Gospel appointed for Maundy Thursday

Sola/LSB: Exodus 24:3-11: Moses and the elders eat in God’s presence

            RCL/ELW: Exodus 12:1-4 [5-10] 11-14: The first Passover

Sola/LSB: Psalm 116: What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits to me?

            RCL/ELW: Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19

Sola/LSB: Hebrews 9:11-22: Christ, the mediator of new covenant, cleanses us by his blood

            RCL/ELW: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26: Paul’s version of the words of institution

Sola/LSB: Matthew 26:17-30: Jesus institutes the Lord’s Supper at his Last Supper

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

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

OR Jesus, Greatest at the Table: LSB #446

Hymn of the Day: What Feast of Love: WOV #701, ELW #487

OR Draw Near and Take the Body of the Lord: LBW #226, LSB #637

OR When You Woke That Thursday Morning: LSB #445 (Jaroslav Vajda’s powerful words pair surprisingly well with Marty Haugen’s tune usually used for “Joyous Light of heavenly Glory”)

Communion Hymn #1: Soul, Adorn Yourself With Gladness: LBW #224, ELW #488 (#489 has Hispanic tune, same words), LSB #636 (It has All. Eight. Verses!)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #225, Lord Jesus Christ, We Humbly Pray

OR Thee We Adore, O Hidden Savior, Thee: LBW #199, LSB #840

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

Closing Hymn: Generally omitted in favor of Psalm 22 while the altar is stripped

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Let us pray to our merciful God on behalf of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, we adore you.  We bless you for your love and mercy. Thank you for the Medicine of immortality, given at the Last Supper and extended to us. Thank you for Jesus’ humble washing away of our sins. Thank you because he names as friends those who love him. Number us among them, dear Father! Help us to love one another as he has loved us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill the Church throughout the world with your Spirit, so it more perfectly loves you and the people your Son came to redeem.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide our seminary professors and students, pastors and lay leaders, all missionaries of the Gospel, and everyone walking the path of discipleship. Fill them with your Spirit, so they more perfectly proclaim Christ, and him crucified.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Strengthen our persecuted sisters and brothers in the faith. Fill them with your Spirit, so they more perfectly bear witness to the holiness and love of Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation. Fill us with your Spirit, so we more perfectly reflect Jesus to everyone.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Kindle the faith of all who will be baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ at Easter. Fill them with your Spirit, so they more perfectly follow in his footsteps.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow wisdom upon all who have authority and power in our world. Fill them with your Spirit, so they more perfectly accomplish your will for the good of the people entrusted to their care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant courage and integrity to all who risk their lives for the sake of others. Fill them with your Spirit, so they more perfectly establish safety and peace in this troubled world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of everyone who is sick, grieving, estranged, ashamed, addicted, abused, confused, or despairing, including: {List}. Fill them with your Spirit, so they more perfectly cling to Christ, their life, their health, and their salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, this day we share a foretaste of your eternal feast, prepared for all whom you have redeemed through your dear Son. Fill us with your Spirit, so that we more perfectly take up our Cross, follow Jesus wherever he leads, and encourage one another. Bring us, through the merits of Christ, into your Kingdom, where with him and the Holy Spirit, you reign in the glory of heaven’s endless day.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, March 29, 2026, Palm/Passion Sunday

Sola/LSB: John 12:12-19 (Triumphant entry into Jerusalem)

            RCL/ELW: Matthew 21:1-11 (Triumphant entry into Jerusalem)

All: Isaiah 50:4-9a (The Lord vindicates his servant)

All: Psalm 31:9-16 (Deliver me from my tormentors!)

All: Philippians 2:5-11 (Christ humbled himself, even to death. Every knee shall bow!)

All: Matthew 26:1-27:66 (The Passion of Our Lord)

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Hymn, Procession With Palms: All Glory, Laud and Honor: LBW #108, ELW #344, LSB #442

OR LSB #443, Hosanna, Loud Hosanna (A familiar tune and words I remember from SBH.)

Hymn prior to and following Passion narrative: O Sacred Head:  LBW #116/117, ELW #351/352,

LSB #449/450 (Note: the former uses the wonderful Bach harmonization, but the latter has more verses and can be used to break up the Passion narrative, if desired)

Hymn of the Day: O God, I Love Thee: LBW #491 (Note: trust me on this. The words are exquisite. You can sing to the tune of LBW #272, Abide With Me.)

OR Were You There:  LBW #92, ELW #353, LSB #456

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

OR No Tramp of Soldiers’ Marching Feet: LSB #444 (familiar English folk tune, great words that tie together the entry into Jerusalem and the crucifixion. I heartily recommend you obtain permission to use this!)

OR, if you observe this as Palm Sunday only, Prepare the Royal Highway,

LBW #26, ELW #264, LSB #343

Communion Hymn 1: O Lord, How Shall I Meet You: LBW #23, ELW #241, LSB #334

Communion Hymn 2: Beneath the Cross of Jesus: LBW #107, LSB #338

OR Your Only Son, No Sin to Hide: ELW #336, LSB #550

Closing Hymn: Ride On, Ride On in Majesty: LBW #121, ELW #346, LSB #441 ( fairly familiar tune)

OR Lift High the Cross: LBW #377, ELW #660, LSB #837

*******

Let us pray for the Church, the world, and all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood you have redeemed the whole world and drawn all people to yourself. We praise and adore you for your great sacrifice and love. We beseech you to bestow these holy gifts to all whom we lift before you now in prayer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood, save and redeem your Church. Through its ministry of Word, Sacrament, fellowship, and service, draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood, save and redeem those who suffer for the sake of your name, and those who risk danger to proclaim the Gospel to those who do not know you. By their faithful witness, draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood, save and redeem all who seek to walk the hard path of discipleship. Through their willingness to take up their cross and follow you, draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood, save and redeem this congregation, especially those seeking baptism. Through our faith toward you, and fervent love for one another, draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood, save and redeem our children, especially those enduring illness, poverty, abuse, or violence. Through their innocent praise of your goodness, draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood, save and redeem the people in every land and nation, especially those overwhelmed by warfare and oppression. By the guidance of the Holy Spirit, establish your peace in every place; and draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood, save and redeem those who stand in harm’s way on our behalf. Establish through their labors places of safety and calm; and there draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood, save and redeem your people who walk through dark valleys of suffering, sorrow, and death. Bring healing, rest, and comfort to them and to all who care for them Hide them in the shadow of your wings, and draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, by your Cross and precious Blood, you have saved and redeemed those who have died trusting your promises. Now keep us steadfast in faith, patient in suffering, generous in service, and loving in fellowship, until you have drawn all people to yourself and have bestowed upon all the redeemed the fullness of your forgiveness, blessing, and eternal life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear and graciously answer our prayers, O blessed Savior, according to the mercy and favor you have for your people. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, March 22, 2026, A, 5th Sunday in Lent

All: Ezekiel 37:1-14 (The valley of dry bones)

All: Psalm 130 (Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord)

Sola/LSB: Romans 8:1-11 (The life-giving Spirit)

                RCL/ELW: Romans 8:6-11 (You are not in the flesh but in the Spirit of Christ,

                                who dwells within you and gives you life)

All: John 11:1-45[46-53]) (The death and raising of Lazarus)

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Opening Hymn: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

Lenten Hymn, if desired: see Ash Wednesday

Hymn Paraphrase of Psalm 130: Out of the Depths I Cry to You:  LBW #295, ELW #600

From Depths of Woe I Cry to Thee: LSB #607

Hymn of the Day: Be Still, My Soul: LSB #752 (Yeah, Finlandia. They used to play it on KFUO in St. Louis when they remembered the faithful departed. Can’t sing it without tearing up!)

OR Christ, the Life of All the Living: LBW #97, ELW #339, LSB #420

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery: ELW #334, v. 1-3, Lent 5 stanza

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

Communion Hymn 2: We Sing the Praise of Him Who Died: LBW #344, LSB #429 (Unfamiliar, though fairly simple tune. Words are superb. Sing to the Doxology!)

Closing Hymn: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less: LBW 293/294, ELW #596/ 597, LSB #575/576

*******

Let us lift our hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer, that he would be merciful to his people.

A brief silence

Lord, we live in a valley of deathly shadows. Thank you for Jesus, who calls us by name from our tombs. Help us to firmly believe that his is our Resurrection and our Life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon your Church. Make it the living body of Jesus in the world. In Word and Sacrament, and by deeds of mercy and forgiveness, let it share your life and grace with all who are held captive to sin, evil and death.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon your persecuted servants throughout the world. Revive their faith and knit them into an undying fellowship with Jesus and with one another. By their courageous witness and their patient suffering, glorify your Name and turn many hearts to repentant faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all missionaries, pastors, and theologians. By their faithful preaching and acts of charity, grant life and salvation to those who walk in the valley of the shadow of death.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon this congregation, so that our worship, words, and deeds abound with the fruits of that Spirit. Fill us with Jesus, and give us grace to share his life with everyone we meet.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all to whom death draws near, especially those who die alone or unloved. Grant them serenity, faith, and reconciliation with you and with family. Bless them with the mercy and grace promised by your Son to any who will receive him. Give a double portion of your Spirit to hospice workers and to all who care for the dying.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all who lead the nations, especially our own. Fill them with wisdom, understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, fear of the Lord; and joy in doing your will. Help them work for the welfare of their people. Give your grace and peace to us all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all who risk their lives to defend life and liberty. Keep them faithful, true, and bold. Shield and direct them in perilous situations. Raise and heal them when they fall. Deliver them into a place of safety when their task has ended.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe your Spirit upon all who all who suffer, including: {List}. As Jesus raised up Lazarus from death, we beseech you, raise up these dear and restore them to their loved ones.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Holy and gracious Father, thank you for calling your faithful servants by name, out of death and into your eternal life. Breathe your Spirit upon us, for we are still troubled by the sin, death, and the devil. Give us grace to comfort, encourage, and help each other along life’s road. Grant us faith to confess your Son as the Resurrection and the Life, the One who has come into the world to bring us salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, gracious Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, March 15, 2026, A, 4th Sunday in Lent

Sola/LSB: Isaiah 42:14-21 (I will lead the blind by paths they don’t see)

                RCL/ELW: 1 Samuel 16:1-13 (Samuel anoints David)

Sola/LSB: Psalm 142 (I cry to the Lord, for I have been brought very low)

                RCL/ELW: Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd)

All: Ephesians 5:8-14 (Once you were in darkness; now walk as children of the light)

All: John 9:1-41 (Jesus heals the man born blind)

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Opening Hymn: I Want Jesus to Walk With Me: WOV #660, ELW #325

OR O Son of God, in Galilee: LBW #426, LSB #841 (Both tunes are fairly easy, but if they’re not familiar, use tune for “O God, Our Help in Ages Past.”)

Lenten Hymn, if desired: see Ash Wednesday

Hymn of the Day: When to the World Our Savior Came: LSB #551 (Great words, familiar tune!)

OR Be Thou My Vision: WOV #776, ELW #793

OR Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery: ELW #334, v. 1-3, Lent 4 stanza

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

Communion Hymn 2:  My God, How Wonderful Thou Art: LBW #524, ELW #863

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

Note: Both LSB and ELW use the tune older members will remember from SBH, “Bradbury.”

Closing Hymn: I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light: WOV #649, ELW #815, LSB #411

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

*******

Let us lift our hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer, that he would be merciful to his people.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for the light of sun, moon, stars, streetlights, candles, and lamps. Thank you for these “created lights” that bear witness to the true and uncreated Light, your Son, Jesus Christ. Lead us, even when eyes fail and earthly lights grow dim, to his kindly light, which no darkness can overcome.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal the blindness of your Church. Give it eyes to see its own sin, and to repent. Give it eyes to see the world’s sins, and to offer your forgiveness to any who will receive it. Give it eyes to see the plight of all who are afflicted by sin, death, and the devil, and to proclaim your redemption, given through the Passion of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal the blindness of those who hate the followers of Jesus, and of all who turn a blind eye to their plight. Grant that the words and actions of all who suffer on account of Christ may inspire their enemies to repent and believe in you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give clear sight and strong faith to missionaries, seminarians and their professors, pastors, and all of Jesus’ apprentices. Through their labors, lead many who are spiritually blind to Jesus for healing.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal any spiritual blindness in this congregation. Give us eyes to see Jesus in one another. For his sake, help us love even people we don’t yet like. Give us eyes to see new opportunities for serving you. As we become braver in sharing our faith, make us lamps shining with Jesus’ love for everyone we encounter.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let your healing, blessing, and grace rest upon the blind and deaf, and those with impaired senses of touch, taste, balance, or movement. Give them strength and courage. Sharpen the perception of their other senses. Surround them with people whose respect and encouragement leads them to greater faith in you, their light and their life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal the blindness of the nations, and all who are in positions of authority. Give them eyes to seek your will, and hearts and hands to do it. Give them eyes to see injustice, deceit and cruelty, and the strength and courage to combat them. Make each of us into children of your light, living in faith toward you and with fervent love toward one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As your dear Son healed the man born blind, we pray that he would also bring healing, light, hope, and faith to everyone who suffers from any affliction, including: {List}. Lift them up from pain, sorrow, fear, or grief. And give them the joy of your saving help, now and always.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for receiving into your greater light and into your eternal life, our beloved dead. Deal mercifully with those shadowed by grief. We pray: Lord, let us receive our sight, so that day by day, we see you more clearly, love you more dearly, and follow you more nearly. Lead us, with all who have redeemed by the merits of your Son, to heaven, there to gaze on his fair beauty forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, gracious Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lessons, Hymns, and Prayers, March 8, 2026, A, 3rd Sunday in Lent

All: Exodus 17:1-7 (Israelites murmur against God, who gives water from the rock)

All: Psalm 95: (We are the people of God’s pasture; don’t be like those who murmured!)

All: Romans 5:1-8 (9-11) (Justified by faith in Christ, we have peace with God through

                him, who died for the ungodly)

All: John 4:5-26 [may add 27-30, 39-42]) (Jesus and the woman at the well)

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

OR Christ, the Word of God Incarnate: LSB #540, v. 1-3 Fairly familiar Early American tune. Just wonderful words. Verse 2 especially goes with the Gospel reading)

OR “Come, Let Us Sing Unto the Lord” (paraphrase of Psalm 95)

Words by Rev. Cathy Ammlung, STS; Tune: Kirken (Built on a Rock, the Church Shall Stand)

1. Come, let us sing unto the Lord, Our mighty Rock of salvation.

Come, with our psalms of thanks outpoured To the great King of all nations.

Come, make a joyful noise of praise; Come, worship God through all our days;

Come in his presence, adoring.

2. Within the hollow of his hand, Caverns and hills find their dwelling.

Measureless seas and trackless land Their Maker’s glories are telling.

Come; worship; bend the knee and bless Our God, Our Shepherd. We confess

His hand’s our pasture forever.

Lenten Hymn, if desired: see Ash Wednesday

Hymn of the Day: I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say: LBW #497, ELW 332, 611; LSB #699

(Note: the 2^nd ELW tune is “Kingsfold,” a nice English folk tune. You’ll find it used in LBW #391)

OR As the Deer Runs to the River: ELW #331

OR O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts: LBW #356

OR Lent 3 stanza, Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery: ELW #334, v. 1-3

Communion Hymn 1: How Sweet the Name of Jesus Sounds: LBW #345, ELW #620, LSB #524

OR Eat This Bread: WOV #709, ELW #472 (Just repeat first set of words 3x)

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

Closing Hymn: Glories of Your Name are Spoken:

LBW #358, ELW #648 (BEWARE! Uses different tune, even though “Austria” is used elsewhere!)

Glorious Things of You are Spoken: LSB #648

OR Christ, the Word of God Incarnate: LSB #540, v. 4-6

***

Let us lift our hearts and voices to the Lord in prayer, that he would be merciful to his people.

A brief silence

Heavenly Father, thank you for Jesus, your living water. Sometimes we don’t realize how thirsty we are. Sometimes what we drink makes us even thirstier. Thank you that Jesus quenches our thirst for your goodness, love, forgiveness, and life, by filling us with Himself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church a place where your living water flows. Use it to quench the thirst, heal the hearts, and cleanse the souls of people dying for lack of your love. May it always share your holy Word so that many may hear, and come to believe, that your Son is the Savior of the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray on behalf of our persecuted sisters and brothers. Fulfill in them the Apostle’s words: that suffering produces endurance; endurance produces character; character produces hope; and hope does not put them to shame, because God’s love has been poured into their hearts through the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Jesus said the fields are ripe for the harvest. Therefore we pray: Call, equip, and send new pastors and evangelists to preach the Good News. Make each of us disciples “on a mission with you” to eagerly share the Living Water with thirsty souls in our communities.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on this congregation. Make us people eager to worship you in spirit and in truth; to care for one another with gentle hearts; and to share the living water of your Son with everyone we know.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for everyone who makes clean water available throughout the world. Grant that all who benefit from the pure and refreshing waters of this life may also be drawn to the Living Water of eternal life, Jesus Christ your Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Have mercy on our nation, its leaders, and its people. Although we are all sinful and rebellious, save us, we pray, from our folly. Give us hearts that delight in your law, and wills set to obey it. Remove from us the spirit of discord and strife, and crown us with the blessing of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Refresh and heal with your Living Water everyone burdened with suffering and sorrow, including: { List}. Give them renewed strength, deep peace, strong hope, and abiding faith in your compassion.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, with reverence and affection, we entrust our beloved dead into your care. Wipe away the tears all who mourn. Refresh us with your Word and Sacraments as we pass through death’s valleys. Help us to encourage one another; to rejoice even though suffering; to cultivate good character; to live in hope; and to lean on your promises. Speed the day when, in Spirit and in truth, the whole company of the redeemed will worship you, and acclaim your Son as the Savior of the world, our Lord and our God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Into your hands, gracious Father, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.