Editor’s Note: This 4 page article by Pastor Cathy Ammlung originally appeared in Lutheran CORE’s January 2019 newsletter. It is a must-read for anyone trying to digest the 76 page statement that the ELCA will vote on at its Churchwide Assembly in Milwaukee in August 2019.
THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH
With joy and gratitude for the gift of Christ the Savior, let us draw near to our heavenly Father in prayer, asking his mercy for the Church, the world, and all who need his loving-kindness.
A brief silence
Most holy God, let your voice fill the Church with your glory. Let your strong Word be faithfully proclaimed in that Church, so that it brings the promise of salvation to those who do not know him. Let it ever rejoice when many become heirs of his promise and members of his Body.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Guide, guard and bless your persecuted servants throughout the world. Let your Word be found upon their lips and in their hearts. By their faithful witness, lead even their enemies to the light of your salvation. We also ask your blessing upon our sister congregations and companion synods, and upon all missionaries of your Gospel.
Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.
Let your Word thunder in this congregation, until everyone who worships here cries “Glory” and proclaims your holy Name in word and deed. Conform our lives to the image of your dear Son; and let the light of his holy and forgiving love shine brightly in all we say and do.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Let your living Word fill the lives of the newly baptized; of all who this day profess their faith in your most blessed Name; and of all who waver at the very edge of repentance and belief in your strong saving love for them. Keep them in your care; and help each of us to be good examples and mentors in their journey of discipleship.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Let your Word shape the minds, hearts and wills of all who take counsel for the nations. Fill each person throughout this sin-shrouded world with your Spirit of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of you, and joy in your presence. Banish from our midst those things which lead to hatred, strife and suffering; and speak your Word of peace to us all.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Let your strong Word be the shield, light and safety of all who risk their lives for the sake of others. Give them such integrity and strength of character that the innocent and defenseless may always look to them for help; and when their work is done, bring them home in safety to their loved ones.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Let your living Word bring health, wholeness and hope to all who suffer, especially: {LIST}. Bless all who minister to them; and let the radiance of your Son’s love gladden their hearts.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We thank you, heavenly Father, for your powerful voice that splits open the tombs of your children, and calls them out of death into eternal life. We ask your word of comfort and strength for all who grieve; and for your protection and guidance for each of us, until we join those who continually cry “Glory” in your blessed presence, and dwell with you in the splendor of eternal light and life that you share with your Son and the Holy Spirit.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Graciously hear, and generously answer our prayers and petitions, dear Father, as may be best for us and to your greater glory, thorough your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
These Prayers of the Church along with hymn suggestions by Rev. Cathy Ammlung may be downloaded from here:
[nectar_btn size=”medium” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” text=”Read an Introduction to Intercessory Prayer” url=”https://www.lutherancore.website/2021/11/12/an-introduction-to-intercessory-prayer/”][nectar_btn size=”medium” button_style=”regular” button_color_2=”Accent-Color” icon_family=”none” text=”Read Intercessory Prayer, Part Two: How to Write Them” url=”https://www.lutherancore.website/2022/01/12/intercessory-prayer-part-two-how-to-write-them/”][recent_posts style=”classic_enhanced” color_scheme=”light” columns=”4″ category=”prayers-of-the-church” order=”DESC” orderby=”date” posts_per_page=”40″][recent_posts style=”classic_enhanced_alt” columns=”3″ category=”prayers-of-the-church” order=”DESC” orderby=”date” posts_per_page=”48″]
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Lessons and Hymn Suggestions
The Vigil of Easter – Trinity Sunday, Cycle C
April 16, 2022 – June 12, 2022
NOTE: LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)
WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)
LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)
ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)
There are versions of some hymns that are superior in LSB and I recommend using them if possible. Also, there are some superb hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals. When I suggest one of the latter, I try to include an alternative from LBW or WOV. I recommend that a license and DVD of downloadable hymns from LSB be purchased if you are looking to expand your hymnody. There are, in ELW, some familiar hymns that have been drastically altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or has, interestingly, a more “traditional” translation or harmonization.
Color for the day is indicated for each Sunday. Primary liturgical calendar taken from Sola Publishing (www.solapublishing.org), based on LSB. Also, I include the lessons from the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) found in ELW and used in some congregations. It often overlaps the Sola/LCMS calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them.
I’ve also included a complete Tenebrae service for Good Friday. This is one I’ve used at my little churches. Feel free to use different hymns, but the ones I chose seemed to fit the readings.
Because some of the prayers of confession, as well as offertory and post-communion prayers, provided on certain resource pages lack theological heft or linguistic elegance, I have added some seasonal prayers that you are free to cut, paste, and revise as needed. They are modified from the copyright-free Online Book of Common Prayer, or are my own creation. These are found on the following pages. The regular prayers of intercession will, as usual, be provided weekly in their own Word documents.
A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution for the Easter Season
In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.
Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.
Lord Jesus, our risen Savior,
We confess to you our sinfulness. We believe mortal words above your holy Word. We prefer easy lies to hard truth. We are quick to judge, condemn, and exclude, but slow to forgive. We have lived for this world alone, and doubted our home in heaven. In your mercy, forgive us. In your goodness, resurrect us. Amen.
Our Savior Christ comes with healing, forgiveness, and life in his wounded hands. He breathes his Holy Spirit upon us, kindling renewed faith, hope, and love. Receive all he gives with humble joy, and share them with warm generosity, in the Name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
A Gospel Acclamation for the Easter Season
Alleluia. I am the way, the truth, and the life, says the Lord; no one comes to the Father, except through me. Alleluia.
An Offertory Prayer for the Easter Season
Let us pray. Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated unto you; and then use us, we pray you, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
A Proper Preface for the Easter Season
The Lord be with you. And also with you.
Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give him thanks and praise.
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. But chiefly are we bound to praise you for the glorious resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; for he is the true Paschal Lamb, who was sacrificed for us, and has taken away the sin of the world. By his death he has destroyed death, and by his rising to life again he has won for us everlasting life. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:
A Eucharistic Prayer for the Easter Season
We give thanks to you almighty God, through your beloved son Jesus Christ, whom you sent to us in former times as Savior, Redeemer, and Messenger of your Will. He is your inseparable Word, through whom you made all things, and in whom you were well-pleased. You sent from heaven into the womb of a virgin, who, being conceived within her, was made flesh, and appeared as your Son, born of the Holy Spirit and the virgin Mary. It is he who, fulfilling your will and acquiring for you a holy people, extended his hands in suffering, in order to liberate from sufferings those who believe in you. Who, when he was delivered to voluntary suffering, in order to dissolve death, and break the chains of the devil, and tread down hell, and bring the just to the light, and set the limit, and manifest the resurrection, taking the bread, and giving thanks to you, said, “Take, eat, for this is my body which is broken for you.” Likewise the chalice, saying, “This is my blood which is shed for you. Whenever you do this, do this in memory of me.”
Therefore, remembering his death and resurrection, we offer to you the bread and the chalice, giving thanks to you, who has made us worthy to stand before you and to serve as your priests. And we pray that you would send your Holy Spirit upon your Holy Church. In their gathering together, give to all those who partake of your holy mysteries the fullness of the Holy Spirit, toward the strengthening of the faith in truth, that we may praise you and glorify you, through your son Jesus Christ, through whom to you be glory and honor, Father and Son, with the Holy Spirit, in your Holy Church, now and throughout the ages of the ages.
Amen. AMEN.
A Post-Communion Prayer for the Easter Season
P: Let us pray. Heavenly Father, C: We thank you for your great gift of love, your Son Jesus Christ. May we who have received his body and blood bear the light of his love into the world, to your glory and for the healing of our world. Amen.
Saturday, April 16, 2022: The Vigil of Easter
Service of Readings: There are twelve all together. If you decide to do seven or four, choose from the following; however, those in boldface must be read; and the final canticle, “All you works of the Lord” is always read after the final lesson. Where appointed, a responsorial psalm/canticle is also noted in parentheses. Where one is not noted, I have indicated a hymn that may be sung instead.
Hymn: Praise the Lord! O Heavens adore him: LBW #540, ELW #823
OR In Adam We Have All Been One: LBW # 372, LSB #569
Hymn: Thy Holy Wings: WOV #741, ELW #613
OR Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me: LBW #334, ELW #755, LSB #715
The Song of Moses and Miriam: LBW Canticle 19
Psalm 33:1-11
OR Thy Word, O Lord, Like Gentle Dew: LBW #232
OR Word of God, Come Down on Earth: WOV #716, ELW #510, LSB #545
Psalm 30
The Song of the Vineyard, from Isaiah 5
All You Works of the Lord, Bless the Lord: LBW Canticle 18
OR All Creatures of Our God and King: LBW #527
All Creatures, Worship God Most High: ELW #835
Readings for the Service of Holy Communion:
Romans 6:1-11 (we are baptized into Christ’s death and resurrection)
Luke 24:1-12 (the women come to the empty tomb)
*******
Hymn of the Day: We Know That Christ is Raised and Dies No More: LBW #189,
ELW #449, LSB #603
Communion Hymn #1: Now the Green Blade Rises: LBW #148, ELW #379
Communion Hymn #2: Alleluia, Alleluia, Give Thanks to the Living Lord: WOV #671
OR Alleluia! Jesus is Risen!: WOV #674, ELW #377, LSB #474
Closing Hymn: This Joyful Eastertide: WOV #676, ELW #391, LSB #482
April 17, 2022: Easter Day, the Resurrection of Our Lord
Easter Sunrise Lessons:
Job 19:23-27 (I know that my Redeemer lives!)
Psalm 118:15-29 (The right hand of the Lord has triumphed; this is the Lord’s doing;
this is the day the Lord has made)
1 Corinthians 15:51-57 (we shall not all die, but we shall all be changed;
the trumpet shall sound and the dead shall be raised incorruptible)
John 20:1-18 (the women at the tomb; Peter and John; Mary Magdalene and Jesus)
Easter Day Lessons:
Isaiah 65:17-25 (God promises new heaven and earth; people will live long and prosper;
nothing shall hurt or destroy on his holy mountain)
Psalm 16 (you do not give me up to Sheol, nor let your holy one see the Pit)
RCL: Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 (Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; I shall not die but live,
and declare the works of the Lord)
1 Corinthians 15:19-26 (if Christ not raised, we are fools; but he has been raised, as shall we be!)
Luke 24:1-12 (the women at the empty tomb)
Hymn selections are for main services of the day, not the sunrise service
Opening Hymn: Jesus Christ is Risen Today: LBW #151, ELW #365, LSB #457
Hymn of the Day: Christ Jesus Lay in Death’s Strong Bands: LBW #134, ELW #370, LSB #458
Communion Hymn #1: Alleluia, Alleluia, Give Thanks to the Living Lord: WOV #671,
OR Alleluia! Jesus is Risen: WOV #674, ELW #377, LSB #474
Communion Hymn #2: I Know that My Redeemer Lives: LBW #352, ELW #619, LSB #461
Closing Hymn: Christ is Risen! Alleluia!: LBW #131, ELW #382
April 24, 2022: 2nd Sunday of Easter
Acts 5:12-32 (though imprisoned, the disciples are freed by an angel; they continue
to proclaim the Gospel, as they must obey God rather than man)
RCL: Acts 5:27-32 (We must obey God, not man; we are witnesses to these things)
Psalm 148 (all creation praises God)
RCL: Psalm 150 (Let all creation praise God!)
Revelation 1:4-18 (John writes to his churches, sees glorified Jesus amidst their lampstands)
John 20:19-31 (Jesus appears, gives Spirit, commission to forgive/retain sins;
Thomas’s confession of faith)
*******
Opening Hymn: The Day of Resurrection: LBW #141, ELW #361, LSB, #478 (LBW tune is awful. Use tune for “O Day of Rest and Gladness”, LBW #251, as ELW does; or tune for “Lead On, O Kinky Turtle,” LBW #495)
OR O Sons and Daughters of the King: LBW #139, LSB #471; 470
O Sons and Daughters, Let Us Sing: ELW #386
Hymn of the Day: That Easter Day With Joy Was Bright: LBW #154, ELW #384 (LBW tune is meh.
Use the tune for “On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry”)
OR These Things Did Thomas Count as Real: LSB #472
Communion Hymn #1: Come, Let Us Eat: LBW #214, ELW #491, LSB #626
Communion Hymn #2: Christ is Arisen, Alleluia: WOV #678, ELW #372
Closing Hymn: Thine is the Glory: LBW #145, ELW #376
May 1, 2022: 3rd Sunday of Easter
Acts 9:1-22 (Conversion of Saul)
Psalm 30 (praise God for deliverance from enemies)
Revelation 5:1-14 (is no one worthy to open the scroll? the heavenly host praise the Lamb who
was slain, who alone is worthy to open the scroll of judgment)
RCL: Revelation 5:11-14 (eliminates weeping because no one found worthy)
John 21:1-19 (the disciples and the risen Jesus, a miraculous catch of fish, and “Feed my lambs”)
******
Opening Hymn: Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor: LBW #172, ELW #475, LSB #534
Hymn of the Day: At the Lamb’s High Feast: LBW #210, ELW #362, LSB #633
Communion Hymn #1: O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts: LBW #356, ELW #658
Communion Hymn #2: Good Christian Friends, Rejoice and Sing:
LBW #144, ELW #385, LSB #475
Closing Hymn: Crown Him with Many Crowns: LBW #170, ELW #855, LSB #525
May 8, 2022: 4th Sunday of Easter (Good Shepherd Sunday), also Mother’s Day
Acts 20:17-35 (Paul, on his way to Jerusalem, exhorts elders to watch over the flock
they are entrusted with, for there are dangerous wolves that threaten them)
RCL: Acts 9:36-43 (Peter raises Tabitha)
Psalm 23 (the Lord is my shepherd)
Revelation 7:9-17 (salvation belongs to God and to the Lamb; behold a host, arrayed in white)
John 10:22-30 (my sheep hear my voice; no one shall snatch them from my hand)
*******
Opening Hymn: Behold A Host, Arrayed in White: LSB #676, (far superior translation)
Behold A/The Host, Like Mountains Bright: LBW 314, ELW #425
Hymn of the Day: The King of Love My Shepherd Is: LBW #456, ELW #502, LSB #709
Communion Hymn #1: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537
OR Thine the Amen: WOV #801, ELW #826, LSB #680
Communion Hymn #2: I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb: LSB #740,
Have No Fear, Little Flock: LBW #476, ELW #764, LSB #735
Closing Hymn: Praise the Lord, Rise Up Rejoicing: LBW #196, ELW #544
May 15, 2022: 5th Sunday of Easter
Acts 11:1-18 (Peter defends baptism of Cornelius’ household by recounting his vision)
Psalm 148 (all creation praises the Lord)
Revelation 21:1-7 (new heaven and earth; no pain, crying or death; He is Alpha and Omega)
John 16:12-22 (Jesus promises the Spirit, who will declare his words to the disciples; they should
rejoice that Jesus is going away, for he will return, and no one will take away their joy)
RCL: John 13:31-35 (I give you a new command: love each other as I have loved you)
*******
Opening Hymn: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700
Hymn of the Day: Awake, My Heart, With Gladness: LBW #129, ELW #378, LSB #467
Communion Hymn #1: In Heaven Above: LBW #330, ELW #630
Communion Hymn #2: Soon and Very Soon: WOV #744, ELW #439
Closing Hymn: Alabare, WOV #791, LSB #799/800
OR Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee, LBW #551, ELW #836, LSB #803
OR Jesus Loves Me: ELW #595
May 22, 2022: 6th Sunday of Easter
Acts 16:9-15 (mission to Macedonia; meeting in house of Lydia)
Psalm 67 (May God be gracious to us and bless us; let all peoples praise him)
Revelation 21:9-14, 21-27 (vision of the New Jerusalem)
John 16:22-33 (then you will ask anything of the Father in my name, and receive;
you joy will be complete. In the world you have trouble, but I have overcome the world)
RCL: John 14:23-29 (Those who love me keep my word; I give you peace;
I send the Spirit; rejoice, because I go to the Father)
*******
Opening Hymn: O Day Full Of Grace: LBW #161, ELW #627, LSB #503
Hymn of the Day: O, What Their Joy: LBW #337 (may be sung to tune for “Blessing and Honor,” LBW #535)
Communion Hymn #1: Jerusalem, My Happy Home: LBW #331, ELW #628, LSB #673
Communion Hymn #2: My Life Flows On In Endless Song: WOV #781, ELW #763
Closing Hymn: In Thee is Gladness: LBW #552, ELW #867, LSB #818
May 29, 2022: 7th Sunday of Easter, or Ascension of Our Lord, Transferred
Lessons for the Ascension of Our Lord
Acts 1:1-11 (the Ascension story)
Psalm 47 (God has gone up with a shout!)
Ephesians 1:15-23 (God put all under Christ’s feet, made him head of body; glorious inheritance)
Luke 24:44-53 (You’re witnesses to Jesus’ death and resurrection. Proclaim repentance, forgiveness. Brief account of Ascension)
Lessons for 7th Sunday of Easter:
Acts 1:12-26 (Barnabas chosen to round out the Twelve)
RCL: Acts 16:16-34 (Paul and Silas exorcise demon from slave girl; are thrown in prison;
chains miraculously broken; jailers believe and are baptized)
Psalm 133 (Good and pleasant when brethren dwell together in unity)
RCL: Psalm 97 (The Lord is king; Zion rejoices; God loves and guards the faithful)
Revelation 22:1-20 (the river and Tree of Life; warnings; invitation to feast; Come, Lord Jesus!)
John 17:20-26 (Jesus prays for all believers, that they be one as he and the Father are one)
*******
I’ve offered alternatives for Hymn of Day
Opening Hymn: Alleluia! Sing to Jesus: LBW #158, ELW #392, LSB #821
Hymn of the Day, Ascension theme: Look, O Look, the Sight is Glorious: LBW #156
Look, Ye Saints, The Sight Is Glorious: LSB #495
OR My Lord of Light: WOV #796, ELW #832
Hymn of Day, 7 Easter theme: Lord, Who in the Night You Were Betrayed Did Pray:
LBW #206, ELW #463
Communion Hymn #1: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328, ELW #634, LSB #549
Communion Hymn #2: A Hymn of Glory Let Us Sing: LBW #157, ELW #393, LSB #493
Closing Hymn: Rejoice, the Lord is King: LBW #171
Rejoice, For Christ is King: ELW #430
June 5, 2022: Day of Pentecost
Genesis 11:1-9 (Tower of Babel and confusion of languages)
Psalm 143 (prayer of longing for God’s refreshing presence)
RCL: Psalm 104: 24-35 (it calls for elimination of v. 35a, “Let sinners be consumed and
the wicked be no more.” I dare you to keep it in.)
Acts 2:1-21 (Day of Pentecost and undoing of Babel)
John 14:23-31 (Love me, do my commandments; I am sending the Spirit who will remind you
of all my words; my peace I give to you)
RCL: John 14:8-17 (See me, see the Father; if you love me, keep my commandments;
the Father will send the Spirit of truth)
*******
Opening Hymn: Holy Spirit, Truth/Light Divine: LBW #257, ELW #398, LSB #496
Hymn of the Day: Come Holy Ghost, Our Souls Inspire: LBW #472
Creator Spirit, Heavenly Dove: ELW #577
Come Holy Ghost, Creator Blest: LSB #498
Weirdly, these are all basically the same hymn! Same tune, basically same gist, just different translations!
OR O Spirit of Life: ELW #405
Communion Hymn #1: Come, Gracious Spirit, Heavenly Dove: LBW #475, ELW #578
Communion Hymn #2: Gracious Spirit, Heed Our Pleading: WOV #687, ELW #401
Closing Hymn: Spirit of God, Sent From Heaven Abroad: LBW #285
OR Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness: WOV #684, ELW #396
OR Holy Spirit, the Dove Sent From Heaven: LSB #502 (Great words, and nice Hispanic melody)
June 12, 2022: The Holy Trinity, also Father’s Day
Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31 (the Wisdom of God, in whom all was created)
Psalm 8 (your works are excellent; what is man that you are mindful of him)
Acts 2:14a, 22-36 (Peter’s Pentecost sermon: Jesus is Lord and God)
RCL: Romans 5:1-5 (We have peace with God through Jesus; the Spirit of him who raised
up Christ is poured into our hearts)
John 8:48-59 (Before Abraham was, I AM)
RCL: John 16:12-15 (The Spirit will declare all he has heard; will take what is Jesus’
that he received from his Father)
*******
Opening Hymn: Holy, Holy, Holy: LBW #165, ELW #473, LSB #507
Hymn of the Day: Holy God, We Praise Your/Thy Name: LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940
OR
Almighty Father, Creator Blest
Tune: Victory (The Strife is O’er)
By Rev. Cathy A. Ammlung, STS
(before first verse; “in” is sung on two notes):
Credo, credo, credo in_ unum Deum!
Worlds sprang to life at his behest;
Seen and unseen, his name they confessed:
Credo, credo!
In truth and substance, they are one;
Pure Light from Light, in him life’s begun:
Credo, credo!
He came from heav’n, the lost to seek,
God’s Word made flesh, salvation to speak.
Credo, credo!
And of the Spirit, to be sin’s cure,
Christ became man; let praises endure –
Credo, credo!
For us, our Lord was crucified,
For us, he rose again, glorified:
Credo, credo!
He shall return, to judge everyone,
And rule fore’er, as Lord and God:
Credo, credo!
One with the Father and Son, adored,
Inspiring prophets’ holy word,
Credo, credo!
One with apostles, martyrs and Lord,
One through baptism with water and Word,
Credo, credo!
Christ’s life from death our future shall be,
Forever praising the Trinity:
Credo, credo!
(final refrain: as in opening)
Credo, credo, credo in_ unum Deum!
Communion Hymn #1: Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise: LBW #526, ELW #834, LSB #802
Communion Hymn #2: Father Most Holy: LBW #169, ELW #415, LSB #504
Closing Hymn: Thee We Adore, Eternal Lord!: LBW #547
OR Thy Strong Word Didst Cleave the Darkness: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578
April 28, 2019: 2nd Sunday of Easter
Acts 5:12-32 (though imprisoned, the disciples are freed by an angel; they continue to proclaim the Gospel, as they must obey God rather than man)
RCL: Acts 5:27-32 (We must obey God, not man; we are witnesses to these things)
Psalm 148 (all creation praises God)
RCL: Psalm 150 (Let all creation praise God!)
Revelation 1:4-18 (John writes to his churches, sees the transcendent Jesus in midst of the candle stands representing those churches)
John 20:19-31 (Jesus appears, gives Spirit and commission to forgive/retain sins; Thomas’s confession of faith)
Opening Hymn: ELW #361, The Day of Resurrection!
(LBW #141, has a very awkward tune. Use Ellacombe, the tune for “O Day of Rest and Gladness”, #251 which ELW uses and is far more singable, or Lancashire, tune for LBW #495, “Lead On, O Kinky Turtle,” which is also the tune used for “The Day of Resurrection in LSB, #478.)
OR LBW #139, O Sons and Daughters of the King (LSB #471; 470 uses another familiar tune) (ELW #386, O Sons and Daughters, Let Us Sing)
Hymn of the Day: LBW #154, That Easter Day With Joy Was Bright
(Puh-leeez use the tune that ELW #384 uses for this. “Puer Nobis,” used for “On Jordan’s Banks the Baptist’s Cry”)
OR LSB #472, These Things Did Thomas Count as Real
Communion Hymn #1: LBW #214, Come, Let Us Eat (ELW #491, LSB #626)
Communion Hymn #2: WOV #678, Christ is Arisen, Alleluia (ELW #372)
Closing Hymn: LBW #131, Christ is Risen! Alleluia! (ELW #382)
May 5, 2019: 3rd Sunday of Easter
Acts 9:1-22 (Conversion of Saul)
Psalm 30 (praise God for deliverance from enemies)
Revelation 5:1-14 (is no one worthy to open the scroll? the heavenly host praise the Lamb who was slain,
who alone is worthy to open the scroll of judgment)
RCL: Revelation 5:11-14 (eliminates weeping because no one found worthy until the slaughtered Lamb appears)
John 21:1-19 (the disciples and the risen Jesus, a miraculous catch of fish, and “Feed my lambs”)
Opening Hymn: LBW #172, Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor (ELW #475, LSB #534)
Hymn of the Day: LBW #210, At the Lamb’s High Feast (ELW #362, LSB #633)
Communion Hymn #1: LBW #356, O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts (ELW #658)
Communion Hymn #2: LBW #144, Good Christian Friends, Rejoice and Sing! (ELW #385, LSB #475)
Closing Hymn: LBW #170, Crown Him With Many Crowns (ELW #855, LSB #525)
May 12, 2019: 4th Sunday of Easter (Good Shepherd Sunday), also Mother’s Day
Acts 20:17-35 (Paul, on his way to Jerusalem, exhorts elders to watch over the flock they are entrusted with,
for there are dangerous wolves that threaten them)
RCL: Acts 9:36-43 (Peter raises Tabitha)
Psalm 23 (the Lord is my shepherd)
Revelation 7:9-17 (salvation belongs to God and to the Lamb; behold a host, arrayed in white)
John 10:22-30 (my sheep hear my voice; no one shall snatch them from my hand)
Opening Hymn: LSB #676, Behold A Host, Arrayed in White (far superior translation)
OR LBW 314, Behold A Host, Like Mountains Bright (ELW #425, Behold the Host…)
Hymn of the Day: LBW #456, The King of Love My Shepherd Is (ELW #502, LSB #709)
OR LBW #481, Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us (ELW #789, LSB #711, both use the old familiar tune from SBH for this hymn)
Communion Hymn #1: LBW #537, O Jesus, King Most Wonderful
OR ELW #826, Thine the Amen (WOV #801, LSB #680)
Communion Hymn #2: LSB #740, I Am Jesus’ Little Lamb
OR LBW #476, Have No Fear, Little Flock (ELW #764, LSB #735)
Closing Hymn: LBW #196, Praise the Lord, Rise Up Rejoicing (ELW #544)
May 19, 2019: 5th Sunday of Easter
Acts 11:1-18 (Peter defends baptism of Cornelius’ household by recounting his vision)
Psalm 148 (all creation praises the Lord)
Revelation 21:1-7 (new heaven and earth; no pain, crying or death; He is Alpha and Omega)
John 16:12-22 (Jesus promises the Spirit, who will declare his words to the disciples; they should rejoice that Jesus is going away,
for he will return, and no one will take away their joy)
RCL: John 13:31-35 (I give you a new command: love each other as I have loved you)
Opening Hymn: WOV #744, Soon and Very Soon (ELW #439)
OR LBW #351, O Happy Day When We Shall Stand (ELW #441)
Hymn of the Day: LBW #129, Awake, My Heart, With Gladness (ELW #378, LSB #467)
Communion Hymn #1: LBW #330, In Heaven Above (ELW #630)
Communion Hymn #2: LBW #219, Come With Us, O Blessed Jesus (ELW #501)
Closing Hymn: LBW #315, Love Divine, All Loves Excelling (ELW #631, LSB #700)
May 26, 2019: 6th Sunday of Easter; Memorial Day Weekend
Acts 16:9-15(mission to Macedonia; meeting in house of Lydia)
Psalm 67 (May God be gracious to us and bless us; let all peoples praise him)
Revelation 21:9-14, 21-27 (vision of the New Jerusalem)
John 16:22-33 (then you will ask anything of the Father in my name, and receive; you joy will be complete.
In the world you have trouble, but I have overcome the world)
RCL: John 14:23-29 (Those who love me keep my word; I give you peace; I send the Spirit; rejoice, because I go to the Father)
Opening Hymn: LBW #250, Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty (ELW #533, LSB #901)
Hymn of the Day: LBW #161, O Day Full Of Grace (ELW #627, LSB #503)
Communion Hymn #1: LBW #331, Jerusalem, My Happy Home (ELW #628, LSB #673)
Communion Hymn #2: WOV #781, My Life Flows On In Endless Song (ELW #673)
Closing Hymn: LBW #552, In Thee is Gladness (ELW #867, LSB #818)
June 2, 2019: 7th Sunday of Easter, or Ascension of Our Lord, Transferred
Lessons for the Ascension of Our Lord
Acts 1:1-11 (the Ascension story)
Psalm 47 (God has gone up with a shout!)
Ephesians 1:15-23 (God has put all things under Christ’s feet, made him the head of the body; given you a glorious inheritance)
Luke 24:44-53 (you are witnesses: proclaim Jesus’ death and resurrection, proclaim repentance and forgiveness of sin; Ascension in brief)
Lessons for 7th Sunday of Easter:
Acts 1:12-26 (Barnabas chosen to round out the Twelve)
RCL: Acts 16:16-34 (Paul and Silas exorcise demon from slave girl; are thrown in prison; their chains miraculously broken;
jailers believe and are baptized)
Psalm 133 (Good and pleasant when brethren dwell together in unity)
RCL: Psalm 97 (The Lord is king; heavens and all nations bow down; Zion rejoices; God loves and guards the faithful)
Revelation 22:1-20 (the river and Tree of Life; final warnings and invitation to the marriage supper; Come, Lord Jesus!)
John 17:20-26 (Jesus prays for all believers, that they be one as he and the Father are one)
I have chosen hymns that should be successful whichever lessons you are using; or I have offered an alternative
Opening Hymn: LBW #328, All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name (ELW #634, LSB #549)
Hymn of the Day, Ascension theme: LBW #156, Look, O Look, the Sight is Glorious (LSB #495, Look, Ye Saints, the Sight is Glorious)
OR LBW #172, Lord, Enthroned in Heavenly Splendor (same tune as 156!) (ELW #475, LSB #534)
Hymn of Day, 7 Easter theme: LBW #206, Lord, Who in the Night You Were Betrayed Did Pray (ELW #463)
OR LBW #358, Glories of Your Name are Spoken (ELW #647, LSB #648, Glorious Things of You Are Spoken)
Communion Hymn #1: LBW #157, A Hymn of Glory Let Us Sing (ELW #393, LSB #493)
Communion Hymn #2: LBW #549, Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven (ELW #865, LSB #793)
Closing Hymn: LBW #158, Alleluia! Sing to Jesus (ELW #392, LSB #821)
June 9, 2019: Day of Pentecost
Genesis 11:1-9 (Tower of Babel and confusion of languages)
Psalm 143 (prayer of longing for God’s refreshing presence)
RCL: Psalm 104: 24-35 (it calls for elimination of v. 35a, “Let sinners be consumed and the wicked be no more.” I dare you to keep it in.)
Acts 2:1-21 (Day of Pentecost and undoing of Babel)
John 14:23-31 (Love me, do my commandments; I am sending the Spirit who will remind you of all my words; my peace I give to you)
RCL: John 14:8-17 ( See me, see the Father; if you love me, keep my commandments; the Father will send the Spirit of truth)
Opening Hymn: LBW #359, In Christ there Is No East or West (ELW #650, LSB #653)
OR LBW #508, Come Down, O Love Divine (ELW #804, LSB #501)
Hymn of the Day: LBW #472, Come Holy Ghost, Our Souls Inspire
(ELW #577,578, Creator Spirit, Heavenly Dove, somewhat different translation); (LSB #498, 499, yet another translation)
OR WOV #687, Gracious Spirit, Heed Our Pleading (ELW #401)
Communion Hymn #1: LBW #475, Come, Gracious Spirit, Heavenly Dove (ELW #404)
Communion Hymn #2: ELW #405, O Spirit of Life
OR LBW #488, Breathe On Me, Breath of God
Closing Hymn: LBW #285, Spirit of God, Sent From Heaven Abroad
OR LBW #257, Holy Spirit, Truth Divine (ELW #398) (LSB #496, Holy Spirit, Light Divine)
June 16, 2019: The Holy Trinity, also Father’s Day
Proverbs 8:1-4, 22-31(the Wisdom of God, in whom all was created)
Psalm 8 (your works are excellent; what is man that you are mindful of him)
Acts 2:14a, 22-36 (Peter’s Pentecost sermon: Jesus is Lord and God)
RCL: Romans 5:1-5 (We have peace with God through Jesus; the Spirit of him who raised up Christ is poured into our hearts)
John 8:48-59 (Before Abraham was, I AM)
RCL: John 16:12-15 (The Spirit will declare all he has heard; will take what is Jesus’ that he received from his Father)
Opening Hymn: LBW #522, Come Thou, Almighty King (ELW #408, LSB #905)
OR LBW #544, v. 1-4, The God of Abraham Praise (ELW #831 v. 1-4, LSB #798 v. 1-4)
Hymn of the Day: LBW #535, Holy God, We Praise Your Name (ELW #414, LSB #940)
OR LBW #544, v. 7-9, The God of Abraham Praise
(ELW #831 v. 5-6, LSB #798 v. 5-7)
OR (may take place of Nicene Creed; however, if you use the Athanasian Creed on Trinity Sunday, you may switch this to the closing hymn)
Almighty Father, Creator Blest
Tune: Victory (The Strife is O’er)
Dedicated to the Pastors of the Society of the Holy
By Rev. Cathy A. Ammlung, STS
(before first verse; note, “in” is sung on two notes):
Credo, credo, credo in_ unum Deum!
Almighty Father, Creator blest,
Worlds sprang to life at his behest;
Seen and unseen, his name they confessed:
Credo, credo!
Lord Jesus Christ, his only Son,
In truth and substance, they are one;
Pure Light from Light, in him life’s begun:
Credo, credo!
For us poor sinners, mortal and weak,
He came from heav’n, the lost to seek,
God’s Word made flesh, salvation to speak.
Credo, credo!
Born of the virgin, Mary most pure,
And of the Spirit, to be sin’s cure,
Christ became man; let praises endure –
Credo, credo!
For us, ‘neath Pilate’s judgment he died –
For us, our Lord was crucified,
For us, he rose again, glorified:
Credo, credo!
Ascended to the Father’s throne,
He shall return, to judge everyone,
And rule fore’er, as Lord and God:
Credo, credo!
Most Holy Spirit, life-giving Lord,
One with the Father and Son, adored,
Inspiring prophets’ holy word,
Credo, credo!
Making one holy Church in the world,
One with apostles, martyrs and Lord,
One through baptism with water and Word,
Credo, credo!
From sin forgiven, we are made free,
Christ’s life from death our future shall be,
Forever praising the Trinity:
Credo, credo!
(final refrain: as in opening)
Credo, credo, credo in_ unum Deum!
Communion Hymn #1: LBW #526, Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise (ELW #834, LSB #802)
Communion Hymn #2: LBW #169, Father Most Holy (ELW #415, LSB #504)
Closing Hymn: LBW #544, v. 9-11, The God of Abraham Praise (ELW #831 v. 7-8, LSB #798 v. 8-9)
OR LBW #165, Holy, Holy, Holy (ELW #413, LSB #507)
OR ELW #845, Voices Raised To You We Offer (LSB #795) (very familiar tune!)