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March 31, 2018Great Vigil of EasterColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsA minimum of three Old Testament readings should be chosen; Exodus 14 is always included.Genesis 1:1—2:4a The seven days of creation; God rests on the seventh day. Psalm 136:1–9, 23–26 Give thanks to God, creator of all, whose love endures forever.Genesis 7:1–5, 11–18; The story of the great flood and God’s covenant with Noah. 8:6–18; 9:8–13Psalm 46 Though the earth changes and the waters roar, God is our refuge.Genesis 22:1–18 Obeying God, Abraham prepares to sacrifice his son Isaac.Psalm 16 The Lord protects and instructs me; God preserves my life. Exodus 14:10–31, 15:20–21 Pursued by the Egyptians, the Israelites escape through the sea. Exodus 15:1b–13, 17–18 Moses sings praise to the Lord, who has delivered the people. Isaiah 55:1–11 Come to the waters; listen and live; God’s promise will not fail.Isaiah 12:2–6 Surely God is my salvation; with joy, draw water from the well. Proverbs 8:1–8, 19–21; Wisdom calls out: come, eat and drink; walk in the way of insight.9:4b–6Psalm 19 The heavens declare God’s glory; the law of the Lord is sweet. Ezekiel 36:24–28 God will cleanse the people, giving them a new heart and spirit. Psalms 42 and 43 Like a deer, I thirst for the living God; God is my help and hope. Ezekiel 37:1–14 In a valley of dry bones, Ezekiel has a vision of hope for Israel.Psalm 143 My soul thirsts for you, God; answer me, or I will go to the grave. Zephaniah 3:14–20 Sing and rejoice, people of God; the Lord will bring you home. Psalm 98 Let all creation make a joyful noise to the Lord, who is coming.Romans 6:3–11 Through baptism, we share in Christ’s death and resurrection. Psalm 114 The earth shakes and the sea retreats in the presence of the Lord.Mark 16:1–8 Finding Jesus’ tomb empty, the women flee in wonder and fear.See the Book of Common Worship (Westminster John Knox Press, 1993) for the Easter Vigil liturgy. Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:By your wisdom, you created the world and everything in it.By your power, you have delivered us from evil in every age.By your mercy, you have promised never to forsake us.Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Before the rising of the sun on the first day of the week,Jesus rose from the dead! With the first believers, we bear witness to this good news of great joy. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.As we have been buried with Christ by baptism into death,raise us up, by the power of your Spirit, to walk in new life. Let us be dead to sin and alive to you in Christ Jesus.Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Prayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Thank you, O God, for giving us communionwith our risen and glorious Lord. Now send us out to be a signof the new life that has come into the world;through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.April 1, 2018Resurrection of the Lord / Easter SundayColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsActs 10:34–43 Peter testifies to Jesus’ death and resurrection; Jesus is Lord of all.or Isaiah 25:6–9 A feast on the day of the Lord; God will swallow up death forever.Psalm 118:1–2, 14–24 I will not die, I will live; this is the day that the Lord has made. 1 Corinthians 15:1–11 Remember the good news of Jesus Christ, by which we are saved.or Acts 10:34–43 Peter testifies to Jesus’ death and resurrection; Jesus is Lord of all.John 20:1–18 At the empty tomb, the risen Lord appears to Mary Magdalene. or Mark 16:1–8 Finding Jesus’ tomb empty, the women flee in wonder and fear. — Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!This is the good news by which we are saved:On the third day Jesus rose from the dead.Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. You raised Jesus to new lifeyet we hold onto former things. You offer salvation to allyet we fail to share this good news. Forgive us, God of grace.By your Spirit, make us witnessesto the wonder of the empty tomband the fullness of life you promise; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: Living God, with joy we celebratethe presence of your risen Word.Enliven our hearts by your Holy Spiritso that we may proclaim the good newsof eternal and abundant life;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Ascension of the LordLife in Christ is life eternal. The resurrection of Jesus is the sign that God will consummate the work of creation and reconciliation beyond death and bring to fulfillment the new life begun in Christ. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.26Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Let us be witness to the good news of this day:That Jesus Christ is risen from the deadand that his love and life are extended to all. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Destroy the shroud of death and destructionthat is cast over the nations and peoples of earth.Spread out your feast of plenty and peace for all.By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . . Help us to proclaim your message of reconciliation:That you show no partiality, welcoming allwho trust in you and call on your name. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Let your steadfast love surround those who suffer.Uphold them with your mighty, merciful hand,and open for them the gates of healing and joy. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:Your love is everlasting; your faithfulness will never die.You have extended the promise of salvation to allthrough Christ Jesus, who is risen from the dead. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Early on the first day of the week, Jesus’ disciples went to his tomb, only to find it empty. There they discovered that he had risen indeed. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Teach us to set our minds on the things that are above,where Christ is seated at your right hand. Make us ready to meet him when he is revealed in glory.Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Thank you, O God, for giving us communionwith our risen and glorious Lord. Now send us out to be a signof the new life that has come into the world;through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23April 1, 2018Resurrection of the Lord / Easter EveningColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsIsaiah 25:6–9 A feast on the day of the Lord; God will swallow up death forever.Psalm 114 The earth shakes and the sea retreats in the presence of the Lord.1 Corinthians 5:6b–8 Christ, our paschal lamb, has been sacrificed; let us keep the feast. Luke 24:13–49 On the road to Emmaus, two disciples meet the risen Lord. — Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed! Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us; therefore let us keep the feast. Alleluia!Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. You walk with us in our sorrow,yet we fail to recognize you. You show us that Christ is risen,yet doubts persist in our hearts. Forgive us, God of grace.Open our hearts and mindsto understand and believethe good news of the resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: Living God, with joy we celebratethe presence of your risen Word.Enliven our hearts by your Holy Spiritso that we may proclaim the good newsof eternal and abundant life;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Ascension of the LordLife in Christ is life eternal. The resurrection of Jesus is the sign that God will consummate the work of creation and reconciliation beyond death and bring to fulfillment the new life begun in Christ. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.26Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Clean out the things that pollute our life together—malice and evil, bitterness and envy, sorrow and strife—so that we may celebrate the feast of life with joy. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Pour out your mercy on all people and nations. Let the whole earth tremble, dance, and singwith the good news of your liberating love. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . .Wipe away all the tears of our neighbors. Take away the sin and shame that separate us. Extend your table until all people are fed. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Walk beside those who are suffering or full of sorrow.Proclaim to them the promise of your wordand nourish them with your healing presence. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:With gladness, we rejoice in your saving power.On the mountain of your glory, you set a feast for us.You dry our tears; you swallow up death forever. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:We give you thanks that the risen Lord still meets us,opening our minds to the truth of your word,sharing his life with us in the breaking of bread.The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.As we keep the feast of the paschal lamb,nourish us with the bread of your presence,so that we may worship you in truth each day.Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Thank you, O God, for giving us communionwith our risen and glorious Lord. Now send us out to be a signof the new life that has come into the world;through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23April 8, 2018Second Sunday of EasterColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsActs 4:32–35 The disciples share everything and testify to Jesus’ resurrection. Psalm 133 How good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity. 1 John 1:1—2:2 Walk in the light of God; confess your sins and be forgiven. John 20:19–31 Jesus shares the Holy Spirit; a week later, he appears to Thomas. — Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!How very good and pleasant it is when the people of God live in unity. Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. We claim that we have no sinbut you know the truth about us. We say that we have not seen youeven when you stand among us now. Forgive us, God of grace.Breathe on us with your Spiritto set us free from doubt and sin,so that we may be at peace with you;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: Living God, with joy we celebratethe presence of your risen Word.Enliven our hearts by your Holy Spiritso that we may proclaim the good newsof eternal and abundant life;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Ascension of the LordLife in Christ is life eternal. The resurrection of Jesus is the sign that God will consummate the work of creation and reconciliation beyond death and bring to fulfillment the new life begun in Christ. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.26Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Keep us faithful in the fellowship of Jesus Christ, walking in the light of his life and love,proclaiming the good news he has revealed. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Enable the families of the earth to live together in harmony and justice, in unity and peace, so that all may know your blessing of abundant life.By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . . Let us be of one heart and one soul in you. Take all that we have and hold in commonand distribute it for the good of those in need.By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Be present to all who need to know you are near.Encourage those who struggle with doubt or despair.Breathe among us with the power of your peace. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:You established your church to testify to the power of Christ’s resurrection, a people of one heart and soul, holding everything in common,sharing their abundance with the poor. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:With Thomas we confess that Christ Jesus is our Lord and our God!He breathes on us with the gift of the Spirit and the power of forgiveness. By the gift of faith we have eternal life in his name. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Make our joy complete! Lead us to walk in the light of Christ.Continue to forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness, for you alone, O Lord, are faithful and just. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Thank you, O God, for giving us communionwith our risen and glorious Lord. Now send us out to be a signof the new life that has come into the world;through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23April 15, 2018Third Sunday of EasterColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsActs 3:12–19 Peter speaks of Jesus’ rejection and calls the people to repent. Psalm 4 Answer me when I call, O God; in you I will find joy and peace.1 John 3:1–7 See what love the Father has given us; we are children of God. Luke 24:36b–48 The risen Lord eats with the disciples and interprets the Scriptures.— Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!Beloved, we are God’s children now; when Christ is revealed, we will be like him.Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. You sent the Lord of life among usyet we gave him up to die. You raised him from the deadyet we still do not believe. Forgive us, God of grace.Help us to receive with gratitudethe great gift of love you offer,and live as your beloved children;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: Living God, with joy we celebratethe presence of your risen Word.Enliven our hearts by your Holy Spiritso that we may proclaim the good newsof eternal and abundant life;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Ascension of the LordLife in Christ is life eternal. The resurrection of Jesus is the sign that God will consummate the work of creation and reconciliation beyond death and bring to fulfillment the new life begun in Christ. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.26Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Bless and keep us, as your beloved children,so that your goodness and grace may be known in us.Strengthen us in hope and save us from our sin. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Lead the rulers and people of every nationto repent of their violence and corruptionand trust instead in your way of life and peace. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . . Transcend the walls and boundaries that divide us. Stand among us as our living Lord. Cast out our fear so that we may live in your peace.By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Be gracious to all who are in trouble or distress. Show them your goodness; put gladness in their hearts,so that they may find peace and safety in you. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:You are the God of our ancestors, of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.You spoke through your prophets of the Messiah who would come to suffer so that all might repent and be delivered from sin. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Christ is our peace. He still comes among us to eat with us, to speak with us, and to open our minds so that we may understand the Scriptures.We are witnesses: Through Christ your word is fulfilled. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Help us to show the world the great love that you have given us, that, in Jesus Christ, we should be called children of God—and that is what we are! Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Thank you, O God, for giving us communionwith our risen and glorious Lord. Now send us out to be a signof the new life that has come into the world;through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23April 22, 2018Fourth Sunday of EasterColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsActs 4:5–12 Filled with the Spirit, Peter challenges those who have arrested him.Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, leading, protecting, and feeding me. 1 John 3:16–24 Love means laying down one’s life for those who are in need. John 10:11–18 Jesus says: I am the good shepherd; I lay down my life for my sheep.— Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!Jesus said: I am the good shepherd.Christ lays down his life for the sheep.Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. We speak of your great lovebut our own hearts condemn us. We express concern for the poorbut our own actions betray us. Forgive us, God of grace.Good shepherd, restore our soulsand lead us in right pathsfor your name’s sake; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: Living God, with joy we celebratethe presence of your risen Word.Enliven our hearts by your Holy Spiritso that we may proclaim the good newsof eternal and abundant life;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Ascension of the LordNew life in Christ takes shape in a community in which people know that God loves and accepts them in spite of what they are. They therefore accept themselves and love others, knowing that no one has any ground on which to stand, except God’s grace. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.22Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Build us up in faith, hope, and loveupon the cornerstone of Jesus Christ our Savior.Let us be a living sign of your love for all the world. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Gather up the scattered peoples of the earth.Lift up the lost; deliver the weak from danger.Help our leaders shepherd the poor to safety. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . . Translate our words of love into action. Teach those among us who have plentyto care for sisters and brothers who need our help.By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Help those who suffer; restore them, body and soul. Walk beside them through every dark valley. Feed them with mercy; anoint them with healing. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:You are our shepherd, O Lord, and in you there is nothing we lack. You lead us to green pastures and still waters; you restore our souls. You prepare a table before us; our cup overflows! Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Christ Jesus is the good shepherd who lays down his life for the sheep.He gathers them from far and wide, so that there may be one flock, one fold. He knows his own, and they know him. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Teach us to love, not only in word or in speech, but in truth and action also. Show us how to love one another, and to serve our sisters and brothers,so that Christ will abide in us, and we may abide in him. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Thank you, O God, for giving us communionwith our risen and glorious Lord. Now send us out to be a signof the new life that has come into the world;through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23April 29, 2018Fifth Sunday of EasterColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsActs 8:26–40 Philip meets an Ethiopian eunuch, who asks to be baptized. Psalm 22:25–31 In the great congregation I will praise the Lord, my deliverer. 1 John 4:7–21 Let us love one another; we love because God first loved us. John 15:1–8 Jesus says: I am the vine, you are the branches; abide in me. — Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!Beloved, let us love one another. We love because God first loved us. Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. You make us branches of your vine,but we fail to abide in you. You extend your promise to all,yet we seek to cut off and exclude. Forgive us, God of grace.Sanctify us in your perfect love,the love that casts out all fear,so that we may truly love one another;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: Living God, with joy we celebratethe presence of your risen Word.Enliven our hearts by your Holy Spiritso that we may proclaim the good newsof eternal and abundant life;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Ascension of the LordNew life in Christ takes shape in a community in which people know that God loves and accepts them in spite of what they are. They therefore accept themselves and love others, knowing that no one has any ground on which to stand, except God’s grace. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.22Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Help us to abide in Christ, like branches of a vine. Fill us with your power and prune away our sin,so that we may bear good fruit, giving glory to you. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Let all the ends of the earth remember your love,lifting up the lowly, feeding those who hunger, until all peoples know your saving strength. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . . Open our doors to seekers and strangers;let all who have been cut off and cast asidebe welcomed into the covenant of your care. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Reveal your love in the lives of those who suffer.Confirm their faith and cast out their fear. Abide in them, that they may abide in you. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:All the ends of the earth turn to you and worship you, O Lord.The poor eat, and they are satisfied; those who seek you praise your name. Even those who sleep in the dust bow down before you. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Christ is the true vine, and you, O God, are the vine grower.He is the vine, and we are the branches.In Christ, we bear fruit; apart from him, we can do nothing. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Let us love one another, for love is from you, O God; you are love.Fill us with your perfect love that casts out all fear,so that we may love all people, just as you have first loved us. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Thank you, O God, for giving us communionwith our risen and glorious Lord. Now send us out to be a signof the new life that has come into the world;through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23May 6, 2018Sixth Sunday of EasterColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsActs 10:44–48 Gentiles receive the gift of the Spirit; they should be baptized too.Psalm 98 Make a joyful noise to the Lord; give thanks for God’s victory. 1 John 5:1–6 Trust in Jesus, who came by water and blood, and be born of God.John 15:9–17 Jesus says: This is my commandment, that you love one another. — Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!There is no greater love than this:to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. In Christ, you claim us as children,but we disobey your commands. In Christ, you even call us friends,but we have not been faithful to you.Forgive us, God of grace.By the power of your Spirithelp us to abide in your loveand share that love with others; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: Living God, with joy we celebratethe presence of your risen Word.Enliven our hearts by your Holy Spiritso that we may proclaim the good newsof eternal and abundant life;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Ascension of the LordNew life in Christ takes shape in a community in which people know that God loves and accepts them in spite of what they are. They therefore accept themselves and love others, knowing that no one has any ground on which to stand, except God’s grace. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.22Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Pour out the gift of your Holy Spirit upon us,so that we may speak your truth and live your loveas believers in the body of Christ our Lord. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Let the whole earth make a joyful noise to you.Let the sea laugh and the mountains singin the justice and joy of your presence. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . . Help us to love one another as Christ loves us,laying down our lives for those in need,so that all may know fullness and joy in you. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Let those who struggle with sickness and sorrowknow your victory over the powers of sin and death.Surround and sustain them with your love.By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:The sea roars, the floods clap their hands; the hills sing together for joy, for you judge the world with righteousness and the peoples with equity. All the ends of the earth have seen your victory! Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:There is no greater love than the love revealed to us in Christ Jesus, who taught us to love one another even as he has loved us,and who laid down his own life in love for the world. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Help us to keep your commandments with freedom and joy.Let your Spirit of truth testify through our livesthat Christ Jesus, your Son, has triumphed over all the world. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Thank you, O God, for giving us communionwith our risen and glorious Lord. Now send us out to be a signof the new life that has come into the world;through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23May 10, 2018Ascension of the LordColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsActs 1:1–11 Forty days after his resurrection, Jesus ascends into heaven. Psalm 47 Clap, shout, and sing with joy: the Lord reigns over all the earth.or Psalm 93 The Lord reigns in majesty, high above the mighty waters. Ephesians 1:15–23 Christ is seated at God’s right hand, above every earthly power. Luke 24:44–53 Jesus interprets the Scriptures; then he is carried up into heaven. — Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!The Lord Jesus Christ has risen to reign; his is the name above all names. Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. While Jesus was with us on earth,we dismissed him as a heavenly dreamer.Now that he reigns in heaven we forget that he is Lord of all the earth.Forgive us, God of grace.Be the sovereign of our livesand make us always readyto welcome your return in glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: God Most High, reigning in glory,send down your Spirit of wisdomto shine in your heavenly Word,so that we may worship you with joycontinually blessing your name;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Ascension of the LordNew life in Christ takes shape in a community in which people know that God loves and accepts them in spite of what they are. They therefore accept themselves and love others, knowing that no one has any ground on which to stand, except God’s grace. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.22Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Keep us ever faithful in our worship and service, bearing witness to what Christ has done among usand to the hope of his coming in glory to reign. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Let your majesty shine; let your mercy rain down.Humble the leaders of the nations;teach them to follow your ways of justice and peace.By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . . Encourage those who watch and wait for justice.Empower them with the gifts of your Spiritto live, even now, in the light of your holy realm. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Put your heavenly, healing power to workin the lives of all who are suffering or sick. Fill them with the fullness of life you alone can give.By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:You are robed in majesty and glory, girded in mercy and strength.You established the world—the heavens, the earth, the seas.From age to age you reign; from everlasting you are God. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:Jesus came to fulfill the law, the prophets, and the psalms.After he rose from the dead, he ascended to heaven to reign.With joy we worship him and bless your name. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Give us your Spirit of wisdom and enlighten the eyes of our heartsso that we may know the hope to which you have called usand proclaim the good news of Christ’s coming realm. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:God Most High, we have lifted our hearts to youin this joyful meal with our risen Lord.Continue to surround and sustain usso that we may feast with you in gloryat the wedding of heaven and earth;through Christ, who lives and reigns forever. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23May 13, 2018Seventh Sunday of EasterColors: White and GoldLectionary ReadingsActs 1:15–17, 21–26 Matthias is chosen as one of the twelve apostles, replacing Judas. Psalm 1 Happy are those who delight in the law of the Lord.1 John 5:9–13 Whoever believes in the Son of God has the gift of eternal life. John 17:6–19 Jesus prays for the protection and sanctification of his followers.— Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!The word of God is truth. Let us be sanctified in the truth. Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. You invite us to share in Christ’s ministry,but we ignore the calling of our baptism.You allow us to share in Christ’s own life,but we fail to believe this good news. Forgive us, God of grace.Protect us, for we belong to you. Sanctify us in your truth that our hope and joy may be complete;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: Living God, with joy we celebratethe presence of your risen Word.Enliven our hearts by your Holy Spiritso that we may proclaim the good newsof eternal and abundant life;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Day of PentecostGod the Holy Spirit fulfills the work of reconciliation in human life. The Holy Spirit creates and renews the church as the community in which people are reconciled to God and to one another. The Spirit enables people to receive forgiveness as they forgive one another and to enjoy the peace of God as they make peace among themselves. In spite of their sin, the Spirit gives people power to become representatives of Jesus Christ and his gospel of reconciliation to all. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.20Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Sanctify us in the truth of your wordso that we may go forth and live in the world as a joyful sign of your salvation. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Anoint leaders with a heart for service.Strengthen them to pursue justice and peaceand seek the welfare of all people. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . . Let us be like trees, planted by the water,delighting in your way of righteousness, bearing fruit for the good of all. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Speak your word of healing and hope to those who are struggling or suffering this day. Strengthen them by your gift of abundant life. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:You watch over the faithful, O Lord: those who keep your word. They are like trees planted by streams of water;they yield fruit in due season, and prosper in all things. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:You sent Jesus Christ into the world to save us, to sanctify us in the truth. Still, Christ prays for us, to guard and protect us from evil.We belong to Christ, and in Christ we belong to you. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.Keep us faithful in all that we say and do.Fill our hearts with your truth, so that we may testify to the good news: that you have given us the gift of eternal life. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Thank you, O God, for giving us communionwith our risen and glorious Lord. Now send us out to be a signof the new life that has come into the world;through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23May 20, 2018Day of PentecostColor: RedLectionary ReadingsIf Ezekiel 37 is chosen as the First Reading, Acts 2 should be used as the Second Reading.Acts 2:1–21 On the day of Pentecost, God pours out the Spirit upon the earth.or Ezekiel 37:1–14 In a valley of dry bones, Ezekiel has a vision of hope for Israel. Psalm 104:24–34, 35b The Lord of creation sends forth the Spirit to renew the earth. Romans 8:22–27 Creation groans in labor pains; the Spirit intercedes for us. or Acts 2:1–21 On the day of Pentecost, God pours out the Spirit upon the earth.John 15:26–27; 16:4b–15 Jesus promises: I will send you an Advocate, the Spirit of truth. — Gathering —Opening SentencesThe Lord is risen! Alleluia!Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!The Spirit helps us in our weakness, interceding with sighs too deep for words.Let us worship God. Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongThanksgiving for BaptismAt the baptismal font:The Lord be with you. And also with you. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.It is right to give our thanks and praise.O Lord our God, we give you thanksfor the new life you raise up in usthrough the mystery of our baptism—the sorrow of the heavy cross,the surprise of the empty tomb,the love that death could not destroy.By the power of your Holy Spirit,poured out upon us in baptism,fill us with the joy of resurrection,so that we may be a living signof your new heaven and new earth;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.Confession and PardonAt the baptismal font:The Spirit of God helps us in our weakness,interceding with sighs too deep for words. Romans 8:26 Trusting in God’s grace, let us confess our sin. God of all hope and joy, we confessthat we continue to live in fear. You send your Word to enliven us, yet we remain dry bones. You send your Spirit to empower us,yet we fail to dream new dreams.Forgive us, God of grace.Lead us according to your way,guide us into your truth,and deliver us from death to life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Lifting water from the baptismal font:Hear the good news of God’s promise: I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh. Everyone who calls on the name of the Lordwill be saved. Acts 2:17, 21In the name of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven!Thanks be to God. — Word —Prayer for IlluminationAt the lectern or pulpit: God of power and grace,fill us with the wisdom of your Wordand the understanding of your Spiritso that we may be your church:a people with dreams and visionsat work in all the world;through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.ScriptureBefore the readings: O dry bones,hear the world of the Lord.Ezekiel 37:4 After the readings: This is the good news which we have received,in which we stand,and by which we are saved.Thanks be to God. 1 Corinthians 15:1–2 SermonAscription of Praise After the sermon: All authority and power and dominionto the name that is above all names—Jesus Christ our Lord—now and in the age to come. Amen. Ephesians 1:21 Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongAffirmation of FaithSeason of Easter, Day of PentecostGod the Holy Spirit fulfills the work of reconciliation in human life. The Holy Spirit creates and renews the church as the community in which people are reconciled to God and to one another. The Spirit enables people to receive forgiveness as they forgive one another and to enjoy the peace of God as they make peace among themselves. In spite of their sin, the Spirit gives people power to become representatives of Jesus Christ and his gospel of reconciliation to all. Adapted from the Confession of 1967, 9.20Prayers of the PeopleIn the blessed hope of the resurrection, we pray to the Lord of endless life, saying:By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the church . . . Pour out your Spirit’s power anew on us today, so that we may dream dreams and see visionsof your coming realm of goodness and glory. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for the world . . .Send forth your Spirit to renew the face of the earth,feeding the hungry, healing this hurting planet, and uniting all creatures in a song of praise to you. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for this community . . . Breathe new life into dry and dusty places.Empower us with hope, deep in our bones, so that we may arise and dance with joy. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Life-giving God, we pray for loved ones . . . Intercede in the lives of those who are sick or weak,groaning for redemption, longing for peace. Give them healing, help, and the hope of salvation. By your grace, O God, raise us from death to life.Eternal God, show forth in us and in our worldthe good news of your saving power and love,so that all may believe and have life in you; through Jesus Christ, who is risen indeed. Amen.— Eucharist —Invitation to OfferingAt the communion table: How does God’s love abide in anyonewho has the world’s goodsyet refuses to help a sister or brother in need? Remembering God’s great love for the world,let us offer our lives to the Lord. 1 John 3:16–17 Prayer of DedicationAt the communion table: Eternal God, take and use these giftsfor your purpose in the world—giving food to the hungry,hope to the despairing, and new life to the dead. Teach us to live each day for you,so that future generations will know your goodnessand praise your glory;in the name of Christ our Lord. Amen. Psalm 22:25–31 Great ThanksgivingThe 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 our thanks and praise.Blessed are you, O Lord our God:In every age, you have anointed leaders with your Spirit.Now all of your people—men and women, young and old—are empowered to speak your truth and show your glory. Therefore we praise you, joining the songof the universal church and the heavenly choir: A Sanctus (“Holy, holy, holy”) is sung. Blessed is Jesus Christ, our Savior:You sent Jesus to show us the way of truth and life.Now we listen for his word through the voice of your Spirit,watching for the day when he will return in glory to reign. The words of institution are included here.Remembering your goodness and grace,we offer ourselves to you with gratitudeas we share this joyful feast. A Memorial Acclamation (e.g., “Christ has died”) is sung.Pour out your Holy Spirit upon usand upon this bread and cup;make us one in the body and bloodof Jesus Christ our Lord.By your Holy Spirit, help us in our weakness.Encourage and empower us to live according to your will, until at last you come to redeem the whole creation. Through the Lord Jesus Christ,in the unity of the Spirit, we bless you, God of glory,now and forever. An Amen is sung. Lord’s PrayerBreaking the BreadCommunion of the PeopleHymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongPrayer after CommunionAt the communion table:Holy God, by the gift of your Spirityou have nourished and filled us. Now send us out to share the vision of new creation you have begun; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.— Sending —Hymn, Psalm, or Spiritual SongBlessing and ChargeAt the doors of the church:May the love of the holy triune God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—abide with you forever. Alleluia!1 John 4:13–16 Now go forth in Jesus’ name,remembering his new commandmentto love one another, just as he has loved us. Amen.1 John 3:23 ................
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