The Prayers of the Church

The Seventh Sunday of Easter, June 2, 2019 (or Ascension, Transferred)

 

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

A brief silence

O Lord Jesus, glorious, risen, and ascended Savior of the world! We worship and adore you. We kneel in humble adoration before your majesty. Yet you take us by the hand and invite us to your marriage supper – and make us your Bride and your Body. You pray for us, and promise us your own glorious inheritance. You commission us to proclaim the good news of your strong saving love to the whole world. You give us your own work of forgiving sins. What else can we do but say, Amen, come, Lord Jesus?!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Unite all who confess your Name into your Body as your one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church upon the earth. Fill it with your Spirit, and make it a faithful witness to your death and resurrection. Grant that the Church may always proclaim the gospel of repentance and forgiveness to the whole world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow upon your persecuted Church the fullness of their glorious inheritance, won for them and for all who believe by the merits of your own suffering, death, and resurrection. By their faithful witness, cause those who hate them – and you – to repent, that they may receive forgiveness and newness of life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless the people and guide the ministries of this congregation, so that in all things, your name is glorified and your will is done. Unite us ever more closely with you and with one another; and use our words and actions to draw others into the joy of the life you share with your Father and with your people, in the bond of the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the Way, the Truth, and the Life for all graduates. Give them joy in using what they have learned. Keep them steadfast in their love of truth, justice, and self-giving service. Make them eager to grow in faith toward you and in fervent love for others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the shield and defender of all who risk their lives in service of country and in defense of innocent lives. Guide their decisions and actions; heal their wounds of body, mind and soul; comfort and strengthen their loved ones; and bring us all into that glorious day when war will be no more.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As you prayed for your followers, so we pray for the world, its rulers and its people; and most especially for our country and its leaders. Bestow peace and unity wherever suspicion and violence cause distress. Turn the hearts of many to seek and work for those things that please your heavenly Father, and that bring health, hope and justice to all: especially the poor, victims of violence, and the world’s children.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of all who endure the anguish of pain, grief, abandonment, shame, despair, or any other evil that afflict their bodies, minds, or hearts. Especially we lift before you the needs of: {List}. Grant to them the strong assurance of your presence, so that they firmly believe and deeply feel that they dwell in you, and you in them; and bring them to fullness of life, hope, and joy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, you have ascended to the right hand of your Father, and you promise your life in Him to all whom you have saved. Therefore we confidently entrust into your care our beloved dead. Wipe away the tears of all whose grief runs deep. Dwell with us and in us. Draw us ever closer to one another even as you lead us to your Father’s embrace. Send us your Holy Spirit, to prepare us to share with joy in your wedding-supper. Hasten the day when we celebrate that eternal feast with all the people whom you have redeemed and united to yourself and  to your Father forever.

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.

The Prayers of the Church

The Sixth Sunday of Easter, May 26, 2019 (Memorial Day Weekend)

 

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

A brief silence

O Lord Jesus, blessed Bridegroom, thank you for making us your beloved Bride, even to giving your life for us! Thank you for making your Church, now troubled by evils within and without, the glorious New Jerusalem! Thank you for promising us joy in our fellowship with you and one another!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

O Lord Jesus, grant to your Church the grace and comfort of the Holy Spirit. Grant that, in a world shadowed by suffering, sorrow and sin, it always bears witness to your promise of joy, and shares the blessings of your love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

There are fellow Christians who know that in this world, confessing your name may bring trouble. Make them confident that you have overcome the world.  Grant them such unshakeable joy that their enemies are astonished and confounded, and repent.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let the Spirit fill every heart in this congregation with joy. Make that joy blossom into heartfelt worship, loving service, truthful witness, deep prayer, and loving fellowship. Use us to draw our friends and neighbors closer to you. May we shed the light of your love and joy in the darkest corners of their lives.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give your joyous presence to our teenagers. It is easy for them to be preoccupied with school, sports, jobs, and friends. It can be hard for them to endure teasing or scorn because they believe in you. Fill them with the light of your love, so their lives radiate it and become a blessing to those around them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

This weekend, we remember with reverence and gratitude our blessed dead, especially those who gave their lives in the service of our country. Grant that we order our common life in a way that is worthy of their sacrifice. Guide and strengthen all who currently serve. Heal them when they fall; shield and comfort their loved ones; and bring them home safely and soon.  And we beseech you to bring such peace to your world that the arts of war need no longer be known among us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

This world is filled with trouble of every kind; yet you have overcome the world and defeated the powers of sin and evil and death. We pray for our world; for its leaders; for all people, especially those who are most burdened by the sorrows and horrors of war, poverty, hatred, abuse, disease and despair. Bestow your Holy Spirit upon us all, especially those who make decisions that affect many lives: the Spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and fear of the Lord; and most of all, the Spirit of joy in your presence.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant healing and hope to all who suffer in body, mind or spirit, especially: {List}. Be gracious and merciful to them, and to all who care for them. Restore the bonds of fellowship and affection that have been strained or sundered by suffering and adversity; and give to us all the joy of your saving help.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus Christ, you have overcome the world, the devil, and our sins. Thank you for delivering from those powers all who died trusting in you. Thank you for giving them eternal life. Let the fullness of your joy touch and heal hearts still shadowed by grief. Help us all to live in faith and hope, love and kindness, gentleness and peace, self-control and patience. Let us enjoy a foretaste of that deep and abiding joy that you promise forever to all whom you love.

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.

The Prayers of the Church

The Fifth Sunday of Easter, May 19, 2019

 

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

A brief silence

O Lord Jesus, you are the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the Resurrection and the Life! You bestow, even in the midst of sorrow, sin, and suffering, a vision of that new creation, in which those dreadful things are no more. Our words falter. We long for them to go far beyond mere thanks! We truly are “lost in wonder, love, and praise.” To you alone, blessed Jesus, be the glory!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Savior, fill your whole Church with your Holy Spirit. Make it constant in faith, bold in witness, ardent in worship, joyful in adversity, generous in service, rich in compassion, and radiant with holiness. Through its words and deeds, lead many, as you led Cornelius and his household, to life, salvation, and fellowship with all who name you as Lord and God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Set before those who are persecuted on account of you – in Nigeria, North Korea, and countless other places – the sure hope of your love’s final and eternal triumph.  Keep us ever mindful of their suffering, and help us find ways to give them assistance and encouragement.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Kindle the fire of the Spirit’s power in this congregation. Make our hearts glow with love for you and for our neighbors, within and beyond these walls. Give us that joy which the world cannot give – and can never take away. Use us to carry the light of that joy to those who do not know it.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless all elementary and middle school children with joy, love of learning, and kindly hearts. Protect them from bullies and abusers, from the world’s alluring dangers and hidden threats; and from everything that would darken their hearts or hide your face.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for those in the military, and for all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Help them to do their jobs faithfully, bravely and well. Bring them home in safety when their service is completed. Speed the day when there is no more warfare, pain, crying or death, and all your people may live at peace with you and with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this world with your goodness and righteousness, until every creature, every person, every nation, kindred and tribe shouts praises to your name and delights in the abundant life that only you can give. Teach the rulers and magistrates of the nations – and the leaders of commerce, technology, education, medicine and law – to seek truth; to delight in wisdom; to deliberate and decide with justice; and to act with generosity and humility. And teach everyone to live in peace and fellowship with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Wipe away the tears, and take away the suffering, of all whose need is great. Especially we plead on behalf of: {List}. Even in this broken and fallen world, bring to them, and to all who love them, a measure of your Kingdom’s endless joy and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy and loving Savior, you are indeed the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end of all things. You are the light and life of all who have died trusting in you. Keep us in fellowship with them through the bond of your Holy Spirit. By that same Spirit, raise up and gather in your arms all whom you have redeemed. Lead us into your Father’s presence as a pure and whole and holy community – your family, your joy, and your treasure forever.

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.

“It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I may learn Your
statutes. The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and
silver pieces.” (Psalm 119:71-72)

None of us is where we need to
be. We need the salvation of the Lord. More than just an overlay, it must be
deep-rooted in removing all that stands in the way of our walking in the
righteousness of the Lord. The Lord will stop at nothing to bring you fully
into the way of everlasting life. Rejoice in the love of the Lord and His
willingness to lead you always.

Lord, there are troubles and turmoil in this age. You have promised that
will all be worked for good for those who love You. Help me to see through to
the many times where You have done this. Let me rejoice that even in adversity,
You are growing in me the likeness of Christ. Lead me, O Lord, in all of Your
ways and help me to see Your hand in everything knowing that it is You who
leads.

Holy Spirit, reveal in my heart
the many ways in which I am daily learning lessons. Help me to persevere that I
may grow in obedience. Let me not be hindered by the ways of this world which
plague me, but instead see that through Your guidance, I can and will learn and
grow in faith. May I ever rejoice that You have given me the true treasure of
eternity in being forever with You. Amen.

The Prayers of the Church

The Fourth Sunday of Easter, May 12, 2019 (Mother’s Day)

 

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

A brief silence

O Lord Jesus, you alone are worthy! You are worthy to open the scroll. You are worthy to judge the world – and us! – in righteousness. You are worthy of blessing and honor, glory and praise. Give us grace to sing of your greatness, to bless your most holy name, and to live lives worthy of you, our Shepherd and Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your servant Paul exhorted the elders of the churches to watch over your flock, guarding them from the dangerous wolves that threaten them. Bless your Church with pastors, bishops, lay leaders, and theologians who rightly proclaim and teach your Word; protect your people from falsehood, heresy and schism; and lead your people into lives of holiness, faithfulness and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

The martyrs of your Church stand before your throne, praying for all who are persecuted for your Name’s sake. Join our prayers to theirs. Give courage and endurance to those who suffer on account of you. By their example, cause those who trouble them to repent and turn to you, for the transformation of their lives and the renewal of their minds.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless and direct the people of this congregation. Make us confident that you love us and know each of us by name. Move us past our fears and preoccupations into eager discipleship and loving service. Let all be done your glory, and for the good of those in our family, community, workplace and world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless and gently guide our littlest lambs – our infants and toddlers, and all who are newborns in the faith. Lead them in safety through the dangers of this world; crown their innocence with holiness; and teach them to know your voice and to gladly follow wherever you would have them go.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for mothers, foster mothers, and for all who care and love with a mother’s heart. Adorn their lives with wisdom, goodness, common sense, and patience. Give them endurance – and a good night’s sleep – to carry out their many tasks with a light heart and ready smile. Be their strength and shield when their burdens are great and sorrowful. And bestow your dearest comfort to all who have lost a child, or who are unable to have one.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give a shepherd’s heart to the leaders of all nations, especially our own. Teach them to seek the welfare of their people above power, wealth, or re-election. By their labors, grant the simple blessings of decent food, clean water, and the chance to raise families in freedom and safety. Give wisdom and integrity to all who risk their lives on behalf of others. And to all people, especially those whose lives have been shattered by violence, grant a measure of your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Oh great and good Shepherd, lead with gentleness and compassion all who are sick or sorrowing; lonely or confused; hurting or despairing; and to all who cry out for mercy. Especially we remember before you the needs of: {List}. Give the Spirit of your compassion to all who care for them; and restore them to wholeness and hope.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, we recite the Shepherd’s Psalm at the death of a member of your flock, confident that you have led them through death’s dark vale into your Father’s house. We therefore entrust into your keeping all our dear departed. Lead us, as you have led them: in good times and bad, in health and sickness, in joy and despair, in life and in death. And bring us, and all whom you have redeemed, into that house, there to rejoice in the love you share with your Father and the Holy Spirit, and which you are pleased to share with us, forever.

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.

The Prayers of the Church

The Third Sunday of Easter, May 5, 2019

 

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

A brief silence

O Lord Jesus, you stand in the midst of the lampstands which are your churches; and you fill them with imperishable light. Thank you for not deserting us to the darkness of sin, evil, and death. Thank you for dispelling the gloomy clouds of doubt, grief, and despair. Thank you for leading us into the everlasting day of your resurrection life. Grant us grace to lead all people and all creation in praising your Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, you commanded your servant Peter to feed your lambs and to tend your sheep. Grant your Church the faithfulness, compassion, and courage to feed your flock with your living Word of truth and grace; your living water of baptismal regeneration; and your living Body and Blood, the source of life everlasting.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Church is persecuted in many places, even as it was in the days of the Apostles. Deliver it from its enemies; grant it steadfast faith and hearts free from bitterness; and by its faithful endurance, shine the light of your judgment and forgiveness upon its persecutors, so that they may turn to you and live.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation. Kindle our hearts to seek the lost, lift up the broken-hearted, and feed hungry souls around us with your holy and precious Word.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As you confronted Saul on the Damascus road, so we pray that you would, in challenge and in mercy, confront the scoffers and skeptics who scorn your Word and refuse your truth. Give us winsome logic and gentle hearts; so that through our words, deeds and lives, you feed the unbelieving with your justice, truth and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are Lord, King, Judge and Savior of the world. Enlighten the hearts of all who take counsel for the nations, and guide them in pathways of justice and righteousness.  Grant that your people everywhere may be fed with justice as well as loaves; may drink of peace as well as clean water; and may be given the safety and freedom to live, learn, teach and work; to raise their families and help their neighbors; and to know and love their Lord and God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Defend and guide all who stand between life and death; between violence and safety; and between oppression and freedom. Lend them your wisdom and righteousness, and raise them up when they falter. Heal them of wounds to body, heart, and mind; and grant them joyous reunions with those who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Oh great and good Shepherd, lead with gentleness and compassion all who are sick or sorrowing; lonely or confused; hurting or despairing; and to all who cry out for mercy. Especially we remember before you the needs of: {List}. Give the Spirit of your compassion to all who care for them; and restore them to wholeness and hope.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

Lord Jesus, you alone are worthy to open the scroll; to judge the whole world in righteousness; and to bring forgiveness, life, and salvation to every sinner who dies trusting in your promises. We thank you for fulfilling those promises in the lives of our beloved dead. Give us faith, to trust your Word, no matter what the world screams at us to believe. Give us compassion, to feed and tend all for whom you died and rose, even those who rebuff or belittle us.  Give us grace, to taste, in this life, a foretaste of the banquet-feast of heaven, which you have prepared for all whom you have redeemed by your Blood.

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.

“You are good and do good; teach me Your statutes. The arrogant have
forged a lie against me; with all my heart I will observe Your precepts. Their
heart is covered with fat, but I delight in Your law.” (Psalm 119:68-69)

The Lord is always good. Never
forget this simple truth. In times of adversity and when things are not
proceeding in ways that make sense to you, the Lord is still good. What He has
promised is that everything will work for His glory. Learn His statutes and
walk in them. Do not believe the lies of the arrogant who have forged a plot
for your demise. Though you be confused, trust that God is always good.

Lord, clear the fat from my heart that I would see through the nonsense
of this age of sin. Guide me, O Lord, in the way of truth that I would now and
forever hold fast to Your Word. Lead me into the truth of eternity. O Lord, You
are good and Your ways are eternal. Lead me in the eternal way and teach me to
practice Your goodness now and forever that I would abide in You.

Jesus, You promised that if I
abide in You and You in me I would bear fruit. Lead me in the way You have
established that I would walk this day learning Your statutes and precepts. Help
me to always see in the way You have established, the way of everlasting life. Keep
my eyes upon You that I would always hold fast to the truth of what You have
revealed from the beginning. Amen.

The Prayers of the Church 

The Second Sunday of Easter, April 28, 2019

 

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

A brief silence

O Lord Jesus, you stand in the midst of the lampstands which are your churches; and you fill them with imperishable light. Thank you for not deserting us to the darkness of sin, evil, and death. Thank you for dispelling the gloomy clouds of doubt, grief, and despair. Thank you for leading us into the everlasting day of your resurrection life. Grant us grace to lead all people and all creation in praising your Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, bestow the light of your Resurrection upon your Church. Breathe your Holy Spirit upon it, and fill it with your peace. Give it grace and boldness to proclaim you as the crucified and risen Savior of the world, so that all people may adore you as their Lord and their God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dwell in the midst of those who suffer persecution on account of you. Make them into golden lampstands, shining with the radiance of your glory and grace, and filled with the oil of faithful witness and steadfast endurance.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour your Holy Spirit into the hearts of everyone in this congregation. Give us a hunger for your Word; a thirst for receiving and for sharing your forgiveness; a vision of your love for all people; and a desire to serve you by serving others in your name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give us the persistence and kindness of the disciples who sought out Thomas and drew him back into your dear presence. Help us to share, with those who have lost hope, the hope that is in us.

 

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We earnestly beseech you to give to the leaders of the nations, and to all people entrusted to their care, that peace which the world cannot give. Send your Holy Spirit into the world, so that repentant faith and deeds of mercy may bring the light of your saving love to hearts darkened by the powers of sin, evil and death.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Direct the deliberations and deeds of all who risk their lives on behalf of others. Give them wisdom and courage, integrity and patience, and fill them with a love for your good and gracious will. Use them to establish justice, safety, and hope in places sorely lacking in those good things.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heal the bodies, cheer the spirits, and illumine the hearts of all whose lives are shadowed by sorrow, suffering, doubt or despair. Especially we remember before you the needs of: {List}. Renew in them the gifts of faith and hope; raise them to fullness of life; and restore them to joyful fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, you have been raised from death to die no more; and you promise your resurrection life to all whom you have redeemed. We therefore entrust into your strong arms the lives of all who have fallen asleep in you, especially our beloved dead. Wipe away the tears of all who grieve; turn our doubt into unshakeable confidence; and grant that all of us may at last see you face to face and cry out in adoration and joy, “My Lord and my God!”

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.

April 28, 2019: 2^nd 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: 3^rd 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: 4^th 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: 5^th 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: 6^th 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: 7^th 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 7^th 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!)

 

 

 

 

 

“You have dealt well with Your servant, O Lord, according to Your word.
Teach me good discernment and knowledge, for I believe in Your commandments. Before
I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Your word.” (Psalm 119:65-67)

The prayer and hope for every
believer is to speak truthfully this knowledge that once we walked in the way
of the wicked, but now keep the commandments of the Lord. Walking in the way of
the wicked is the worst affliction that anyone can have. Keeping the Word of
the Lord is walking in the way of life. Come then into the presence of the Lord
and keep His commandments.

Lord, You know right where I am and the things that need to happen in my life. You know where I struggle in faith and the afflictions that these things cause. Guide me, O Lord, in the way of righteousness that I would now and forever love all that You have spoken. Lift me up out of the pit of affliction brought on by wickedness that I may walk humbly in Your presence.

Lord Jesus, You walked the valley of the shadow of death for our sake in places that would have destroyed us. Take me along with You that You would shepherd me out of the misery of this world and into the light of Your presence. Guide me, O Lord, in the way of truth. Guide me out of the wickedness of this world. Lead me, O Lord, that I may become ever more faithful to You. Amen