Worship Leader's Guidebook

Index

2009-06-21T09:14:00.000-07:00

Click the links to access resources for a particular element of worship.

Call to Worship

Opening Prayers/Prayers of Adoration

Prayers of Confession

Assurance of God's Grace/Assurance of Pardon

Prayers for Illumination

Offertory Sentences

Prayers of Dedication, following the offering

Prayers of the People

Holy Communion Service For Children

Prayers of the People

2009-06-09T09:06:00.000-07:00

The Prayers of the People provide an opportunity for us to pray for specific needs in our congregation. It is appropriate to construct this prayer in your own words. The following are suggestions.

O God, you are the author of peace and lover of concord,

in knowledge of whom stands our eternal life,

and whose service is perfect freedom;

Defend us in all assaults of our enemies;

that we, surely trusting in your Spirit,

may not fear the power of any adversaries,

O Lord our Governor, whose glory is in all the world;

We commend this nation to your merciful care,

that being guided by thy Providence,

we may dwell secure in your peace.

Grant to the President of the United States,

and to all in authority,

wisdom and strength to know and to do your will.

Fill them with the love of truth and righteousness;

and make them ever mindful of their calling to serve this people;

O God, the Creator and Preserver of all humanity,

we humbly pray for all sorts and conditions of men and women,

that you would make your ways known to them.

More especially we pray for your holy Church universal;

that it may be so guided and governed by your good Spirit,

that all who profess and call themselves Christians may be led into the way of truth,

and hold the faith in unity of spirit, in the bond of peace, and in righteousness of life.

Finally, we commend to your fatherly goodness all those who are in any way afflicted or distressed in mind, body or spirit

It is appropriate to name specific people at this point

We give you thanks for hearing our common concerns,

In the name of Christ we pray. Amen

Almighty God,
in Jesus Christ you taught us to pray
and to offer our petitions to you in his name.
Guide us by your Holy Spirit,
that our prayers for others may serve your will
and show your steadfast love;

Hear us as we pray for the world.

You made all things in your wisdom,

and in your love you save us.

We pray for the whole creation.

Overthrow evil powers, right what is wrong,

feed and satisfy those who thirst for justice,

so that all your children may freely enjoy the earth you have made,

and joyfully sing your praises.

Hear us as we pray for the church.

You have called us to be the church of Jesus Christ.

Keep us one in faith and service,

breaking bread together,

and proclaiming the good news to the world,

that all may believe you are love,

turn to your ways,

and live in the light of your truth.

Hear us as we pray for peace.

You sent us a Savior, Christ Jesus,

to break down the walls of hostility that divide us.

Send peace on earth,

and put down greed, pride, and anger,

which turn nation against nation and race against race.

Speed the day when wars will end

and the whole world accepts your rule;

Hear us as we pray for enemies.

We cannot love you unless we also love our neighbors,

Remove hate and prejudice from us and from all people,

so that your children may be reconciled

with those we fear, resent, or threaten;

and live together in your peace;

through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Hear us as we pray for those who govern us.

You are sovereign over the nations,

direct those who make, administer, and judge our laws;

the President of the United States

and others in authority among us,

that they may be guided by your wisdom,

and lead us in the way of righteousness.

Hear us as we pray for world leaders.

Eternal Ruler, hope of all the earth,

give vision to those who serve the United Nations,

and to those who govern all countries;

that, with goodwill and justice,

they may take down barriers,

and draw together one new world in peace.

Hear us as we pray for the sick.

Merciful God,

you bear the pain of the world.

Look with compassion on those who are sick

(especially on N., N.);

cheer them by your word,

and bring healing as a sign of your grace;

through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Hear us as we pray for those who sorrow.

God of comfort,

stand with those who sorrow (especially N., N.);

that they may be sure that neither death nor life,

nor things present nor things to come,

shall separate them from your love.

Hear us as we pray for friends and families.

Bless us and those we love,

our friends and families;

that, drawing close to you,

we may be drawn closer to each other.

Mighty God,

whose Word we trust,

whose Spirit enables us to pray:

Accept our requests

and further those which will bring about your purpose for the earth;

through Jesus Christ, who rules over all things. Amen.

Gracious God,

because we are not strong enough

to pray as we should,

you provide Christ Jesus and the Holy Spirit

to intercede for us in power.

In this confidence we ask you

to accept our prayers.

God of mercy,

hear our prayer.

We pray for the church, that we may proclaim your salvation to all.

Strengthen those whom you choose today,

that they may faithfully endure all trials

by which you conform your church to the cross of Christ.

We pray for creation.

You are the Creator of all,

and you entrusted the earth to the human race.

Yet we disrupt its peace with violence

and corrupt its purity with our greed.

Prevent your people from ravaging creation,

that coming generations

may inherit lands brimming with life.

We pray for the world.

You both the great history of nations

and the humble life of villages in your care.

Preserve the people of every nation from tyrants,

heal them of disease,

and protect them in time of upheaval and disaster,

that all may enter the kingdom that cannot be shaken.

We pray for peace.

You created humanity for salvation,

not destruction,

and sent your Son to guide us

into the way of peace.

Enable people of every race and nation

to accept each other as sisters and brothers,

your children, on whom you lavish honor and favor.

We pray for those who govern us.

We pray for all in authority over us:

for our President, N., for Congress,

for our Governor, N., and our state legislature, (and N., N.).

Deliver them from vain ambitions

that they may govern in wisdom and justice.

We pray for this community.

Deliver your people from jealousy and contempt

that they may show mercy to all their neighbors.

We pray for all families

and those who live alone.

Lead children to honor parents

by compassion and forgiveness.

May all people discover your parental care

by the respect and love given them by others.

We pray for all who suffer any sorrow or trial.

Compassionate God,

your Son gives rest to those weary with heavy burdens.

Heal the sick in body, mind, and spirit.

Lift up the depressed.

Befriend those who grieve.

Comfort the anxious.

Stand with all victims of abuse and other crime.

Awaken those who damage themselves and others

through the use of any drug.

Fill all people with your Holy Spirit

that they may bear each other's burdens

and so fulfill the law of Christ.

We trust that you will answer our prayers with grace,

and fulfill your promise

that all things work together for good

for those who love you;

through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

As God's people, called to love one another,

let us pray for the needs of the church,

the whole human family,

and all the world, saying: Hear our prayer.

That churches of all traditions,

may discover their unity in Christ

and exercise their gifts in service of all,

we pray to you, O God.

That the earth may be freed

from war, famine, and disease,

and the air, soil, and waters cleansed of poison,

we pray to you, O God.

That those who govern and maintain peace in every land

may exercise their powers in obedience to your commands,

we pray to you, O God.

That you will strengthen this nation to pursue just priorities

so that the races may be reconciled;

the young, educated; and the old, cared for;

the hungry, filled; and the homeless, housed;

and the sick, comforted and healed,

we pray to you, O God.

That you will preserve all who live and work

in this city (town, village, community)

in peace and safety,

we pray to you, O God.

That you will comfort and empower

those who face any difficulty or trial:

the sick (especially N., N.),

the disabled, the poor, the oppressed,

those who grieve and those in prison,

we pray to you, O God.

That (insert specific prayer concerns of the congregation) ,

we pray to you, O God:

That you will accept our thanksgiving

for all faithful servants of Christ now at rest,

who, with us, await a new heaven and a new earth,

your everlasting kingdom,

we pray to you, O God.

Merciful God,

as a potter fashions a vessel from humble clay,

you form us into a new creation.

Shape us, day by day,

through the cross of Christ your Son,

until we pray as continually as we breathe

and all our acts are prayer;

through Jesus Christ

and in the mystery of the Holy Spirit, we pray. Amen.

God of heaven and earth,

through Jesus Christ you promise to hear us

when we pray to you in his name.

Confident in your love and mercy

we offer our prayer.

Empower the church throughout the world in its life and witness.

Break down the barriers that divide,

that, united in your truth and love,

the church may confess your name,

share one baptism,

sit together at one table,

and serve you in one common ministry.

Guide the rulers of the nations.

Move them to set aside their fear, greed, and vain ambition,

and bow to your sovereign rule.

Inspire them to strive for peace and justice,

that all your children may dwell secure,

free of war and injustice.

Hear the cries of the world's hungry and suffering.

Give us, who consume most of the earth's resources,

the will to reorder our lives,

that all may have their rightful share of the food,

medical care, and shelter,

and so have the necessities of a life of dignity.

Restore among us a love of the earth you created for our home.

Help us put an end to ravishing its land, air, and waters,

and give us respect for all your creatures,

that, living in harmony with everything you have made,

your whole creation may resound in an anthem of praise

to your glorious name.

Renew our nation in the ways of justice and peace.

Guide those who make and administer our laws

to build a society based on trust and respect.

Erase prejudices that oppress;

free us from crime and violence;

guard our youth from the perils of drugs and materialism.

Give all citizens a new vision of a life of harmony.

Strengthen this congregation in its work and worship.

Fill our hearts with your self-giving love,

that our voices may speak your praise,

and our lives may conform to the image of your Son.

Nourish us with your Word and sacraments

that we may faithfully minister in your name,

and witness to your love and grace for all the world.

Look with compassion on all who suffer.

Support with your love

those with incurable and stigmatized diseases,

those unjustly imprisoned,

those denied dignity,

those who live without hope,

those who are homeless or abandoned.

As you have moved toward us in love,

so lead us to be present with them in their suffering

in the name of Jesus Christ.

Sustain those among us who need your healing touch.

Make the sick whole [especially N., N.].

Give hope to the dying [especially N., N.].

Comfort those who mourn [especially N., N.].

Uphold all who suffer in body or mind,

not only those we know and love

but also those known only to you,

that they may know the peace and joy of your supporting care.

Other petitions may be added in the same manner.

O God,

in your loving purpose

answer our prayers and fulfill our hopes.

In all things for which we pray,

give us the will to seek to bring them about,

for the sake of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Hear our prayer as we lift up your holy church, Dear Lord,

that it may be filled with truth and love,

and be found without fault at the day of your coming.

We lift up all leaders of the church,

for our pastors and elders,

and for all the holy people of God.

We pray that within our church and all congregations

that your name would be glorified and that our divisions would end.

We pray for the global mission of the church,

that in faithful witness

it may preach the gospel to the ends of the earth.

We pray for those who do not yet believe,

and those who have lost their faith,

that they may receive the light of the gospel.

We pray for the peace of the world,

that a spirit of respect and forbearance

may grow among nations and peoples.

We pray for those in positions of public trust (especially N., N.),

that they may serve justice,

and promote the dignity and freedom of every person.

We lift up all who live and work in this community.

We pray to you, for a blessing upon all human labor,

and for the right use of the riches of creation,

that the world may be freed from poverty, famine, and disaster.

We lift up the the poor, the persecuted, and all who suffer;

for refugees, prisoners, and all who are in danger;

that they may be relieved and protected.

We remember in prayer the members of this congregation,

that we may be delivered from hardness of heart,

and show forth your glory in all that we do.

Your son taught us to pray for our enemies and those who wish us harm;

and for all whom we have injured or offended,

and so we lift them up into your loving care.

And we also pray for those we love.

For our families, friends, and neighbors;

that, being freed from anxiety,

they may live in joy, peace, and health,

we pray to you, O Lord.

Yours is the majesty, O God, holy and eternal;

yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory,

now and forever. Amen.

Almighty God,

you have promised to hear

when we pray in the name of your Son.

Therefore in confidence and trust

we pray for the church.

Particular intercessions/thanksgivings may be offered.

O God, enliven the church for its mission

that we may be salt of the earth and light to the world.

Breathe fresh life into your people.

Give us power to reveal Christ in word and action.

We pray for the world.

Particular intercessions/thanksgivings may be offered.

Creator of all,

lead us and every people into ways of justice and peace,

that we may respect one another in freedom and truth.

Awaken in us a sense of wonder for the earth

and all that is in it.

Teach us to care creatively for its resources.

We pray for the community.

Particular intercessions/thanksgivings may be offered.

God of truth,

inspire with your wisdom

those whose decisions affect the lives of others,

that all may act with integrity and courage.

Give grace to all whose lives are linked with ours.

May we serve Christ in one another,

and love as he loves us.

We pray for those in need.

Particular intercessions/thanksgivings may be offered.

God of hope,

comfort and restore all who suffer in body, mind, or spirit.

May they know the power of your healing love.

Make us willing agents of your compassion.

Strengthen us as we share in making people whole.

We remember those who have died and those who mourn.

Particular intercessions/thanksgivings may be offered.

We remember with thanksgiving

those who have died in the faith of Christ,

and those whose faith is known to you alone.

Loving God, into your hands we commend them.

Give comfort to those who mourn.

Fill the emptiness of their loss with your never-ending peace.

We praise you for (N., N., and) all your saints

who have entered your eternal glory.

May their example inspire and encourage us.

We pray for ourselves and our ministries.

Particular intercessions/thanksgivings may be offered.

Lord, you have called us to serve you.

Grant that we may minister in your name,

with your love in our hearts,

your truth in our minds,

your strength in our wills;

until, at the end of our journey,

we know the joy of our homecoming

and the welcome of your embrace;

through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Almighty God,

who taught us to pray not only for ourselves

but for people everywhere,

hear us as we pray for others,

in the name of Jesus Christ.

Inspire the whole church with your power, unity, and peace.

Grant that all who trust you may obey your Word,

and live together in love.

Lead all nations in the way of justice and goodwill.

Direct those who govern,

that they may rule fairly, maintain order,

uphold those in need, and defend oppressed people;

that this world may claim your rule and know true peace.

Awaken all people to the danger we have inflicted upon the earth.

Implant in each a reverence for all you have made

that we may preserve the delicate balance

of creation for all coming generations.

Give grace to all who proclaim the gospel

through Word and Sacrament and deeds of mercy,

that by their teaching and example

they may reveal your love for all people.

Comfort and relieve, O Lord,

all who are in trouble . . .

sorrow . . . poverty . . . sickness . . . grief . . .

especially those known to us,

whom we name before you in silence. . . .

a brief moment of silence may be observed…

Heal them in body, mind, or circumstance,

working in them, by your grace,

wonders beyond all they may dream or hope.

Bring to our remembrance

all those who, having served you on earth,

now sing your praises eternally.

May their endurance give us courage

and their faithfulness give us hope;

through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

Hear us as we pray for the church, that we may be filled with peace, unity and purity. Bless the pastors, the staff members of this congregation, the elders, and all of the leaders and members of this congregation so that we may serve you and one another. Bless not only this congregation, but all those who call themselves Christian, that we may all be faithful.

Hear us as we pray for our nation and world. Bring an end to war, violence and terror, and establish a lasting peace to this world. Bless the leaders of our nation and of all nations, that they may do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with you.

Hear us as we pray for the people of our community, especially for the poor, the persecuted, the sick, and all who suffer;

for refugees, prisoners, and all who are in danger;

that they may be relieved of their burdens and be safe in your protection.

We pray especially for our enemies and for those who wish to do us harm, that together we may learn to forgive and love one another. We pray earnestly for our family, friends and neighbors, that being free from anxiety and worry they may live in joy, peace, and health.

Hear us as we pray for ourselves, that you would be with us throughout this day as we worship you and study your Word. Be with families who gather together for meals and fellowship. Be with us on Monday that those who are employed may be blessed in their labors and that all of us, whether we are retired or employed, in search of work or engaged in training and courses of study, may all be a blessing to others during the course of our weekly routines.

O holy God, great Physician, Lover of all people, we are astonished by your amazing grace. We are captivated by your power and awed by your mercy. In the heart of our hearts, we long to know you more deeply, to touch even the fringes of your cloak, and to know peace and healing. We strain our ears to hear you call us daughters and sons, like so many before us. We pray for the faith that can make us whole.

And we pray for those in need of your healing this day:

For the sick, for the injured and hospitalized, and for those whose illness has isolated them from their community. Give them a spirit of healing and hope ....

For the outcast, and for those whom we have cast out through our action, or inaction. Shine a light on our prejudices, soften our hardened hearts, and transform us for loving service toward every Christ we meet ....

For those who mourn and weep. Let them stand firm in your promises, buoyed by your strength and care. Give them the comfort and assurance that nothing can separate them from your love.

Loving God, we pray for healing and hope to reign in this world. Where there is conflict and war, let there be peace. Where there is hunger and poverty, let there be abundance. Where there is distress and despair, let there be light, warm and unquenchable.

We pray to hear your words: “Follow me,” for they are words not only of discipleship, but of assurance — that as your disciples, we will never be forsaken. You will lead us, all of us, into unexpected places. Give us the courage to follow you each day of our lives. Amen.

11 Emphasis on poverty

Merciful Lord, through the bounty of the sea and the richness of the land, you provide for the needs of all your people, yet not all people get their fair share. Not so very far from this place, there are people who are faint for lack of nourishment.

There are children who go to bed hungry and wake up hungrier still. Closer than we think there are people in pain without medicines because they cannot afford them. Very likely, within sight of this building, there are people who are beside themselves with worry over how they will keep a roof over their heads and food on the table.

Most of us are so blind to the suffering of others. To us, the poor and hungry are often invisible. Unless someone collapses on our doorstep we assume all's well.

When we do confront evidence of poverty we cannot ignore, we are more likely to label it an "eyesore" than to lend a hand. Help us, Lord, by your grace to overcome our hardness of heart. Give us such a sense of your power at work through us that we will dare to make a difference in this community. Show us how and where we may put into action the love we have freely received from you.

Send us to serve those who need a sign of hope in their lives. Help us provide warmth and shelter to those who shiver on our streets at night. Open our hearts and hands to those forced to hunt for their dinner in dumpsters. Lead us to devise practical methods to serve those who languish in tenements with no one to care for them. Unite the citizens of our community in strategies that will give our neighbors the chance to work and to prosper with your blessing. In the name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Loving God, gentle Savior, your little ones need you, now more than ever. In this country and around the world, they are suffering in record numbers. Use us, we pray, to answer the prayers and pleas of those too small to defend themselves.

We pray for the safety of children who live with violent adults: Help us be alert to the signs of abuse and brave enough to demand immediate intervention by those in authority.

We pray for children who perish as victims of crime: Give us the will and the wisdom to overcome the gangs and the drugs that destroy young lives.

We pray for children who have been made to endure atrocious acts: Help us protect them within havens of gentleness where their memories can be healed and their trust restored.

We pray for children whose souls have been scarred by horrors they have witnessed: Bless and empower those who work with children in the aftermath of violence and disaster; help the children recover hope and health.

We pray for children around the world who are sold as factory slaves to satisfy the demand for cheap goods: Help consumers and merchants use their financial leverage to insist that child labor not be used.

We pray for children who suffer without adequate medical care, sufficient food, pure water, appropriate clothing or secure shelter: Move us to share with them what we have in abundance.

We pray for families trying their best to raise good children in bad times: Help our congregation find ways to foster the health and strength of families through the resources of faith in our Lord Jesus, who hugged the little children in his arms. Amen.

Just and merciful God: We turn to you in humble prayer on behalf of the men and women who make our laws and for those whose responsibility it is to enforce them.

Favor with good health and sound judgment our president, [name], and the members of Congress. Let petty party politics, mutual recrimination and self-justification yield to courtesy, forbearance and a paramount concern for the public weal. And let our national laws protect the weak, curb the strong and keep our nation as a beacon of liberty and a haven for the persecuted.

We pray for our governors and our state legislators. May they fulfill their responsibilities not in self-willed competition one with another, but as members of a truly United States of America. May the creative handling of a problem by one state stimulate others to comparable creativity; and may the error of any one state serve as a deterrent to all the others.

We pray also for those who govern us closest to home: for women and men whom we have elected to our county and city governing bodies. Keeping informed of the issues in our midst, help us to work closely and supportively with these elected officials, so that their vision of what our community needs may always be guided by what the neediest among us need.

Judge of the nations: We pray for all who are involved in the interpretation and enforcement of our laws. Grant the men and women who sit on our courts of justice a profound respect for our country's Constitution, along with a keen sense of the need rightly to mix justice and mercy. Assist our whole system of justice in maintaining a sensitive balance between the rights of victims and the humanity, flawed though it be, of those who have victimized them.

Righteous God: We offer special intercession for members of the FBI and of our state and local police forces. We give thanks for those among them who have been injured or have lost their lives in our defense. And we pray that they, in turn, may hold on to their humanity, even in the midst of viciousness and vice. Hear our prayer, O God, and help us to be peace-loving, caring citizens of our country and of the world. We pray in the name of him who honored to law of his land while living by the law of love, even Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

O God, our help in ages past: We confess that often we do not have much hope for years to come. As we read or watch the news, our faith falters. We wonder about the future: about the world's future and our own future. We forget your promises along with your great, saving acts on record in your Word.

We thank you, most patient God, for keeping faith with us in spite of our doubt, and particularly for providing for us examples of steadfastness, of belief in the future, to shame and hearten us.

We thank you for the old man who is planting trees up and down his street, even though he knows that he will not live to enjoy them.

We pray for the young woman who is dying a slow, painful death, but who has left her body to a hospital so that, out of her anguish, healing may come to persons unknown to her.

We pray for scholars who write plodding, faithful chronicles of bygone times, because they consider humankind's ongoing history worth recording.

We thank you for scientists, politicians and grass-roots folk who struggle to preserve our environment, so that our children and grandchildren may inherit a habitable world.

And we pray, with thanksgiving, for women and men who agree that, in spite of the news, this world is still a fit place for having and raising children.

We know, merciful Lord, that all these servants of yours who believe in the future and who are striving to make sure that it is a future worth having, are not necessarily doing so in your name. But we believe that you acknowledge them as yours, and we pray that you help us, each of us, to join their ranks. Restore our faltering faith. Remind us that you are our hope for years to come. For the sake of him who willingly died young so that we might have a future. Amen.

O God, we are dismayed and perplexed by crises far and near, crises beyond our control, crises beyond even our comprehension.

We feel ignorant and powerless. We are consumed by self-doubt.

We also wonder sometimes, guiltily, whether you care at all and why you do not help.

Remind us that you have never promised to make life easy for your children.

Strengthen our faith in you, that we may perceive any crisis, wherever it may be occurring, as a prod to our consciences and a challenge to our compassion.

Empower us to do what we can to translate compassion into action, to secure a fair deal or at least a sporting chance for everyone. And show us that, with your help, we can always do more than we think we can to overcome or least help control crises.

We pray for people who are physically or mentally disadvantaged. Help us to help them develop whatever resources they do have to the fullest.

We pray for good workers who, for whatever reason are fired. Give them the stamina to endure the frustrations of a job search and land a new job worthy of their gifts.

We pray for men and women trying to handle problems in their marriage or family life. If we can, let us help them sort things out responsibly and compassionately.

God of our life: We commend to your tender care loved ones and friends who are struggling with serious illness. Sustain them and, if it is your will, restore them to health. We also pray for some who are trying to escape from responsibilities through illness. May they be nerved to face reality and grow up. And we pray for others who are walking even now in the shadow of death. May they be strengthened to bear what sooner or later we all must bear. In their ultimate crisis, may they have the comfort of the companionship of him who endured the shock of birth and the agony of a cruel death to be enthroned, by you, as Lord of death and life. We turn to you, in faith, in Christ’s powerful name. Amen.

God of Time, Prince of Peace,

We so need to talk with you. You see how many of us are full of weariness and confusion, stressed until we could snap. So many voices demand we work harder, do more. Some voices are harsh, others softly insistent. Each wants a piece of us: our time, our attention, our heart, even our soul.

The boss, the teacher, the coach tell us it takes utter dedication. They say you, our families and friends, must take a back seat. But we need you and our loved ones, too. Pastors and counselors tell us to develop our spiritual life, strengthen our marriages, spend time with our children and keep in touch with our friends if we want to maintain any kind of balance in this helter-skelter world.

Some of us are young and working hard to grow up. We feel torn when friends tell us one thing, parents tell us another, while teachers and coaches tell us something else.

God, even you sometimes seem so far away, but we know you are not the one who has moved. We need to draw near to you, to feel your steady hand.

But meanwhile, elderly relatives expect and deserve attention. We should take better care of our health. We end up being pushed and pulled from every side, feeling inadequate and frazzled. Each of these demanding voices sounds as if it thinks it alone matters, and too often we try to listen to them all. Is it any wonder we can hardly hear your voice through all the commotion in our divided hearts?

Lord, please speak to us all. Help us focus on that one thing from which all good and worthy works come, our relationship with you. Help us screen and sort all the competing claims on our time and strength. Give us wisdom to align our priorities appropriately. Grant us strength to stick to those priorities when we are under pressure from those who claim to know better.

Teach us by your example and steady us by your Presence. Be close beside those who are trying to prepare for an uncertain, perhaps frightening future.

Call out to those who don't know where to turn anymore; save them from despair.

Guide those who are facing confusing decisions between imperfect options.

Rescue those who feel inadequate and guilty before they collapse in hopelessness.

Renew us in grace and freedom as we set out to face another week.

Use us as you will to bring comfort and courage to those around us. Inspire us to greater compassion and understanding for others who may feel stretched to the breaking point, and help us find openings to share the good news of your peace. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

17 Emphasis on fears

God of Courage and Might,

Over and over your gleaming messengers speak through the Scriptures: "Fear not! Do not be afraid!" Angels have proclaimed courage to shepherds and beggars and kings, yet here we are, fretting with myriad terrors and dreads.

We confess our fear with downcast eyes, for we know it is an expression of our deep-down distrust of you, and a clue about how far our faith has yet to grow.

But fear is not what you desire for your children. We waste precious time and energy on worry and complaint.

Forgive us when our anxiety stunts our faith and hardens our hearts. We admit that fear has crippled us at many points. We fear rejection, so we decline the opportunity to make a new friend. We dread appearing ridiculous, so we give up a lifelong dream. Because we fear embarrassment or ridicule, we play the silent coward. Because we fear change, we sacrifice opportunity. We fear heartbreak, so we opt for loneliness rather than risking genuine intimacy.

Because we fear to be alone, we shun the solitude in which we might discover our deepest selves and truest faith. Because we dread failure, we default on the opportunity to make our lives stand for something.

We confess the faithlessness of our fears. Please help our unbelief. Teach us to fear nothing except losing you. Help us trust your love and protection, knowing that our lives may not always be safe, but that we shall always be saved in the triumph of your love and glory.

We pray for all those who wage against fear today:
those facing surgery or illness or pain,
people who dwell in dangerous neighborhoods,
those who live where wars and terrors threaten the day and rule the night,
those who don't know what they will eat tonight or where they will sleep,
children whose homes are not safe and secure,
those who suffer mental illness,
those whose jobs are in jeopardy,
people facing death with dread.
God of Might, banish our fears, lighten our darkness and send us forth with brave hearts, for we ask in the name of the One who has conquered even the terrors of death and hell, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.

18 Advent Prayer

Almighty God, true Hope of all the earth,
Prepare in us a warm and welcoming place,

where we may receive the King of Creation with gladness and kindness and faithfulness.

In the center of our crowded days, create a quiet place of light and peace,

where we can keep these holidays as the holy days they were meant to be.

Help us help those whom you hold in special care for the sake of their special needs.

For them we ask gifts that only you can give.

To those in mourning, to whom the sounds of merrymaking are an unrelenting agony, give a deepened awareness of your arm around them and peaceful certainty that your other arm is around the loved one they are missing.

To those who are dying, let the peace of your coming surround and sustain them as the time of their leaving draws near. Reassure their fearful hearts of your undying love and life.

To those whose hearts are breaking with sorrow and worry, reveal how your coming brings power and peace for just such times as these.

To those who are sick, open a window of insight so that they can glimpse the healing you plan for your whole creation and so await their own healing with patient endurance.

For those who are out of work, and near out of their minds with anxiety, go before them to open a path through their troubles, that they may follow you to a brightening future.

For those far separated from loved ones, let their hearts experience the spiritual joy of concentrating their thought and worship upon you, who so loved the world that you gave your only Son.

You sent him not with ribbons and wrappings, but with power and grace, whether we have been naughty or nice. Receive our thanks, our praise and our prayers for Jesus' sake. Amen.

O God, you have given us people in our community and world with so much talent.

We pray for the teachers. They work through difficult and demanding hours at school, and continue their work after school hours. They deal with tests and parents and laws and disciplinary issues – keep them focused on their students and give them a joy in the opportunities you give them to teach, nurture and lead the children and young people of our world.

We pray for the students. Bless each of us with the joy of learning. Whether we are in classrooms or not, bless us with curiosity. Make us inquisitive. Open our minds to new understandings.

We pray for those in the arts. They provide music, drama, stories, pictures and illustrations, and so much more that enhances our lives. They fill us with laughter and move us to tears. Their works inspire us. Bless them with talents and skills, and give them the discipline they need to develop their crafts.

We pray for scientists. They seek to understand what you have created and how you have created and continue to maintain your universe. Give them grace to see your hand in all of the wonders of what you have made.

We pray for doctors, nurses, and all others in the medical field. Give them wisdom and compassion as they care for the sick.

We pray for business owners, executives, supervisors, workers, trainees, and all others who are employed. Bless them with creativity, ingenuity, and devotion to work. Let the motivations of those who work be guided and shaped by ethical behavior.

We pray for those who provide us with food – for farmers, migrant workers, shrimpers and fishermen; for cooks and waiters; for distributors and all workers. Help them to provide us with sufficient food that is safe and nutritious.

These things we pray in the name of Christ, Amen.

Offertory or Dedication Prayers

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If the offering is returned by the ushers to the front, meet the ushers at the steps of the Chancel and take the plates to the Lord’s Table. Stand behind the Lord’s Table facing the congregation. During the prayer, you may continue to hold the plates, lifting them up during the prayer, or you may put the plates in the shelf in back of the Table.

This prayer may be of your own construction. The following are suggestions.

1
We dedicate this money, Lord, for the work of the church,
And we ask you to use all that we have
And all that we are in your service. Amen.

2
Lord Jesus Christ, you were rich,
yet for our sake you became poor,
so that through your poverty we might become rich.
Accept this collection and offering
as a token of our gratitude
for all you have done. Amen.

3
Help us who have received so freely from you
to give as freely in our turn,
and so have the pleasure of giving
as well as the happiness of receiving. Amen.

4
Dear Lord, Creator of all things,
everything on earth is yours.
We have nothing that can make you richer,
for it all comes from you in the first place.
But what we have we bring –
the acknowledgment that we live thanks to you,
and that without you we have nothing and can do nothing.
Receive and bless these gifts for your holy work,
and bless those who give offer them to you. Amen.

5
Dear Lord, we give back to you in thankfulness what you have given to us in kindness.
We acknowledge that the world and its resources are not ours but yours, and that you have put us in charge as your trustees.
Help us to exercise responsibly the authority you give us in your world.
Let Jesus your Son be the pattern for all our dealings with one another, and with the rest of creation.
Bless the gifts we now present back to you, so that they may be used in the work of your Kingdom on this earth.

6
Almighty and merciful God,
from whom comes all that is good,
we praise you for your mercies,
for your goodness that has created us,
your grace that has sustained us,
your discipline that has corrected us,
your patience that has borne with us,
and your love that has redeemed us.
Help us to love you,
and to be thankful for all your gifts
by serving you and delighting to do your will,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.

7 Adapted from the 1906 Book of Common Worship of the Presbyterian Church U.S.A.:
O most merciful and gracious God,
from whose open hand we all have received much:
We ask you to accept this offering of your people.
Remember in your love those who have brought it.
Remember also those persons and purposes for which it is given.
So follow this sacrifice with your blessing that it may promote peace and good will, and advance the kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, in whose name we pray; Amen.

8
Lord God, thank you for the blessings
you have given us year after year.
Help us to wisely use the time you have given us.
Lead us, while we remain here on earth,
to serve you through all the people around us
who are in need.
Amen.

Offertory Sentences

2009-06-05T09:02:00.000-07:00

Rather than say, “Let’s take up the offering,” it is best to introduce the offering very simply with a Scripture verse related to the giving of our tithes and offerings.

Here are some suggested verses.

1
Remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. Acts 20:35.

2
Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Mathew 5:16.

3
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. Matthew. 6: 19, 20

4
Let every person do according as is disposed in his heart, not grudgingly, or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver. II Corinthians 9:6, 7.

5
To do good, and to distribute, forget not; for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. Hebrews 13:16.

6
All things come of you, O LORD, and of your own have do we give to you.
I Chronicles 29:14.

Prayers for Illumination

2009-06-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

A Prayer for Illumination is a prayer said prior to the reading of the first Scripture lesson. It asks God to help us read and understand His Word.

1
Guide us, O God,
by your Word and Spirit,
that in your light we may see light,
in your truth find freedom,
and in your will discover your peace;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

2
Gracious God,
we do not live by bread alone,
but by every word that comes from your mouth.
Make us hungry for this heavenly food,
that it may nourish us today
in the ways of eternal life;
through Jesus Christ, the bread of heaven. Amen.

3
God our helper,
by your Holy Spirit, open our minds,
that as the Scriptures are read
and your Word is proclaimed,
we may be led into your truth
and taught your will,
for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

4
Living God,
help us so to hear your holy Word
that we may truly understand;
that, understanding, we may believe,
and, believing,
we may follow in all faithfulness and obedience,
seeking your honor and glory in all that we do;
through Christ our Lord. Amen.

5
God, source of all light,
by your Word you give light to the soul.
Pour out upon us
the spirit of wisdom and understanding
that, being taught by you in Holy Scripture,
our hearts and minds may be opened to know the things
that pertain to life and holiness;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

6
God of mercy,
you promised never to break your covenant with us.
Amid all the changing words of our generation,
speak your eternal Word that does not change.
Then may we respond to your gracious promises
with faithful and obedient lives;
through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

7
Blessed Lord,
who caused all holy scriptures to be written for our learning:
Grant us so to hear them,
read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them,
that we may embrace and ever hold fast
the blessed hope of everlasting life,
which you have given us in our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

8
O Lord, on this Sunday of Transfiguration, we pray that your light would pour over these pages and illumine these old, old words — that they would dance with newness in our hearts and minds, that we would be radiant in reflecting your Word in our living and serving one another. Amen.

9
O God, your Word is more precious than fine gold, and sweeter than purest honey. As we turn to your Scripture, send your Holy Spirit to infuse your Word with truth and grace — so that the good news of your love would shine before our eyes and delight our senses ... so that we cannot help but respond with wonder, faith and trust. Amen.

10
Draw us close, Holy Spirit, as the Scriptures are read and the Word is proclaimed. Let the word of faith be on our lips and in our hearts, and let all other words slip away. May there be one voice we hear today — the voice of truth and grace. Amen.

11
Holy God, Word made flesh, let us come to this word open to being surprised.
Silence our agendas;
banish our assumptions;
cast out our casual detachment.
Confound our expectations;
clear the cobwebs from our ears;
penetrate the corners of our hearts with this word.
We know that you can, we pray that you will, and we wait with great anticipation. Amen.

12
Calm us now, O Lord, into a quietness that heals and listens. Open wounded hearts to the balm of your Word. Speak to us in clear tones so that we might feel our spirits leap for joy and skip with hope as your resurrection witnesses. Amen.
Gracious God, as we turn to your Word for us, may the Spirit of God rest upon us. Help us to be steadfast in our hearing, in our speaking, in our believing, and in our living. Amen.

13
Gracious Lord, like Nicodemus, we come to the word with many questions. Like the Pharisees, we can be captivated by correctness, intent on right answers. As we turn to your word, Spirit of God, do not let our desire for information dominate our need for transformation. Let us hear the word and be moved to greater faith and obedience. Amen.

14
Advent
O Christ who comes, not only as the sweet babe in a manger, but also as Messiah of justice, baptizing with Spirit and fire, may we hear the words of your prophet. Let John’s passionate voice melt our hardened hearts and speak through us of the power of your coming. This Advent, transform the dead branches of our apathy into the good fruit of repentance. May hostility give way to openness, oppression to justice, greed to generosity and despair to hope. We ask this through you, whose coming is certain, even if not always in the ways we imagine.

15
Epiphany
Illumine your word by your Holy Spirit, O God.
Let your good news radiate from these pages;
Let your Epiphany grace break into our hearts and minds.
Captivate all who hear these words, that we might believe and obey, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Assurance of God’s Grace

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The Prayer of Confession should always follow with an assurance that God forgives us.

It should be brief.

It can be a Scripture verse.

The Assurance should end with “This is the Good News of the Gospel, therefore let us sing to the glory of God.” These words help serve as a cue for the Organist to start the Gloria Patri.

You may construct your own. Following are a few suggestions.

1
The mercy of the Lord
is from everlasting to everlasting.
I declare to you, in the name of Jesus Christ,
we are forgiven.
May the God of mercy,
who forgives you all our sins,
strengthen us in all goodness,
and by the power of the Holy Spirit
keep us in eternal life.
This is the Good News of the Gospel, therefore let us sing to the glory of God.

2 Based on I Timothy 1:15 and I Peter 2:24
Hear the good news!
The saying is sure and worthy of full acceptance,
that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
He himself bore our sins
in his body on the cross,
that we might be dead to sin,
and alive to all that is good.
I declare to you in the name of Jesus Christ,
we are forgiven.
This is the Good News of the Gospel, therefore let us sing to the glory of God.

3 Based on I Timothy 1:15
Here are words you may trust, words that merit full acceptance:
“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.”
This is the Good News of the Gospel, therefore let us sing to the glory of God.

4 Based on Romans 8:34 and II Corinthians 5:17
Hear the good news!
Who is in a position to condemn?
Only Christ,
and Christ died for us,
Christ rose for us,
Christ reigns in power for us,
Christ prays for us.
Anyone who is in Christ
is a new creation.
The old life has gone;
a new life has begun.
Know that we are forgiven
and let us be at peace.
This is the Good News of the Gospel, therefore let us sing to the glory of God.

5 Based on I Timothy 1:15
Listen! Here is good news.
“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.”
God will forgive you in your failure.
God will accept you as you are.
God will set you free from evil’s power.
God will make you what you were meant to be.
This is the Good News of the Gospel, therefore let us sing to the glory of God.

6 Based on I John 1:8,9
Hear these comforting words from I John 1:8 and 9.
“If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth
is not in us, but if we confess our sins, God, who is faithful
and just, will forgive our sins and cleanse us from all
unrighteousness.”
This is the Good News of the Gospel, therefore let us sing to the glory of God.

7 Based on Joel 2:13
We read in Joel 2:13 this exhortation:
“Return to the Lord your God,
for God is gracious and merciful,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
This is the Good News of the Gospel, therefore let us sing to the glory of God.

8 Based on John 3:16
We read in John 3:16, “God so loved the world, that he gave his only-begotten Son, so that whoever believes in him would not perish, but have everlasting life.”
This is the Good News of the Gospel, therefore let us sing to the glory of God.

9 Other helpful passages for those who may wish to construct a different Assurance of God’s Grace
· Psalm 32:5
· Psalm 51:2-5
· Proverbs 28:13
· Isaiah 45:21-22
· Jeremiah 33:8

Prayer of Confession

2009-06-05T08:53:00.000-07:00

If the prayer is printed in the bulletin, you will want to let people know where they can find the prayer. You might say something like: “Using the Prayer of Confession found in the bulletin, let us join our voices together in prayer.”

If the prayer is not printed in the bulletin, you may introduce the Prayer of Confession with a simple: “Let us humbly confess our sins unto Almighty God.”

If the prayer is not printed in the bulletin, you may construct the prayer in your own words. The confession should be general enough so that all participants in worship may find it to be applicable. Each prayer should include not only admission of our sins, but a request for forgiveness.

1
Almighty God,
you have raised Jesus from death to life,
and crowned him Lord of all.
We confess that we have not bowed before him,
or acknowledged his rule in our lives.
We have gone along with the ways of the world,
and failed to give him glory.
Forgive us and raise us from sin,
that we may be your faithful people,
obeying the commands of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who rules the world
and is head of the church, his body.
In his name we pray, Amen.

2
We confess to you, Lord, what we are:
we are not the people we like others to think we are;
we are afraid to admit even to ourselves what lies in the depths of our souls.
But we do not want to hide our true selves from you.
We believe that you know us as we are, and yet you still love us.
Help us not to shrink from self-knowledge;
teach us to respect ourselves for your sake;
give us the courage to put our trust in your guiding power.
Raise us out of the paralysis of guilt and fear
and take us into the freedom and energy of forgiven people.
And for those who through long habit find forgiveness hard to accept,
we ask that you would break their bondage and set them free.
Through Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.

3
God our Lord and Creator,
we have sinned against you
in thought, word and deed:
we have not loved you with our whole heart;
we have not loved our neighbor as ourselves.
But you have kept faith with us.
Have mercy on us;
strip us of all that is un-Christian;
and help us to live up to our calling;
through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

4
Merciful God,
we confess to you now that we have sinned.
We confess the sins that no one knows
and the sins that everyone knows.
We confess the sins that are a burden to us
and the sins that do not bother us
because we have grown used to them.

We confess our sins as a church.

We have not loved one another
as Christ loved us.
We have not forgiven one another
as we have been forgiven.
We have not given ourselves
in love and service for the world
as Christ gave himself for us.

Father, forgive us.
Send the Holy Spirit to us,
That he may give us power to live
as by your mercy,
you have called us to live.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

5
All or part of the following may be used…

Lord, please forgive our sins,
and set us free from them.

We confess to the sin of pride:
We have been sure of our own goodness and importance
and have looked down on others.
Help us to appreciate the true worth of other people.

We confess to the sin of envy:
We have been displeased when others have been more successful
or sought after than we have been.
Help us to be glad when others prosper.

We confess to the sin of self-indulgence:
We have had enough and more.
Yet we have neglected the needs of others.
Help us to deny ourselves so that others may not be in want.

We confess to the sin of unchastity:
In one way or another we have used sex wrongly.
Help us to create and uphold right relations between men and women,
both in and out of marriage.

We confess to the sin of anxiety:
We have worried about many things.
Help us to trust you to see us through.

We confess to the sin of laziness:
We have been lukewarm Christians.
Make us eager to do your will.

We confess to you our sins
and we ask for your forgiveness.
In the name of Christ we pray, Amen.

6
Eternal God,
in whom we live and move and have our being,
whose face is hidden from us by our sins,
and whose mercy we forget in the blindness of our hearts:
Cleanse us from all our offenses,
and deliver us from proud thoughts and vain desires,
that with reverent and humble hearts
we may draw near to you,
confessing our faults,
confiding in your grace,
and finding in you our refuge and strength;
through Jesus Christ your Son. Amen

7
Almighty and merciful God,
we have erred and strayed from your ways like lost sheep.
We have followed too much
the devices and desires of our own hearts.
We have offended against your holy laws.
We have left undone those things which we ought to have done;
and we have done those things which we ought not to have done.
O Lord, have mercy upon us.
Spare those who confess their faults.
Restore those who are penitent,
according to your promises declared to the world
in Christ Jesus our Lord.
And grant, O merciful God, for his sake,
that we may live a holy, just, and humble life
to the glory of your holy name. Amen

8
Gracious God,
our sins are too heavy to carry,
too real to hide,
and too deep to undo.
Forgive what our lips tremble to name,
what our hearts can no longer bear,
and what has become for us
a consuming fire of judgment.
Set us free from a past that we cannot change;
open to us a future in which we can be changed;
and grant us grace
to grow more and more in your likeness and image;
through Jesus Christ, the light of the world. Amen

9
Merciful God,
in your gracious presence
we confess our sin and the sin of this world.
Although Christ is among us as our peace,
we are a people divided against ourselves
as we cling to the values of a broken world.
The profit and pleasures we pursue
lay waste the land and pollute the seas.
The fears and jealousies that we harbor
set neighbor against neighbor
and nation against nation.
We abuse your good gifts of imagination and freedom,
of intellect and reason,
and have turned them into bonds of oppression.
Lord, have mercy upon us;
heal and forgive us.
Set us free to serve you in the world
as agents of your reconciling love in Jesus Christ. Amen.

10
Almighty God,
you love us, but we have not loved you.
You call, but we have not listened.
We walk away from neighbors in need,
wrapped in our own concerns.
We condone evil, prejudice, warfare, and greed.
God of grace,
help us to admit our sin,
so that as you come to us in mercy,
we may repent, turn to you, and receive forgiveness;
through Jesus Christ our Redeemer. Amen.

11
Merciful God,
we confess that we have not loved you with our whole heart.
We have failed to be an obedient church.
We have not done your will,
we have broken your law,
we have rebelled against your love.
We have not loved our neighbors,
and we have refused to hear the cry of the needy.
Forgive us, we pray.
Free us for joyful obedience;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

12
Merciful God,
we confess that we have sinned against you
in thought, word, and deed,
by what we have done,
and by what we have left undone.
We have not loved you
with our whole heart and mind and strength.
We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves.
In your mercy forgive what we have been,
help us amend what we are,
and direct what we shall be,
so that we may delight in your will
and walk in your ways,
to the glory of your holy name. Amen.

13
Holy and merciful God,
in your presence we confess
our sinfulness, our shortcomings,
and our offenses against you.
You alone know how often we have sinned
in wandering from your ways,
in wasting your gifts,
in forgetting your love.
Have mercy on us, O Lord,
for we are ashamed and sorry for all we have done to displease you.
Forgive our sins,
and help us to live in your light,
and walk in your ways,
for the sake of Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

14
Eternal God, our judge and redeemer,
we confess that we have tried to hide from you,
for we have done wrong.
We have lived for ourselves and apart from you.
We have turned from our neighbors and refused to bear the burdens of others.
We have ignored the pain of the world,
and passed by the hungry, the poor, and the oppressed.
In your great mercy forgive our sins
and free us from selfishness,
that we may choose your will
and obey your commandments;
through Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

15
Merciful God,
you pardon all who truly repent and turn to you.
We humbly confess our sins and ask your mercy.
We have not loved you with a pure heart,
nor have we loved our neighbor as ourselves.
We have not done justice, loved kindness,
or walked humbly with you, our God.
Have mercy on us, O God, in your loving-kindness.
In your great compassion,
cleanse us from our sin.
Create in us a clean heart, O God,
and renew a right spirit within us.
Do not cast us from your presence,
or take your Holy Spirit from us.
Restore to us the joy of your salvation
and sustain us with your bountiful Spirit. Amen.

16 Christmas Day
God of grace and truth,
in Jesus Christ you came among us
as light shining in darkness.
We confess that we have not welcomed the light,
or trusted good news to be good.
We have closed our eyes to glory in our midst,
expecting little, and hoping for less.
Forgive our doubt, and renew our hope,
so that we may receive the fullness of your grace,
and live in the truth of Christ the Lord. Amen.

17 Epiphany
God of glory,
you sent Jesus among us as the light of the world,
to reveal your love for all people.
We confess that our sin and pride
hide the brightness of your light.
We turn away from the poor;
we ignore cries for justice;
we do not strive for peace.
In your mercy, cleanse us of our sin,
and baptize us once again with your Spirit,
that, forgiven and renewed, we may show forth your glory
shining in the face of Jesus Christ. Amen.

18 Lent
God of mercy,
you sent Jesus Christ to seek and save the lost.
We confess that we have strayed from you
and turned aside from your way.
We are misled by pride,
for we see ourselves pure when we are stained,
and great when we are small.
We have failed in love,
neglected justice,
and ignored your truth.
Have mercy, O God, and forgive our sin.
Return us to paths of righteousness
through Jesus Christ, our Savior. Amen.

19 Easter
Almighty God,
in raising Jesus from the grave,
you shattered the power of sin and death.
We confess that we remain captive to doubt and fear,
bound by the ways that lead to death.
We overlook the poor and the hungry,
and pass by those who mourn;
we are deaf to the cries of the oppressed,
and indifferent to calls for peace;
we despise the weak,
and abuse the earth you made.
Forgive us, God of mercy.
Help us to trust your power
to change our lives and make us new,
that we may know the joy of life abundant
given in Jesus Christ, the risen Lord. Amen.

20 Pentecost
Almighty God, you poured your Spirit upon gathered disciples
creating bold tongues, open ears,
and a new community of faith.
We confess that we hold back the force of your Spirit among us.
We do not listen for your word of grace,
speak the good news of your love,
or live as a people made one in Christ.
Have mercy on us, O God.
Transform our timid lives by the power of your Spirit,
and fill us with a flaming desire to be your faithful people,
doing your will for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Opening Prayer or Prayer of Adoration

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A good way to introduce an Opening Prayer or a Prayer of Adoration is to simply say, “Let us pray.”

If the prayer is not printed in the bulletin, you may construct the prayer in your own words.

This prayer should be brief and to the point. It should contain elements of praise and adoration.

If there is no Prayer of Confession in the service, it is good to include an element of confession in this prayer.

If there is an obvious theme for the day’s service, such as a national tragedy that has occurred or an installation of elders, feel free to use that theme as a part of the prayer.

You may also want to have the prayer reflect the Christian calendar.

The following are simply suggestions. You may use any of these prayers verbatim, or to help you construct your own prayer.

1.
Almighty God,
unto whom all hearts are open,
all desires known,
and from whom no secrets are hid;
Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of thy Holy Spirit,
that we may perfectly love thee,
and worthily magnify thy holy Name;
through Christ our Lord. Amen.

2
Gracious Lord,
We come with joy to worship you.
Forgive our sins
that this joy may be pure.
Receive our praise and adoration
that you may be blessed by our worship.
Speak to us through your Word,
that we may hear your guidance for our lives.
In the name of Christ we pray, Amen.

3.
Almighty God,
who pours out on all who desire it
the spirit of grace and supplication;
deliver us, when we draw near to thee,
from coldness of heart
and wanderings of mind,
that with steadfast thoughts
and kindled affections,
we may worship thee in spirit and in truth;
through Jesus Christ our Lord we pray, Amen.

4. For Advent
O Lord:
Keep us awake and alert, watching for your kingdom.
Make us strong in our faith
so we may greet your Son when he comes,
and joyfully give him praise.
Amen

5. Christmas Eve
Give us, O God,
such love and wonder,
that with shepherds and wise men and pilgrims unknown,
we may come to adore the holy child, the promised King;
and with our gifts worship him,
our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Amen.

6. Christmas Eve
As you come into the stillness of night, great God,
enter our lives this night.
Overcome darkness with the light of Christ’s presence,
so that we may clearly see the way to walk,
the truth to speak,
and the life to live for him,
Amen

7 Epiphany (January 6th)
God our Father,
who by a star led people from far away to see the child Jesus:
draw us and all people to Christ,
so that praising you now,
we may in life come to meet you face to face.
Through Jesus Christ we pray, Amen.

8 Lent
Almighty God: you know that in this world we are under great pressure.
At times, we cannot stand.
We yield to temptation and fall into sin.
Stiffen our resolve and make faith strong,
so we may dig in against temptation and, by your power, overcome;
through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.

9 Lent
Almighty God,
your Son fasted forty days in the wilderness,
and was tempted as we are but did not sin.
Give us grace to direct our lives
in obedience to your Spirit,
that as you know our weakness,
so we may know your power to save;
through Jesus Christ our Redeemer,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever. Amen.

10 Lent
Almighty and most merciful God,
kindle within us the fire of love,
that by its cleansing flame we may be purged of all our sins
and made worthy to worship you in spirit and in truth;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

11 Lent
O Lord God,
you led your people through the wilderness
and brought them to the promised land.
So guide us.
Enable us to follow our Savior,
so that we may walk through the wilderness of this world
toward the glory of the world to come;
through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever. Amen.

12
Almighty God, we pray for your blessing
on the church in this place.
Here may the faithful find salvation,
and the careless be awakened.
Here may the doubting find faith,
and the anxious be encouraged.
Here may the tempted find help,
and the sorrowful find comfort.
Here may the weary find rest,
and the strong be renewed.
Here may the aged find consolation
and the young be inspired;
through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen

13
O God, you pour out the Spirit of grace and love.
Deliver us from cold hearts and wandering thoughts,
that with steady minds and burning zeal
we may worship you in spirit and truth, Amen.

Call To Worship

2009-06-05T08:48:00.000-07:00

1 From Psalm 118:24
This is the day that the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.

2 From Psalm 95:1, 2
O come, let us sing to the Lord
and shout with joy to the rock of our salvation!
Let us come into God's presence with thanksgiving,
singing joyful songs of praise.

3 From Psalm 116:12, 13
What shall we return to the Lord
for all the good things God has done for us?
We will lift up the cup of salvation
and call on the name of the Lord.

4 From Psalm 34:3
O praise the Lord with me,
let us exalt God's name together.

5 From Psalm 96:1, 2
O sing to the Lord a new song;
sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Sing, and give praise to God's name;
tell the glad news of salvation from day to day.

6 From Psalm 100:1, 2, 5
Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
Worship the Lord with gladness.
Come into God's presence with singing!
For the Lord is a gracious God,
whose mercy is everlasting;
and whose faithfulness endures to all generations.

7 Based on Micah 6:6, 8
With what shall we come before the Holy One,
and bow ourselves before God on high?
God has shown us what is good.
What does the Holy One require of us,
but to do justice,
and to love kindness,
and to walk humbly with our God?

8 From Micah. 1:11
From the rising of the sun to its setting
my name is great among the nations,
says the Lord of hosts.

9 From John 4:23
The hour is coming and now is
when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth:
for the Father seeks such people to be worshippers.

The following may be selected for printing in the bulletin
prior to the service of worship

Based on II Thessalonians 3:18

Leader: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.
People: And also with you.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on II Corinthians 13:13

Leader: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: The love of God be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: The communion of the Holy Spirit be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 124:8

Leader: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: Our help is in the name of the Lord,
People: who made heaven and earth.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 118:24

Leader: This is the day that the Lord has made;
People: let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 95:1, 2

Leader: O come, let us sing to the Lord
People: and shout with joy to the rock of our salvation!
Leader: Let us come into God's presence with thanksgiving,
People: singing joyful songs of praise.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 116:12, 13

Leader: What shall we return to the Lord for all the good things God has done for us?
People: We will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 34:3

Leader: O praise the Lord with me,
People: let us exalt God's name together.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 96:1, 2

Leader: O sing to the Lord a new song;
People: sing to the Lord, all the earth.
Leader: Sing, and give praise to God's name;
People: tell the glad news of salvation from day to day.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 100

Leader: Cry out with joy to the Lord, all the earth.
People: Worship the Lord with gladness.
Leader: Come into God's presence with singing!
People: For the Lord is a gracious God,
Leader: whose mercy is everlasting;
People: and whose faithfulness endures to all generations.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Micah 6:6, 8

Leader: With what shall we come before the Holy One, and bow ourselves before God on high?
People: God has shown us what is good.
Leader: What does the Holy One require of us?
People: To do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 24:1

Leader: The earth is the Lord's and all that is in it,
People: The world, and those who live in it belong to the Lord.
Leader: Praise the Lord.
People: The Lord's name be praised.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 96:2-3

Leader: Sing, and bless God's name;
People: Tell the glad news of salvation from day to day.
Leader: Proclaim God's glory to the nations,
People: God's marvelous deeds to all peoples.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 29:2-4

Leader: Ascribe to the Lord the glory due God's name,
People: worship the Lord in holy splendor.
Leader: The voice of the Lord is over the waters;
People: the God of glory thunders, the Lord, over mighty waters.
Leader: The voice of the Lord is powerful,
People: the voice of the Lord is full of majesty.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on John 1:14, 12

Leader: The Word became flesh and lived among us,
People: and we have seen the glory.
Leader: To all who received Christ, he gave power to become children of God.
People: Thanks be to God!
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on John 1:41, 16

Leader: We have found the Messiah,
People: Jesus Christ, who brings us truth and grace.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Isaiah 62: 4-5

Leader: The Lord delights in you.
People: Thanks be to God!
Leader: As the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you.
People: Thanks be to God!
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Mark 1:15

Leader: The time is fulfilled
People: And the kingdom of God is at hand;
Leader: Let us repent, and believe the good news.
People: For the kingdom of God is at hand.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Luke 4:18

Leader: The Spirit of the Lord has anointed me
People: to preach good news to the poor
Leader: and release to the captives.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Matthew 5:14, 16

Leader: You are the light of the world.
People: We will let our light shine before others,
Leader: And others will see your good works
People: And we will glorify our God in heaven.

Based on Isaiah 40:31

Leader: Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength,
People: They shall mount up with wings like eagles,
Leader: They shall run and not be weary,
People: They shall walk and not faint.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on John 8:12

Leader: Jesus said: I am the light of the world.
People: Whoever follows Jesus will not walk in darkness
Leader: Whoever follows Jesus will have the light of life.
People: Therefore, let us follow Jesus Christ!
Leader: And let us worship the Lord our God.

Based on Psalm 106:1

Leader: O give thanks, for the Lord is good.
People: God's love endures forever.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 119:1, 2

People: Happy are those whose way is blameless,
Leader: who walk in the law of the Lord.
People: Happy are those who keep the Lord's decrees,
Leader: who seek the Lord with their whole heart.

Based on Hebrews 4:12

Leader: The word of God is living and active.
People: It is able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Psalm 139:23, 24

Leader: Search us, O God, and know our heart;
People: Try us and know our thoughts!
Leader: See if there is any wicked way in us.
People: And lead us in the way everlasting.
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Ephesians 2:8

Leader: By grace we have been saved through faith,
People: And this is not our own doing;
Leader: It is the gift of God.
People: Thanks be to God.
Leader: Let us worship God.

CHRISTMAS

Based on John 1:14

Leader: The Word became flesh and dwelt among us,
People: The Word is full of grace and truth.
Leader: We have beheld the Lord’s glory.
People: Alleluia!
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Luke 2:14

Leader: Glory to God in the highest,
People: and peace to God's people on earth. Alleluia!
Leader: Let us worship God.

Based on Isaiah 9:2

Leader: The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
People: those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined.
Leader: Let us worship God.

EPIPHANY

Based on Isaiah 60:1, 3

Leader: Arise, shine; for your light has come,
People: The glory of the Lord has risen upon us.
Leader: Nations shall come to the light of God
People: And rulers to the brightness of Christ’s rising.

Based on John 8:12

Leader: Jesus said: I am the light of the world.
People: Whoever follows Jesus will not walk in darkness
Leader: Whoever follows Jesus will have the light of life.
People: Thanks be to God!
Leader: Let us worship God.

July 4^th, or national significance

From Psalm 33

Leader: Sing joyfully to the LORD,
People: Praise the LORD with music
Leader: Sing to him a new song
People: Sing with skill and joy
Leader: Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD,
People: Blessed is the people God chose for an inheritance.
Leader: From heaven the LORD looks down and sees all humanity;
People: from the Lord’s dwelling place God watches all who live on earth
Leader: No nation is saved by the size of an army;
People: despite all its great strength it cannot save.
Leader: But the eyes of the LORD are on those who fear God,
People: on those whose hope is in God’s unfailing love,
Leader: In God our hearts rejoice, for we trust in the holy name of our Lord.
People: May God’s unfailing love rest upon us, for we put our hope in you.
Leader: Let us pray

The Biblical Basis For Our Order Of Worship

2009-06-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

Christian forms of worship find common roots in the Old Testament passage of Isaiah 6. In this passage we read:

In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord seated on a throne, high and exalted, and the train of his robe filled the temple. Above him were seraphs, each with six wings: With two wings they covered their faces, with two they covered their feet, and with two they were flying.

This is the gathering into the Sanctuary. We do this every Sunday as we walk into the Sanctuary. God, Himself, is already present, waiting for us. Isaiah then continues:
And they were calling to one another: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory."

Seeing who God is, we are compelled to praise Him. Likewise, our worship also begins with the congregation giving praise to God with opening hymns of praise. We then read in Isaiah:
At the sound of their voices the doorposts and thresholds shook and the temple was filled with smoke. "Woe to me!" I cried. "I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips, and my eyes have seen the King, the LORD Almighty."

Having approached God and given Him praise for who He is, the worshipper is then mindful of his own sinfulness and confesses his sin to God. Effective worship cannot proceed without some element of confession.

Then one of the seraphs flew to me with a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with tongs from the altar. With it he touched my mouth and said, "See, this has touched your lips; your guilt is taken away and your sin atoned for."

Having confessed sin, there is an assurance of pardon.

Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?"

The Word of God is spoken and heard. On Sunday morning, the Word is proclaimed through reading of Scripture, songs and anthems, a Word for Children, and the preaching of a sermon.

And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"

There is a response to the Word of God. In our worship, we respond to the call to discipleship with an offering and with a departure from the Sanctuary with a willingness to do God’s will.

A Service for Holy Communion For Children

2006-11-27T13:34:00.000-08:00

Call to Worship

Matt. 18:20

Jesus says, “For where two or three are gathered in my name,

I am there among them.”

Call to Confession

The elder calls the people to confess their sins:

In the Lord's Supper,

Christ is with us.

The bread will remind us of the body of Christ.

The cups will remind us of the blood of Christ.

As we prepare to receive this great gift,

let us pray and admit to God that we have not always done what He wanted us to do.

Prayer of Confession

God of love,

we confess that we have sinned against you.

We have not always loved others as you wanted us to.

We have not always obeyed your Ten Commandments.

There have been times when we have been selfish.

There have been times when we have thought mean and angry things.

Forgive us, dear Lord.

Forgive us and help us to live the lives you want us to live.

In your name we pray,

Amen.

Declaration of Forgiveness

The elder declares the assurance of God's forgiving grace:

The Bible reminds us that God so loved the world that He gave His only Son so that who ever believes in Him would have eternal life.

This is the Good News of the Gospel –

God loves us and forgives us.

Invitation to the Lord's Table

The elder says:

Now that we have asked God to forgive us,

we are now ready to receive this gift of the Bread and Cup of Christ.

This is called the Lord’s Supper.

It is also called Holy Communion.

In a moment I will offer you a piece of bread,

You may take that bread and eat it and remember that Christ is with you.

Then I will give you a sip of a drink.

It is grape juice, but in the Lord’s Supper we often call this drink “wine,”

because when Jesus first gave us Holy Communion

they did not have grape juice, but used wine.

Before we receive the bread and the cup, let us pray.

Great Thanksgiving

Holy God,

with thanksgiving we take this bread and this cup.

Pour out your Holy Spirit upon us

that this Bread and Cup may be

a communion in the body and blood of our Lord.

Unite us in faith, encourage us with hope, inspire us to love,

that we may serve as your faithful disciples.

Amen.

The elder breaks the bread, saying:

1 Cor. 11:23-26; Luke 22:19-20

The Lord Jesus, on the night of his arrest, took bread,

and after giving thanks to God,

he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying:

Take, eat.

This is my body, given for you.

Do this in remembrance of me.

The elder lifts a cup, saying:

In the same way he took the cup, saying:

This cup is the new covenant sealed in my blood,

shed for you for the forgiveness of sins.

Whenever you drink it,

do this in remembrance of me.

Communion

The elder and those present receive Communion.

In giving the bread say:

The body of Christ, given for you.

In giving the cup say:

The cup of Christ, for you.

Prayer After Communion

After all have been served, the elder says this or a similar prayer:

Let us pray:

We are not worthy to gather up the crumbs under your table,

but you always have mercy, and you welcome us to the table

and you feed us with the bread and the cup.

We thank you, O God,

Amen.

Blessing

The elder gives God's blessing to those present,

2 Thess. 3:18

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

Amen.