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

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

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

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

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

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

            Christ’s resurrection and exaltation)

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

            who will send you the Spirit)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*******

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

A brief silence

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

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

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

                Stephen’s speech; the stoning of Stephen)

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

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

for the poor)

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

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

                but you are his own people, a royal priesthood)

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

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

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

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

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

OR Soli Deo Gloria: ELW #878

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng: LSB #813

*******

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

A brief silence

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

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

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

Psalm 23 (The Lord is my shepherd)

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

            and guardian of your souls)

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

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

A brief silence

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OR Day of Arising: ELW #374

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OR What Is This Bread: LSB #629

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

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

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

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

*******

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

A brief silence

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, please hear our prayer.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

LBW #132, ELW #363, LSB #487

OR The Risen Christ: ELW #390

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

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

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

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

********

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

A brief silence

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

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

Sammy: Good morning everyone!

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

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

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

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

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

Sammy: It was?

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

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

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

Sammy: Why is today called Palm Sunday, Pastor?

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

Sammy: What does “Hosanna” mean? 

Pastor: It means “save us.”

Sammy: Save us? Save who from what?

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

Sammy: Jesus came to save us from our sins.

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

Sammy: What’s wrong, Pastor?

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

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

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

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

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

Pastor: Bye, Sammy.

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

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

Pastor: Yes it is, Sammy. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Allow time for responses]

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

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

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

Easter Sunrise:

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

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

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

                from the dead)

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

#########

Easter Day

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

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

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

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

 of the Lord!)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And earth shall echo: Alleluia!

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

In love he wins for us. Alleluia!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*******

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

A brief silence

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

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

The Service of Holy Communion

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

dead now to sin, alive in Christ!

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

the risen Jesus

******

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

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

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

*******

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

A brief silence

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

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

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant to us all that is in accordance with your will, dear Jesus, and accomplish your salvation among us; for you are risen from the dead and dwell in majesty with your Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

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

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

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

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

suffering and therefore obtained salvation for all who obey him

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*******

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

A brief silence

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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