Prayers of the Church, November 3: All Saints’ Sunday

Revelation 7: 2-17 (An angel seals the righteous. Blessing, honor, glory, power to the Lamb!)

ELW/RCL: Isaiah 25:6-9 (The feast; God wipes away tears, removes shame, destroys death)

Psalm 149:  Praise the Lord for his righteousness and victory!

ELW/RCL: Psalm 24 (Who ascends God’s holy hill, enters temple? Those with clean hands, pure hearts)

1 John 3:1-3: (We shall be like Jesus as we see him as he is)

ELW/RCL: Revelation 21:1-6a (New heaven and earth, New Jerusalem; death is no more)

Matthew 5:1-12 (The Beatitudes)

ELW/RCL: John 11:32-44 (Jesus raises Lazarus)

Opening hymn: Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng: LBW #553, LSB #813

Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart: ELW #873/874

Hymn of the Day: Blessing and Honor: LBW #525, ELW #854

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

OR Alabare: WOV #791, LSB #799, 800

Communion Hymn #1: Children of the Heavenly Father: LBW #474, ELW #781, LSB #725

Communion Hymn #2: Day by Day: WOV #746, ELW #790

OR Jesus Loves Me: ELW #595, LSB #588

Closing Hymn: In Thee is Gladness: LBW #552, ELW #867, LSB #818

                OR For All the Saints: LBW #174, ELW #422, LSB #677

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THE PRAYERS 

Let us intercede before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sake of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Lord, for those forgiven sinners we call saints. Thank you for giving us a glimpse of your glory shining through their words and deeds. Thank you that, in Jesus, you have wiped away all their tears and taken away all their shame. Thank you for promising this to us, too.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Save and defend your Church, purchased with the blood of Christ. Give it righteous pastors and bishops. Defend it when it is attacked. Purify and heal it when it sins. Make it perfect in love and good works. Keep it steadfast in the faith once delivered to the saints, so that one holy Church may bear witness to you, the creator and redeemer of all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give your persecuted Church the blessings promised by Jesus. Let it rejoice in being united to his Passion. Give it the peace that passes human understanding. Grant repentance and faith to all who hate the name of Jesus. Give them grace to bind up the wounds they have inflicted upon the Body of Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Draw to yourself the hearts of this congregation’s members. Guide our minds; fill our imaginations; control our wills, so that we may be wholly yours. Use us as you will, always to your glory and the welfare of your people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Set before us the example of your saints, great and small. Inspire us by their faith, generosity, and compassion. Strengthen us to endure, as they did, hardship and persecution for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified to an unbelieving world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We commend all nations into your merciful care. Let everyone live in peace and be guided by your providence. Give those in authority the wisdom to know your will and the strength to do it. Grant to them – and to all of us! – a double portion of your Spirit, so that justice, mercy, righteousness, and peace may prevail.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask your special blessing as many of us approach a national election. Give us wisdom, discernment, and the grace to put your will for our country above personal or partisan interests. Grant us a peaceful and uncontested outcome and transfer of power. Bless us with your healing and holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Comfort with the grace of your Holy Spirit all who are in sorrow or need, sickness or adversity, especially {List}. Give wholeness and hope to all who cry out to you for help. Have mercy on the dying, and comfort the grieving. And to all, grant a measure of your love, shielding them with your tender care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we give you thanks for all of our blessed dead who rest now in your care. Raise them to the life promised to all whom you have redeemed by the Cross and Resurrection of your Son. Grant that we, who walk as yet by faith and not by sight, may by your Holy Spirit continue our course on earth with steadfast hope, constant love, and unquenchable joy. Gather us, with all of your people, at that eternal high feast that celebrates your victory over sin and death, won for us in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For Jesus’ sake, dear Father, graciously hear and generously answer our fervent petitions, to your glory and for the benefit off for whom we pray. Amen.

October 27: Reformation Sunday

Jeremiah 31:31-34 (God’s new covenant will be written on the heart)

Psalm 46 (The God of Jacob is our stronghold!)

Romans 3:19-28 (We are justified by faith, apart from works of the law)

John 8:31-36 (If the Son makes you free, you are free indeed)

Opening hymn: A Mighty Fortress: LBW #228/229, ELW #503-505, LSB 656/657

Hymn of the Day: Thy Strong Word: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

OR Word of God Come Down on Earth: WOV #716, ELW #510, LSB #545

Communion Hymn #1: The Church’s One Foundation:  LBW #369, ELW #654, LSB #644

Communion Hymn #2: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less:

LBW #293/294, ELW #596/597, LSB #575/576

Closing Hymn: Built on a/the Rock the Church Shall Stand: LBW #365, ELW #652, LSB #645

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THE PRAYERS 

Let us intercede before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sake of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, heavenly Father, for your Holy Spirit. Thank you for his life-giving and purifying fire. Thank you for his gifts of wisdom and understanding, counsel and might, knowledge and fear of the Lord, and joy in your presence. Thank you for reforming, renewing, and sustaining your one, holy, catholic, and apostolic Church on earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out your Spirit upon the Church.  Make it your holy habitation. Keep it steadfast in your Word. Strengthen it in the face of temptation and defend it from evil. Reform and purify it from sin and error, and bestow on it your saving peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the refuge and strength of Christians when they are persecuted for confessing Jesus as Lord. Grant them the strength to endure, even to giving their life, in faithful witness to him. Give us the courage and will to defend their witness, provide for their needs, and boldly confess the faith and the hope we share in Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be to this congregation our help and our redeemer. Gladden our hearts with the joy of your saving love. Empower us to share our joy, and your love, with those who do not know either.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Pour out your Spirit upon the teachers and theologians of the Church. Cause them to hand on, as of first importance, the Gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ. Bless church schools, colleges, and seminaries, so that they write your words upon the hearts of many.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Exalt yourself among the nations, and speak your holy word to the leaders of the world. Establish among all peoples that peace which the world cannot give; and teach us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We long for you to break the bow, shatter the spear, and make war to cease throughout the world. Until that day, direct and strengthen all who take up arms in defense of life and liberty. Be their very present help in times of trouble and places of danger. Prosper all they do that accomplishes your will. Bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you the needs of all whose lives are shaken by suffering. Especially we pray for: {List}. Be in their midst, and let them not be overthrown. Give them your saving help, and say to them, ‘be still, and know that I am God.’ Restore them to health and hope, that they may proclaim the awesome things you have done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Lord, we give you thanks for the lives of all your faithful people whom you have claimed and redeemed through the precious blood of Jesus. Grant that we may humbly follow in their footsteps; boldly trust in your promises; faithfully proclaim your Word; and cheerfully serve in your Name. Bring us, through the merits of our Savior, into your Kingdom. There, with all the redeemed, we shall glorify you in the power of your Spirit forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

October 20: 22nd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 24

Ecclesiastes 5:10-20 (Pointlessness of amassing wealth)

                RCL/ELW: Isaiah 53:4-12 (Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows)

Psalm 119:9-16 (How can young remain pure? Follow God’s commandments)

                RCL/ELW: Psalm 91:9-16 (God promises deliverance to those whom he loves)

Hebrews 4:1-16 (Do not harden your hearts against God, God’s word sharper than 2-edged sword; we may approach High Priest who has been tempted but did not sin)

                RCL/ELW: Hebrews 5:1-10 (Great high priest, deals gently with us because he too has suffered)

Mark 10:23-31 (Hard for rich to enter Kingdom; followers promised much – with persecution)

                RCL/ELW: Mark 10:35-45 (James and John want special honors; true greatness is in suffering and serving as Jesus does)

Opening hymn: Today Your Mercy Calls Us: LBW #304, LSB #915

OR O Christ, Your Heart, Compassionate: ELW #722

Hymn of the Day: Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

OR Hope of the World, Thou Christ of Great Compassion (Tune isn’t that hard. Words are a beautiful prayer, especially appropriate as national and world tensions are high): LBW #493, LSB #690

Communion Hymn #1: We Give Thee but Thine Own: LBW #410, ELW #686, LSB #781

Communion Hymn #2: Be Thou My Vision: WOV #776, ELW #793

Closing Hymn: God of Grace and God of Glory: LBW #415, ELW #705, LSB #850

OR Send Me, Lord (Jesus): ELW #809, WOV #773

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THE PRAYERS 

Let us intercede before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sake of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for the wealth and pleasures we have. Help us not get too attached to them. Thank you for Jesus’ hard words and loving example. Help us stay forever attached to him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Make your Church rich in faith, generosity, humility, compassion, and witness. Make it poor in pride, heresy, ingratitude, and fearfulness. Fill it with your Spirit. Conform it always to Christ, your righteous Suffering Servant, and our great High Priest.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Increase the faith, hope, and joy of your persecuted Church. Let the radiance of its faithful witness illuminate the hearts of its foes with your divine mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Protect our congregation from being tempted to cling to treasures instead of sharing them, to your glory and for the benefit of our neighbors. Help us to prefer nothing whatsoever to Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray young adults in our congregation and community. Let them not be preoccupied with possessions or prestige, but seek to please you each day in self-forgetful service and love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you the poor of the earth, that their suffering might be eased. We pray for the wealthy and powerful, that they may use their gifts wisely and generously. Lead the rulers of the nations in the pathway of your commandments. Teach everyone to find true contentment in seeking and doing your will.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for all who stand between us and the threatening dangers of this world. Keep them faithful, true, and bold. Help them to heal rifts caused by violence and suspicion. Use their gifts to protect justice and freedom. Strengthen them when they falter; support their loved ones; and bring them home safely and soon.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that all who suffer find hope and refreshment in Jesus’ mercy. We pray this day for {List}. We also plead on behalf of the poor, homeless, and unemployed. Give them the resources and courage they need to succeed. Let us display caring hearts, sound judgment, and practical assistance. Together let us flourish, and serve and glorify you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you, dear Father, for receiving all who have died in the covenant of their Baptism. Keep us always in that covenant. Help us to encourage one another and bear each other’s burdens. Help us to guide our neighbor into Jesus’ presence. Together with all of your redeemed people of every time and place, let us forever rejoice in your goodness, and see you face to face.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

October 13: 21^st Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 23

Amos 5:6-7, 10-15 (seek good, not evil, that you may live)

Psalm 90:12-17 (Teach us to have wise heart; prosper our handiwork)

Hebrews 3:12-19 (Do not have evil, unbelieving heart; exhort against sin)

                RCL/ELW: Hebrews 4:12-16

Mark 10:17-22 (Rich man told to sell all, give to poor, and follow Jesus)

                RCL/ELW: Mark 10:17-31 (adds disciples perplexity over leaving riches, wondering how they’ll be rewarded for following Jesus)

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Opening hymn: Blest are They: WOV #764, ELW #728, LSB #982

OR God of Grace and God of Glory: LBW #415, ELW #705, LSB #850

Hymn of the Day: Jesus, Priceless Treasure: LBW #457/458, ELW #775, LSB #743

OR Will You Come and Follow Me: ELW #798

Communion Hymn #1: Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God: WOV #783, LSB #712

OR Great is Thy Faithfulness: WOV #771, ELW #773, LSB #809

Communion Hymn #2: Praise and Thanksgiving: LBW #409, ELW #689, LSB #789

OR Take My Life, That I May Be: LBW #406, ELW #583, 685

Take My Life and Let It Be: LSB #783, 784

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

THE PRAYERS 

Let us intercede before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sake of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, for the priceless gift of your dear Son. Thank you for the wisdom, mercy, and salvation he brings. Thank you most of all for bringing us close to your heart.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bestow your Holy Spirit upon the Church, so it loves you with heart, mind, and strength. Help the Church to follow Jesus wherever he leads it to preach the Gospel and serve our neighbors. In word and deed, let it equip all people to find their treasure, joy and life in Christ alone.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you Christians who have been stripped of freedom, health, and even life, because they prize Jesus above all else. Enrich them with the joy of salvation. Through their faithful witness, bring many to repent and believe in Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for blessing our congregation with so many gifts, spiritual and physical. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, so that we always love the Giver more than the gifts.  Help us to willingly share those gifts with the spiritually and physically poor in our community.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Enrich the hearts and minds of students – from preschool through graduate school, and especially students called to be pastors and teachers in your Church. Let them love wisdom, seek understanding, and cling to Christ, their highest good and dearest treasure.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Teach the world’s leaders, and especially those of our own country, to care for people more than prestige; to love justice more than popularity; and to use resources and power for the benefit of all. Grant that they should seek your will above partisan politics or personal gain.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless, guide, and protect our military and first responders. Proper all they do that is in accordance with your will. Help us to support and encourage their loved ones, and to heal and help the wounded. May we always prize and use their gifts in civilian life when their present duties are done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead on behalf of all who are sick or injured, imprisoned or lonely; addicted or abused. We pray for all who are troubled by the powers of sin, evil, and death.  Especially we remember before you: {List}. Grant them the joy of your saving help. Restore them to health, hope, and communion with you and with those who love and care for them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, keep in your care all who have died trusting in you; and console all whose grief runs deep. Sustain, encourage, and refresh us through the toils and trials of this life. Keep us strong in faith toward you, and fervent in love for one another. Bring us into the joy of your Kingdom. There, with all your people, let us forever feast on your goodness, and delight in adoring our Savior, united in the power and love of your Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

October 6: 20^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 22

Genesis 2:18-25 (It is not good for the man to be alone; creation of woman)

Psalm 128 (The happy home of the faithful)

RCL/ELW: Psalm 8 (What is man, that you are mindful of him?)

Hebrews 2:1-18 (Pay attention to the message; if we ignore it, how can we escape penalty; Jesus tested in all things as we are, not ashamed to call us brothers; is our merciful high priest)

                RCL/ELW: Hebrews 1:1-4, 2:5-12 (Excellence of God’s Son; omits section from above on penalty for drifting from message of salvation)

Mark 10:2-16 (Teaching on divorce; let the children come to me)

Opening hymn: O Blest, the House: LBW #512, LSB #862

(If tune is unfamiliar, use tune for LBW #51, “From Heaven Above to Earth I Come”)

OR Blest Be the Tie that Binds: LBW #370, ELW #656, LSB #649

Hymn of the Day: When Love is Found: WOV #749

OR Our Father, By Whose Name: LBW #357, ELW #640

OR O Father, All Creating LSB #858 (You might get the license if you don’t have LSB; it’s good for

today’s texts AND for weddings! And the tune is Aurelia, The Church’s One Foundation)

Communion Hymn #1: O Christ, You Walked the Road:  LSB #424

OR Children of the Heavenly Father: LBW #474, ELW #781, LSB #725

Communion Hymn #2: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328/329, ELW #634, LSB #549

Closing Hymn: O Christ, the Same (Gotta love O Danny Boy!): WOV #778, ELW #760

THE PRAYERS 

Let us intercede before the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ for the sake of the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Thank you, dear Father, that we may call you our Father, and trust Jesus our Brother, and know each other as sisters and brothers, united to Jesus through your Holy Spirit. Thank you that this happens even when our earthly family is troubled or absent. Help us extend your family-love to all who need you most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You appointed Jesus as our High Priest and elder brother. Form your Church into his temple and his home. Make it attentive and faithful to your Word. Use it to challenge and comfort to us, for we struggle with sin and temptation. Let us take heart and cling to Jesus, who was tempted as we are, save without sin. Grant that we may share his life forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give strength, faith, and charity to your persecuted servants. Soften the hearts of their tormentors, and turn many from scorn and hatred of Christ to life-giving faith in him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

By ties of blood and faith, this congregation is a family. Help us to be your family, and to befriend and help new sisters and brothers in Christ. Give us boldness to invite, patience to teach, wisdom to counsel, kindness to embrace, and gentleness to encourage them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Deal gently with families who are struggling, especially when divorce looms large. Help couples to forgive, repent, repair, and renew. It’s easy to tear asunder. By your grace, cause them to remain joined together according to your will. Heal the bitterness and anger that poison hearts and lives. Help parents to be mindful of their children’s welfare, even above their own.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant wisdom, integrity, and humility to earthly leaders. Make the welfare of their people more important than their own agenda or power. Teach us to live, so far as it is possible, in peace with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who stand in harm’s way on our behalf. Equip them with courage and compassion; competence and fairness; a zeal for justice and a heart for mercy. Bring them home safely and soon when their task is done; and bestow your peace on us all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Let all who suffer in mind, body or spirit find welcome and healing in our Savior’s arms.  We pray especially for: {List}. Besides these, we pray for those who have been divorced; and for all who may find your words about marriage and divorce to be hard or hurtful. Bless, heal, forgive, and love them. Help us to be gentle and humble, that they may firmly believe that we love them too.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, thank you for your steadfast mercy and loving kindness to all who died trusting your dear Son. Unite us with Jesus by the power of your Holy Spirit. Help us to live in faith toward you and in fervent love toward one another. In your good time, gather us into your house, where with all the redeemed, we shall delight in beholding our Elder Brother and rejoice in your fatherly love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

September 29: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 21

With a bit of a nod toward St. Michael and All Angels in some hymns!

Numbers 11:4-6, 10-16, 24-29 (Israel kvetches to Moses. Moses kvetches to God. God appoints 70 to help him deal with aforementioned kvetching)

Psalm 104:27-35 (You give food in due season; your Spirit gives them breath)

                RCL/ELW: Psalm 19:7-14: (God’s perfect law keeps one from sin; let words of mouth, meditation of heart be acceptable in his sight)

James 5:1-20 (Warning to rich oppressors; patience in suffering; prayers, anointing, and confession; bringing one back from sin a great thing)

                RCL/ELW: James 5:13-20 (omits first 2 things)

 Mark 9:38-50 (Who is not against me is for me; cup of cold water; warning about temptations to sin)

Opening hymn: Come, Let Us Join Our Cheerful Songs: LBW # 254, ELW #847, LSB #812

Hymn of the Day: Lord, Whose Love in/through Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

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

Communion Hymn #1:  Amazing Grace: LBW #448, ELW #779, LSB #744

Communion Hymn #2: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence: LBW #198, ELW #490, LSB #621

Closing Hymn: Praise the Lord! O Heavens, Adore Him: LBW #540, ELW #823

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Trusting in the goodness of the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us pray in the power of the Holy Spirit for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Dear Father, thank you for being good to us even when we act like jerks instead of like Jesus. Thank you for giving us little things we can do to show our love for you. Thank you for prayer, anointing, and loving exhortation that calls us away from sin and back to you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You appointed 70 elders to ease Moses’ burden of leadership. Give your Church Spirit-filled pastors, priests, bishops, deacons, and teachers. Keep them obedient to your Word. Make them radiant with the love of Jesus. By their holy care, keep everyone in their charge safe from sin and from the allure of evil.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for persecuted Christians throughout the world. Give them patience in suffering and hope in their darkest night. Help us, who have much, to refresh them with our prayers and with whatever gifts we can share, even if it seems as small as a cup of cold water.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant a spirit of charity and patience to this congregation. Remind us, even when it would be easy to complain, of Jesus’ words, “Whoever is not against Me is for Me!” Help us to work together, eager to share the gifts you have lavished upon us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who struggle against any temptation to sin. Their battle may be long, hard, and hidden from others. Help us deal gently with everyone we meet. Only you know what burdens they bear and what demons they battle.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Remind our earthly leaders that they have been entrusted with a solemn obligation: to care for their people, especially the poor, hungry, and oppressed. Give them grace to think, speak, and act according to your will, for the common good. Help all of us to live peaceably with one another.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Shield and strengthen all who go into harm’s way in defense of life and liberty. Give them integrity, self-control, and sound judgment, even in chaotic situations. Bring them back to their loved ones safely and soon; and establish your peace among us all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Even a cup of cold water given in your name can be blessed refreshment to one who suffers. Grant this and more to all who are in distress – especially: {List}. Restore them to health and hope. Grant a double portion of your Spirit to all who minister to them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you, Father, for your faithful servants whom you have gathered into your Kingdom. Fill those who mourn with “tidings of comfort and joy.” Fill us all with your steadfast love and mercy. Fill us with the sure hope that through the merits of your dear Son, you will welcome us, with all the redeemed, into your Kingdom, where we will rejoice in your love forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

September 29: St. Michael and All Angels:

Daniel 10:10-14; 12:1-3: Angel strengthens Daniel; Michael aids Israel in a time of tribulation

Psalm 103:1-5; 20-22: Bless the Lord, O my soul, for all his benefits. Bless him, all his angels!

Revelation 12:7-12: War in heaven; Michael defeats the dragon; an angel announces God’s judgment on Satan, and salvation for the righteous.

Luke 10:17-20: Jesus rejoices in disciples’ casting out of demons; nevertheless, the greater blessing is being written in the Book of Life.

Opening hymn: Lord God, To Thee We Give All Praise, v. 1-4: LSB #522 (Great Philip Melancthon hymn on angels, war in heaven, and defeat of Satan. Tune: Lord Keep Us Steadfast in Your Word)

OR Holy God, We Praise Your/Thy Name: LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940

Hymn of the Day: Ye Watchers and Ye Holy Ones: LBW #175, ELW #424, LSB #670

OR Come, Let Us Join Our Cheerful Songs: LBW # 254, ELW #847, LSB #812

Communion Hymn #1:  God Himself is Present: LBW #249, LSB #907

Communion Hymn #2: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence: LBW #198, ELW #490, LSB #621

Closing Hymn: Praise the Lord! O Heavens, Adore Him: LBW #540, ELW #823

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Trusting in the goodness of the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us pray in the power of the Holy Spirit for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy Lord, holy and almighty, holy and immortal, heaven and earth are filled with your glory. Angels and archangels, cherubim and seraphim adore you in unceasing chorus. Thank you for their ministry that glorifies you and protects, defends, and sanctifies us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give your Church the voice and the faith to join the angels in serving and adoring you. Make its worship a foretaste of heaven. Make its proclamation a strong witness to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Make its deeds of charity a countersign to the devil and all his empty promises.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

May your holy angels bless, strengthen, and defend all who endure great suffering on account of Jesus. Grant that their time of persecution may speedily end. Convict the hearts of all who torment them, so they repent and believe in the Gospel.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation and make it rich in faith toward you and in fervent love in for one another. Grant that we remember that your little ones – everyone for whom Christ died – have their angels pleading for them before your throne. Help us therefore not to put a stumbling-block before them, but instead to be merciful and gracious, as you have been toward us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We lift before you all whom it would be easy to forget, but whose angels continually remember them before the Throne of Grace: the homeless, neglected, and needy; the poor, sick, and aged; the mentally ill and physically or mentally challenged; those who are abused, and their abusers; unborn children, and mothers who are tempted or pressured to abort them. Shelter them with your tender care. Help us to bring them healing, hope, forgiveness, and friendship, for the love of your dear Son.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We do not often think of angelic guardians for the nations. But as Michael is the defender of Israel and head of the angel host, we dare to pray that your holy angels bring wise counsel to the leaders of every nation, and defend all your suffering people from the malice of the Evil One. Keep us safe in your care. Teach us those things which make for peace. Preserve us in righteousness and justice until that day when you make all things new.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that St. Michael and all the hosts of heaven may guard and guide all who risk their lives for the sake of others. Bless them with courage, integrity, and devotion to you, the Lord of all nations. Prosper all they do that is in accord with your purpose. Grant healing to the wounded; honor to the fallen; strength to their family, and respect from all for their service.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray on behalf of everyone who cries out to you for help in time of trouble or suffering, especially: {List}. Speedily rescue them from affliction. Stir up compassion and gentleness in all who care for them. Let your holy angels have charge of them, that the Wicked One have no power over them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy and gracious Father, we praise you for the victory your Son has won over sin and death. We entrust into his never-failing care our departed loved ones, especially: {List}. Grant to us, who still walk as yet by faith and not by sight, the protection of your blessed angels. Grant that, encouraged by their presence and by the witness of all your saints, we may give you thanks for all things; fear nothing except losing you; and lay all our cares on you, knowing that you care for us. Bring us, according to your promise, into the blessedness of eternal life; where the hosts of heaven and the whole company of the redeemed, we shall see you face to face, and adore you forever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

September 22: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 20

Jeremiah 11:18-20 (Jeremiah’s life threatened, like lamb led to slaughter)

Psalm 54 (Save me, O God, by your name; vindicate my by your might)

James 3:13-4:10 (Earthly versus heavenly wisdom and friendship)

                RCL/ELW: James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a (Eliminates “Adulterers! Friendship with world is enmity with God,” and exhortation to lament sin, humble self that God may exalt)

Mark 9:30-37 (Passion prediction; argument over who is greatest)

Opening hymn: Son of God, Eternal Savior: LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842

Hymn of the Day: Ah, Holy Jesus: LBW #123, ELW #349

OR What Is the World to Me: LSB #730 (Works for Epistle, Gospel; tune for “O God, My Faithful God)

OR Lamb of God (Your Only Son): ELW #336, LSB #550

Communion Hymn #1: Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love: WOV #765, ELW #708, LSB #980

OR Love in Christ is Strong and Living: LSB #706

Communion Hymn #2: Lamb of God, Pure and Sinless/Holy: LBW #111, ELW #357; LSB # 434

Closing Hymn: Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us: LBW #424, ELW #707, LSB #851

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

Trusting in the goodness of the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us pray in the power of the Holy Spirit for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Most holy Father, thank you for Jesus, your spotless, innocent lamb, slain to take away our sin. Thank you that he willingly died for love of us. Thank you for making him our Savior and Redeemer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Conform your Church to your beloved Son, not to the world. May it model his love, forgiveness, and purity to those are dying for lack of those great gifts. Use the Church to lead many to the foot of Jesus’ Cross, there to receive life and salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Help us to serve, defend, and provide for your persecuted and suffering Church. Let us never, by scandalous words or selfish deeds, cheapen or debase their faithful witness to their Savior – and ours.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask your blessing upon this congregation and all its ministries. Help us to take delight in glorifying your name through self-giving service to one another and to our communities.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Jesus exalts servanthood as an example of his loving obedience to his Father. It’s easy for us to overlook or belittle those who actually are servants in everyday life. Bless them, and adorn their labors with the loveliness of Christ’s labors on our behalf. Help us to notice, honor, and compensate servants, laborers, hired hands, and others who do the work we’d rather not.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Rulers and leaders, celebrities and authorities are used to lording it over others. Give them a teachable spirit and humble heart. Make them eager to use intellect, authority, and station to serve the people entrusted to their care. Give each of us the grace, wisdom, and kindness to be true friends, neighbors, and servants to those around us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Raise up pastors and evangelists who boldly preach and tenderly care for people who are starving for your Word. Help us to encourage and provide for them. Bless seminaries as they teach them. Bless spiritual directors and mentors who shape them into your servant leaders.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Thank you for doctors, nurses, therapists, EMT’s, orderlies, and all whose service helps people in deep distress. Give them a double portion of your Spirit. Use their skills and our support and prayers to bring healing and comfort the abused, imprisoned, sick, wounded, lonely, confused, grieving, or dying. Especially we plead on behalf of: {List}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, we thank you for all your good and faithful servants, especially those whose deaths we mourn. Keep us steadfast in faith, firm in hope, constant in love, generous in service, and abundant in joy as we continue our earthly pilgrimage. Lead us in this life “with the Cross of Jesus going on before.” Bring us, through his good work, into the blessed Kingdom where we find our eternal life and joy in union with you and with all whom you have redeemed.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

September 22: St. Matthew, Transferred

Ezekiel 2:8-3:11: Ezekiel commissioned to speak God’s words to a rebellious people

Psalm 119:33-40: “Turn my heart to your decrees, and not to selfish gain.”

Ephesians 2:4-10:  Salvation is by grace, a gift of God, and not by works

Matthew 9:9-13: Jesus calls Matthew, and eats with tax-collectors and sinners

Opening hymn: Son of God, Eternal Savior: LBW #364, ELW #655, LSB #842

Hymn of Day: What Is the World to Me: LSB #730 (Works for Epistle, Gospel; tune is O God, My Faithful God)

                OR Today Your Mercy Calls Us: LBW #304, LSB # 915

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

Communion Hymn #1: Chief of Sinners Though I Be: LBW #

Communion Hymn #2: You Who Dwell in the Shelter of the Lord: WOV #779, ELW #787, LSB #727

Closing Hymn: Lord of Glory, You Have Bought Us: LBW #424, ELW #707, LSB #851

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

Trusting in the goodness of the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us pray in the power of the Holy Spirit for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence is kept.

Heavenly Father, thank you for calling us, though like Matthew we are numbered among tax collectors and sinners. Thank you for lifting us up when we fall away from your commands. Thank you for restoring us to positions of trust and to the task of proclaiming the Gospel when we have repented.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill your Church with faithful teachers and preachers of your Word. Kindle its worship to be a living flame of praise to you. Make it wise as serpents and innocent as doves as it bears witness to Jesus. Grant it grace to lavish the treasures of your Kingdom upon all who need them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant lovingkindness and faith to missionaries. Through their labors, may many gladly receive your forgiveness and life. Help us pray for, defend, and assist your persecuted servants however we can. Give them grace to speak truth in love to their enemies, so that they repent and believe in you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give the people of this congregation ears to hear Jesus’ gracious call to discipleship. Help us to invite fellow sinners to feast on Jesus in Word and Sacrament. Make us wise and gracious, so like Matthew, we share the Gospel in ways that lead others to faith in Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our young people, especially those considering a vocation to ministry and service in your Church. Give them delight in learning, and love for your people. Preserve them from the consequences of folly or malice. Use their energy to please you and to serve their neighbor.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give wisdom and humility to our earthly leaders. Make them good stewards of power and authority. Remind them that they must give an account of their stewardship to you, their Master and King. Help us all to have a heart for the poor, and the will to assist them effectively and graciously.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless volunteers and workers, not only in the church, but throughout the world, who seek to serve you and neighbor. Multiply their gifts and talents, so that through their labors, many people receive mercy, comfort, and a clear sign of your providential care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You raise the poor from the dust and care for all who cry out to you. Therefore with confidence and hope, we remember before you all who are afflicted in body, mind, or spirit, including: {List}. Bring them out of darkness into your glorious light; and restore them to fellowship with all who love them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious Father, receive into your Kingdom all the faithful departed, especially those dearest to us. Keep us steadfast in faith; diligent in service; truthful in word and honest in deed. Bind us together in cords of love for one another. Bring us, with all whom you have redeemed, into the fullness of your presence. Give us hearts, minds, and voices, forever to adore and glorify you, in the blessed communion you share with your Son and the Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Conform our prayers to the heart of Jesus, hear them through the interceding of your Holy Spirit, and grant them in accordance with your gracious will. Amen.

September 15: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 19

Isaiah 50:4-10 (Suffering Servant’s humiliation and vindication)

            RCL/ELW: Isaiah 50:4-9a (eliminates punishment of Suffering Servant’s accusers,

and also the verse about obeying God while walking in darkness)

Psalm 116:1-9 (You deliver soul from death, eyes from tears, feet from stumbling)

James 3:1-12 (Taming the tongue)

Mark 9:14-29 (Jesus heals the boy with epilepsy)

RCL/ELW: Mark 8:27-38 (Peter’s confession, Jesus’ rebuke, following him, denying self

Opening hymn: Look, O Look/ Look Ye Saints, the Sight is Glorious LBW #156, LSB #495

Hymn of the Day: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537, LSB #554

OR In All Our Grief: ELW #615

OR, if using ELW lectionary, Take Up Your Cross, the Savior Said: LBW #398, ELW #667

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

Communion Hymn #2: Oh, for 1000 Tongues to Sing: LBW #559, ELW #886, LSB #528

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

OR Thy Strong Word Did Cleave the Darkness: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

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

Trusting in the goodness of the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us pray in the power of the Holy Spirit for the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Father, thank you for delivering our souls from death, our eyes from tears, and our feet from stumbling. Thank you for your Son, who took on our stumbling, tears, sins, and death, and who gives us his holy and lovely life in return. Thank you for healing us so that we can follow Jesus and share him with the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant that your Church always proclaims Christ crucified and raised from the dead. Let it constantly confess Jesus as your only-begotten Son and beloved Servant, who bears and heals the world’s sin, sorrow, and suffering.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Persecuted Christians throughout the world bear their cross in faithful obedience to Jesus. Sustain, protect, bless, and provide for them. Help us, whose crosses are lighter, to bear their burdens however we can.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Increase the faith of everyone in this congregation, dear Lord. Conform our worship and works to Christ. Use us to bring his healing, forgiveness, and salvation to those who need it most.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Many church programs are starting up! Bless and prosper all that glorifies you and builds up the Body of Christ. Increase our love of learning, zeal for service, and warmth of spirit. Especially we pray for teachers, discipleship guides, choirs, committees, and all who shine the love of Jesus upon those who do not know him well.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant humility and wisdom to the leaders of nations and captains of industry, the giants of culture and icons of sport, the legislators and judges, the researchers, teachers, philosophers, and others who shape our world. Remind them that all they have is from you, given in trust for the benefit of all people. Give everyone the desire and ability to live justly and kindly with each other, despite our differences.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our military, first responders, and all who stand in harm’s way to defend freedom and life. We therefore earnestly pray that you should beat our swords into plowshares and our spears into pruning-hooks. Soften every heart to receive, cherish, and share your love for us. Remind us that we are all created in your image and offered forgiveness and salvation through the Cross of Christ.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Sometimes as we pray for loved ones in distress, we are like the father who cried out to you, “Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief!” Keep us steadfast in faith as we pray for all who suffer. Remind us all that Jesus has indeed “borne our sickness and carried our infirmity.” In his name we pray for: {List}.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy God, keep in your tender care our beloved dead. Help us to encourage one another in faithful prayer and holy living. Receive us into the glorious company of all the redeemed. Draw us to yourself, so that with angels and archangels and all the hosts of heaven, we may praise and adore you forever – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Incline your ear to our prayers, dear Lord; and answer them according to your most gracious and holy will, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.