Click to access the 2018 Newsletter for Lent.

THE PRAYERS

Good Friday, Cycle B (March 30, 2018)

Let us pray.

A brief silence

Holy Father, forgive, heal, strengthen, and guide your Church. Grant that it preaches, always and only, Christ crucified and raised from the dead, for the forgiveness of sins unto everlasting life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive those who distort and dilute your holy Word of Law and Gospel. Fill them with a renewed love for you and for your Son who is the Way, Truth, and Life of the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive those who deny the reality of sin, or who focus only on selected sins of others. Lift their eyes to the One who was bruised for their iniquities.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive those who despise you and sneer at all who love you. Lead them to the foot of the Cross of Christ, that they may learn the joys of repentance and humble faith.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive this congregation when we prefer anything whatsoever to your dear Son. Kindle our hearts with his holy love, so that when our neighbors see us, they more clearly see him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive our local, regional and national church bodies when anything overshadows the proclamation of the Gospel. Keep their hearts firmly fixed on Jesus, their Master and their Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive our earthly leaders – in politics and law, education and business, medicine and entertainment – when they seek their own ends, not your will. Give them teachable spirits, humble hearts, wise minds, and just and merciful actions.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive our military, police, and all others who risk their lives on our behalf, when they overstep the limits of justice. Guide them in right pathways, and bring clarity and integrity to all they do.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive and heal those who are sick, injured, angry, defiant, proud, despairing, frightened, or grieving. Give them faith to look upon the One who bore their sickness and grief, and who carried their wounds and their sorrow, and upon whom was the chastisement that makes them whole.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Forgive us when we grieve as those without hope; when we think without wisdom, speak without mercy, and act without charity. Set before us the Cross of Christ, and so lead us through the temptations and sorrows of this life. By the merits of your beloved Son, cleanse, heal, restore, and raise us from the realm of sin and death, into the glorious light and endless joy of the Kingdom he has won for all whom he is pleased to redeem.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Hear and graciously answer our prayers as you deem best for us, dear Father, for the sake of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, God forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

Maundy Thursday, Cycle B (March 29, 2018) 

Let us pray for the Church, the world, and all its people.

A brief silence

Father, we pray for the Church. Fill it with your Spirit, so that it might more perfectly love you and the people your Son came to redeem.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our persecuted sisters and brothers throughout the world. Fill them with your Spirit, so that they might more perfectly bear witness to the holiness and love of Jesus.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our sister congregations, companion dioceses, and for all missionaries of the Gospel. Fill them with your Spirit, so that they might more perfectly proclaim Christ, and him crucified.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our congregation, its people and its ministries. Fill us with your Spirit, so that we might more perfectly reflect the servant-love of Jesus to one another, and to our neighbors.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who will be baptized into the death and resurrection of Christ during these holy days. Fill them with your Spirit, so that they may more perfectly follow in his footsteps.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our elected and appointed; and for all who take counsel for the nations. Fill them with your Spirit, so that they more perfectly accomplish your will for the health and wholeness of the people entrusted to their care.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for our military, for all first responders, and for all who risk their lives for the sake of others. Fill them with your Spirit, so that they might more perfectly accomplish what you purpose.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for everyone who is sick, grieving, estranged, ashamed, addicted, abused, confused, or despairing. Fill them with your Spirit, so that they might more perfectly cling to Christ, their life and their salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Heavenly Father, we share a foretaste of the heavenly feast that you have set before all whom you have redeemed by the passion, death, and resurrection of your well-beloved Son. Fill us with your Spirit, so that we might more perfectly take up our Cross, follow Jesus wherever he leads, and encourage one another along life’s way. Bring us, through the merits of Christ, into your heavenly Kingdom, where with him and the Holy Spirit, you reign in the joyous glory of heaven’s endless day.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS

Palm Sunday/Sunday of the Passion, Cycle B (March 25, 2018)

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy God, your Son was acclaimed Son of David and Son of God by the pilgrims in Jerusalem. Fill your pilgrim Church with faithfulness, boldness, and compassion; so that, through its witness, many may join it in singing, “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest!”

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son was met by people crying “Hosanna,” – Lord, save! Grant his salvation to the Church wherever it is persecuted for his sake. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son accepted the praises of the crowds who worshipped in Jerusalem. Fill this congregation with such love and zeal that we may eagerly worship and praise our Savior, humbly do your will, and lovingly serve our neighbor in His name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son was greeted with sweet Hosannas by infants and children.  We pray for our little ones, and for children throughout the world, that their mouths might be made perfect in praising your name.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son entered Jerusalem as the Prince of Peace. Fill the leaders of the nations with a hunger for peace, a thirst for justice, and a love for the people entrusted to their care. Teach us all to do your will and to long for the day when Christ shall return in glory as King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son entered Jerusalem on a donkey, not a war horse.  Fill all places of warfare and violence with his peace; and protect and bless those who must stand in harm’s way. Bring them home in safety to their loved ones.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son was greeted with joy as he entered the Holy City. Fill with joy the hearts of all who suffer in mind, body, or spirit, especially: {List}.  Turn their sorrow into joy; their suffering into health; and their cries for help into shouts of praise.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most gracious heavenly Father, your Son opens the gates of the New Jerusalem for all who die trusting in him. We thank you for receiving them into that glorious city. Bring peace and hope to all who grieve; and fill us with imperishable hope, so that we gladly follow where our Savior leads us – until he leads us safely home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS,  5th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 18, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Put a new and right heart within your Church, O Lord, so that it may always cling in perfect faith to Jesus, and may always do your will. Cleanse it from wrongful teaching and shameful deeds; and by the power of your Holy Spirit, make it shine with your Son’s forgiveness, compassion and mercy.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and faithful heart in your people when they are persecuted for Jesus’ sake. Give them the joy of knowing that they indeed drink with Jesus from his cup. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and joyful heart within this congregation. By the power of your Holy Spirit, unite us to Jesus’ death and rising; cause us to bear much fruit in his name; and use us to draw others to his cross.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and patient heart within all who care for family members with special needs. Give them compassion, strength, and the joy of knowing that what they do for their loved one, they do for you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and wise heart within the rulers of the nations, so that they may always do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly before you. Give to all of us a desire to help our neighbors, especially those who are struggling in these difficult times; and teach us to live together in peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and steadfast heart into all who serve our country, here and abroad. Give them courage, wisdom, and competence in all they do; strengthen and shield their loved ones; and bring them home in safety when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Put a new and trustful heart into all who cry to you for help; especially: {List}. Give them the joy of your saving help; and give to all who care for them the comfort and guidance of your Holy Spirit.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Dear Father, your Son was buried in the ground like a grain of wheat; rose to triumphant and eternal life; and promised that his life would bear much fruit in all who trust in him. We commend into your care all his servants who have departed this life.  Put a new and faith-filled heart into each of us, so that with all who have been buried with Christ, we might likewise be raised with him, and share the joy of your kingdom with all your saints in light.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS,  4th Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 11, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

We thank you, dear Father, for giving us your Son. Grant that through the Church’s faithful witness to Him, many people may know of your great love for them; believe in you; and receive everlasting life.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give hope and healing when your Church experiences persecution. Lift it up as a sign of your saving love in a sin-darkened world. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We ask for your blessing upon the people of this congregation. Center our hearts in your love, shown for us in Christ Jesus, and help us to share that love with others.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray this day for those who are single by choice or by circumstance. Be their dear Friend and wise counselor. Help them to be good and true friends to others; and to find deep joy in serving you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Save your world through the sacrifice of your Son.  Teach the leaders of the nations the ways of wisdom, integrity, and humility. Keep them from being seduced by power and praise. Fill them with a hunger for justice; a love of mercy; and a desire to work for peace among all people.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray to you on behalf of our military personnel, and all who shield others from harm. Through their labors, bring safety and justice in dangerous places. Protect and defend them when they are in peril; heal them when they fall; and reunite them with their loved ones when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

As the Israelites looked upon the bronze serpent and were healed, grant that all who suffer may look upon the Cross of Christ and find healing, comfort, forgiveness, hope and life. Especially we pray for {List}. Restore them to our fellowship; and bestow upon us all the joy of your salvation.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We praise you, heavenly Father, for receiving into eternal life those who believed on Jesus Christ in their mortal life. Keep also our minds and hearts firmly fixed on Jesus, so that we may journey safely through the wilderness of this world into the blessedness and joy of your Promised Land.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 

3rd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (March 4, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy God, cleanse and purify your Church. Make it into a house of prayer for all people. Give it pastors, bishops, and leaders who preach, preside, and teach faithfully, and whose lives adorn the Gospel with holiness. Use it to draw all people to yourself.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Bless your suffering Church, that it may never be overcome by bitterness or despair, but may be a beacon of your saving love in a sin-darkened world. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Give to the members of this congregation such zeal for your house, so that we may worship you joyfully; care for one another tenderly; and proclaim your Word boldly.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

We pray for fathers and mothers; foster parents; and everyone entrusted with the care and nurture of your little ones. Give them the grace and faith to they may teach their children your commandments and to bring them to your House, there to receive your gracious Word and Sacraments.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Guide the rulers of the nations to seek your will, and give them the strength to do it. Teach us all to live by your commandments; give wisdom and prudence to our elected leaders; and grant us your peace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Grant integrity, courage and wisdom to first responders and those in our military. Shield them when they are wounded; give hope and patience to their families; and bring them swiftly home when their work is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

You are the strength of all who suffer and the joy of all who are sorrowful. Be present with your merciful care to all whose need is great, especially: {List}. Give to them, and to all who love them, grace to trust in Christ Jesus; for he alone is your life, forgiveness, power and wisdom incarnate.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Gracious heavenly Father, we entrust into your merciful care all our departed loved ones. Comfort all who grieve. Keep our feet in the path of your commandments; our hearts firmly fixed on your forgiving love; and our eyes forever focused on the Cross of Christ Jesus, until you bring us safely into your welcoming embrace and eternal home.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.  

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS, 2^nd Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 25, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Holy Father, you inspired Peter to confess Jesus as your Son, and as Messiah and Lord. Inspire your Church to boldly and faithfully acclaim Jesus to the world as your only Son, and as its only Savior.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Your Son did not shrink from suffering and death. Grant grace to all who are persecuted for Jesus’ sake, so that they glory in his Cross, and rejoice in his resurrection. We pray also for our companion synods and for your missionaries throughout the world.

ear our prayer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Through your covenant with Abraham and Sarah, you blessed all nations. Grant to all people the blessings of peace, freedom, and righteousness, which apart from you cannot flourish. Direct and guide our nation, that our words and deeds may please and glorify you, the Lord of the whole earth.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we thank you for fulfilling your covenantal promises to those who have died and are at rest in you, especially: {List}. Wipe away the tears of those whose grief runs deep. Keep us calm and fearless, ever trusting your love which shines from Jesus’ Cross and lights our path throughout our earthly pilgrimage. Bring us, and those of every nation whom you have redeemed, to the final fulfillment of your blessing, won for us by Abraham’s glorious offspring, your Son, Christ Jesus our Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

1^st Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 18, 2018) 

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Lord God, purify your holy Church. When it is tempted by the allure of power, success, or convenience, turn its eyes to the Cross of your dear Son.  By the power of your Spirit, keep it faithful in its proclamation of repentance, forgiveness, and the close approach of your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify your persecuted people; and shield them from the temptation to forsake your Word when they are threatened by the powers arrayed against them. Keep them steadfast in their faith. We pray also on behalf of our sister congregations companion dioceses, and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and guide the people of this congregation. When we are tempted to focus on peripheral matters, turn our eyes to Christ, the center of our existence. Give us grace to prefer nothing whatsoever to him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and defend our youth in middle and high school. Strengthen them to resist the allure of popularity; dangerous pleasures; and anything that would draw them away from loving and trusting you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify this sin-shadowed world. Grant that we may not be seduced by promises of peace and plenty that do not proceed from your holy will. Teach the leaders of the nations that, while people surely need food and justice, their lives are in your hands; and you alone are their sovereign Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify all first responders and military personnel.  Turn their eyes to you, the King of all nations. Keep them faithful and honorable in their service; and bring them home safely when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and heal the minds, hearts and bodies of all who suffer and cry to you for help —especially: {List}. When they are tempted to despair, turn their eyes to the Cross, on which was hung the life and salvation of the whole world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we commend into your keeping the lives of all who died trusting in your mercy. When we are tempted by doubt, confusion, or the cares and pleasures of this world, turn our eyes to our Lord Jesus, our hope and heart’s desire. Fill us with your Spirit, and keep us safely on the path that leads to your eternal home and welcoming embrace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

THE PRAYERS (with Lessons and Hymns following), 

1^st Sunday in Lent, Cycle B (February 18, 2018)

THE PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH

Let us humbly beseech God for his mercy upon the Church, the world, and one another.

A brief silence

Lord God, purify your holy Church. When it is tempted by the allure of power, success, or convenience, turn its eyes to the Cross of your dear Son.  By the power of your Spirit, keep it faithful in its proclamation of repentance, forgiveness, and the close approach of your Kingdom.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify your persecuted people; and shield them from the temptation to forsake your Word when they are threatened by the powers arrayed against them. Keep them steadfast in their faith. We pray also on behalf of our sister congregations companion dioceses, and for your missionaries throughout the world.

Lord, in your mercy, Hear our prayer.

Purify and guide the people of this congregation. When we are tempted to focus on peripheral matters, turn our eyes to Christ, the center of our existence. Give us grace to prefer nothing whatsoever to him.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and defend our youth in middle and high school. Strengthen them to resist the allure of popularity; dangerous pleasures; and anything that would draw them away from loving and trusting you.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify this sin-shadowed world. Grant that we may not be seduced by promises of peace and plenty that do not proceed from your holy will. Teach the leaders of the nations that, while people surely need food and justice, their lives are in your hands; and you alone are their sovereign Lord.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify all first responders and military personnel.  Turn their eyes to you, the King of all nations. Keep them faithful and honorable in their service; and bring them home safely when their task is done.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Purify and heal the minds, hearts and bodies of all who suffer and cry to you for help —especially: {List}. When they are tempted to despair, turn their eyes to the Cross, on which was hung the life and salvation of the whole world.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

Most holy Father, we commend into your keeping the lives of all who died trusting in your mercy. When we are tempted by doubt, confusion, or the cares and pleasures of this world, turn our eyes to our Lord Jesus, our hope and heart’s desire. Fill us with your Spirit, and keep us safely on the path that leads to your eternal home and welcoming embrace.

Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.

For these things, and for whatever else is needful, dear Father, we pray in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit reigns, one God, now and forever. Amen.

February 18, 2018, 1^st Sunday in Lent

Genesis 22:1-18 (The near-sacrifice of Isaac)

ELW: Genesis 9:8-17 (God’s rainbow covenant with Noah)

Psalm 25:1-10 (Be mindful of your mercy; do not remember the sins of my youth)

James 1:12-18 (God doesn’t tempt us to do evil; all good gifts come down from Father of lights)

            ELW: 1 Peter 3:18-22 (Christ suffered for all; the Flood prefiguring baptism)

Mark 1:9-15 (Temptation in the wilderness)

Opening hymn: LSB #99, O Lord, Throughout These Forty Days

(LSB #418, ELW #319)

OR ELW #320, The Glory of These Forty Days

OR ELW #334, Tree of Life and Awesome Mystery, v.1-3; verse for Lent 1; end with “General” verse

Hymn of the Day: LBW #88, Oh Love, How Deep, How Broad, How High

(LSB #544, ELW #322)

Communion Hymn #1: WOV #660, I Want Jesus to Walk With Me (ELW #325)

Communion Hymn #2: LBW #541, Jesus, Still Lead On (ELW #624)

(LSB #718, Jesus, Lead Thou On)

Closing Hymn: LBW #228/9, A Mighty Fortress (LSB #656/7; ELW #503-505)

Or LSB #547, The Lamb, the Lamb

OR WOV #771, Great is Thy Faithfulness (LSB #809, ELW #733)