Posts
Greeting
Leader: Hear now the call to the manger.
People: We offer our very selves to this holy child.
Leader: Join the mighty and the lowly in worshiping the infant King.
People: With the angels and shepherds we keel before Him.
Leader: Thanks be to God for the gift of his precious Son.
People: Glory to God in the highest!
Collect
Our God made flesh, with wonder and joy we come before you. We come from the aftermath of Christmas celebrations, contented though weary, relaxed and thankful. Please do not allow the glory of Bethlehem to slowly fade from our focus, but let it illuminate all our worship, our homes, and our service in the world. In the name of your holy Son, your greatest gift, who lives with us now and forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Jesus Christ, God’s greatest gift, has come in power and glory;
Wisdom has come to teach and guide us;
Emmanuel has come, the hope of all the peoples;
let us lift our voices in prayer with the saints
and cry out with the angels. Please respond to each petition with “Jesus, Be Born in Us.”
For the Church to whom a child is born;
For those who have become children of God;
For all who still seek the infant-king;
For people of faith among whom our God dwells:
May the Word Made Flesh raise in us a cry for justice,
a shout for joy, and a song of comfort for all people.
We pray: “Jesus, Be Born in Us.”
For the world in darkness that has seen a great light;
For all the ends of the earth that have seen the saving power of God;
For nations at war that dream of everlasting peace:
May the grace of God appear to them, saving them,
training them to live in hope and justice.
We pray: “Jesus, Be Born in Us.”
For those who have suffered this year;
For the unemployed or exploited;
For those unsure of where their next meal will come from;
For those made homeless by natural disaster or economic strife;
For marriages, families, relationships, and promises broken:
May the yoke that burdened them, the pole on their shoulder,
and the rod of their taskmaster be smashed by the Lord’s holy arm.
We pray, “Jesus, Be Born in Us.”
For those we remember during this season;
For the Jewish people who celebrate the promise of the Lord’s light;
For children born and children hoped for;
For parents-to-be, parents dear,
or parents distanced by miles or emotional separation;
For loved ones ill or close to death;
For all those we keep in our hearts:
May they receive from God’s mercy grace upon grace.
We pray, “Jesus, Be Born in Us.”
For friends and family who have died
whom we miss most during this holiday season,
May Christ who brings glad tidings gather us together
into the eternal light of heaven.
We pray, “Jesus, Be Born in Us.”
Lord Jesus, Everlasting Light, and precious gift to all,
shine your mercy upon us and hear our prayers.
Do not let the darkness of doubt overcome us
but stir in us deeper faith in you.
We ask this in your name, Emmanuel,
God with us, for ever and ever. Amen.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Christmas Eve Service - outside in a barn
Greeting
Leader: Here, in a lowly stable, Jesus, the crown of heaven, meets the dust of the earth.
People: This, tonight, is the meeting place.
Leader: Here, the darkness encounters a bright light, which shines in every corner and dispels all fear.
People: This, tonight, is the meeting place.
Leader: Here, God is made flesh in us, and we are joined to God forever through this holy child.
People: This, tonight, is the meeting place.
Prologue
Adapted from “This, tonight, is the meeting place” from Cloth for the Cradle by Wild Goose Worship Group, Wild Goose Publications, 1997
This, tonight,
Is the meeting place
Of heaven and earth.
For this, tonight,
Is the stable
In which God keeps his appointment
To meet his people.
Not many here are high and important,
Not many holy;
Not many innocent children,
Not many worldly wise;
Not all familiar faces,
Not all frequent visitors.
But, if tonight only strangers met,
That would be enough.
For Bethlehem was not the hub of the universe,
Nor was the stable a platform for famous folk.
In an out-of-the-way place
Which folk never thought to visit –
There God kept and keeps his promise;
There God sends his son.
Leader: Here, in a lowly stable, Jesus, the crown of heaven, meets the dust of the earth.
People: This, tonight, is the meeting place.
Leader: Here, the darkness encounters a bright light, which shines in every corner and dispels all fear.
People: This, tonight, is the meeting place.
Leader: Here, God is made flesh in us, and we are joined to God forever through this holy child.
People: This, tonight, is the meeting place.
Prologue
Adapted from “This, tonight, is the meeting place” from Cloth for the Cradle by Wild Goose Worship Group, Wild Goose Publications, 1997
This, tonight,
Is the meeting place
Of heaven and earth.
For this, tonight,
Is the stable
In which God keeps his appointment
To meet his people.
Not many here are high and important,
Not many holy;
Not many innocent children,
Not many worldly wise;
Not all familiar faces,
Not all frequent visitors.
But, if tonight only strangers met,
That would be enough.
For Bethlehem was not the hub of the universe,
Nor was the stable a platform for famous folk.
In an out-of-the-way place
Which folk never thought to visit –
There God kept and keeps his promise;
There God sends his son.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Collects and Prayers - December 20, 2009 - The Fourth Sunday of Advent, a service of lessons and carols
Collect
Let us pray…
Beloved in Christ, as we await the great festival of Christmas,
Let us prepare ourselves so that we may be shown its true meaning.
Let us hear, in lessons from Holy Scripture,
How the prophets of Israel foretold that God would visit and redeem the waiting people,
Let us rejoice, in our carols and hymns,
That the good purpose of God is being mightily fulfilled.
Let us celebrate the promise that our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,
Will bring all peoples and all things into the glory of God’s eternal kingdom.
The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk,
The lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear,
The dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.
But first, let us pray for the world that God so loves,
For those who have not heard the good news of God, or who do not believe it;
For those who walk in darkness and the shadow of death;
And for the Church in this place and everywhere,
That it may be freed from all evil and fear,
And may in pure joy lift up the light of the love of God.
Amen.
Let us pray…
Beloved in Christ, as we await the great festival of Christmas,
Let us prepare ourselves so that we may be shown its true meaning.
Let us hear, in lessons from Holy Scripture,
How the prophets of Israel foretold that God would visit and redeem the waiting people,
Let us rejoice, in our carols and hymns,
That the good purpose of God is being mightily fulfilled.
Let us celebrate the promise that our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,
Will bring all peoples and all things into the glory of God’s eternal kingdom.
The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk,
The lepers are cleansed, and the deaf hear,
The dead are raised up, and the poor have the gospel preached to them.
But first, let us pray for the world that God so loves,
For those who have not heard the good news of God, or who do not believe it;
For those who walk in darkness and the shadow of death;
And for the Church in this place and everywhere,
That it may be freed from all evil and fear,
And may in pure joy lift up the light of the love of God.
Amen.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Collects and Prayers - December 13, 2009 - The Third Sunday of Advent
Greeting
Leader: Sing and rejoice, O daughter Zion!
People: For the Lord will come and dwell in our midst.
Leader: Many nations shall join themselves to the Lord,
People: and we shall be His people and dwell with Him.
Leader: His time is near; hasten to Him!
People: Come, Emmanuel, come.
Prayer for the Lighting of the Advent Candle
Loving God, your Church joyfully awaits the coming of the Savior,
who enlightens our hearts and dispels the darkness of ignorance and sin.
May the joyful promise of your presence, O God,
make us rejoice in our hope of salvation.
Pour forth your blessings upon us as we light this candle.
May its light reflect the splendor of Christ,
who is Lord forever and ever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
As we watch and wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us pause, embrace the hush of silence, and ponder the depth of God's love through the incarnation of God's son.
We offer prayers to God who comes to our aid. After each petition, please respond with “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
We want to be prepared for your coming Lord, but we confess that we are not ready. Too often distractions and busy-ness in our lives cause us to miss you. Our days get bogged down in tasks, to-do lists, and projects that cause us to lose sight of your coming kingdom. Free us from this poverty of spirit.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
Gracious God, we give thanks for your calming presence and gentle guidance in this season of waiting. Bring our hearts to a place where love, peace and joy abound. Teach us to wait patiently for your kingdom to come and your will to be done.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
Loving Father, you have nurtured your Church as a place where all can come to know you, love you and serve you. We pray for church leaders - bishops and pastors - and for the laity and all who minister in Christ. We ask especially for God's blessing on Reverend Greg Jenks, with us this morning, and all the leaders of the ZOE ministry in Africa. May all who are affected by their work experience hope and healing.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
We pray for those who have difficulty waiting through this Advent season due to strife, relational conflicts, physical or emotional pain, or grief. Help them sense your gentle presence around them and find peace in you. Lift them out of valleys of despair and loneliness into pastures filled with hope and love.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
With hopeful expectancy, we pray for our Christmas Eve celebration, and for all who will gather to worship you. May all of your children, especially the unchurched and dechurched, hear the call to the manger and be found by you this Christmas.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
With a giving spirit and and open heart, we ask these things through your Son, the long-awaited Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.
Leader: Sing and rejoice, O daughter Zion!
People: For the Lord will come and dwell in our midst.
Leader: Many nations shall join themselves to the Lord,
People: and we shall be His people and dwell with Him.
Leader: His time is near; hasten to Him!
People: Come, Emmanuel, come.
Prayer for the Lighting of the Advent Candle
Loving God, your Church joyfully awaits the coming of the Savior,
who enlightens our hearts and dispels the darkness of ignorance and sin.
May the joyful promise of your presence, O God,
make us rejoice in our hope of salvation.
Pour forth your blessings upon us as we light this candle.
May its light reflect the splendor of Christ,
who is Lord forever and ever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
As we watch and wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us pause, embrace the hush of silence, and ponder the depth of God's love through the incarnation of God's son.
We offer prayers to God who comes to our aid. After each petition, please respond with “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
We want to be prepared for your coming Lord, but we confess that we are not ready. Too often distractions and busy-ness in our lives cause us to miss you. Our days get bogged down in tasks, to-do lists, and projects that cause us to lose sight of your coming kingdom. Free us from this poverty of spirit.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
Gracious God, we give thanks for your calming presence and gentle guidance in this season of waiting. Bring our hearts to a place where love, peace and joy abound. Teach us to wait patiently for your kingdom to come and your will to be done.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
Loving Father, you have nurtured your Church as a place where all can come to know you, love you and serve you. We pray for church leaders - bishops and pastors - and for the laity and all who minister in Christ. We ask especially for God's blessing on Reverend Greg Jenks, with us this morning, and all the leaders of the ZOE ministry in Africa. May all who are affected by their work experience hope and healing.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
We pray for those who have difficulty waiting through this Advent season due to strife, relational conflicts, physical or emotional pain, or grief. Help them sense your gentle presence around them and find peace in you. Lift them out of valleys of despair and loneliness into pastures filled with hope and love.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
With hopeful expectancy, we pray for our Christmas Eve celebration, and for all who will gather to worship you. May all of your children, especially the unchurched and dechurched, hear the call to the manger and be found by you this Christmas.
We pray, “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
With a giving spirit and and open heart, we ask these things through your Son, the long-awaited Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Collects and Prayers - December 6, 2009 - The Second Sunday of Advent
Greeting
Leader: A voice cries out: “In the wilderness
People: Prepare ye the way of the Lord.
Leader: Make straight in the desert a highway,
People: A highway for our God.”
Leader: The God of Israel comes to set us free.
People: Come, Emmanuel, come.
Prayer for the Lighting of the Advent Candle
Merciful God,
You sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance.
As a candle lights the darkened path, may their words prepare the way for our salvation.
Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins,
that we may celebrate aright the commemoration of the nativity,
and may await with joy the coming in glory of Jesus Christ our Redeemer,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
One God forever and ever.
Amen.
Leader: A voice cries out: “In the wilderness
People: Prepare ye the way of the Lord.
Leader: Make straight in the desert a highway,
People: A highway for our God.”
Leader: The God of Israel comes to set us free.
People: Come, Emmanuel, come.
Prayer for the Lighting of the Advent Candle
Merciful God,
You sent your messengers the prophets to preach repentance.
As a candle lights the darkened path, may their words prepare the way for our salvation.
Give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins,
that we may celebrate aright the commemoration of the nativity,
and may await with joy the coming in glory of Jesus Christ our Redeemer,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
One God forever and ever.
Amen.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Collects and Prayers - November 29, 2009 - The First Sunday of Advent
Greeting
Leader: Lift up your heads, O mighty gates!
People: And be lifted up, O ancient doors!
Leader: Behold, the King of glory waits to enter in.
People: Come, Emmanuel, come.
Collect - Prayer for the Lighting of the Advent Candle
O God, rejoicing, we remember the promise of your Son.
As the light from the Advent candle, may the blessing of Christ come upon us,
brightening our way and guiding us by his truth.
May Christ our Savior bring life into the darkness of our world,
and to us, as we wait for his coming.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayers of the People
As we watch and wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us come away from the rush and hurry of our lives and offer prayers to God who comes to our aid. After each petition, please respond with “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
For the peace of a world broken by human desires, that Christ may come and dwell with us, healing all division and strife.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
For the church throughout the world and all Christians everywhere. That their anticipation of the Christ child will renew their hope in the promised Kingdom of God.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
For church leaders, for Al Gwynn, our bishop, for Greg Moore, our pastor, and all who tend the flocks of the faithful. May they be good and true servants of Christ, who calls them by name.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
For those in need, for the sick and the suffering, for the hungry and the oppressed, for those who are left in the cold during this winter season.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
For the poor in spirit, for those who spend much yet receive little comfort, for those who travel far yet cannot find solace.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
O King of all the nations, only joy of every heart, keystone of the mighty arch who makes us one, come and save the creature you fashioned from clay. Glory to you forever and ever. Amen.
Leader: Lift up your heads, O mighty gates!
People: And be lifted up, O ancient doors!
Leader: Behold, the King of glory waits to enter in.
People: Come, Emmanuel, come.
Collect - Prayer for the Lighting of the Advent Candle
O God, rejoicing, we remember the promise of your Son.
As the light from the Advent candle, may the blessing of Christ come upon us,
brightening our way and guiding us by his truth.
May Christ our Savior bring life into the darkness of our world,
and to us, as we wait for his coming.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayers of the People
As we watch and wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, let us come away from the rush and hurry of our lives and offer prayers to God who comes to our aid. After each petition, please respond with “Come, Emmanuel, come.”
For the peace of a world broken by human desires, that Christ may come and dwell with us, healing all division and strife.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
For the church throughout the world and all Christians everywhere. That their anticipation of the Christ child will renew their hope in the promised Kingdom of God.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
For church leaders, for Al Gwynn, our bishop, for Greg Moore, our pastor, and all who tend the flocks of the faithful. May they be good and true servants of Christ, who calls them by name.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
For those in need, for the sick and the suffering, for the hungry and the oppressed, for those who are left in the cold during this winter season.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
For the poor in spirit, for those who spend much yet receive little comfort, for those who travel far yet cannot find solace.
We pray, come, Emmanuel, come.
O King of all the nations, only joy of every heart, keystone of the mighty arch who makes us one, come and save the creature you fashioned from clay. Glory to you forever and ever. Amen.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Collects and Prayers - November 22, 2009 - Christ the King Sunday
Greeting
Leader: Christ, the King of kings, commands all the heavens and earth.
All: Let His name be exalted!
Leader: Christ the King is the king of Saul, David, and Solomon, and all is in His dominion.
All: To Him alone we submit ourselves.
Leader: The King of the Ages is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.
All: Let His glorious name be eternally praised!
Collect
Almighty God, who gave your son, Jesus Christ, a realm where all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; make us loyal followers of our living Lord, that we may always hear his word, follow his teachings, and live in his Spirit; and hasten the day when every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that he is Lord; to your eternal glory. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us pray to our God through Jesus Christ, king of kings and ruler of the rulers of earth.
For the the church universal, for its leaders and for this holy gathering, and for the people of God in every place.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For the leaders of the nations and all in authority, and for mercy, justice, and peace among all peoples.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For good weather, abundant fruits of the earth, and peaceful times.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For our community and those who live in it, and for our families, companions, and all those we love.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For all those in danger and need: the hungry and the thirsty, strangers and the naked, the sick and those in prison.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For those who rest in Christ and for all the dead.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For our deliverance from all affliction, strife, and need.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
God of all peoples, nations, and languages, who is and who was and who is to come, hear the prayers we offer this day and enable us to serve you as faithful followers in your kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Leader: Christ, the King of kings, commands all the heavens and earth.
All: Let His name be exalted!
Leader: Christ the King is the king of Saul, David, and Solomon, and all is in His dominion.
All: To Him alone we submit ourselves.
Leader: The King of the Ages is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end.
All: Let His glorious name be eternally praised!
Collect
Almighty God, who gave your son, Jesus Christ, a realm where all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him; make us loyal followers of our living Lord, that we may always hear his word, follow his teachings, and live in his Spirit; and hasten the day when every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that he is Lord; to your eternal glory. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us pray to our God through Jesus Christ, king of kings and ruler of the rulers of earth.
For the the church universal, for its leaders and for this holy gathering, and for the people of God in every place.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For the leaders of the nations and all in authority, and for mercy, justice, and peace among all peoples.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For good weather, abundant fruits of the earth, and peaceful times.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For our community and those who live in it, and for our families, companions, and all those we love.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For all those in danger and need: the hungry and the thirsty, strangers and the naked, the sick and those in prison.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For those who rest in Christ and for all the dead.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
For our deliverance from all affliction, strife, and need.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
God of all peoples, nations, and languages, who is and who was and who is to come, hear the prayers we offer this day and enable us to serve you as faithful followers in your kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Collects and Prayers - November 15, 2009
Greeting
Leader: Through baptism, we are welcomed into God’s gracious, forgiving heart.
People: Let us build a community of love and forgiveness where all will feel welcomed.
Leader: May the Lord find favor in your compassionate spirit.
People: We will open our hearts, hands, and minds to the fullness of Christ's love.
Collect
God of the outcast, the widow, the orphan, and the barren, who welcomes all to the house of God and the table of plenty, let us come now as gracious guests to offer our praise and thanksgiving and to fling our arms wide to embrace others by the example of Christ Jesus, your son. We ask this in your name, God in three persons- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You reign now and forever, a welcome guest in the hearts of all who profess your name. Amen.
Leader: Through baptism, we are welcomed into God’s gracious, forgiving heart.
People: Let us build a community of love and forgiveness where all will feel welcomed.
Leader: May the Lord find favor in your compassionate spirit.
People: We will open our hearts, hands, and minds to the fullness of Christ's love.
Collect
God of the outcast, the widow, the orphan, and the barren, who welcomes all to the house of God and the table of plenty, let us come now as gracious guests to offer our praise and thanksgiving and to fling our arms wide to embrace others by the example of Christ Jesus, your son. We ask this in your name, God in three persons- Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. You reign now and forever, a welcome guest in the hearts of all who profess your name. Amen.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Collects and Prayers - November 8, 2009
Greeting
Leader: The Lord gathers us in as one family of believers;
People: With love and compassion, let us welcome our neighbors.
Leader: Let us live into the hospitality of Christ.
People: Let us make in our hearts a dwelling for God.
Collect
God, Father of all, as we your children gather today under your majestic shelter of universal love, we are blessed to carry out your work; to reach out to family members, our neighbors, our friends, and our enemies; offering them a place in our family. Through your son, Jesus, who invites us into the waters of baptism and makes us all one, who lives and reigns in us through the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Leader: The Lord gathers us in as one family of believers;
People: With love and compassion, let us welcome our neighbors.
Leader: Let us live into the hospitality of Christ.
People: Let us make in our hearts a dwelling for God.
Collect
God, Father of all, as we your children gather today under your majestic shelter of universal love, we are blessed to carry out your work; to reach out to family members, our neighbors, our friends, and our enemies; offering them a place in our family. Through your son, Jesus, who invites us into the waters of baptism and makes us all one, who lives and reigns in us through the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Collects and Prayers - November 1, 2009 - The Feast of All Saints
Greeting
Leader: The God of all time and eternity speaks to us through the stories of the saints.
People: Today we celebrate and give thanks for their lives.
Leader: Moses, Ruth, David, Saint Paul, Saint Peter and all holy men and women, both known and unknown.
People: Their heroic and faithful lives call us to deeper faith.
Leader: Let us go now into God's temple, surrounded by this great cloud of witnesses.
People: Let us follow the saints, today and all days!
Collect
Almighty and ever-lasting God, Lord of all ages and times. We thank you for all the saints - those recognized by the Church and those known only to a few, and to Him. We rejoice that they live in heaven with every tear wiped away. May all who have died in the friendship of the Lord know his mercy and lasting peace.
We now remember our saints who have died during the past year.
*{Names were read aloud here}*
We rejoice in the communion of saints, the dead, the living, and those yet to be born. We here on earth wait for that glorious day when mourning and crying and pain are no more, and all things will be made new. Grant us the faith to walk bravely in the footsteps of the saints, and to serve you wholeheartedly, just as those before us have done.
We ask this for your glory and renown, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Leader: The God of all time and eternity speaks to us through the stories of the saints.
People: Today we celebrate and give thanks for their lives.
Leader: Moses, Ruth, David, Saint Paul, Saint Peter and all holy men and women, both known and unknown.
People: Their heroic and faithful lives call us to deeper faith.
Leader: Let us go now into God's temple, surrounded by this great cloud of witnesses.
People: Let us follow the saints, today and all days!
Collect
Almighty and ever-lasting God, Lord of all ages and times. We thank you for all the saints - those recognized by the Church and those known only to a few, and to Him. We rejoice that they live in heaven with every tear wiped away. May all who have died in the friendship of the Lord know his mercy and lasting peace.
We now remember our saints who have died during the past year.
*{Names were read aloud here}*
We rejoice in the communion of saints, the dead, the living, and those yet to be born. We here on earth wait for that glorious day when mourning and crying and pain are no more, and all things will be made new. Grant us the faith to walk bravely in the footsteps of the saints, and to serve you wholeheartedly, just as those before us have done.
We ask this for your glory and renown, through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Collects and Prayers - October 25, 2009
Greeting
Leader: The Lord God has directed us to love him and only him.
All: We will love the Lord, God with all our heart, soul and strength.
Leader: The Lord God decreed that we should teach our children to love him and only him.
All: We will use our gifts of the spirit to impress on our children’s hearts that God is the one and only.
Collect
God, Father of all creation, as wanderers in the desert of this modern world, we your children come to you today, asking to be continuously enlightened by your Holy Spirit so that we may remain faithful and true witnesses to your world through Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us offer prayers this day, to offer God our praise and petitions regarding our full engagement in our faith, to serve God with our head, hearts and hands. After each petition, I will say "Thy Kingdom Come." Your response is "Thy will be done."
Almighty God, we are overcome with a feeling of gratefulness as we consider the undeserved mercy and grace you have offered to us, asking only for us to love you completely. We are thankful for this gift and ask for counsel of the Holy Spirit as we examine our lives more closely to serve and worship you more fully.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We come to you in praise and thanksgiving for those who organize and imagine opportunities to serve the hungry and those in need. We are grateful for the community partnerships team and their gifts of ministry, and we are thankful for the response of those who engage in this work. We thank you for the faithfulness of those who offered their time, money, and talents to feed your hungry children in this world.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We offer our gratitude for those who serve through the congregational care team, offering your love through their ministry to nurture and support those in need. It is through these saints among us that we each learn how to love you more and how to respond to our neighbor. We thank you for providing our community with people who respond to your call through offering loving and faithful relationships to those in need.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We pray for the church, for the upcoming ministry action plans, and for what lies ahead for the coming year. We pray that each of us seek you earnestly and faithfully, to consider how as individuals, as families, and as a community, we can be fully engaged to serve you more completely.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We pray for our faithfulness in this call to action. Help us to keep your commands in our hearts: by reciting them to our children, binding them to our hands, and writing them on our doorposts, so that we may have living reminders of our call to serve and worship only you. May this command mark us to be different in this world.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We pray for those in the community not served by the church and who are strangers to your love. We pray that within All Saints' we will each seek and respond to your call to make disciples for the transformation of the world. Help us to know this begins with our neighbors.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We pray for those in the world who are sick in mind, body, or spirit. May your spirit and love comfort them, and may we, your people, offer signs of your love to those who are hurting throughout the world.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We offer these prayers and petitions through the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Leader: The Lord God has directed us to love him and only him.
All: We will love the Lord, God with all our heart, soul and strength.
Leader: The Lord God decreed that we should teach our children to love him and only him.
All: We will use our gifts of the spirit to impress on our children’s hearts that God is the one and only.
Collect
God, Father of all creation, as wanderers in the desert of this modern world, we your children come to you today, asking to be continuously enlightened by your Holy Spirit so that we may remain faithful and true witnesses to your world through Christ our Lord and Savior. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us offer prayers this day, to offer God our praise and petitions regarding our full engagement in our faith, to serve God with our head, hearts and hands. After each petition, I will say "Thy Kingdom Come." Your response is "Thy will be done."
Almighty God, we are overcome with a feeling of gratefulness as we consider the undeserved mercy and grace you have offered to us, asking only for us to love you completely. We are thankful for this gift and ask for counsel of the Holy Spirit as we examine our lives more closely to serve and worship you more fully.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We come to you in praise and thanksgiving for those who organize and imagine opportunities to serve the hungry and those in need. We are grateful for the community partnerships team and their gifts of ministry, and we are thankful for the response of those who engage in this work. We thank you for the faithfulness of those who offered their time, money, and talents to feed your hungry children in this world.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We offer our gratitude for those who serve through the congregational care team, offering your love through their ministry to nurture and support those in need. It is through these saints among us that we each learn how to love you more and how to respond to our neighbor. We thank you for providing our community with people who respond to your call through offering loving and faithful relationships to those in need.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We pray for the church, for the upcoming ministry action plans, and for what lies ahead for the coming year. We pray that each of us seek you earnestly and faithfully, to consider how as individuals, as families, and as a community, we can be fully engaged to serve you more completely.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We pray for our faithfulness in this call to action. Help us to keep your commands in our hearts: by reciting them to our children, binding them to our hands, and writing them on our doorposts, so that we may have living reminders of our call to serve and worship only you. May this command mark us to be different in this world.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We pray for those in the community not served by the church and who are strangers to your love. We pray that within All Saints' we will each seek and respond to your call to make disciples for the transformation of the world. Help us to know this begins with our neighbors.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We pray for those in the world who are sick in mind, body, or spirit. May your spirit and love comfort them, and may we, your people, offer signs of your love to those who are hurting throughout the world.
Thy Kingdom Come. Thy will be done.
We offer these prayers and petitions through the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, Amen.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Collects and Prayers - October 18, 2009
Greeting
Leader: Gather us in – teachers, preachers, bankers, and mechanics –
People: that we use God’s gifts to earn all we can.
Leader: Gather us in – doctors, lawyers, authors, and farmers –
People: that we live our lives wisely to save all we can.
Leader: Gather us in – salesmen, writers, traders, and engineers –
People: that we follow your generosity of heart to give all we can.
Collect
Almighty and merciful God, you taught us through your Son Jesus Christ that the first shall be last, and the last shall be first. Through the sacrifice of your Son, you showed us the true measure of giving ourselves to you and others. Instill in our hearts the passion to follow the example of your Son, and to give all that we are and all that we'll ever be wholly to you. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Knowing that our loving God supplies all our needs, let us pray to him now on behalf of the Church and the world.
God, the author of our lives and creator of our many talents, we give thanks for meaningful work, which orders our days in your name and puts our skills to good use. We are grateful for the fruits of our labors, which allow us to provide for ourselves and our families. While we earn what we can, give us thankful hearts, knowing that it is your hand that feeds us and your authority to which we must answer. Give us the energy to work industriously, the wisdom to balance our work appropriately, and the humility to attribute our earnings to your gracious presence in our lives.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
God, whose creation is perfectly ordered so that all have enough, curb our desire for more. You teach us that there is a time to spend, and a time to save, and a time for all things under heaven. We ask that you give us the wisdom to discern the proper use of our resources. Reorder our lives so that our hearts, our minds, our time, our talent, and our treasure are in tune with one another and with your plan for the Kingdom. Teach us prudence, self-control and simple living. Help us to save all we can, not for ourselves, but for your ministry in the world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
God, who freely gives us all things for no other reason than for love, help us to be as gracious in our giving. We pray that we may recognize our gifts as a means of glorifying you and not ourselves. Lead us, your servants, to live up to your glory in our homes, our church, our community, and our world. As we commit ourselves to you and to one another, empower us to give all we can.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Lord, your generosity draws us to love more deeply and give more fully. Hear us as we pray, and use us in fulfilling our prayers. We ask this through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Leader: Gather us in – teachers, preachers, bankers, and mechanics –
People: that we use God’s gifts to earn all we can.
Leader: Gather us in – doctors, lawyers, authors, and farmers –
People: that we live our lives wisely to save all we can.
Leader: Gather us in – salesmen, writers, traders, and engineers –
People: that we follow your generosity of heart to give all we can.
Collect
Almighty and merciful God, you taught us through your Son Jesus Christ that the first shall be last, and the last shall be first. Through the sacrifice of your Son, you showed us the true measure of giving ourselves to you and others. Instill in our hearts the passion to follow the example of your Son, and to give all that we are and all that we'll ever be wholly to you. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Knowing that our loving God supplies all our needs, let us pray to him now on behalf of the Church and the world.
God, the author of our lives and creator of our many talents, we give thanks for meaningful work, which orders our days in your name and puts our skills to good use. We are grateful for the fruits of our labors, which allow us to provide for ourselves and our families. While we earn what we can, give us thankful hearts, knowing that it is your hand that feeds us and your authority to which we must answer. Give us the energy to work industriously, the wisdom to balance our work appropriately, and the humility to attribute our earnings to your gracious presence in our lives.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
God, whose creation is perfectly ordered so that all have enough, curb our desire for more. You teach us that there is a time to spend, and a time to save, and a time for all things under heaven. We ask that you give us the wisdom to discern the proper use of our resources. Reorder our lives so that our hearts, our minds, our time, our talent, and our treasure are in tune with one another and with your plan for the Kingdom. Teach us prudence, self-control and simple living. Help us to save all we can, not for ourselves, but for your ministry in the world.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
God, who freely gives us all things for no other reason than for love, help us to be as gracious in our giving. We pray that we may recognize our gifts as a means of glorifying you and not ourselves. Lead us, your servants, to live up to your glory in our homes, our church, our community, and our world. As we commit ourselves to you and to one another, empower us to give all we can.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Lord, your generosity draws us to love more deeply and give more fully. Hear us as we pray, and use us in fulfilling our prayers. We ask this through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Collects and Prayers - October 11, 2009
Greeting
Leader: Brothers and sisters, how do we live into God's abundant gifts?
People: With all our hearts, we accept them.
Leader: What shall we do with our treasures, great and small?
People: We will transform them into tools for ministry in the world.
Leader: The action of the Living Spirit prospers everything we do
People: And increases every good we possess.
Collect
God of all creation, whose love is new every morning, whose goodness is limitless and timeless, who always supplies more than enough at the table of life, grant us hearts overflowing and hands eager to build your kingdom. We pray through Jesus Christ, your son, the good shepherd who calls us each by name, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen
Prayers of the People
Let us bring our prayers before God, the giver of all good gifts.
We pray for the world, with all its abundant resources that you so carefully crafted for our benefit. May we touch the earth lightly and use it gently, knowing that there is always more than enough to meet our needs and build your kingdom.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who have enough and yet live beyond their means, who daily feel the conflicting burdens of debt and the desire for more things. Free them from want and worry, and turn their hearts so that they may commit their lives to your provident care.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who live in poverty, whose days are marked by concerns about how they will eat, what they will wear, and where they will sleep. Give them enough, and give us the spirit of your apostles, who shared what they had with the needy.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for the Church universal, your agent of change in the world, which you have entrusted to your holy people. May the church wisely and justly use its monetary resources, our tithes and offerings, for the betterment of all and the upbuilding of your kingdom.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for All Saints' and especially for the members of our finance team, who are charged with the task of allocating our resources in your name. May their vital work become more than merely crunching numbers and be transformed into a calling that celebrates abundance and spends according to an inspired plan for ministry.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for our homes, our domestic churches, that they may truly be little examples of budget-free living, guided instead by ministry action plans. Open our minds to imagine the possibilities you have in store for us and our resources.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We ask these things in the name of Jesus, the gatekeeper and shepherd, who knows us each by name and promises life to the fullest. Amen.
Leader: Brothers and sisters, how do we live into God's abundant gifts?
People: With all our hearts, we accept them.
Leader: What shall we do with our treasures, great and small?
People: We will transform them into tools for ministry in the world.
Leader: The action of the Living Spirit prospers everything we do
People: And increases every good we possess.
Collect
God of all creation, whose love is new every morning, whose goodness is limitless and timeless, who always supplies more than enough at the table of life, grant us hearts overflowing and hands eager to build your kingdom. We pray through Jesus Christ, your son, the good shepherd who calls us each by name, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen
Prayers of the People
Let us bring our prayers before God, the giver of all good gifts.
We pray for the world, with all its abundant resources that you so carefully crafted for our benefit. May we touch the earth lightly and use it gently, knowing that there is always more than enough to meet our needs and build your kingdom.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who have enough and yet live beyond their means, who daily feel the conflicting burdens of debt and the desire for more things. Free them from want and worry, and turn their hearts so that they may commit their lives to your provident care.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who live in poverty, whose days are marked by concerns about how they will eat, what they will wear, and where they will sleep. Give them enough, and give us the spirit of your apostles, who shared what they had with the needy.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for the Church universal, your agent of change in the world, which you have entrusted to your holy people. May the church wisely and justly use its monetary resources, our tithes and offerings, for the betterment of all and the upbuilding of your kingdom.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for All Saints' and especially for the members of our finance team, who are charged with the task of allocating our resources in your name. May their vital work become more than merely crunching numbers and be transformed into a calling that celebrates abundance and spends according to an inspired plan for ministry.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for our homes, our domestic churches, that they may truly be little examples of budget-free living, guided instead by ministry action plans. Open our minds to imagine the possibilities you have in store for us and our resources.
God, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We ask these things in the name of Jesus, the gatekeeper and shepherd, who knows us each by name and promises life to the fullest. Amen.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Collects and Prayers - October 4, 2009
Greeting
Leader: God has given us an abundance of water.
People: We will baptize others in his name.
Leader: God has granted us many riches.
People: We will use this bounty to share the good news.
Leader: God has created a covenant with his people.
People: We will follow and worship the Lord.
Collect
Almighty God, giver of every good and perfect gift, teach us to render to you all that we have and all that we are, that we may praise you, not with our lips only, but with our whole lives, turning the duties, the sorrows, and the joys of all our days into a living sacrifice to you; through our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Prayers of the People
We pray for those who work with their minds: political leaders, judges, scientists, and all who are entrusted to make world-changing decisions. We ask that you grant them the wisdom to render their decisions with justice, compassion, and mercy.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who work with their hearts: teachers, doctors, policemen, firemen, and all who care for those who cannot care for themselves. We ask that you grant them purity of intention, a giving spirit, and a willingness to serve.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who work with their hands: carpenters, farmers, artists of all kinds, and all who use your bounty to create. We ask that you grant them fortitude, good health, and a tireless spirit.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for children everywhere, born and unborn, the most valuable of your gifts to us. We ask that you grant all parents, especially those in the All Saints' community, the humility to look to you as a model of parenthood and unconditional love.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for the congregation and leaders of All Saints' as we discern how to use our resources for good. We ask that you grant us a generous spirit.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for those in the New Member class as they discern their spiritual gifts. We ask that you grant them open hearts and minds so that they may know your will and heed your call.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We now offer our own prayers, either silently or aloud, for all the things that God has done for us and through us at All Saints'.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We ask these things through Christ our Lord, the giver of all good things, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever, Amen.
Leader: God has given us an abundance of water.
People: We will baptize others in his name.
Leader: God has granted us many riches.
People: We will use this bounty to share the good news.
Leader: God has created a covenant with his people.
People: We will follow and worship the Lord.
Collect
Almighty God, giver of every good and perfect gift, teach us to render to you all that we have and all that we are, that we may praise you, not with our lips only, but with our whole lives, turning the duties, the sorrows, and the joys of all our days into a living sacrifice to you; through our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Prayers of the People
We pray for those who work with their minds: political leaders, judges, scientists, and all who are entrusted to make world-changing decisions. We ask that you grant them the wisdom to render their decisions with justice, compassion, and mercy.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who work with their hearts: teachers, doctors, policemen, firemen, and all who care for those who cannot care for themselves. We ask that you grant them purity of intention, a giving spirit, and a willingness to serve.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who work with their hands: carpenters, farmers, artists of all kinds, and all who use your bounty to create. We ask that you grant them fortitude, good health, and a tireless spirit.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for children everywhere, born and unborn, the most valuable of your gifts to us. We ask that you grant all parents, especially those in the All Saints' community, the humility to look to you as a model of parenthood and unconditional love.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for the congregation and leaders of All Saints' as we discern how to use our resources for good. We ask that you grant us a generous spirit.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We pray for those in the New Member class as they discern their spiritual gifts. We ask that you grant them open hearts and minds so that they may know your will and heed your call.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We now offer our own prayers, either silently or aloud, for all the things that God has done for us and through us at All Saints'.
Lord, in your generosity, hear our prayer.
We ask these things through Christ our Lord, the giver of all good things, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever, Amen.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Collects and Prayers - September 27, 2009
Greeting
Leader: With joy in our hearts, we come with thanksgiving
People: For the ways God abundantly feeds us.
Leader: As our forefathers gathered in the desert
People: We gather here to worship God and serve each other
Leader: As the apostles distributed bread and fish to the thousands
People: So too will we feed the hungry.
Collect
Lord, who fed Israel in the wilderness, who fills the hungry with good things, and who feeds the world through the body of Christ, we come to you today as wanderers in a spiritual wasteland, bearing gifts of food and asking you for mercy, that you would bless our offerings to feed your children who hunger for both spiritual and physical nourishment. This we ask in the name of Jesus, our Lord, the bread of life, who with you and the Holy Spirit live and reign forever and ever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
We pray for world leaders, that they may listen to the voices of those who live in poverty, and begin to use their power generously for the good of all.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who do not have enough to eat. Help us to recognize that hunger affects not nameless, faceless people, but other human beings: people with families, hopes, and dreams for a better future. Allow us to work hard to bring about positive change in the lives of these people.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for the Church, that it may demonstrate to the world a living, vibrant faith, which seeks to include and share, and speaks out against the scandal of hunger.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those whose bellies are full, yet they hunger for the bread of understanding.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those whose broken relationships leaving them longing for compassion.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We give thanks for the miracle of abundance, especially here in this community. As this church faces the daunting tasks of growth and ministry in Brier Creek, may we move from a mindset of scarcity to one of abundance, reaching out to those neighbors whose spirits are starved and trusting in God to multiply our resources like the loaves and fishes.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We give thanks for the generosity of many and for the hands that perform Christ’s miraculous work of feeding. We ask for your blessing upon them, that they may be filled in every way and come to know Christ through loving, generous actions.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
Leader: With joy in our hearts, we come with thanksgiving
People: For the ways God abundantly feeds us.
Leader: As our forefathers gathered in the desert
People: We gather here to worship God and serve each other
Leader: As the apostles distributed bread and fish to the thousands
People: So too will we feed the hungry.
Collect
Lord, who fed Israel in the wilderness, who fills the hungry with good things, and who feeds the world through the body of Christ, we come to you today as wanderers in a spiritual wasteland, bearing gifts of food and asking you for mercy, that you would bless our offerings to feed your children who hunger for both spiritual and physical nourishment. This we ask in the name of Jesus, our Lord, the bread of life, who with you and the Holy Spirit live and reign forever and ever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
We pray for world leaders, that they may listen to the voices of those who live in poverty, and begin to use their power generously for the good of all.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who do not have enough to eat. Help us to recognize that hunger affects not nameless, faceless people, but other human beings: people with families, hopes, and dreams for a better future. Allow us to work hard to bring about positive change in the lives of these people.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for the Church, that it may demonstrate to the world a living, vibrant faith, which seeks to include and share, and speaks out against the scandal of hunger.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those whose bellies are full, yet they hunger for the bread of understanding.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We pray for those whose broken relationships leaving them longing for compassion.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We give thanks for the miracle of abundance, especially here in this community. As this church faces the daunting tasks of growth and ministry in Brier Creek, may we move from a mindset of scarcity to one of abundance, reaching out to those neighbors whose spirits are starved and trusting in God to multiply our resources like the loaves and fishes.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
We give thanks for the generosity of many and for the hands that perform Christ’s miraculous work of feeding. We ask for your blessing upon them, that they may be filled in every way and come to know Christ through loving, generous actions.
Lord, in your goodness, hear our prayer.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Collects and Prayers - September 20, 2009
Greeting
Leader: God abundantly endows us
People: with many gifts and many talents.
Leader: God boldly commissions us
People: for the work of ministry through his Church.
Leader: God urgently calls us;
People: let us cast down our nets and follow him.
Collect
Almighty God, you graciously give us many gifts and talents. Stir up in us desire to use these gifts for your glory - so that through your spirit we might transform the world; for the sake of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
There were no prayers of the people this week because we did a commissioning of the facilitators instead.
Leader: God abundantly endows us
People: with many gifts and many talents.
Leader: God boldly commissions us
People: for the work of ministry through his Church.
Leader: God urgently calls us;
People: let us cast down our nets and follow him.
Collect
Almighty God, you graciously give us many gifts and talents. Stir up in us desire to use these gifts for your glory - so that through your spirit we might transform the world; for the sake of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
There were no prayers of the people this week because we did a commissioning of the facilitators instead.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Collects and Prayers - September 13, 2009
Greeting
Leader: Amos, the shepherd, was called a prophet of God.
People: God calls ordinary people to speak his word.
Leader: Paul, the tentmaker, was called an Apostle of the church.
People: God sends his people into every field of work.
Leader: Jesus, the carpenter, is the very son of God.
People: God's kingdom is built by human hands.
Leader: The Lord commissions all the baptized to be ministers of the Gospel.
People: Empower us, almighty God, for the work of ministry.
Collect
Almighty God, you eternally beckon us with your hands and voice. Let us hear your call so that we may drop our nets filled with distractions and worldly priorities, and remake our lives to serve only you with worshipful hands and delightful hearts. We ask this through our savior Jesus Christ, who taught us to abandon all to serve only you. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Today, we recognize that the church’s mission rests in the hands of its many members who lead busy lives, yet make time to serve the Lord and one another. We acknowledge and pray for the faithful disciples of Jesus Christ who devote themselves to the service of God in this place, All Saints’ United Methodist Church. There are many ministries here. Some are more visible than others, but all are life-giving. They live to enable this church to be a people of love and peace. As I read them aloud, I ask you to stand when I call a ministry in which you serve All Saints’:
Lay lectors
Lay liturgists
Communion servers
Eucharistic ministers
Crucifers
Choir members
Musicians
Those who lead children’s time in worship
Children’s choir leaders
The table team
Ushers
Greeters
Money counters
AV workers
Set-up and break-down crews
Nursery and childcare workers
Sunday school teachers for adults and children
VBS leaders
Small group leaders
Leaders of the new member class
Youth group volunteers
Members of the meal ministry
Mentoring moms
The card ministry
The prayer ministry
The congregational care team
Members of our community partnership team
The staff-parish relations committee
The finance team
Land and locations team
Communications team
Caretakers of our ministry center
Office volunteers
And any other ministries that we may have inadvertently omitted
Dear Friends,
You have been called by God for service in this church. This ministry is a blessing and a serious responsibility. It recognizes your special gifts and calls you to work among us and for us. In love, we thank you and challenge you to offer your best to the Lord, to this people, and to our ministry in the world. Live a life in Christ and make him known in your witness and in the work of your hands.
Let us pray:
Almighty God, pour out your blessings upon these your servants who have been given particular ministries in your church. Grant them grace to give themselves wholeheartedly in your service. Keep before them the example of our Lord, who did not think first of himself, but gave himself for us all. Let them share his ministry and consecration, that they may enter into his joy. Guide their hands in doing your work. Reward their faithfulness with the knowledge that through them your purposes are accomplished; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Leader: Amos, the shepherd, was called a prophet of God.
People: God calls ordinary people to speak his word.
Leader: Paul, the tentmaker, was called an Apostle of the church.
People: God sends his people into every field of work.
Leader: Jesus, the carpenter, is the very son of God.
People: God's kingdom is built by human hands.
Leader: The Lord commissions all the baptized to be ministers of the Gospel.
People: Empower us, almighty God, for the work of ministry.
Collect
Almighty God, you eternally beckon us with your hands and voice. Let us hear your call so that we may drop our nets filled with distractions and worldly priorities, and remake our lives to serve only you with worshipful hands and delightful hearts. We ask this through our savior Jesus Christ, who taught us to abandon all to serve only you. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Today, we recognize that the church’s mission rests in the hands of its many members who lead busy lives, yet make time to serve the Lord and one another. We acknowledge and pray for the faithful disciples of Jesus Christ who devote themselves to the service of God in this place, All Saints’ United Methodist Church. There are many ministries here. Some are more visible than others, but all are life-giving. They live to enable this church to be a people of love and peace. As I read them aloud, I ask you to stand when I call a ministry in which you serve All Saints’:
Lay lectors
Lay liturgists
Communion servers
Eucharistic ministers
Crucifers
Choir members
Musicians
Those who lead children’s time in worship
Children’s choir leaders
The table team
Ushers
Greeters
Money counters
AV workers
Set-up and break-down crews
Nursery and childcare workers
Sunday school teachers for adults and children
VBS leaders
Small group leaders
Leaders of the new member class
Youth group volunteers
Members of the meal ministry
Mentoring moms
The card ministry
The prayer ministry
The congregational care team
Members of our community partnership team
The staff-parish relations committee
The finance team
Land and locations team
Communications team
Caretakers of our ministry center
Office volunteers
And any other ministries that we may have inadvertently omitted
Dear Friends,
You have been called by God for service in this church. This ministry is a blessing and a serious responsibility. It recognizes your special gifts and calls you to work among us and for us. In love, we thank you and challenge you to offer your best to the Lord, to this people, and to our ministry in the world. Live a life in Christ and make him known in your witness and in the work of your hands.
Let us pray:
Almighty God, pour out your blessings upon these your servants who have been given particular ministries in your church. Grant them grace to give themselves wholeheartedly in your service. Keep before them the example of our Lord, who did not think first of himself, but gave himself for us all. Let them share his ministry and consecration, that they may enter into his joy. Guide their hands in doing your work. Reward their faithfulness with the knowledge that through them your purposes are accomplished; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Collects and Prayers - September 6, 2009
Greeting
Leader: The Lord gives food to the hungry.
People: We are fed by feeding others.
Leader: The Lord gives comfort to the afflicted.
People: We are comforted by showing our love.
Leader: The Lord frees us from sin.
People: We are freed by serving our neighbor.
Collect
Heavenly Father, you gave us hearts of flesh because faith alone is dry. Grant that we may use our hearts to direct our hands: to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, and to console the suffering. We ask this through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us pray for the Church and for a world in need of hands to serve.
Grant, almighty God, that all who confess your name may be united in your truth, live together in your love, and reveal your glory in the world, not only through words but through daily Christ-like actions.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Guide the people of All Saints' United Methodist Church, that they may serve one another and their neighbors, seeking always to honor one another and work towards the common good.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless our ministries that bear witness to a faith of action. Bless especially our congregational care and community partnership teams, whose arms comfort with an embrace, whose hands prepare meals for the sick, homebound, and needy. We pray that this congregation will follow their faithful example in feeding the hungry.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Touch those, O God, who feel the weight of stagnation, who feel bogged down and unable to be Christians of action. Let their feet be your feet; let their hands be your hands. Guide them to hear your call and take action.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give us, O Lord, an awareness in our daily living of the Christ-like actions happening all around us. Open our eyes to good deeds, help us see the good in your creation and in each saint you have placed on earth. We commend to you all who have died; and look to them as examples of life in Christ.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We ask all these prayers in the name of your son, Jesus, whose life is our ultimate example of service to others.
Amen.
Leader: The Lord gives food to the hungry.
People: We are fed by feeding others.
Leader: The Lord gives comfort to the afflicted.
People: We are comforted by showing our love.
Leader: The Lord frees us from sin.
People: We are freed by serving our neighbor.
Collect
Heavenly Father, you gave us hearts of flesh because faith alone is dry. Grant that we may use our hearts to direct our hands: to feed the hungry, to clothe the naked, and to console the suffering. We ask this through Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us pray for the Church and for a world in need of hands to serve.
Grant, almighty God, that all who confess your name may be united in your truth, live together in your love, and reveal your glory in the world, not only through words but through daily Christ-like actions.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Guide the people of All Saints' United Methodist Church, that they may serve one another and their neighbors, seeking always to honor one another and work towards the common good.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Bless our ministries that bear witness to a faith of action. Bless especially our congregational care and community partnership teams, whose arms comfort with an embrace, whose hands prepare meals for the sick, homebound, and needy. We pray that this congregation will follow their faithful example in feeding the hungry.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Touch those, O God, who feel the weight of stagnation, who feel bogged down and unable to be Christians of action. Let their feet be your feet; let their hands be your hands. Guide them to hear your call and take action.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
Give us, O Lord, an awareness in our daily living of the Christ-like actions happening all around us. Open our eyes to good deeds, help us see the good in your creation and in each saint you have placed on earth. We commend to you all who have died; and look to them as examples of life in Christ.
Lord, in your mercy, hear our prayer.
We ask all these prayers in the name of your son, Jesus, whose life is our ultimate example of service to others.
Amen.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Collects and Prayers - August 30, 2009
Greeting (We commissioned the new cross this week, so the greeting was a little different)
Leader: Fix your mind on the Lord,
People: and fix your gaze on the cross of Christ.
Leader: Today, we present this cross to be consecrated to the glory of almighty God and for service in this church.
People: We accept this cross as a sacred trust and will guard and use it reverently.
Leader: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit we consecrate this cross to the glory of God. Let us pray.
People (at end of prayer): Amen.
Collect
Wise and Mindful God, we come to you seeking insight into your truth so that we may more fully embody your wisdom and understanding in order to reach a troubled world. This we pray in the name of Jesus, who was so obedient to your way that he set his face toward Jerusalem and a cross. Amen
Prayers of the People
God our Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, you have given us a book to read, a savior to follow and a spirit to guide and protect us. What more could our minds desire in order to unlock the secrets of life and fulfillment? You have created us in your own image and given yourself to us with love and expectation. Help us to dedicate ourselves to the edification of our minds that we may think your thoughts and act with your eternal wisdom.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray for all students regardless of their age. Give them a desire for learning and a passion for discerning the meaning in what they have learned. Thank you, Lord, we pray for those who apply themselves to challenging disciplines for the good of society and all creation - for those who are researching cures for diseases, for those who study social work, for seminarians hoping to make a difference.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray for our children whose minds are receptive and therefore absorb everything, both truth and falsehood. Protect them from misinformation about themselves, others, and the world around them. Fill them with wonderful teachings about you: our Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray for those who suffer from memory loss, dementia and amnesia that they may be able to allow others to hold in sacred trust the memories lock within their fragmented minds. And we thank you, Wise and Powerful God, for knowing and remembering all things.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray as part of our global church, here in Brier Creek, that we may be one in mind and deed and as we study your Word, that we will apply it in ways that mend the fractures of our community and beyond. We ask you to make us icons for this community, images and Christ and windows into his world.
Lord, in your Mercy...
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray for nations where free thought and universal education are denied to countless citizens. We offer our support and admiration for all who refuse to be held in the bondage of ignorance. Guide all humanity to understand that truth sets us free.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER
Father of all, we thank you for your words of wisdom and your spirit of patience. As your saints, we recognize our own imperfections; yet we strive to be your living icons. We pray for insight that will lead us to acknowledge the whys of our failures so that we may be fortified by your words and complete our journey toward wisdom.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We ask all these prayers in the name of your son, Jesus, on whom we fix our gaze and our minds.
Amen.
Leader: Fix your mind on the Lord,
People: and fix your gaze on the cross of Christ.
Leader: Today, we present this cross to be consecrated to the glory of almighty God and for service in this church.
People: We accept this cross as a sacred trust and will guard and use it reverently.
Leader: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit we consecrate this cross to the glory of God. Let us pray.
People (at end of prayer): Amen.
Collect
Wise and Mindful God, we come to you seeking insight into your truth so that we may more fully embody your wisdom and understanding in order to reach a troubled world. This we pray in the name of Jesus, who was so obedient to your way that he set his face toward Jerusalem and a cross. Amen
Prayers of the People
God our Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer, you have given us a book to read, a savior to follow and a spirit to guide and protect us. What more could our minds desire in order to unlock the secrets of life and fulfillment? You have created us in your own image and given yourself to us with love and expectation. Help us to dedicate ourselves to the edification of our minds that we may think your thoughts and act with your eternal wisdom.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray for all students regardless of their age. Give them a desire for learning and a passion for discerning the meaning in what they have learned. Thank you, Lord, we pray for those who apply themselves to challenging disciplines for the good of society and all creation - for those who are researching cures for diseases, for those who study social work, for seminarians hoping to make a difference.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray for our children whose minds are receptive and therefore absorb everything, both truth and falsehood. Protect them from misinformation about themselves, others, and the world around them. Fill them with wonderful teachings about you: our Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray for those who suffer from memory loss, dementia and amnesia that they may be able to allow others to hold in sacred trust the memories lock within their fragmented minds. And we thank you, Wise and Powerful God, for knowing and remembering all things.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray as part of our global church, here in Brier Creek, that we may be one in mind and deed and as we study your Word, that we will apply it in ways that mend the fractures of our community and beyond. We ask you to make us icons for this community, images and Christ and windows into his world.
Lord, in your Mercy...
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We pray for nations where free thought and universal education are denied to countless citizens. We offer our support and admiration for all who refuse to be held in the bondage of ignorance. Guide all humanity to understand that truth sets us free.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER
Father of all, we thank you for your words of wisdom and your spirit of patience. As your saints, we recognize our own imperfections; yet we strive to be your living icons. We pray for insight that will lead us to acknowledge the whys of our failures so that we may be fortified by your words and complete our journey toward wisdom.
Lord, in your Mercy…
HEAR OUR PRAYER.
We ask all these prayers in the name of your son, Jesus, on whom we fix our gaze and our minds.
Amen.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Collects and Prayers - August 23
Greeting
Leader: We, the body of Christ, gather with one mind in God's house this day;
Congregation: How lovely is his dwelling place!
Leader: Let us meditate on Christ's majesty and splendor both day and night
Congregation: And tell of his wisdom to all peoples.
Leader: Lord, happy are those who trust in you.
Congregation: Teach us to know your power.
Collect
Lay Liturgist: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Lay Liturgist: Let us pray.
Immortal, Invisible, All-powerful God, you sent your son to the world so that we might know the saving power of the risen Christ. Teach us to walk closer to him so that we might be transformed and renewed; for the sake of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Lay Liturgist: You may be seated.
Lay Liturgist: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Now let us bring our petitions to God. Please respond to each petition with "Lord, hear our prayer."
We pray for leaders of nations and all those entrusted with decision-making. Grant them the knowledge to use their positions of earthly power as vehicles for the common good. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who suffer. May they find comfort in the knowledge that Christ shares their pain and that he will ease their burdens. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for church leaders everywhere, especially for our North Carolina Conference Bishop, and for our pastor. Let them faithfully follow in the footsteps of Christ as good shepherds. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for the unchurched, especially the unchurched families and individuals of Brier Creek. Grant them the knowledge that Christ can offer them treasures of untold wealth. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for students everywhere, especially those at our area universities who struggle to find a place for God in their lives. Help them to hear your call. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for the All Saints' Sunday School teachers and participants in the next New Member class beginning in a few weeks. Grant them the power to touch lives and transform hearts and the openness to be touched and transformed. Lord, hear our prayer.
We ask these things in the name of Jesus, who knows all and is all, who lives and reigns in our minds and hearts now and forever. Amen.
Leader: We, the body of Christ, gather with one mind in God's house this day;
Congregation: How lovely is his dwelling place!
Leader: Let us meditate on Christ's majesty and splendor both day and night
Congregation: And tell of his wisdom to all peoples.
Leader: Lord, happy are those who trust in you.
Congregation: Teach us to know your power.
Collect
Lay Liturgist: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Lay Liturgist: Let us pray.
Immortal, Invisible, All-powerful God, you sent your son to the world so that we might know the saving power of the risen Christ. Teach us to walk closer to him so that we might be transformed and renewed; for the sake of our Savior, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Lay Liturgist: You may be seated.
Lay Liturgist: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Now let us bring our petitions to God. Please respond to each petition with "Lord, hear our prayer."
We pray for leaders of nations and all those entrusted with decision-making. Grant them the knowledge to use their positions of earthly power as vehicles for the common good. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for those who suffer. May they find comfort in the knowledge that Christ shares their pain and that he will ease their burdens. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for church leaders everywhere, especially for our North Carolina Conference Bishop, and for our pastor. Let them faithfully follow in the footsteps of Christ as good shepherds. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for the unchurched, especially the unchurched families and individuals of Brier Creek. Grant them the knowledge that Christ can offer them treasures of untold wealth. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for students everywhere, especially those at our area universities who struggle to find a place for God in their lives. Help them to hear your call. Lord, hear our prayer.
We pray for the All Saints' Sunday School teachers and participants in the next New Member class beginning in a few weeks. Grant them the power to touch lives and transform hearts and the openness to be touched and transformed. Lord, hear our prayer.
We ask these things in the name of Jesus, who knows all and is all, who lives and reigns in our minds and hearts now and forever. Amen.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Collect and Prayers-August 16
Greeting
Leader: Praise the Lord!
People: Let us give thanks with our whole heart.
Leader: Cry out for insight!
People: Let us incline our minds toward understanding.
Leader: May the mind of Christ be in you,
People: And in life itself.
Collect
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
To the eternal God of ages, it is you alone who leads to the way of life. Help us embody the mind of Christ that we may act with obedience for the sole purpose of exalting you. We ask you this through the name of the one perfect and all knowing God. Amen.
Prayers of the People
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
God of all that is wise and true, we praise you for everything in life that reveals your goodness, grace, and mercy. We ask you for discernment in thought as we are confronted with difficult matters in our lives. Our failure is in our reluctance to turn to you, while you longingly wait for us to seek you. Anyone else would have abandoned us long ago. But you, O Loving God, are not anyone else.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
We pray for all those who have lost their way and lack the will to search for direction. We pray for all who are sick in mind, body, and spirit. Healing God, bathe them in the light of your presence as we now lift their names silently and aloud. (Pause for names to be lifted) And if there are those for whom no prayer will be uttered this day, let this prayer be for them.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
Give us insight into all the ways the Church can make your disciples. Show us where we have not represented the true mind of Christ. We pray for United Methodists to truly reflect open hearts, open minds and open doors. Prepare our minds to confront the distance between our beliefs and practices.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
Guide All Saints’ as we grow your young church that we may nurture its members and be a beacon to the Brier Creek community. Especially today, we ask for the direction and wisdom for the leader of the Adult Discipleship Team to prepare the minds of Christ in each of us through Sunday School and small groups.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
We lift up the Brier Creek Elementary School, its teachers, students and new principal. Prepare their minds and bodies for the school year that is to come. Provide them with all they need to learn, grow, and serve. We pray for the teaching and nurturing that happens here in this place and in this community.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
Draw our world together around the issues affecting all of humanity. Build within each of us mind to singularly seek you and to serve one another with wisdom, understanding, and grace. Quiet all that clouds clarity and enable us to discern your will.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
These things we ask in the name of Jesus. All glory and honor be Thine.
Amen
Leader: Praise the Lord!
People: Let us give thanks with our whole heart.
Leader: Cry out for insight!
People: Let us incline our minds toward understanding.
Leader: May the mind of Christ be in you,
People: And in life itself.
Collect
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
To the eternal God of ages, it is you alone who leads to the way of life. Help us embody the mind of Christ that we may act with obedience for the sole purpose of exalting you. We ask you this through the name of the one perfect and all knowing God. Amen.
Prayers of the People
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
God of all that is wise and true, we praise you for everything in life that reveals your goodness, grace, and mercy. We ask you for discernment in thought as we are confronted with difficult matters in our lives. Our failure is in our reluctance to turn to you, while you longingly wait for us to seek you. Anyone else would have abandoned us long ago. But you, O Loving God, are not anyone else.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
We pray for all those who have lost their way and lack the will to search for direction. We pray for all who are sick in mind, body, and spirit. Healing God, bathe them in the light of your presence as we now lift their names silently and aloud. (Pause for names to be lifted) And if there are those for whom no prayer will be uttered this day, let this prayer be for them.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
Give us insight into all the ways the Church can make your disciples. Show us where we have not represented the true mind of Christ. We pray for United Methodists to truly reflect open hearts, open minds and open doors. Prepare our minds to confront the distance between our beliefs and practices.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
Guide All Saints’ as we grow your young church that we may nurture its members and be a beacon to the Brier Creek community. Especially today, we ask for the direction and wisdom for the leader of the Adult Discipleship Team to prepare the minds of Christ in each of us through Sunday School and small groups.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
We lift up the Brier Creek Elementary School, its teachers, students and new principal. Prepare their minds and bodies for the school year that is to come. Provide them with all they need to learn, grow, and serve. We pray for the teaching and nurturing that happens here in this place and in this community.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
Draw our world together around the issues affecting all of humanity. Build within each of us mind to singularly seek you and to serve one another with wisdom, understanding, and grace. Quiet all that clouds clarity and enable us to discern your will.
We pray to you, O God. (Pause for silence)
These things we ask in the name of Jesus. All glory and honor be Thine.
Amen
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Collect and Prayers-August 9
Greeting
Leader: Gather together all the people to praise the Lord.
People: We gather together to praise God who is One in three.
Leader: Bless the Lord with one mind!
People: And with one soul!
Leader: And with one heart!
People: Bless the Lord: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!
Collect
To the one true and all knowing God, we call upon your wisdom as your reluctant students. Help us collectively seek your teachings in this faith, that we may abide in the mind of Christ for your transformation. We ask this through the Holy Trinity, who dwells in one mind and spirit. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Omitted due to the celebration of a baptism.
Leader: Gather together all the people to praise the Lord.
People: We gather together to praise God who is One in three.
Leader: Bless the Lord with one mind!
People: And with one soul!
Leader: And with one heart!
People: Bless the Lord: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit!
Collect
To the one true and all knowing God, we call upon your wisdom as your reluctant students. Help us collectively seek your teachings in this faith, that we may abide in the mind of Christ for your transformation. We ask this through the Holy Trinity, who dwells in one mind and spirit. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Omitted due to the celebration of a baptism.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Collects and Prayers - August 2
Greeting
Leader: God gathers us here to worship,
Congregation: Surrounded by signs and symbols of his grace.
Leader: He transforms this into a holy place,
Congregation: And us into his holy people.
Leader: Here, we are given new birth
Congregation: And clothed anew in Christ.
Collect
Leader: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.
Almighty God, who clothed your servant Moses with righteousness and who anoints priests, prophets, and kings, you have called us to be clothed in compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience and love. Let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts, so that we may be one body. In the name of your son, Jesus Christ, who is all and in all. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us offer our petitions and thanksgiving to God Almighty, who hears and responds to the joys and tears of His people. After each petition, please offer your silent prayers to the Lord.
Leader: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.
We give you thanks for your creation, for it nourishes, shelters, and sustains us. Since the beginning, you have given us all that we need - you clothed Adam and Eve in the garden, you clothed John the Baptist in the wilderness, you clothed Jesus as rabbi, you clothed the martyrs in blood and the baptized in light. Give us grateful hearts for these garments, and help us to put on Christ each day.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We pray for world leaders and those who are clothed with power, that their decisions will reflect you, who alone are the source of all things.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We pray for church leaders, whom you have clothed in special garments and anointed for your service. Give them humility, as they stand in the long line of servants that extends back to Peter and Moses. Help them to serve with a heart like yours, filled with kindness and compassion. Help them to be like mirrors, showing us Christ in ourselves.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We pray for All Saints'. We give thanks for a space to worship, and for the faithful servants who work to transform this gym into a sacred space each week - for the table team that prepares the altar and for the set-up and break-down crews. May their work help make your presence deeply felt in this church.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We lift up those in this world and in Brier Creek who are affected by economic distress and unemployment. We pray especially for those facing nakedness in its many forms- for those without enough clothes to wear, for those who will be stripped of their homes through foreclosure, for those who feel exposed and vulnerable in this economic climate. We ask for your presence to envelope your people and to offer them strength, security, and relief.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We ask all these things in the name of Jesus, our Lord, who lives and reigns in our world, our church, and in each of us, now and forever. Amen.
Leader: God gathers us here to worship,
Congregation: Surrounded by signs and symbols of his grace.
Leader: He transforms this into a holy place,
Congregation: And us into his holy people.
Leader: Here, we are given new birth
Congregation: And clothed anew in Christ.
Collect
Leader: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.
Almighty God, who clothed your servant Moses with righteousness and who anoints priests, prophets, and kings, you have called us to be clothed in compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, patience and love. Let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts, so that we may be one body. In the name of your son, Jesus Christ, who is all and in all. Amen.
Prayers of the People
Let us offer our petitions and thanksgiving to God Almighty, who hears and responds to the joys and tears of His people. After each petition, please offer your silent prayers to the Lord.
Leader: The Lord be with you.
Congregation: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.
We give you thanks for your creation, for it nourishes, shelters, and sustains us. Since the beginning, you have given us all that we need - you clothed Adam and Eve in the garden, you clothed John the Baptist in the wilderness, you clothed Jesus as rabbi, you clothed the martyrs in blood and the baptized in light. Give us grateful hearts for these garments, and help us to put on Christ each day.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We pray for world leaders and those who are clothed with power, that their decisions will reflect you, who alone are the source of all things.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We pray for church leaders, whom you have clothed in special garments and anointed for your service. Give them humility, as they stand in the long line of servants that extends back to Peter and Moses. Help them to serve with a heart like yours, filled with kindness and compassion. Help them to be like mirrors, showing us Christ in ourselves.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We pray for All Saints'. We give thanks for a space to worship, and for the faithful servants who work to transform this gym into a sacred space each week - for the table team that prepares the altar and for the set-up and break-down crews. May their work help make your presence deeply felt in this church.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We lift up those in this world and in Brier Creek who are affected by economic distress and unemployment. We pray especially for those facing nakedness in its many forms- for those without enough clothes to wear, for those who will be stripped of their homes through foreclosure, for those who feel exposed and vulnerable in this economic climate. We ask for your presence to envelope your people and to offer them strength, security, and relief.
Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
We ask all these things in the name of Jesus, our Lord, who lives and reigns in our world, our church, and in each of us, now and forever. Amen.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Collect and Prayers - July 26
Greeting
Leader: Sing to the Lord a new song!
People: We sing and bless His holy name.
Leader: For great is the Lord and greatly to be praised;
People: His glories are sung among all nations.
Leader: Tune your voice, lift up your hearts.
People: Let us join all creation and sing!
Collect
Creating God, you formed our lips to proclaim your glory and our tongues to sing your praise.
Compose in our hearts a new song, that we may boldly join with your church on earth, the communion of saints, and the angelic chorus in making the music of creation.
Through Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.
Prayers of the People:
Let us pray to God, in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, who so richly dwells with us through the presence of his Holy Spirit.
Following each petition, I will say, "In your mercy,"
Your response is, "Hear us, O Lord."
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
Almighty and ever-reigning God, we give you thanks and praise for the beauty of music, for the gift of raising our voices together in harmony, and for the places in our lives where we notice your great melody that echoes throughout all of creation. We join with creation now in a new song, proclaiming your glory and splendor among all the nations. We ask that you would instill in us a grateful and worshipful heart, always remembering that you and you alone are the giver of all good things.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord.
For we who fall too easily to the temptations of this world, causing us to turn away from you and pursue other gods. Just like the Israelites, our hearts too quickly forget how you have provided for us and brought us into the land of milk and honey. Turn our hearts and desires back to you, so that we would worship and follow only you.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord
We ask for your strength and peace in times when we feel like we are lost in the desert. When we are weak in body, mind or spirit, or when our hearts are heavy with grief, help us sense your calming presence around us, and allow your spirit to compose a new song of peace, hope and joy in our hearts.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord
We pray for the church, both the Church temporal that worships you and sings your praises all across the world this day, and for the Church triumphant that encompasses those souls we have loved and lost. Help us live our lives in preparation for the joyful reunion with all the saints so that we like them may live to praise you eternally.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord.
We lift up all those who lead, especially we pray this day for our bishop, our district superintendent, and our pastor. Grant them courage, patience, and abundant wisdom for their overwhelming responsibilities. Inspire each of us to carry our part of the responsibility so that together we may each be supported in our calling.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord.
In a world where dissonance has become unrelenting noise and confusion, teach us to listen for every opportunity to resolve our discord into harmony. In all places near and far where clashing of conflicts is experienced, bring your healing grace and peace. And give us the courage to admit when we are wrong and to forgive when we have been wronged.
In your mercy, Hear us , O Lord.
Leader: Sing to the Lord a new song!
People: We sing and bless His holy name.
Leader: For great is the Lord and greatly to be praised;
People: His glories are sung among all nations.
Leader: Tune your voice, lift up your hearts.
People: Let us join all creation and sing!
Collect
Creating God, you formed our lips to proclaim your glory and our tongues to sing your praise.
Compose in our hearts a new song, that we may boldly join with your church on earth, the communion of saints, and the angelic chorus in making the music of creation.
Through Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with the Holy Spirit, one God forever and ever. Amen.
Prayers of the People:
Let us pray to God, in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, who so richly dwells with us through the presence of his Holy Spirit.
Following each petition, I will say, "In your mercy,"
Your response is, "Hear us, O Lord."
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
Almighty and ever-reigning God, we give you thanks and praise for the beauty of music, for the gift of raising our voices together in harmony, and for the places in our lives where we notice your great melody that echoes throughout all of creation. We join with creation now in a new song, proclaiming your glory and splendor among all the nations. We ask that you would instill in us a grateful and worshipful heart, always remembering that you and you alone are the giver of all good things.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord.
For we who fall too easily to the temptations of this world, causing us to turn away from you and pursue other gods. Just like the Israelites, our hearts too quickly forget how you have provided for us and brought us into the land of milk and honey. Turn our hearts and desires back to you, so that we would worship and follow only you.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord
We ask for your strength and peace in times when we feel like we are lost in the desert. When we are weak in body, mind or spirit, or when our hearts are heavy with grief, help us sense your calming presence around us, and allow your spirit to compose a new song of peace, hope and joy in our hearts.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord
We pray for the church, both the Church temporal that worships you and sings your praises all across the world this day, and for the Church triumphant that encompasses those souls we have loved and lost. Help us live our lives in preparation for the joyful reunion with all the saints so that we like them may live to praise you eternally.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord.
We lift up all those who lead, especially we pray this day for our bishop, our district superintendent, and our pastor. Grant them courage, patience, and abundant wisdom for their overwhelming responsibilities. Inspire each of us to carry our part of the responsibility so that together we may each be supported in our calling.
In your mercy, Hear us, O Lord.
In a world where dissonance has become unrelenting noise and confusion, teach us to listen for every opportunity to resolve our discord into harmony. In all places near and far where clashing of conflicts is experienced, bring your healing grace and peace. And give us the courage to admit when we are wrong and to forgive when we have been wronged.
In your mercy, Hear us , O Lord.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Collect and Prayers - July 19
Invitation and Gathering Call to Worship
Leader: Praise the Lord all you servants of the Lord.
Congregation: -We minister by night in the house of the Lord.
Leader: -Lift up your hands in the sanctuary.
Congregation: -Praise the Lord.
Leader: -Lord Maker of heaven and earth,
Congregation: - Bless us from Zion.
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray
Collect
Our Father, Redeemer you have called us with a simple command... "Hear O Israel, and be careful to obey." Yet, often we turn into ourselves rather than be open to your merciful light. We ask today that you guide us to be submissive to your call and be open to that light of Christ in our words, deeds. We ask this in the name of your son who gave us the spirit of our existence. Amen
Proclamation and Response Prayers of the People
Let us now offer our heats, minds and bodies to God in prayer.
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
Lord of heaven and Earth we recognize your ever loving grace and thank you for guiding us in the ways that lead to life, gestured through your son, Jesus Christ. For your grand gestures of sacrificial love, and for your daily subtle invitations, like a new morning, a fresh start to a new week, and the grace to follow you, we give you thanks.
May we have the strength of the great Apostle Paul, who taught others by exhibiting love in all situations. May we find ourselves as bold as he, in encouraging others to imitate us, even as we imitate you.
We pray for the maturity of Spirit to set aside our own egos so that even when we succeed in chore or life ambitions, we remember you, O Lord, who gave us our abilities. May our greatest success be simply an imitation of you.
Hear O Lord our pleadings for forgiveness, for when we are lovers of pleasure which denies your power. When we follow the gestures of this world, hoarding instead of sharing, hating instead of loving, warring instead of peacemaking, rejoicing in humiliating others instead of seeking your humility, forgive us, we pray. Sweep us up in your gestures of forgiveness and lead us to newness of life.
As a people of your divine power may we always use your Son's example of love and forgiveness when we face the turmoil of our lives lifting our hands, hearts and minds first to the scriptures that tell the story of your magnificence. As your church may we enlighten others with example of how agape love can change even raise the dead.
We pray for our youth in this world, who are offered countless other models and gestures, vying for their attention and clamoring for their lives. May we, your church, embody your love in a way that invites them to you, and compels them to offer their lives in your service to the world.
We pray for your church around the world, for All Saints' and for our ministry to Brier Creek and the surrounding communities. May the poor and broken in flesh and spirit recognize our shared lifelong need of grace, and find resurrection and community here at your table, your font and your cross. -
We offer you all of these prayers in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Leader: Praise the Lord all you servants of the Lord.
Congregation: -We minister by night in the house of the Lord.
Leader: -Lift up your hands in the sanctuary.
Congregation: -Praise the Lord.
Leader: -Lord Maker of heaven and earth,
Congregation: - Bless us from Zion.
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray
Collect
Our Father, Redeemer you have called us with a simple command... "Hear O Israel, and be careful to obey." Yet, often we turn into ourselves rather than be open to your merciful light. We ask today that you guide us to be submissive to your call and be open to that light of Christ in our words, deeds. We ask this in the name of your son who gave us the spirit of our existence. Amen
Proclamation and Response Prayers of the People
Let us now offer our heats, minds and bodies to God in prayer.
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
Lord of heaven and Earth we recognize your ever loving grace and thank you for guiding us in the ways that lead to life, gestured through your son, Jesus Christ. For your grand gestures of sacrificial love, and for your daily subtle invitations, like a new morning, a fresh start to a new week, and the grace to follow you, we give you thanks.
May we have the strength of the great Apostle Paul, who taught others by exhibiting love in all situations. May we find ourselves as bold as he, in encouraging others to imitate us, even as we imitate you.
We pray for the maturity of Spirit to set aside our own egos so that even when we succeed in chore or life ambitions, we remember you, O Lord, who gave us our abilities. May our greatest success be simply an imitation of you.
Hear O Lord our pleadings for forgiveness, for when we are lovers of pleasure which denies your power. When we follow the gestures of this world, hoarding instead of sharing, hating instead of loving, warring instead of peacemaking, rejoicing in humiliating others instead of seeking your humility, forgive us, we pray. Sweep us up in your gestures of forgiveness and lead us to newness of life.
As a people of your divine power may we always use your Son's example of love and forgiveness when we face the turmoil of our lives lifting our hands, hearts and minds first to the scriptures that tell the story of your magnificence. As your church may we enlighten others with example of how agape love can change even raise the dead.
We pray for our youth in this world, who are offered countless other models and gestures, vying for their attention and clamoring for their lives. May we, your church, embody your love in a way that invites them to you, and compels them to offer their lives in your service to the world.
We pray for your church around the world, for All Saints' and for our ministry to Brier Creek and the surrounding communities. May the poor and broken in flesh and spirit recognize our shared lifelong need of grace, and find resurrection and community here at your table, your font and your cross. -
We offer you all of these prayers in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Collect and Prayers - July 12
Call to Worship (selections form Psalm 77)
Leader: We will call to mind the deeds of the Lord;Congregation: We will remember your wonders of old.
Leader: We will meditate on all your work, and muse on your mighty deeds.
Congregation: Your way, O God, is holy.
Leader: You are the God who works wonders;Congregation: Let us worship the Lord this day and all days.
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
Collect
Great and Mighty God, you chose us, and we wish to choose you. Transform us into the living stones of your Church, an edifice sound enough to keep your covenant. Let us be worthy to wear the robes of your royal priesthood. We ask these things through your son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit now and forever. Amen.
Proclamation and Response
Prayers of the People
Let us now sit in silence and prepare to pray together as we offer God our praise, our petitions, and all that is in our hearts.
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
O Heavenly Father, we offer you praise simply because you are worthy. We stand in awe of your constant pursuit of a loving relationship with your creation. We fall to our knees in response to your generous grace and submit to you our lives and hearts. We wish to be pleasing in your sight. We humbly and gratefully sing of your power and love, and give you thanks for all that you give to your broken people.
We find ourselves weakened by the flesh and the distractions of this world. We pray for your mercy as we continue to stray from you and your love. We ask for your mercy to mend our brokenness and to center our lives on you, so that we may extend your will and grace to those on this earth.
Your Church seeks to serve you in this world. We pray that you shape its leaders and the laity so that they may doggedly pursue your love.
We find ourselves reluctant to worship you fully. We pray for the Church to shed all that keeps us from joining the heavenly choir in its unending hymn of your praise and glory. Free us from our fears so that we may tell of your love and sing of your grace.
The world is filled with brokenness, war, oppression, and hate. We pray for your peace and resurrection to bring a new truth to these places. Embrace the people in this world that we fail to see or understand and wrap your loving arms around them so they may know you.
Among us are those who are hungry, sick, naked, or imprisoned. We ask for your abundant blessing for all those who are afflicted, and for your Holy Spirit to comfort and heal them. May you stir within your people a response to serve them, as you have called us to do.
To the Triune God, we pray these petitions as we offer thanksgiving to you and your creation. To the mystery of the one in three and three in one, and all that we seek to understand, we lift these prayers to you as our holy redeemer, who has offered this world more than it deserves. Amen.
Leader: We will call to mind the deeds of the Lord;Congregation: We will remember your wonders of old.
Leader: We will meditate on all your work, and muse on your mighty deeds.
Congregation: Your way, O God, is holy.
Leader: You are the God who works wonders;Congregation: Let us worship the Lord this day and all days.
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
Collect
Great and Mighty God, you chose us, and we wish to choose you. Transform us into the living stones of your Church, an edifice sound enough to keep your covenant. Let us be worthy to wear the robes of your royal priesthood. We ask these things through your son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit now and forever. Amen.
Proclamation and Response
Prayers of the People
Let us now sit in silence and prepare to pray together as we offer God our praise, our petitions, and all that is in our hearts.
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
O Heavenly Father, we offer you praise simply because you are worthy. We stand in awe of your constant pursuit of a loving relationship with your creation. We fall to our knees in response to your generous grace and submit to you our lives and hearts. We wish to be pleasing in your sight. We humbly and gratefully sing of your power and love, and give you thanks for all that you give to your broken people.
We find ourselves weakened by the flesh and the distractions of this world. We pray for your mercy as we continue to stray from you and your love. We ask for your mercy to mend our brokenness and to center our lives on you, so that we may extend your will and grace to those on this earth.
Your Church seeks to serve you in this world. We pray that you shape its leaders and the laity so that they may doggedly pursue your love.
We find ourselves reluctant to worship you fully. We pray for the Church to shed all that keeps us from joining the heavenly choir in its unending hymn of your praise and glory. Free us from our fears so that we may tell of your love and sing of your grace.
The world is filled with brokenness, war, oppression, and hate. We pray for your peace and resurrection to bring a new truth to these places. Embrace the people in this world that we fail to see or understand and wrap your loving arms around them so they may know you.
Among us are those who are hungry, sick, naked, or imprisoned. We ask for your abundant blessing for all those who are afflicted, and for your Holy Spirit to comfort and heal them. May you stir within your people a response to serve them, as you have called us to do.
To the Triune God, we pray these petitions as we offer thanksgiving to you and your creation. To the mystery of the one in three and three in one, and all that we seek to understand, we lift these prayers to you as our holy redeemer, who has offered this world more than it deserves. Amen.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Collects and Prayers - July 5
Liturgical color: Green (throughout Ordinary Time)
Worship focus: Why worship?
Exodus 32: 1-6; Psalm 29; Acts 17: 16-29; Matthew 4: 1-14 (Exodus is primary text.)
Invitation and Gathering
Call to Worship: Psalm 29: 1-2
Leader: Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings.
Congregation: Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Leader: Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name.
Congregation: Worship the Lord in holy array.
Leader: Praise to the Lord, the almighty.
Congregation: All in God's temple, shout praise!
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us pray.
Collect
Known and all-knowing God, who shakes the wilderness and sits as King over all the earth; show us your light, that we may turn towards you in the midst of temptation in a world that draws us to worship false Gods. Through the Triune God, who commands the angels of heavens to bear us up, may we live in Your Word in this life and the life to come. Amen.
Proclamation and Response
Prayers of the People
Now let us bring our petitions to God. Please respond to each petition with "Hear our prayer."
We give you thanks, true and living God, for the ways that you reveal yourself to us. For the love of family. For the laughter of friends. For the sustinance of daily bread. For all the gifts of life and the joy that your sharing life with us offers us. Lord in your mercy.
For those unable to fully worship You due to distractions, earthly pursuits or fear of how reverent and obedient worship will look to others, challenge them to re-align their priorities and worship You and You alone. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.
For those who play it safe and only live within the rules, may they be inspired by Your courage and step outside themselves to challenge limits in service to others. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For All Saints', which continues to grow in faith and in community according to your will. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For the holy catholic church, as it serves you by making disciples in the world. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For those who wrestle with pain, depression and disappointment, reassure them with your gifts and blessings of abundance. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For those who pursue status, riches, and all other false gods, instill in them a relentless pursuit of You and your kingdom. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For those who struggle with faith in you, provide them with the certainty of your presence in the wilderness. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
Lord, for those who have not known your love, allow them to recognize your grace and resurrection. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
Almighty God, we offer Thanksgiving for your remarkable creation, your everlasting presence, and your abudant grace in our lives. We proclaim your praise as it is right, and a good and joyful thing to give thanks to you, always and everywhere. Amen.
Worship focus: Why worship?
Exodus 32: 1-6; Psalm 29; Acts 17: 16-29; Matthew 4: 1-14 (Exodus is primary text.)
Invitation and Gathering
Call to Worship: Psalm 29: 1-2
Leader: Ascribe to the Lord, O heavenly beings.
Congregation: Ascribe to the Lord glory and strength.
Leader: Ascribe to the Lord the glory of his name.
Congregation: Worship the Lord in holy array.
Leader: Praise to the Lord, the almighty.
Congregation: All in God's temple, shout praise!
And also with you.
Let us pray.
Collect
Known and all-knowing God, who shakes the wilderness and sits as King over all the earth; show us your light, that we may turn towards you in the midst of temptation in a world that draws us to worship false Gods. Through the Triune God, who commands the angels of heavens to bear us up, may we live in Your Word in this life and the life to come. Amen.
Proclamation and Response
Prayers of the People
Now let us bring our petitions to God. Please respond to each petition with "Hear our prayer."
We give you thanks, true and living God, for the ways that you reveal yourself to us. For the love of family. For the laughter of friends. For the sustinance of daily bread. For all the gifts of life and the joy that your sharing life with us offers us. Lord in your mercy.
For those unable to fully worship You due to distractions, earthly pursuits or fear of how reverent and obedient worship will look to others, challenge them to re-align their priorities and worship You and You alone. Lord in your mercy. Hear our prayer.
For those who play it safe and only live within the rules, may they be inspired by Your courage and step outside themselves to challenge limits in service to others. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For All Saints', which continues to grow in faith and in community according to your will. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For the holy catholic church, as it serves you by making disciples in the world. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For those who wrestle with pain, depression and disappointment, reassure them with your gifts and blessings of abundance. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For those who pursue status, riches, and all other false gods, instill in them a relentless pursuit of You and your kingdom. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
For those who struggle with faith in you, provide them with the certainty of your presence in the wilderness. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
Lord, for those who have not known your love, allow them to recognize your grace and resurrection. Lord in your mercy.
Hear our prayer.
Almighty God, we offer Thanksgiving for your remarkable creation, your everlasting presence, and your abudant grace in our lives. We proclaim your praise as it is right, and a good and joyful thing to give thanks to you, always and everywhere. Amen.
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