John 14:23-29

 

Script:

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, boys and girls! Pastor, can you tell us about the Holy Spirit?

Pastor: The Holy Spirit was sent by God after Jesus ascended to Heaven. The Holy Spirit lives in each baptized believer and guides us in our walk with Jesus.

Sammy: But how does the Holy Spirit teach us and guide us?

Pastor: The Holy Spirit helps us to see the truths we read about in the Bible. We also can learn more about the Word of God, Jesus, by the help of the Holy Spirit.

Sammy: Can we see the Holy Spirit? I mean, we have all of these images of Jesus in our church. But what about the Holy Spirit?

Pastor: The Holy Spirit is not someone we see, but we can feel the presence of the Spirit throughout our day. The Holy Spirit is always with us because He is the gift from God we receive because of Jesus’s work on the cross.

Sammy: So I can’t see Him?

Pastor: A lot of times in the Bible or in artwork based on scripture, we see the Holy Spirit as a dove.

Sammy: I like doves. They are really pretty.

Pastor: Yes they are. When you see a dove in artwork, you can think about the Holy Spirit. But even if you don’t see a dove, know that the Holy Spirit is always with us. Boys and girls, will you pray with me? Dear Jesus, Thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit. Thank you for sending the Holy Spirit to teach and guide us. We ask for your blessing upon each of your children today. In Jesus’s name we pray. Amen.

 

John 13:31-35

 

Script:

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, boys and girls!

Pastor: Sammy, today we are going to talk about one of the most important commandments Jesus gives to his disciples.

Sammy: Wait! Let me guess what it is!

Pastor: …Go ahead, Sammy.

Sammy: Eat your vegetables.

Pastor: Nope.

Sammy: Do your chores.

Pastor: Not quite.

Sammy: Remember to brush your teeth.

Pastor: Not even close.

Sammy: I give up.

Pastor: Boys and girls, what do you think the most important commandment Jesus gives us is?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: These are all great answers. One of the most important commandments Jesus gives us is to love each other just as he loved us.

Sammy: But what does that mean? How can I love other people like Jesus loved me?

Pastor: There’s lots of ways to show love to other people. Boys and girls, can you help Sammy think of some ways we can show love to other people?

[Allow time for responses]

Sammy: I like these answers. Sometimes it’s hard for me to love other people, especially when they make me upset or sad. But I will always try my best to love just like Jesus.

Pastor: Sammy, I know that sometimes it’s hard to love people, but we have to remember that as much as we make mistakes and make God sad, he continues to love us no matter what.

Sammy: That’s incredible, Pastor. I make a lot of mistakes.

Pastor: Me too, Sammy. But our God has such a big heart for us, his people. He chases after us and loves us no matter what.

Sammy: I’m grateful for his love. I am going to do my best to love others no matter what, too.

Pastor: Boys and girls, let’s say a prayer together. Can we please fold our hands and bow our heads? Dear Jesus, thank you for your love. Thank you for showing us how to love others, even when it’s hard. Help us to always look to your example. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, boys and girls!

Lessons and Suggested Hymns,

2^nd Sunday after Pentecost – Christ the King Sunday,

 Cycle C: June 22 – November 23, 2025

 

NOTE: LBW – Lutheran Book of Worship (The Green Book)

WOV – With One Voice (The Blue Book)

ELW – Evangelical Lutheran Worship (The Cranberry Book)

LSB – Lutheran Service Book (The Maroon Book)

 

There are versions of some hymns that are superior in LSB and I recommend using them if possible. Also, there are some superb hymns in LSB that aren’t available in the other hymnals. When I suggest one of the latter, I try to include an alternative from LBW or WOV. I recommend that a license and DVD of downloadable hymns from LSB be purchased if you are looking to expand your hymnody. There are, in ELW, some familiar hymns that have been drastically altered, which I try to note. ELW also has some fine hymns not available in the other hymnals, or has, interestingly, a more “traditional” translation or harmonization.

 

Primary liturgical calendar taken from Sola Publishing (www.solapublishing.org), based on LSB. Also, I include the lessons from the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) found in ELW and used in some congregations. It often overlaps the Sola/LCMS calendar lectionary, but when there are differences, I will note them.

 

Because some of the prayers of confession, as well as offertory and post-communion prayers, provided on certain resource pages lack theological heft or linguistic elegance, I have added some seasonal prayers that you are free to cut, paste, and revise as needed. They are modified from the copyright-free Online Book of Common Prayer, or are my own creation. These are found on the following pages. The regular prayers of intercession will, as usual, be provided weekly in their own Word documents.

 

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: A Brief Order of Confession and Holy Absolution

 

In the Name of the Father, and of the Son+, and of the Holy Spirit: Amen.

 

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.

Silence may be kept.

 

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in eternal life. Amen.

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Gospel Acclamation (Spoken)

Alleluia. Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life; you have the words of eternal life. Alleluia.

 

OR

 

Alleluia. Your Word, O Lord, is truth; consecrate us in the truth. Alleluia.

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Offertory Prayer

 

Let us pray. Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated unto

you; and then use us, we pray you, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

OR

 

Let us pray. Heavenly Father, we humbly offer to you the gifts of our treasures, talents, and time. Use them to you glory, and for the benefit of all your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

 

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Great Thanksgiving and Proper Preface

 

The Lord be with you. And also with you.

Lift up your hearts. We lift them to the Lord.

Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. It is right to give him thanks and praise.

 

It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. For you are the source of light and life, you made us in your image, and called us to new life in Jesus Christ our Lord; who on the first day of the week overcame death and the grave, and by his glorious resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who forever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:

 

For General/Green Season Use: The Eucharistic Prayer

 

Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself, and, when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself, in obedience to your will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world.

On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.” After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:

 

Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.

We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, with praise and thanksgiving. Recalling our Savior’s death, resurrection, and ascension, we pray that you would sanctify these gifts by your Holy Spirit, to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy, and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your eternal kingdom.

All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ: By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

 

OR

And so, Father, we bring you these gifts. Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ our Lord.

On the night he was betrayed he took bread, said the blessing, broke the bread, and gave it to his friends, and said, “Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me.”

After supper, he took the cup of wine, gave thanks, and said, “Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me.”

Father, we now celebrate the memorial of your Son. By means of this holy bread and cup, we proclaim his death and resurrection, until he comes again. Gather us by this Holy Communion into one body in your Son Jesus Christ. Make us a living sacrifice of praise. By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. AMEN.

 

 

For General/Green Season Use: Post-Communion Prayer

Eternal God, heavenly Father, you have graciously accepted us as living members

of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ, and you have fed us with spiritual food in the Sacrament of his Body and Blood. Send us now into the world in peace, and grant us strength and courage to love and serve you with gladness and singleness of heart; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

OR

Almighty and ever-living God, we thank you for feeding us with the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us that we are living members of the Body of your Son, and heirs of your eternal kingdom. Send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

 

 

June 22, 2025: 2^nd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 7

 

Isaiah 65:1-9 (I was eager to be found by a nation that did not seek me; sinful deeds will be requited, but God will preserve a blessing for all whom he gathers)

 

Psalm 3 (A prayer of confidence in God in times of danger)

           

ELW/RCL: Psalm 22: 19-28 (Deliver me, and I will praise you in great congregation)

 

Galatians 3:23-4:7 (Law was a disciplinarian; now we are children who’ve come fully into inheritance of Christ by his grace; no longer Jew/Gentile, etc.)

           

ELW/RCL: Galatians 3:23-29 (Eliminates law as guardian, crying out Abba, Father)

 

Luke 8:26-39 (Jesus heals the Gadarene demoniac and sends the demons into the herd of pigs)

********

 

Opening Hymn:  Lord Of All Nations, Grant Me Grace: LBW #419, ELW #716, LSB #844

 

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

OR I’m So Glad Jesus Lifted Me: WOV #673, ELW #860

OR “Away From Us!” the Demon Cried: LSB #541 (This is a great hymn! Written by former Gettysburg seminary president; African American spiritual tune – try it!)

 

Communion Hymn #1: Just As I Am, Without One Flea: LBW #296, ELW #592, LSB #570

 

Communion Hymn #2: Amazing Grace: LBW #448, ELW #779, LSB #744

 

Closing Hymn: In Christ, There is No East or West: LBW #359, ELW #650, LSB #653

 

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

 

 

June 29: 3^rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 8)

 

1 Kings 19:9b-21 (Elijah encounters God in the still small voice; 7000 have not bent knee to Baal; anoints Elisha)

 

            ELW/RCL: 1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21 (Eliminates initial encounter with God, and also how those anointed will slay God’s enemies)

 

Psalm 16 (I bless the Lord who has not let his Holy One see the Pit)

 

Galatians 5:1, 13-25 (Contrast between works of flesh and of Spirit)

 

Luke 9:51-62 (no, don’t call down fire upon Samaritan town! And the one who looks back from the plow isn’t fit for the Kingdom)

*******

Opening Hymn:   Let the Whole Creation Cry: LBW #242, ELW #876

 

Hymn of the Day: In the Morning When I Rise (Give Me Jesus):

WOV #777, ELW #770, LSB #976

OR Speak, O Lord, Your Servant Listens: LSB #589 (Straightforward tune, great words, especially if you tie in the OT and Epistle. Words and tune are in public domain if you don’t have LSB. Tune is Werde Munter.)

 

Communion Hymn #1: I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light: WOV #649, ELW #815, LSB #411

Communion Hymn #2: O Savior, Precious Savior: LBW #503, ELW #820, LSB #527

Closing Hymn: You Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim: LBW #252, ELW #825

OR Lead Me, Guide Me: ELW #768, LSB #721

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

 

 

July 6: 4^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 9; closest Sunday to Independence Day)

 

Isaiah 66:10-14 (All who love Jerusalem, rejoice; as mother comforts children, so God will comfort you)

 

Psalm 66:1-9 (Sing praise to God for his awesome deeds!)

 

Galatians 6:1-10, 14-18 (Correct sinners in spirit of gentleness; sow to the Spirit, not the flesh; reap harvest of salvation in Christ)

 

            ELW/RCL: Galatians 6:[1-6], 7-16 (Optional correction, burden bearing; eliminates Paul’s final words)

 

Luke 10:1-20 (The mission of the seventy)

*******

Opening Hymn:   Before You, Lord, We Bow: LBW #401, ELW #893

Hymn of the Day: LBW #384, Your Kingdom Come, O Father (very singable; Finnish folk tune)

 

OR Spread, Oh Spread, Almighty Word: LBW #379, ELW #663

Spread the Reign of God the Lord (same basic hymn): LSB #830

 

Communion Hymn #1: I Love to Tell the Story: LBW #390, ELW #661

Communion Hymn #2: Sent Forth By God’s Blessing: LBW #221, ELW #547, LSB #643

Closing Hymn: God of Our Fathers:  LBW #567

OR Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory: LBW #332, ELW #890

OR This is My Song: ELW #887 (Tune is Finlandia. Words are heartfelt and timely)

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

July 13: 5^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 10)

 

Leviticus 18:17-19; 19:9-18 (you shall not be sexually impure, nor lie, cheat, or show partiality; you SHALL reprove your neighbor; love your neighbor as yourself, I am the Lord your God)

           

ELW/RCL: Deuteronomy 30:9-14 (God will prosper those who obey his commands. His word is very near you)

 

Psalm 41 (Love the poor; Lord, defend me from my enemies)

 

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 25:1-10 (Lead me in truth, remember me in mercy)

 

Colossians 1:1-14 (You are bearing the Gospel’s fruit; lead lives worthy of Christ; clothed in his power, you shall endure, be joyful & give thanks)

 

Luke 10:25-37 (Who’s this neighbor I’m supposed to love? Parable of Good Samaritan)

*******

 

Opening Hymn:   Jesus, Thy Boundless Love To Me: LBW #336, LSB #683

OR Beloved, God’s Chosen (easy tune, and I like Susan Palo Cherwien’s words): ELW #648

 

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

OR O Praise the Gracious Power: ELW #651 (Tom Troeger words. Don’t know the tune, looks easy)

 

Communion Hymn #1: Bind Us Together, Lord: WOV #748

OR Where Charity and Love Prevail: LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845

 

Communion Hymn #2:  Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us With Your Love: WOV #765, ELW #708

 

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

OR Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

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

 

 

July 20: 6^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 11)

 

Genesis 18:1-14 (Abraham and Sarah entertain 3 divine visitors; they’re promised a son)

 

            ELW/RCL: Genesis 18:1-10 (Eliminates Sarah laughing)

 

Psalm 27: (1-6), 7-14 (The Lord is my light and salvation; whom shall I fear?  I’ll seek his face.)

           

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 15 (Those who are blameless dwell with God)

 

Colossians 1:21-29 (The mysteries of God now revealed, including to the Gentiles; for His sake, Paul suffers, teaches, prays, warns, works to present Colossians as mature believers)

 

            ELW/RCL: Colossians 1:15-28 (Adds description of Christ, “firstborn of creation”)

 

Luke 10:38-42 (Mary and Martha entertain 1 divine visitor!)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn:   Lord Jesus Christ, Be Present Now: LBW #253, ELW #527, LSB #902

            OR How Firm a Foundation, You/O Saints of the Lord: LBW #507, ELW #796, LSB #728

Hymn of the Day: Come, Risen Lord, and Deign to be Our Guest: LBW #209

OR Be Present At Our Table, Lord: LSB #775

Since words and melody aren’t copyrighted, here they are. Sing to the Doxology.

 

Be present at our table, Lord;

Be here and everywhere adored.

Thy mercies (or creatures) bless, and grant that we

May feast in paradise with Thee.

 

            OR O Living Bread from Heaven: LBW #197, ELW #542, LSB #642

Communion Hymn #1: You Satisfy the Hungry Heart: WOV #711, ELW #484, LSB #641

Communion Hymn #2: O Jesus, Joy of Loving Hearts: LBW #356, ELW #658

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

 

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

 

 

July 27: 7^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 12)

 

Genesis 18:17-33 (Abraham pleads with God: don’t destroy Sodom and Gomorrah if ten righteous people are found)

 

            ELW/RCL: Genesis 18:20-32 (Eliminates God debating whether to tell Abraham what he is about to do, and a concluding verse)

 

Psalm 138 (God is holy; his love endures; he regards the lowly, sends the haughty far away)

 

Colossians 2:6-15 (16-19) (Live rooted in Christ; in Baptism, you are dead to trespasses, alive to Him. Don’t get fussed about non-essentials; cling to Christ, the Head!)

 

Luke 11:1-13 (Lord, teach us to pray; Lord’s Prayer; ask-seek-knock)

 

*******

Opening Hymn:   Holy Majesty, Before You: LBW #247

OR Father Most Holy, Merciful and Tender: LBW #169, ELW #415, LSB #504

OR Our Father, God in/Who From Heaven Above, v. 1-3: ELW #747, LSB #766

Hymn of the Day: O Thou, Who Hast of Thy Pure Grace: LBW #442 (Same tune as for these other hymns; yet another, abbreviated paraphrase of Lord’s Prayer)

OR Our Father, God in/Who From Heaven Above, v. 4-6: ELW # 747, LSB #766

OR Our Father, God in Heaven Above: ELW #746 (this is a 4-verse version of the longer hymn, using the same tune. Use this if you want to use other hymns opening and closing service).

Communion Hymn #1: What a Friend We Have in Jesus: LBW #439, ELW #742, LSB #770

Communion Hymn #2: Eternal Spirit of the Living Christ: LBW #441, ELW #402, LSB #769

Closing Hymn:  Our Father, God in/Who From Heaven Above, v. 7-9: ELW #747, LSB #766

            OR Abide With Us, Our Savior: LBW #263, ELW #539

Abide, O Dearest Jesus: LSB #919

 

 

 

 

 

August 3: 8^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 13)

 

Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-26 (Vanity of vanities, all is vanity…)

           

            RCL/ELW: Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23 (Eliminates what God gives to righteous, sinners; all is still vanity!)

 

Psalm 100 (…or not! Praise the Lord, enter his courts with thanksgiving, for he is good and his mercy endures forever.)

           

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 49:1-12 (I shall speak wisdom; none can ransom their life. Wealthy, poor, wise, fool all die)

 

Colossians 3:1-11(You have died; your life is hidden in Christ and will be revealed in his glory. Therefore put away all evil deeds; be clothed in Christ; all will be like him!)

 

Luke 12:13-21 (Parable of the rich fool)

*******

Opening Hymn: All People That on Earth do Dwell: LBW #245, ELW #883, LSB #791

Hymn of the Day: We Give Thee But Thine Own: LBW #410, ELW #686, LSB #781

OR Forgive Us, Lord, For Shallow Thankfulness: LSB #788

(These words are powerful. This one is getting a one-time license to duplicate. I’m serious. Do it!)

OR Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God: WOV #783

 

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

 

Communion Hymn #2: For the Fruit of All Creation: WOV #760, ELW #679

For the Fruits of His Creation: LSB #894

 

Closing Hymn: There is a Time: LSB #762 (jazzy rendition of Ecclesiastes!)

OR Take My Life That I May Be /and Let it Be: LBW #406, ELW #583, 685, LSB #783

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

August 10: 9^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 14)

 

Genesis 15:1-6 (Abram’s faith is reckoned to him as righteousness)

 

Psalm 33:12-22 (Happy is nation whose God is the Lord; he is our strength and shield; he delivers soul from death; trust in him!)

 

Hebrews 11:1-16 (Faith is conviction of things not seen; patriarchs, especially Abraham, saw God’s promises afar off and welcomed them; God not ashamed to be their God.)

 

            ELW/RCL: Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16 (Eliminates roll call of pre-Abraham faithful)

 

Luke 12:22-34 (35-40) (Part of Sermon on the Plain: consider lilies of the field; do not worry; where your treasure is, there is your heart also; be watchful for Son of Man’s coming)

 

            ELW/RCL: Luke 12:32-40 (Eliminates lilies, seek first the kingdom)

*******

Opening Hymn:  Rejoice, Ye Pure in Heart: LBW #553, ELW #873 (#874 is a different tune, may be an unexpected challenge but feel free to go for it)

Rejoice, O Pilgrim Throng: LSB #813

 

Hymn of the Day: Evening and Morning: LBW #465, ELW #761, LSB #726

OR Jesus, Priceless Treasure: LBW #457/458, ELW #775, LSB #743

Communion Hymn #1: Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God (if you didn’t sing this last week!):

WOV #783, LSB #712

OR How Great Thou Art: LBW #532, ELW #856, LSB #801

Communion Hymn #2: Have No Fear, Little Flock: LBW #476, ELW #764, LSB #735

Closing Hymn: O God, Our Help in Ages Past: LBW #320, ELW #632, LSB #733

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

 

 

August 17: 10^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 15)

 

Jeremiah 23:16-29 (Beware of false prophets who prophesy peace and plenty; God will act against wicked; his word is like fire and hammer)

 

            ELW/RCL: Jeremiah 23:23-29 (Eliminates warning against false prophets)

 

Psalm 119:81-88 (My soul longs for your salvation; I am persecuted but shall remain faithful)

 

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 82 (God calls for justice; psalmist prays God should enact justice)

 

Hebrews 11:17-31 (32-40); 12:1-3 (Old Testament roll call of faith; we are surrounded by great cloud of witnesses; run faith’s race; looking to Christ the pioneer and perfector of our faith)

           

            ELW/RCL: Hebrews 11:29-12:2 (Eliminates many Old Testament stories of faithfulness)

 

Luke 12:49-56 (Jesus will cast fire on earth, completing his baptism; interpret signs of times!)

*******

Opening Hymn:  God’s Word is Our Great Heritage: LBW #239, ELW #509, LSB #582

Hymn of the Day: LSB #667, Saints, See the Cloud of Witnesses (same tune as Rise, Shine, You People)

OR O God of Light, Your Word, a Lamp Unfailing (Not a hard tune, but easily sung to “Brightest and Best of the Stars of the Morning,” LBW #84): LBW #237, ELW #507, LSB #836

OR Rise, O Children of Salvation: LBW #182

Communion Hymn #1: Lord, Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word: LBW #230, ELW #517, LSB #655

Communion Hymn #2: He Leadeth Me, O Blessed Thought: LBW #501

OR Let Justice Flow Like Streams: ELW #717

Closing Hymn: The Clouds of Judgment Gather (Can be sung to tune for “Lead On, O Kinky Turtle,” LBW

#495): LBW #322, LSB #513

OR My Lord, What a Morning: WOV #627, ELW #438

 

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

 

 

August 24, 2013: 11^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 16)

Or St. Bartholomew, Apostle

 

11 Pentecost Lessons and Hymns

 

Isaiah 66:18-23 (All nations shall worship the Lord and be his priests)

 

            ELW/RCL: Isaiah 58:9-14 (Do justice, and God will bless you)

 

Psalm 50:1-15 (Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, the Lord shines forth; he desires the sacrifice of thanksgiving, not of beasts)

 

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 103:1-8 (Bless the Lord, O my soul, for God’s mercy and justice)

 

Hebrews 12: 4-29 (Your suffering is how God disciplines beloved children. Pursue peace and holiness. You’ve come to Christ, whose blood speaks better word than Abel; don’t refuse him!)

 

            ELW/RCL: Hebrews 12:18-29 (Eliminates exhortation to faithfulness, holy living, God’s discipline of those he loves)

 

Luke 13:22-30 (Jesus says: strive to enter by the narrow gate, or you will see Abraham and the prophets enter the Kingdom, but you will be locked outside)

 

            ELW/RCL: Luke 13:10-17 (Jesus heals the woman bent over)

 

*******

Opening Hymn:  Glories of Your Name/Of You are Spoken:  LBW #358, ELW #647, LSB #648 (DANGER!! ELW changed the tune to a fairly obscure though singable Welsh tune. It’s probably because some nitwit said the usual tune, “Austria,” is the same as the German Nazi anthem, “Deutschland, Deutschland, Uber Alles.” However, “Austria” is used in ELW for hymn #823, so…. Just be alert. PLEEEEZE use the “Usual tune!!!”)

 

OR Rise, O Sun of Righteousness: ELW #657

Hymn of the Day: A Multitude Comes From the East and the West: LBW #313, LSB #510

OR I’m So Glad He Lifted Me (If using ELW/RCL Gospel): WOV #673, ELW #860

Communion Hymn #1: You Are the Way: LBW #464, ELW #758, LSB #526

Communion Hymn #2: Leaning on the Everlasting Arms: WOV #780, ELW #774

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

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

St. Bartholomew Lessons and Hymns

 

Exodus 19: 1-6 (Remember how God delivered you from Egyptians as on eagles’ wings)

 

Psalm 12

 

1 Corinthians 12: 27-31a

 

John 1:43-51

*******

 

Opening Hymn: On Eagles’ Wings: WOV #779, ELW #787, LSB #727

OR Praise to the Lord, the Almighty:  LBW #534, ELW #858 (#859 is the gender-free translation. You’re welcome.) LSB #790

 

Hymn of the Day: For All Your Saints, O Lord: LBW #176, ELW #427

OR By All Your Saints in Warfare: LBW #178, v. 1, 17, 3; ELW #421, v. 1, 19, 2, last;

LSB #518, v. 1, 23, 3

 

Communion Hymn #1: You Are the Way: LBW #464, ELW #758, LSB #526

Communion Hymn #2: Leaning on the Everlasting Arms: WOV #780, ELW #774

 

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

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

 

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

 

 

August 31: 12^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 17)

 

Proverbs 25:2-10 (Words about kings; Comporting oneself in the King’s presence; keeping confidences)

 

            ELW/RCL: Proverbs 25:6-7 (Only about comporting self in king’s presence)

 

Psalm 131 (I do not occupy myself with things too great and marvelous)

 

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 112 (The righteous and just are blessed by God)

 

Hebrews 13:1-17 (Words of advice about many things)

 

            ELW/RCL: Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 (Eliminates “Don’t be led away by strange teachings,” Jesus’ death “outside the camp”)

 

Luke 14:1-14 (Healing on Sabbath; taking the lowest seat at the banquet table)

 

            ELW/RCL: Luke 14: 1, 7-14 (Eliminates healing on Sabbath)

 

*******

Opening Hymn:   Day by Day: WOV #746, ELW #790

OR When Morning Gilds the Skies: LBW #546, ELW #853, LSB #807

Hymn of the Day: Praise and Thanksgiving, Father, We Offer: LBW #409, ELW #689, LSB #789

OR Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

Communion Hymn #1: Come, Let Us Eat: LBW #214, ELW #491, LSB #626

Communion Hymn #2: Bind Us Together: WOV #748

Closing Hymn: Savior, Again to Your Dear Name: LBW #262, ELW #534, LSB #917

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

 

 

September 7: 13^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 18; Labor Day weekend)

 

Deuteronomy 30:15-20 (Before you God sets life and death, blessing and curse; choose life!)

 

Psalm 1 (Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly; his delight is in the law of the Lord)

 

Philemon, whole thing (Paul’s artful persuasion on behalf of a runaway slave)

 

Luke 14:25-35 (Consider the cost of discipleship first!)

 

            ELW/RCL: Luke 14:25-33 (Eliminates words about unsalty salt)

 

*******

Opening Hymn:   The Man is Ever Blessed (Simple tune; paraphrase of Ps. 1): LSB #705

OR O, That the Lord Would Guide My Ways: LBW #480, ELW #772, LSB #707

 

Hymn of the Day: How Clear is Our Vocation, Lord: LSB #853

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

 

Communion Hymn #1: O God, My Faithful God: LBW #504, ELW #806, LSB #696

 

Communion Hymn #2: O Master, Let Me Walk With You: LBW #492, ELW #818

 

Closing Hymn: Lord of All Hopefulness, Lord of All Joy: LBW #469, ELW #765, LSB #738

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

 

 

September 14: 14^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 19)

OR Holy Cross Day

 

 

14 Pentecost Lessons and Hymns

 

Ezekiel 34:11-24 (God will be the Good Shepherd, will judge between strong and weak sheep)

 

            ELW/RCL: Exodus 32:7-14 (Moses pleads for Israel after they make gold calf)

 

Psalm 119:169-176 (Teach me your statutes; I will sing your praises!)

 

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 51:1-10 (Have mercy on me for my wickedness and sin!)

 

1 Timothy 1:(5-11), 12-17 (The Law is good; meant to convict evildoers of their sin; yet Christ came to save sinners)

 

            ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 1:12-17 (Eliminates warning against bad teachers, and discussion of why the law exists to convict the wicked)

 

Luke 15:1-10 (Jesus eats with sinners, parables of lost sheep, lost coin)

 

*******

Opening Hymn:   Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us: LBW #481, ELW #789, LSB #711 (ELW and LSB use the tune found also in SBH,  the “old red book.” The LBW tune is uninspiring. Find the “real” tune if you have SBH, or go online to Hymnary.org, as it’s probably public domain)

 

OR The Lord’s My Shepherd; I’ll Not Want: LBW #451, ELW #778, LSB #710

 

Hymn of the Day: Jesus Sinners Will/Doth Receive:  LBW #291, LSB #609

NOTE: Although the LSB tune is more singable and familiar than is the LBW tune, if you don’t want to try either, I suggest setting this to LBW #535, Holy God, We Praise Your Name. The words to this hymn are good with the epistle and Gospel texts.

OR In Adam We Have All Been One: LBW #372, LSB #569

 

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

 

Communion Hymn #2: One There is, Above All Others: LBW #298

 

Closing Hymn: Now Thank We All Our God: LBW #534, ELW #840, LSB #895

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

 

Holy Cross Lessons and Hymns:

Isaiah 45: 21-25 (I am God of the whole earth; look to me and be saved)

Psalm 98:1-5 (God has given mercy, truth, and salvation to Israel and the whole world)

1 Corinthians 1:18-24 (The cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but salvation to all who believe in Christ)

John 12:20-33 (I, when I am lifted up, will draw all people to myself)

*****

Opening Hymn: Will You Come and Follow Me: ELW # 798

OR Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven: LBW #549, ELW #865 (#865 is the de-gendered version); LSB #793

Hymn of the Day: Lift High the Cross: LBW #377, ELW #660, LSB #837

OR The Royal Banners Forward Go (Words are perfect for today. First LBW tune is sorta okay-ish. Tune Vexilla Regis is a bit tricky. A fine alternate is Mendon, commonly used for “Thee We Adore, Eternal God”): LBW #124, 125; LSB #455

Communion Hymn #1: When I Survey the Wondrous Cross:

LBW #482, ELW #803, LSB #425, 426

Communion Hymn #2: What Wondrous Love Is This: LBW #385, ELW #666, LSB #543

Closing Hymn: Blessing and Honor: LBW #525, ELW #854

OR O Christ Our Hope, Our Heart’s Desire: LBW #300, LSB #553

 

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

September 21: 15^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 20)

OR St. Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist

 

15 Pentecost Lessons and Hymns

 

Amos 8:4-7 (God sees the deeds of the greedy who despoil the poor)

 

Psalm 113 (Praise God; he raises the poor from the dust!)

 

1 Timothy 2:1-15 (Pray for all, including rulers, so we may live at peace; women dress modestly and be silent in assembly)

 

            ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 2:1-7 (gee, can you guess what’s missing?!)

 

Luke 16:1-15 (Parable of dishonest servant)

 

            ELW/RCL: Luke 16:1-13 (Eliminates rebuke of Pharisees)

*******

Opening Hymn: Lord of All Nations, Grant Me Grace: LBW #419, ELW #716, LSB #844

Hymn of the Day: Seek Where You May, to Find a Way: LSB #557 (neat old hymn!)

 

OR Jesus, Priceless Treasure: LBW #457/8, ELW #775, LSB 743

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

Communion Hymn #2:, Praise and Thanksgiving, Father We Offer:

LBW #409, ELW #689, LSB #789

Closing Hymn: God the Omnipotent! LBW #462

OR Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God: WOV 783, LSB #712

OR This Little Light of Mine: ELW #677

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

 

 

St. Matthew Lessons and Hymns

Ezekiel 2:8-3:11: God commissions Ezekiel to speak to Israel, warn them

Psalm 119:33-40: Lord, teach me to go in the way of your commandments, which is my delight

Ephesians 2:4-10: Though dead in sin, we’re made alive by God in Christ, and saved by grace

Matthew 9:9-13: Jesus calls Matthew, who throws a party

*******

Opening Hymn: God’s Word is Our Great Heritage: LBW #239, ELW #509, LSB #582

Hymn of the Day: Today Your Mercy Calls Us: LBW #304, LSB #915

OR By All Your Saints: LBW #178, v. 1,18,3; ELW #421, v. 1,20,2,last; LSB #518, v.1,25,3

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

Communion Hymn #2:, Praise and Thanksgiving, Father We Offer:

LBW #409, ELW #689, LSB #789

 

Closing Hymn: God the Omnipotent! LBW #462

OR Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God: WOV 783, LSB #712

OR This Little Light of Mine: ELW #677

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

 

 

September 28: 16^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 21)

OR St. Michael and All Angels, transferred

 

16 Pentecost Lessons and Hymns

 

Amos 6:1-7: (Woe to those who are at ease in Zion! The shall go into exile)

 

            ELW/RCL: Amos 6:1a, 4-7 (Eliminates obscure reference to surrounding nations)

 

Psalm 146: (The Lord sets the prisoners free, saves those who perish)

 

1 Timothy 3:1-13: (Qualifications of bishops and deacons)

 

            ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 6:6-19 (Temptations of riches; exhortation to Timothy to fight good fight of faith)

 

Luke 16:19-31: (The rich man and Lazarus)

*******

Opening Hymn: Fight the Good Fight With All Your Might: LBW #461, LSB #664

            OR The God of Abraham Praise: LBW #544, v. 1-4, ELW #831, v.1-3, LSB #798, 1-3

 

Hymn of the Day:The God of Abraham Praise: LBW #544, v. 5-8, ELW #831, v. 4-6, LSB #798, 4-6

OR Lord, Whose Love In/Through Humble Service: LBW #423, ELW #712, LSB #848

 

Communion Hymn #1: O God, My Faithful God LBW #504, ELW #806, LSB #696

 

Communion Hymn #2: Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us With Your Love: WOV #765, ELW #708, LSB #980

 

Closing Hymn: The God of Abraham Praise: LBW #544, v. 9-12; ELW #831, v.7,8; LSB #798, 7-9

OR Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise: LBW #526, ELW #834, LSB #802

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

 

 

St. Michael and All Angels Lessons and Hymns

Daniel 10:10-14; 12:1-3: Michael, great prince of Israel, gives word to Daniel by another angel

Psalm 103:1-5, 20-22: Bless the Lord, all you angels who are obedient to his word!

Revelation 12: 7-12: War in heaven between Michael and Satan, who’s cast down to earth

Luke 10:17-20: God’s little ones have angels interceding for them before his throne

*****

Opening Hymn: Praise, My Soul, the King of Heaven (Yes, we did this a few weeks ago, But it’s wonderful for St. Michael and All Angels): LBW #549, ELW #865, LSB #793

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

OR The God of Abraham Praise:

LBW #544, v. 1,9-11; ELW #831, v.1,7,8; LSB #798,v. 1,8,9

Communion Hymn #1: Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence: LBW #198, ELW #490, LSB #621

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

Closing Hymn: Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise: LBW #526, ELW #834, LSB #802

October 5: 17^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 22)

 

Habakkuk 1:1-4; 2:1-4 (Prophet mourns that he can only see evil and violence; but he will stand at his watch post; he must write God’s words large and bold)

 

Psalm 62 (For God my soul in stillness waits; he alone is my rock, strength, and salvation)

 

            ELW/RCL: Psalm 37:1-9 (Commit your way to God; don’t fret over evildoers)

 

2 Timothy 1:1-14 (Rekindle gift given at ordination; never be ashamed of Christ)

 

Luke 17:1-10 (Again, don’t cause another to stumble! Forgive willingly; have mustard seed faith; do your work faithfully whether the Master is away or is present)

 

            ELW/RCL: Luke 17:5-10 (Eliminates warning to not mislead little ones, rebuking brother, forgiving repeatedly if he repents)

*******

Opening Hymn:   Holy Spirit, Truth/Light Divine: LBW #257, ELW #398; LSB #496

 

Hymn of the Day: Awake, O Spirit of the Watchmen: LBW #382

(not real familiar, but not a tough tune, and the words bridge the 3 lessons well)

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

 

Communion Hymn #1: Forgive Our Sins as We Forgive: LBW #307, ELW #605, LSB #843

 

Communion Hymn #2: O Master, Let Me Walk With You: LBW #492, ELW #818

 

Closing Hymn: My Hope is Built on Nothing Less: LBW #293/4; ELW #596/7; LSB #576/6

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

 

 

October 12: 18^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 23)

 

Ruth 1:1-19a (Ruth’s love for Naomi)

 

            ELW/RCL: 2 Kings 5:1-3, 7-15 (Naaman the leper healed by Elisha)

 

Psalm 111 (God is gracious, provides for those who fear him. His works, laws are trustworthy)

 

2 Timothy 2:1-13 (Paul encourages Timothy to be steadfast and diligent in his labors)

 

            ELW/RCL: 1 Timothy 2:8-15 (Eliminates exhortation to strive, even suffer; adds counsel to exhort against quarreling and to be worker approved by God)

 

Luke 17:11-19 (Jesus heals 10 lepers; one returns to thank and worship)

*******

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

OR We Praise You, O God: LBW #241, ELW #870, LSB #785

Hymn of the Day: O God Beyond All Praising WOV #797

OR O, For A Thousand Tongues To Sing: LBW #559, ELW #836, LSB #528

Communion Hymn #1: Blest be the Tie that Binds LBW #370, ELW #656, LSB #649

Communion Hymn #2: How Great Thou Art LBW #532,  ELW #856, LSB #801

Closing Hymn: Lift Every Voice and Sing LBW #562, ELW #841, LSB #964

OR Oh, Worship the King, All Glorious Above: LBW #548, ELW #842, LSB #804

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

 

 

October 19: 19^th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 24)

OR St. Luke, Evangelist, transferred

 

Pentecost 19 lessons and hymns

 

Genesis 32:22-30 (Jacob wrestles with mysterious stranger, is wounded but named Israel)

 

Psalm 121 (My help comes from the Lord. He neither slumbers nor sleeps, will watch your going and coming)

 

2 Timothy 3:14-4:5 (All Scripture is inspired, useful for teaching and reproof; but people will have itching ears and refuse sound doctrine)

 

Luke 18:1-8 (Parable of widow and unjust judge; God hears cries of his chosen ones; but will Son of Man find such faith when he returns?)

*******

Opening Hymn: Thy Strong Word: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

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

Hymn of the Day:, Lord, Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word:  LBW #230, ELW #517, LSB #655

Communion Hymn #1: O God of Jacob, By Whose Hand: LBW #477

            OR o God, Our Help in Ages Past: LBW #320, ELW #632, LSB #733

 

Communion Hymn #2: My Faith Looks Up to Thee LBW #479, LSB #702

Closing Hymn: Great is Thy Faithfulness WOV #771, ELW #733, LSB #809

OR Lord, Take My Hand and Lead Me:  LBW #333, ELW #767, LSB #722

*******

 

 

St. Luke lessons and hymns

 

Isaiah 43:8-13 (I am your God and Savior; and you are my witnesses!)

            Or Isaiah 35:5-8 (Promise that the blind shall see, lame shall run; there will be water, joy, and a highway in the desert)

 

Psalm 124 (The Lord was on our side, we have escaped our enemies!)

 

2 Timothy 4:5-11 (Paul has run his race, fought his fight; only Luke remains with him now)

 

Luke 1:1-4; 24:44 (…then Jesus said…)-53 (Why Luke writes; conclusion of Gospel)

 

*******

Opening Hymn:   Thy Strong Word, v.1-3: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

OR Hail To the Lord’s Anointed: LBW #87, ELW #311, LSB #398

Hymn of the Day: Hark, the Voice of Jesus  Calling: LBW #381, LSB #827

OR By All Your Saints in Warfare:

LBW #178, v. 1,19,3; ELW #1,21,2,last; LSB #518, v.1,26,3

Communion Hymn #1: O Word of God Incarnate: LBW #231, ELW #514, LSB #523

Communion Hymn #2: Here Am I, Lord: WOV #752, ELW #574

Closing Hymn: Thy Strong Word, v.4-5: LBW #233, ELW #511, LSB #578

 

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

 

 

October 26: Reformation Sunday

 

Revelation 14:6-7 (Eternal Gospel announced to every person)

 

Psalm 46 (A mighty fortress!)

 

Romans 3:19-28 (We’re 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:   Word of God, Come Down on Earth: WOV 716, ELW #510, LSB #545

OR Christ is Made the Sure Foundation: WOV #747, ELW #645, LSB #909

 

Hymn of the Day: A Mighty Fortress is Our God LBW #229

 

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

 

Communion Hymn #2: Amazing Grace: LBW #448, ELW #779, LSB #744

 

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

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

 

 

November 2: All Saints Sunday

 

Revelation 7:(2-8) 9-17 (The tribes of Israel are numbered; behold a host arrayed in white, praising the God who has delivered them)

 

            ELW/RCL: Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18 (Vision of 4 great beasts; saints shall receive God’s kingdom forever)

 

Psalm 149 (Praise God for his deliverance – and his vengeance!)

 

1 John 3:1-3 (We are God’s children; when Jesus appears, we shall be like him.)

 

            ELW/RCL: Ephesians 1:11-23 (Inheritance of saints in Christ; prayer for Spirit to enlighten, reveal Jesus’ greatness and gifts)

 

Matthew 5:1-12 (The beatitudes)

 

            ELW/RCL: (Beatitudes and woes; do to others as you wish them to do to you)

*******

Opening Hymn:  Behold the/a Host, Arrayed in White: ELW #425, LSB #676 (superior translation!)

Behold a Host, Like Mountains Bright LBW #314

OR  Alabare: WOV #791, LSB #800

OR Come, We That Love The Lord: WOV #742, ELW #625, LSB #669

Hymn of the Day: For All the Saints: LBW #174, ELW #422, LSB #677

 

OR Blest Are They: WOV #764, ELW #728, LSB #982

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

Communion Hymn #2: Love Divine, All Loves Excelling: LBW #315, ELW #631, LSB #700

Closing Hymn: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328/9, LSB #549

           

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

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

 

 

November 9: 22^nd Sunday after Pentecost, Proper 27

Exodus 3: 1-15 (Moses and the burning bush; revelation of the divine Name)

Psalm 148 (Let all creation praise the Name of the Lord!)

2 Thessalonians 2:1-8. 13-17 (The man of wickedness shall be revealed when Jesus comes. You have been chosen by God to walk in his truth, in the Gospel. Stand fast in the traditions you have received.)

Luke 20:27-40 Sadducees’ parable of one bride for seven brothers; Jesus says God said I AM, not I WAS, the God of Abraham et. al.)

*******

Opening Hymn: Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus: LBW #389, LSB #660

OR For All Your Saints, O Lord: LBW #176, ELW #427

Hymn of the Day: The God of Abraham Praise (I know you may have done it a few weeks ago. Do it today, too; these verses dovetail with the lessons!): LBW #544, v. 1,11,12; ELW #831, v. 1,7,8; LSB #1,8,9

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus Shall Reign Where’er The Sun: LBW #530, ELW #434, LSB #832

Communion Hymn #2: O Happy Day When We Shall Stand: LBW #351, ELW #441

Closing Hymn: My Lord, What A Morning: WOV #627, ELW #438, LSB #968

 

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

November 16: 23^rd Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 28)

 

Malachi 4:1-6 (On the Day of the Lord, the wicked burn like stubble, but Sun of Righteousness rises on the blessed with healing in his wings)

 

Psalm 98 (Let everyone sing to the Lord; he comes with righteousness to judge the earth)

 

2 Thessalonians 3:1-13 (God will order your days and deeds; therefore walk in righteousness and godliness)

 

Luke 21:5-36 (Signs of the end; description of tribulation; grace to speak God’s truth before kings; watch, pray)

 

*****

 

Opening Hymn:   The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns: LBW #33, ELW #260, LSB #348

 

Hymn of the Day: The Clouds of Judgment Gather: LBW #322 (Not a difficult Irish tune. But yes, you can sing it to Aurelia, the tune for The Church’s One Foundation.), LSB #513 (A sturdy Welsh tune)

OR Lord, Keep Us Steadfast In Your Word: LBW #230, ELW #517, LSB #655

 

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Still Lead/Lead Thou On: LBW #341, ELW #624, LSB #718

 

Communion Hymn #2: Guide Me Ever,/O Thou Great Redeemer LBW #343, ELW #618, LSB #918

 

Closing Hymn: Great Is Thy Faithfulness: WOV #771, ELW #733, LSB #809

OR O Christ the Same (gotta love singing O Danny Boy!): WOV #778, ELW #760

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

 

 

November 23: Christ the King Sunday

 

Malachi 3:13-18 (God tells his people of their complaints against him; they listen and ponder his words; God will spare the righteous as a father spares his children)

 

            ELW/RCL: Jeremiah 23:1-6 (God will provide good Shepherd, righteous Branch for his people)

 

Psalm 46…again?!?! (Kingdoms totter and fall into the sea, but God is our refuge and strength)

 

Colossians 1:13-20 (Jesus is the perfect image of God; in him all things hang together)

 

            ELW/RCL: Colossians 1:11-20 (Adds prayer for strength, joy, endurance, thanks)

 

Luke 23:27-43 (From the Via Dolorosa to the Cross; Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom; Father, into your hands I commend my spirit)

 

            ELW/RCL: Luke 23:33-43 (Eliminates Via Dolorosa)

*******

Opening Hymn:   The Head That once Was Crowned With Thorns:  LBW #173, ELW #432, LSB #532  (All use St. Magnus as tune. If it’s is unfamiliar, use Azmon, tune for “O For 1000 Tongues”)

Hymn of the Day: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328/9; ELW #634; LSB #549

Communion Hymn #1: Jesus, Remember Me (Repeat as desired): WOV #740, ELW #616, LSB #767

Communion Hymn #2: O Jesus, King Most Wonderful: LBW #537

Closing Hymn: Crown Him With Many Crowns: LBW #170, ELW #855, LSB #525

OR Soon and Very Soon: WOV #744, ELW #439

John 10:22-30

 

Scripture:

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, boys and girls!

Pastor: Sammy, we have more sheep this week in our Gospel reading from John.

Sammy: I know! This passage is great, Pastor! I love that we get to talk about sheep again. I am an expert in sheep. Well, I am a sheep. That’s why I am an expert.

Pastor: Let’s not get carried away, Sammy. When your shepherd calls you, do you know his voice?

Sammy: Of course! My whole family knows the voice of our shepherd. We love him. He takes good care of us and makes sure that we have what we need. And he protects us from danger. We listen to him.

Pastor: That’s great, Sammy. Do you follow your shepherd?

Sammy: We do! We trust him to guide us where we need to go.

Pastor: Boys and girls, what do you think happens if Sammy or her family wander too far away from the shepherd and from the other sheep?

[Allow time for responses]

Sammy: Well, those are really good answers. Sheep can get really hurt if we wander far away. We could get lost. And we may not be able to find enough water. And sometimes we can get stuck in bushes or thorns. Or we could fall off of a cliff or a ledge. Or a wild animal could try to hurt us.

Pastor: It sounds to me like sheep need and rely on their shepherd.

Sammy: Yes we do.

Pastor: You know, Sammy. Jesus is the best shepherd there is. When we become one of his sheep, we belong to him forever. He loves us so much, that he laid down his life for his sheep. He takes good care of us. We are the sheep of Jesus.

Sammy: Jesus is truly the best shepherd out there. You have to be really brave to be willing to die for your sheep. That’s great love.

Pastor: Yes it is. Boys and girls, will you please fold your hands and bow your heads in prayer with me? Dear Jesus, thank you for being our Good Shepherd. Thank you for speaking to us. Thank you for protecting us. Thank you for laying down your life for us. Thank you for loving us. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

John 21:1-19

Script:

Pastor: Good morning boys and girls! Welcome! Let’s say good morning to our friend Sammy. Ready? One, two, three: Good morning, Sammy!

Sammy: Good morning, boys and girls!

Pastor: How are you doing today, Sammy?

Sammy: I am doing great! I am ready for the breakfast buffet that you guys brought for me.

Pastor: Um. What do you mean, Sammy?

Sammy: You know, just like in the Gospel reading for today. Jesus had breakfast with his disciples on the beach. I like breakfast. I like the beach.

Pastor: So what makes you think that we brought you a breakfast buffet?

Sammy: Well, Jesus gave direct orders to Simon Peter today. He said to Peter, “Feed my sheep.” I don’t see any other sheep in church this morning, so I must be getting all of the good food you brought for me today.

Pastor: Boys and girls, what do you think Jesus means when he says, “Feed my sheep”?

[Allow time for responses]

Pastor: You see, Sammy, Jesus isn’t talking about feeding the literal sheep in the pasture—although we do need to feed our sheep if we are raising them.

Sammy: Oh. He’s not?

Pastor: No, he’s not. He’s talking about the people he loves, all of us. We are Jesus’s sheep and he is the good shepherd. Jesus calls Simon Peter to feed and take care of the sheep—that’s us—because Jesus loves us. As Christians, we are called to serve each other in love.

Sammy: Jesus loved us first, so we are called by Jesus to love other people.

Pastor: That’s exactly right. That’s what being a Christian is all about: following Jesus: He is the way, the truth, and the life. When Jesus comes into our hearts when we are baptized and become part of God’s family, we are changed forever, and we can’t help but serve each other.

Sammy: It’s amazing what the love of God can do!

Pastor: Yes it is.

Sammy: Okay, but I do have one more question: can you all bring me breakfast next week?

Pastor: Sammy, we are going to pray now. I would be glad to bring you breakfast after church. Boys and girls, can we please fold our hands and bow our heads? Dear Jesus, thank you for feeding us. Thank you for taking care of us. Thank you for sending your people out to love each other. Thank you for modeling that love for us. Amen.

Sammy: Bye, everyone!

Pastor: Bye, Sammy!

 

The Prayers of the Church, June 15, 2025: The Holy Trinity, C, 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)

                ELW/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)

                ELW/RCL: John 16:12-15 (The Spirit will declare all he has heard; take what Jesus received from his Father)

 

*******

 

Opening Hymn: Holy, Holy, Holy: LBW #165, ELW #473, LSB #507

Hymn of the Day: Holy God, We Praise Your/Thy Name: LBW #535, ELW #414, LSB #940

OR

Almighty Father, Creator Blest

Tune: Victory (The Strife is O’er)

By Rev. Cathy A. Ammlung, STS

 

(before first verse; “in” is sung on two notes):

Credo, credo, credo in_ unum Deum!

 

1. Almighty Father, Creator blest, Worlds sprang to life at his behest;

Seen and unseen, his name they confessed: Credo, credo!

 

1. Lord Jesus Christ, his only Son, In truth and substance, they are one;

Pure Light from Light, in him life’s begun: Credo, credo!

 

1. 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!

 

1. Born of the virgin, Mary most pure, And of the Spirit, to be sin’s cure,

Christ became man; let praises endure – Credo, credo!

 

1. For us, ‘neath Pilate’s judgment he died – For us, our Lord was crucified,

For us, he rose again, glorified: Credo, credo!

 

1. Ascended to the Father’s throne, He shall return, to judge everyone,

And rule fore’er, as Lord and God: Credo, credo!

 

1. Most Holy Spirit, life-giving Lord, One with the Father and Son, adored,

Inspiring prophets’ holy word, Credo, credo!

 

1. Making one holy Church in the world, One with apostles, martyrs and Lord,

One through baptism with water and Word, Credo, credo!

 

1. 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: Immortal, Invisible, God Only Wise: LBW #526, ELW #834, LSB #802

Communion Hymn #2: Father Most Holy:  LBW #169, ELW #415, LSB #504

Closing Hymn: Thee We Adore, Eternal Lord: LBW #547

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

*******

By the power of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to God our Father in the name of Christ Jesus our Lord, making intercession for the Church, the world, and for all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Holy God, we praise your Name! Help us to joyfully proclaim it to the world, and to honor it in all we do.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Father, bless and preserve your Church, purchased with the blood of your Son and sanctified with the fire of your Spirit. Keep it steadfast in faith; sound in doctrine; loving in service; generous in giving; ardent in worship; and holy in living. Make it a lamp filled with the light of your presence, guiding many to salvation in your Name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Be the shelter, strength, and inheritance of all who are hated because they confess Christ as Savior and God. Give them courage, graciousness, and hope; and soften the hearts of their enemies.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Kindle with your Spirit the hearts and minds of the people in this place. Unite us to your Son. Use us to proclaim the gospel in words and deeds to all those we meet. Help us to seek out those who most deeply need your love. Give us courage to invite them into your holy fellowship, in which they may find mercy, joy, and an eternal home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all students, especially those graduating this spring.  Gide them in paths of wisdom and righteousness in whatever they do. Teach them to love goodness, truth, and beauty, which spring from your heart. Bless them, and their families, teachers, mentors, and friends, who encouraged and supported them along the way.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

There is no other God beside you, who are Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Give your gifts of faith, wisdom, and righteousness to all people, especially to those who take counsel for the nations. Conform the hearts of all people to your will, and bless this war-torn world with the peace that passes human understanding.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear Father, gather in your Son’s embrace all who suffer, including: {List}. Bestow upon them health and salvation; and bless them, and all who care for them, with the grace and comfort of your Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most Holy and Blessed Trinity, we praise and adore you for welcoming our beloved dead into your eternal communion of life and love. Keep our hearts firmly fixed on you, the Lord and Giver of life, the Alpha and the Omega, the God and Father of all creation. Bring us, with the whole company of the redeemed of every time and place, every nation, tribe and tongue, into the joy of your presence, where we shall behold you face to face and adore you as Father, Son and Holy Spirit, our Lord and our God.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

The Prayers of the Church, June 8, 2025: Day of Pentecost, C

 

Genesis 11:1-9 (Tower of Babel and confusion of languages)

Psalm 143 (prayer of longing for God’s refreshing presence)

                ELW/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 send the Spirit who will remind you of my words; my peace I give to you)

ELW/RCL: John 14:8-17 (See me, see the Father; if you love me, keep my commandments; the Father will send the Spirit of truth)

*******

Opening Hymn: Holy Spirit, Truth/Light Divine: LBW #257, ELW #398, LSB #496

Hymn of the Day: Come Holy Ghost, Our Souls Inspire: LBW #472

Creator Spirit, Heavenly Dove: ELW #577

Come Holy Ghost, Creator Blest: LSB #498

Weirdly, these are all basically the same hymn! Same tune, basically same gist, just different translations!

OR O Spirit of Life: ELW #405

Communion Hymn #1: Come, Gracious Spirit, Heavenly Dove: LBW #475, ELW #578

Communion Hymn #2: Gracious Spirit, Heed Our Pleading: WOV #687, ELW #401

Closing Hymn: Spirit of God, Sent From Heaven Abroad: LBW #285

OR Spirit, Spirit of Gentleness: WOV #684, ELW #396

OR Holy Spirit, the Dove Sent From Heaven: LSB #502 (Great words, and nice Hispanic melody)

***********

By the power of the Holy Spirit, let us pray to God our Father in the name of Christ Jesus our Lord, making intercession for the Church, the world, and for all people according to their need.

A brief silence

Come Holy Spirit! Set our hearts on fire with love for God one another. Propel us into the war zones of hatred, despair, and unbelief. Kindle our tongues to speak words of grace, truth, and life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify the Church with your holy fire. Burn away its sins and schisms. Warm it with love for Jesus and for the world he came to save. Teach it to remember, cherish, teach, and live all that Jesus commanded us, especially to love one another as he has loved us.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Enliven and sustain everyone who is persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Give them wisdom, gentleness, courage, and faithfulness. Convict and convert the enemies of the Gospel to lives of repentance and faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Descend upon the hearts and minds of everyone in this congregation. Cause us to shine the light of Christ on the lives of those who need him most. Conform us ever more perfectly to his blessed likeness.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for those who hate and scorn the Gospel of Jesus. Cause their hearts to burn with desire for Him, though they do not know him yet. Make them long for an imperishable Hope; for a living Truth; for a trustworthy Way; for a transfigured Life; and for a Love that will not let them go.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Direct, strengthen, and cheer all who risk their lives on behalf of others. Prosper all they do that conforms to your will. Grant healing to the wounded, honor to those who sacrificed their lives, patience and hope to their families. When they return home, grant them ways to  help build a better world for all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Come, Creator Spirit, and renew the face of the earth. Bless, renew, provide for, and transfigure this broken world, until it conforms to the will and fulfills the desire of the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Teach, purify and perfect the minds, hearts and wills of all people – especially those entrusted with power and authority; and bestow the blessings of peace, health, knowledge and tranquility upon us all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Breathe health, wholeness, and hope into the hearts of all who suffer, including: {List}. Grant refreshment to their spirits. Restore them to full fellowship with all who love them. Bless everyone who cares for them, especially those whose research and skill brings new hope to those afflicted by suffering.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most blessed and Holy Spirit, we laud and magnify your gracious protection and lordly power that brings the resurrection life of Jesus to all who call upon his name. We thank you for breathing his eternal life into all the faithful departed. Breathe the love of Jesus into us. Renew our minds and set fire to our hearts. Make our lives overflow with the beauty of holiness, drawing others to Christ. Give us grace to enter into the blessed company of the redeemed, and by your power, to worship the Father in union with his dear Son, our Savior and Lord Jesus Christ, forever and ever.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

 

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we entrust our prayers and petitions into your hands, gracious Father, for the sake of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

 

The Prayers of the Church: May 29/June 1, 2025: Ascension of Our Lord (transferred), 7^th Sunday of Easter, C

 

Lessons for the Ascension of Our Lord

Acts 1:1-11 (the Ascension story)

Psalm 47 (God has gone up with a shout!)

Ephesians 1:15-23 (God put all under Christ’s feet, made him head of body; glorious inheritance)

Luke 24:44-53 (You’re witnesses to Jesus’ death and resurrection. Proclaim repentance, forgiveness. Brief account of Ascension)

Lessons for 7^th Sunday of Easter:

Acts 1:12-26 (Barnabas chosen to round out the Twelve)

                ELW/RCL: Acts 16:16-34 (Paul and Silas exorcise demon from slave girl; are thrown in prison; chains miraculously broken; jailers believe and are baptized)

Psalm 133 (Good and pleasant when brethren dwell together in unity)

ELW/RCL: Psalm 97 (The Lord is king; Zion rejoices; God loves and guards the faithful)

Revelation 22:1-20 (the river and Tree of Life; warnings; invitation to feast; Come, Lord Jesus!)

John 17:20-26 (Jesus prays for all believers, that they be one as he and the Father are one)

*******

I’ve offered alternatives for Hymn of Day

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

Hymn of the Day, Ascension theme: Look, O Look, the Sight is Glorious: LBW #156

Look, Ye Saints, The Sight Is Glorious: LSB #495

OR My Lord of Light: WOV #796, ELW #832

                OR O Christ, Our Hope, Our Heart’s Desire: LBW #300, ELW #604, LSB #553

Hymn of Day, 7 Easter theme: Lord, Who in the Night You Were Betrayed Did Pray: LBW #206, ELW #463

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

Communion Hymn #1: All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name: LBW #328, ELW #634, LSB #549

Communion Hymn #2: A Hymn of Glory Let Us Sing: LBW #157, ELW #393, LSB #493

Closing Hymn: Rejoice, the Lord/For Christ is King: LBW #171, ELW #430

*********

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

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, Savior of the world! We worship and adore you. We kneel before your majesty. Yet you take us by the hand and invite us to your marriage supper. You make us your Bride and your Body. You pray for us, and promise us your own inheritance. You commission us to proclaim the Gospel to the world. You give us your own work of forgiving sins. All we can do is pray, 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. Fill it with your Spirit. May it faithfully 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 through your own suffering, death, and resurrection. Cause their tormentors to repent and to turn to you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless this congregation. Tune our hearts to sing your praise and to do your will. Use us to draw others into the blest communion and fellowship divine that you share with the Father and Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We remember before you all who gave their lives for their country, in service of liberty and justice for all. Thank you for their great sacrifice. May it not be in vain. Thank you for everyone who risks life and health in defense of others. Heal those who are wounded in body, mind, or spirit. Help us to honor and assist them. And we urgently pray: bring the whole world to that glorious day when war will be no more.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As you prayed for your followers, we pray for the world, its rulers, and its people, especially in this land. Bestow peace and unity in places of injustice and violence. Turn the hearts of many to seek and work for those things that please your heavenly Father. Equip them to bring a measure of health, hope and justice to all.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We plead for all who endure the evils that afflict bodies, minds, and hearts. Today we pray for: {List}. Assure them of your presence, so that they believe and know that they dwell in you, and you in them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, you have ascended to the right hand of your Father. You promise your life to all whom you have saved. Therefore we confidently entrust into your care our beloved dead. Wipe away the tears of all who grieve. Dwell with us and in us. Draw us closer to each other as you lead us to your Father’s embrace. Give us your Spirit, to prepare us for your wedding-supper. Hasten the day when we celebrate that eternal feast with all the people whom you have redeemed.

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.

 

Prayers of the Church, May 25, 2025: 6^th Sunday of Easter, C

 

Acts 16:9-15 (mission to Macedonia; meeting in house of Lydia)

Psalm 67 (May God be gracious to us and bless us; let all peoples praise him)

Revelation 21:9-14, 21-27 (vision of the New Jerusalem)

John 16:22-33 (then you will ask anything of the Father in my name, and receive; you joy will be complete. In the world you have trouble, but I have overcome the world)

RCL: John 14:23-29 (Those who love me keep my word; I give you peace;  I send the Spirit; rejoice, because I go to the Father)

*******

Opening Hymn: O Day Full Of Grace: LBW #161, ELW #627, LSB #503

OR Lord of All Nations, Grant Me Grace: LBW #419, ELW #716, LSB #844

Hymn of the Day: O, What Their Joy: LBW #337 (may use tune for “Blessing and Honor,” LBW #535)

                OR Eternal Spirit of the Living Christ: LBW #441, ELW #402, LSB #769

Communion Hymn #1: Jerusalem, My Happy Home: LBW #331, ELW #628, LSB #673

Communion Hymn #2: My Life Flows On In Endless Song: WOV #781, ELW #763

OR When Peace, Like a River: LBW #346, ELW #785, LSB #763

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

OR Amazing Grace: LBW #448, ELW #779, LSB #744

 

**********

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

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, blessed Bridegroom, thank you for making us your beloved Bride, even 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.

Give your Church the grace and comfort of the Holy Spirit. Grant that, in a world shadowed by suffering, sorrow and sin, it proclaims your promise of joy, and shares the blessings of your love.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Confessing your name brings great trouble to many Christians around the world. Assure them that you have overcome the world.  Grant them such deep joy that their enemies are astonished, 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. Use us to 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 to be preoccupied with school, sports, jobs, and friends. It can be hard to endure teasing or scorn because of faith in you. Fill them with your love, so they may share it and be a blessing to those around them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

This world is filled with trouble; yet you have overcome the world and defeated the powers of sin, 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 human malice and natural calamity. Bestow your Holy Spirit upon us all: 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, including: {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 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 our beloved dead from those powers. 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. Give us a foretaste of that 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, May 18, 2025: 5^th Sunday of Easter, C

 

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)

ELW/RCL: John 13:31-35 (A new commandment: love each other as I have loved you)

*******

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

Hymn of the Day: Awake, My Heart, With Gladness: LBW #129, ELW #378, LSB #467

OR Where Charity and Love Prevail (If using RCL Gospel): LBW #126, ELW #359, LSB #845

OR Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us With Your Love: WOV #765, ELW #708. LSB #980

Communion Hymn #1: In Heaven Above: LBW #330, ELW #630

OR In Christ There Is No East Or  West: LBW #359, ELW #650, LSB #653

Communion Hymn #2: Soon and Very Soon: WOV #744, ELW #439

Closing Hymn: Alabare,  (If you didn’t do it earlier) WOV #791, LSB #799/800

                OR Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee, LBW #551, ELW #836, LSB #803

OR Jesus Loves Me: ELW #595

 

*******

 

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

A brief silence

Lord Jesus, you are the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End, the Resurrection and the Life! You bestow, here and now, a vision of that new creation, in which sin and death are no more. Our words falter. We truly are “lost in wonder, love, and praise.” To you alone, blessed Jesus, be the glory!

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill your Church with the Holy Spirit. Make it constant in faith, bold in witness, joyful in worship, patient in adversity, cheerful in service, rich in compassion, and radiant with holiness. Through it, lead many, as you led Cornelius and his household, to life, salvation, and fellowship with all who love you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Embrace, equip, and encourage those who are persecuted on account of you – in Nigeria, Syria, and elsewhere.  Do not let us ignore their suffering, but rather find ways to assist and defend them.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Stir up the Spirit’s power in this congregation. Make us burn with love for you and for our neighbors. Give us that joy which the world cannot give. Help us share that joy with all who need it most.

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 all who stand in harm’s way on behalf of others. Strengthen 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, or death, and all your people may live at peace with you and with each other.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Fill this world with your goodness and righteousness, until every creature, person, nation, and tribe shouts praises to your name for the abundant life that only you can give. Teach the rulers 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. This day we plead on behalf of: {List}. Give them, and all who love them, a measure of your Kingdom’s joy and peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord Jesus, you are 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 died trusting in you. Keep us in fellowship with them, through the bond of your Spirit. By the same Spirit, raise up all whom you have redeemed. Lead us into your Father’s presence as a holy community: your family, joy, and 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.