The Liturgy of the Palms
Book of Common Prayer (BCP) pp.270-273
Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord.
People Peace in heaven and glory in the highest.
Celebrant Let us pray.
Assist us mercifully with your help, O Lord God of our salvation, that we may enter with joy upon the contemplation of those mighty acts, whereby you have given us life and immortality; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Deacon The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (19:28-40)
Glory to you, Lord Christ
After telling a parable to the crowd at Jericho, Jesus went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples, saying, "Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' just say this, 'The Lord needs it.'" So those who were sent departed and found it as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?" They said, "The Lord needs it." Then they brought it to Jesus; and after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, saying, "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!" Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, order your disciples to stop." He answered, "I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out."
The Gospel of the Lord
Praise to you, Lord Christ
Celebrant The Lord be with you.
People And also with you.
Celebrant Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People It is right to give him thanks and praise.
It is right to praise you, Almighty God, for the acts of love by which you have redeemed us through your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. On this day he entered the holy city of Jerusalem in triumph, and was proclaimed as King of kings by those who spread their garments and branches of palm along his way. Let these branches be for us signs of his victory, and grant that we who bear them in his name may ever hail him as our King, and follow him in the way that leads to eternal life; who lives and reigns in glory with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
People Hosanna in the highest.
The Procession
Deacon Let us go forth in peace.
People In the name of Christ. Amen.
Processional Hymn #154 All Glory Laud and Honor
Refrain:
All glory, laud, and honor to thee, Redeemer, King!
to whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring.
1 Thou art the King of Israel, thou David's royal Son,
who in the Lord's Name comest, the King and Blessed One. (Refrain)
2 The company of angels is praising thee on high;
and we with all creation in chorus make reply. (Refrain)
3 The people of the Hebrews with palms before thee went;
our praise and prayers and anthems before thee we present. (Refrain)
4 To thee before thy passion they sang their hymns of praise;
to thee, now high exalted, our melody we raise. (Refrain)
5 Thou didst accept their praises; accept the prayers we bring,
who in all good delightest, thou good and gracious King. (Refrain)
The Collect of the Day
The Celebrant says to the people: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Celebrant: Let us pray.
Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
A reading from the Book of the prophet Isaiah, chapter 50, verses 4-9a
The Lord God has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning he wakens--wakens my ear to listen as those who are taught.
The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I did not turn backward. I gave my back to those who struck me, and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard; I did not hide my face from insult and spitting. The Lord God helps me; therefore I have not been disgraced; therefore I have set my face like flint, and I know that I shall not be put to shame; he who vindicates me is near. Who will contend with me? Let us stand up together. Who are my adversaries? Let them confront me. It is the Lord God who helps me; who will declare me guilty?
Here ends the lesson.
(no response)
The Psalm is 31, verses 9-16. We will pray it together.
9 Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am in trouble; *
my eye is consumed with sorrow, and also my throat and my belly.
10 For my life is wasted with grief, and my years with sighing; *
my strength fails me because of affliction, and my bones are consumed.
11 I have become a reproach to all my enemies and even to my neighbors, a dismay to those of my acquaintance; *
when they see me in the street they avoid me.
12 I am forgotten like a dead man, out of mind; *
I am as useless as a broken pot.
13 For I have heard the whispering of the crowd; fear is all around; *
they put their heads together against me; they plot to take my life.
14 But as for me, I have trusted in you, O Lord. *
I have said, "You are my God.
15 My times are in your hand; *
rescue me from the hand of my enemies, and from those who persecute me.
16 Make your face to shine upon your servant, *
and in your loving-kindness save me."
A reading from the Letter of St. Paul to the Philippians, Chapter 2, verses 5-11
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death--even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Here ends the lesson.
(no response)
The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (23:1-49)
The assembly of the elders of the people rose as a body and brought Jesus before Pilate. They began to accuse him, saying, "We found this man perverting our nation, forbidding us to pay taxes to the emperor, and saying that he himself is the Messiah, a king." Then Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He answered, "You say so." Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, "I find no basis for an accusation against this man." But they were insistent and said, "He stirs up the people by teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to this place."
When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. And when he learned that he was under Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him off to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. Even Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put an elegant robe on him, and sent him back to Pilate. That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies.
Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, "You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Indeed, he has done nothing to deserve death. I will therefore have him flogged and release him."
Then they all shouted out together, "Away with this fellow! Release Barabbas for us!" (This was a man who had been put in prison for an insurrection that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; but they kept shouting, "Crucify, crucify him!" A third time he said to them, "Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no ground for the sentence of death; I will therefore have him flogged and then release him." But they kept urgently demanding with loud shouts that he should be crucified; and their voices prevailed. So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished.
As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus. A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say, 'Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.' Then they will begin to say to the mountains, 'Fall on us'; and to the hills, 'Cover us.' For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?"
Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him.**
**Congregation: Please stand.
When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews."
One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun's light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit." Having said this, he breathed his last. When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, "Certainly this man was innocent." And when all the crowds who had gathered there for this spectacle saw what had taken place, they returned home, beating their breasts. But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.
Sermon
Prayers of the People
[People respond: Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.]
Enter our hearts this day and every day, O Christ, and
lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Pray for Epiphany School in Uganda, its primary Class 7; and in our Diocese for Trinity Church, Easton; and for Clergy Widows and Widowers.
Silence.
Lead each member of your church in humility as we walk together. Guide our bishops and priests and deacons
so that your glory may be revealed through them in your word and sacraments.
Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Lead the authorities of every country in the way of justice for all of their citizens and peace between neighbors and nations.
Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Lead each us to reach out our hands and hearts in love where there is suffering and anxiety, sickness and grief: Please offer names either silently or aloud for whom we now pray.
Silence.
Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Lead us to lead lives that please you as we walk this earth so that with those who have died we may join you in our eternal home.
Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Celebrant adds a Concluding Collect
The Peace
The Peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.
Announcements and Opportunities and Koffee Klatch
Prayer For a Birthday – BCP p.830 #50
O God, our times are in your hand: Look with favor, we pray, on your servants as they begin another year. Grant that they may grow in wisdom and grace, and strengthen their trust in your goodness all the days of their lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer For those we Love & Anniversaries – BCP p.831 #54
Almighty God, we entrust all who are dear to us to thy never-failing care and love, for this life and the life to come, knowing that thou art doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Offertory Sentence
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Offertory Hymn #439 What Wondrous Love is This (or Choir Anthem)
1 What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
to bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
to bear the dreadful curse for my soul!
2 When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
when I was sinking down, sinking down,
when I was sinking down beneath God’s righteous frown,
Christ laid aside his crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside his crown for my soul.
3 To God and to the Lamb I will sing, I will sing;
to God and to the Lamb I will sing;
to God and to the Lamb, who is the great I AM,
while millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing,
while millions join the theme, I will sing.
4 And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;
and when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on.
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing his love for me,
and through eternity I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on,
and through eternity I’ll sing on.
Doxology: Hymnal #43 vs. 4
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
praise him, all creatures here below;
praise him above, ye heavenly host:
praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
Holy Communion Prayer A
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Celebrant: It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. You bid your faithful people cleanse their hearts, and prepare with joy for the Paschal feast; that, fervent in prayer and in works of mercy, and renewed by your Word and Sacraments, they may come to the fullness of grace which you have prepared for those who love you. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who for ever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:
Sanctus #S-130
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of power and might, Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full, full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. Hosanna in the highest.
Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself, and, when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself, in obedience to your will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world. On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, "Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me." After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, "Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me." Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, in this sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. Recalling his death, resurrection, and ascension, we offer you these gifts. Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy, and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your eternal kingdom. All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ: By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and for ever. AMEN.
And now, as our Savior Christ has taught us, we now pray:
Our Father, who art in heaven hallowed be thy Name,
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Breaking of the Bread
Agnus Dei #S-164
Fraction Anthem: Jesus, Lamb of God: have mercy on us. Jesus, bearer of our sins: have mercy on us. Jesus, redeemer, redeemer of the world: give us your peace, give us your peace.
Celebrant: The Gifts of God for the People of God.
Choir Director: Prayer of Spiritual Reception:
In union, O Lord, with the faithful at every altar of Thy Church, where the Holy Eucharist is now being celebrated, we desire to offer you praise and thanksgiving. We present to you our soul and body with the earnest wish that we may always be united to you. And since we cannot now receive you sacramentally, we beseech you to come spiritually into our heart. We unite ourselves to you, and embrace you with all the affections of our soul. Let nothing ever separate you from us. May we live and die in your love. Amen. (Adapted from The Armed Forces Prayer Book 1951)
Communion Hymn #458 My Song is Love Unknown
1 My song is love unknown,
my Savior’s love to me,
love to the loveless shown
that they might lovely be.
Oh, who am I,
that for my sake
my Lord should take
frail flesh and die?
2 He came from his blest throne
salvation to bestow,
but such disdain! So few
the longed-for Christ would know!
But oh, my friend,
my friend indeed,
who at my need
his life did spend!
3 Sometimes they crowd his way
and his sweet praises sing,
resounding all the day
hosannas to their King.
Then “Crucify!”
is all their breath,
and for his death
they thirst and cry.
4 Why? What has my Lord done?
What makes this rage and spite?
He made the lame to run,
he gave the blind their sight.
Sweet injuries!
Yet they at these
themselves displease
and 'gainst him rise.
5 They rise and needs will have
my dear Lord made away.
A murderer they save,
the Prince of life they slay.
Yet cheerful he
to suff'ring goes
that he his foes
from death might free.
6 In life, no house, no home
my Lord on earth might have;
in death, no friendly tomb,
but what a stranger gave.
What may I say?
Heav’n was his home
but mine the tomb
wherein he lay.
7 Here might I stay and sing;
no story so divine,
never was love, dear King,
never was grief like thine.
This is my friend,
in whose sweet praise
I all my days
could gladly spend!
Prayer after Communion – BCP pg. 366
Almighty and everliving God, we thank you for feeding us with the spiritual food of the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us in these holy mysteries that we are living members of the Body of your Son, and heirs of your eternal kingdom. And now, Father, send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of Christ our Lord. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Blessing & Dismissal
Silent Recessional
Book of Common Prayer (BCP) pp.270-273
Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord.
People Peace in heaven and glory in the highest.
Celebrant Let us pray.
Assist us mercifully with your help, O Lord God of our salvation, that we may enter with joy upon the contemplation of those mighty acts, whereby you have given us life and immortality; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Deacon The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (19:28-40)
Glory to you, Lord Christ
After telling a parable to the crowd at Jericho, Jesus went on ahead, going up to Jerusalem. When he had come near Bethphage and Bethany, at the place called the Mount of Olives, he sent two of the disciples, saying, "Go into the village ahead of you, and as you enter it you will find tied there a colt that has never been ridden. Untie it and bring it here. If anyone asks you, 'Why are you untying it?' just say this, 'The Lord needs it.'" So those who were sent departed and found it as he had told them. As they were untying the colt, its owners asked them, "Why are you untying the colt?" They said, "The Lord needs it." Then they brought it to Jesus; and after throwing their cloaks on the colt, they set Jesus on it. As he rode along, people kept spreading their cloaks on the road. As he was now approaching the path down from the Mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to praise God joyfully with a loud voice for all the deeds of power that they had seen, saying, "Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord! Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest heaven!" Some of the Pharisees in the crowd said to him, "Teacher, order your disciples to stop." He answered, "I tell you, if these were silent, the stones would shout out."
The Gospel of the Lord
Praise to you, Lord Christ
Celebrant The Lord be with you.
People And also with you.
Celebrant Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People It is right to give him thanks and praise.
It is right to praise you, Almighty God, for the acts of love by which you have redeemed us through your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. On this day he entered the holy city of Jerusalem in triumph, and was proclaimed as King of kings by those who spread their garments and branches of palm along his way. Let these branches be for us signs of his victory, and grant that we who bear them in his name may ever hail him as our King, and follow him in the way that leads to eternal life; who lives and reigns in glory with you and the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
People Hosanna in the highest.
The Procession
Deacon Let us go forth in peace.
People In the name of Christ. Amen.
Processional Hymn #154 All Glory Laud and Honor
Refrain:
All glory, laud, and honor to thee, Redeemer, King!
to whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring.
1 Thou art the King of Israel, thou David's royal Son,
who in the Lord's Name comest, the King and Blessed One. (Refrain)
2 The company of angels is praising thee on high;
and we with all creation in chorus make reply. (Refrain)
3 The people of the Hebrews with palms before thee went;
our praise and prayers and anthems before thee we present. (Refrain)
4 To thee before thy passion they sang their hymns of praise;
to thee, now high exalted, our melody we raise. (Refrain)
5 Thou didst accept their praises; accept the prayers we bring,
who in all good delightest, thou good and gracious King. (Refrain)
The Collect of the Day
The Celebrant says to the people: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Celebrant: Let us pray.
Almighty God, whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain, and entered not into glory before he was crucified: Mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross, may find it none other than the way of life and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
A reading from the Book of the prophet Isaiah, chapter 50, verses 4-9a
The Lord God has given me the tongue of a teacher, that I may know how to sustain the weary with a word. Morning by morning he wakens--wakens my ear to listen as those who are taught.
The Lord God has opened my ear, and I was not rebellious, I did not turn backward. I gave my back to those who struck me, and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard; I did not hide my face from insult and spitting. The Lord God helps me; therefore I have not been disgraced; therefore I have set my face like flint, and I know that I shall not be put to shame; he who vindicates me is near. Who will contend with me? Let us stand up together. Who are my adversaries? Let them confront me. It is the Lord God who helps me; who will declare me guilty?
Here ends the lesson.
(no response)
The Psalm is 31, verses 9-16. We will pray it together.
9 Have mercy on me, O Lord, for I am in trouble; *
my eye is consumed with sorrow, and also my throat and my belly.
10 For my life is wasted with grief, and my years with sighing; *
my strength fails me because of affliction, and my bones are consumed.
11 I have become a reproach to all my enemies and even to my neighbors, a dismay to those of my acquaintance; *
when they see me in the street they avoid me.
12 I am forgotten like a dead man, out of mind; *
I am as useless as a broken pot.
13 For I have heard the whispering of the crowd; fear is all around; *
they put their heads together against me; they plot to take my life.
14 But as for me, I have trusted in you, O Lord. *
I have said, "You are my God.
15 My times are in your hand; *
rescue me from the hand of my enemies, and from those who persecute me.
16 Make your face to shine upon your servant, *
and in your loving-kindness save me."
A reading from the Letter of St. Paul to the Philippians, Chapter 2, verses 5-11
Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And being found in human form, he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death--even death on a cross. Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Here ends the lesson.
(no response)
The Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Luke (23:1-49)
The assembly of the elders of the people rose as a body and brought Jesus before Pilate. They began to accuse him, saying, "We found this man perverting our nation, forbidding us to pay taxes to the emperor, and saying that he himself is the Messiah, a king." Then Pilate asked him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" He answered, "You say so." Then Pilate said to the chief priests and the crowds, "I find no basis for an accusation against this man." But they were insistent and said, "He stirs up the people by teaching throughout all Judea, from Galilee where he began even to this place."
When Pilate heard this, he asked whether the man was a Galilean. And when he learned that he was under Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him off to Herod, who was himself in Jerusalem at that time. When Herod saw Jesus, he was very glad, for he had been wanting to see him for a long time, because he had heard about him and was hoping to see him perform some sign. He questioned him at some length, but Jesus gave him no answer. The chief priests and the scribes stood by, vehemently accusing him. Even Herod with his soldiers treated him with contempt and mocked him; then he put an elegant robe on him, and sent him back to Pilate. That same day Herod and Pilate became friends with each other; before this they had been enemies.
Pilate then called together the chief priests, the leaders, and the people, and said to them, "You brought me this man as one who was perverting the people; and here I have examined him in your presence and have not found this man guilty of any of your charges against him. Neither has Herod, for he sent him back to us. Indeed, he has done nothing to deserve death. I will therefore have him flogged and release him."
Then they all shouted out together, "Away with this fellow! Release Barabbas for us!" (This was a man who had been put in prison for an insurrection that had taken place in the city, and for murder.) Pilate, wanting to release Jesus, addressed them again; but they kept shouting, "Crucify, crucify him!" A third time he said to them, "Why, what evil has he done? I have found in him no ground for the sentence of death; I will therefore have him flogged and then release him." But they kept urgently demanding with loud shouts that he should be crucified; and their voices prevailed. So Pilate gave his verdict that their demand should be granted. He released the man they asked for, the one who had been put in prison for insurrection and murder, and he handed Jesus over as they wished.
As they led him away, they seized a man, Simon of Cyrene, who was coming from the country, and they laid the cross on him, and made him carry it behind Jesus. A great number of the people followed him, and among them were women who were beating their breasts and wailing for him. But Jesus turned to them and said, "Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me, but weep for yourselves and for your children. For the days are surely coming when they will say, 'Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed.' Then they will begin to say to the mountains, 'Fall on us'; and to the hills, 'Cover us.' For if they do this when the wood is green, what will happen when it is dry?"
Two others also, who were criminals, were led away to be put to death with him.**
**Congregation: Please stand.
When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots to divide his clothing. And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, "He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!" The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, "If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!" There was also an inscription over him, "This is the King of the Jews."
One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, "Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!" But the other rebuked him, saying, "Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." He replied, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise."
It was now about noon, and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon, while the sun's light failed; and the curtain of the temple was torn in two. Then Jesus, crying with a loud voice, said, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit." Having said this, he breathed his last. When the centurion saw what had taken place, he praised God and said, "Certainly this man was innocent." And when all the crowds who had gathered there for this spectacle saw what had taken place, they returned home, beating their breasts. But all his acquaintances, including the women who had followed him from Galilee, stood at a distance, watching these things.
Sermon
Prayers of the People
[People respond: Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.]
Enter our hearts this day and every day, O Christ, and
lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Pray for Epiphany School in Uganda, its primary Class 7; and in our Diocese for Trinity Church, Easton; and for Clergy Widows and Widowers.
Silence.
Lead each member of your church in humility as we walk together. Guide our bishops and priests and deacons
so that your glory may be revealed through them in your word and sacraments.
Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Lead the authorities of every country in the way of justice for all of their citizens and peace between neighbors and nations.
Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Lead each us to reach out our hands and hearts in love where there is suffering and anxiety, sickness and grief: Please offer names either silently or aloud for whom we now pray.
Silence.
Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Lead us to lead lives that please you as we walk this earth so that with those who have died we may join you in our eternal home.
Lead us on this walk of love, O Lord.
Celebrant adds a Concluding Collect
The Peace
The Peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.
Announcements and Opportunities and Koffee Klatch
Prayer For a Birthday – BCP p.830 #50
O God, our times are in your hand: Look with favor, we pray, on your servants as they begin another year. Grant that they may grow in wisdom and grace, and strengthen their trust in your goodness all the days of their lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayer For those we Love & Anniversaries – BCP p.831 #54
Almighty God, we entrust all who are dear to us to thy never-failing care and love, for this life and the life to come, knowing that thou art doing for them better things than we can desire or pray for; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Offertory Sentence
You may give on-line at onrealm.org or by texting BREAD to 73256.
Thank you for your generous financial support!
Offertory Hymn #439 What Wondrous Love is This (or Choir Anthem)
1 What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
to bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
to bear the dreadful curse for my soul!
2 When I was sinking down, sinking down, sinking down,
when I was sinking down, sinking down,
when I was sinking down beneath God’s righteous frown,
Christ laid aside his crown for my soul, for my soul,
Christ laid aside his crown for my soul.
3 To God and to the Lamb I will sing, I will sing;
to God and to the Lamb I will sing;
to God and to the Lamb, who is the great I AM,
while millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing,
while millions join the theme, I will sing.
4 And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on;
and when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on.
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing his love for me,
and through eternity I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on,
and through eternity I’ll sing on.
Doxology: Hymnal #43 vs. 4
Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;
praise him, all creatures here below;
praise him above, ye heavenly host:
praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost.
Holy Communion Prayer A
Celebrant: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you
Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.
People: We lift them to the Lord.
Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
People: It is right to give God thanks and praise.
Celebrant: It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth. You bid your faithful people cleanse their hearts, and prepare with joy for the Paschal feast; that, fervent in prayer and in works of mercy, and renewed by your Word and Sacraments, they may come to the fullness of grace which you have prepared for those who love you. Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who for ever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:
Sanctus #S-130
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of power and might, Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full, full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest. Hosanna in the highest.
Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself, and, when we had fallen into sin and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent Jesus Christ, your only and eternal Son, to share our human nature, to live and die as one of us, to reconcile us to you, the God and Father of all. He stretched out his arms upon the cross, and offered himself, in obedience to your will, a perfect sacrifice for the whole world. On the night he was handed over to suffering and death, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks to you, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, and said, "Take, eat: This is my Body, which is given for you. Do this for the remembrance of me." After supper he took the cup of wine; and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and said, "Drink this, all of you: This is my Blood of the new Covenant, which is shed for you and for many for the forgiveness of sins. Whenever you drink it, do this for the remembrance of me." Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, in this sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving. Recalling his death, resurrection, and ascension, we offer you these gifts. Sanctify them by your Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son, the holy food and drink of new and unending life in him. Sanctify us also that we may faithfully receive this holy Sacrament, and serve you in unity, constancy, and peace; and at the last day bring us with all your saints into the joy of your eternal kingdom. All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ: By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and for ever. AMEN.
And now, as our Savior Christ has taught us, we now pray:
Our Father, who art in heaven hallowed be thy Name,
thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever. Amen.
The Breaking of the Bread
Agnus Dei #S-164
Fraction Anthem: Jesus, Lamb of God: have mercy on us. Jesus, bearer of our sins: have mercy on us. Jesus, redeemer, redeemer of the world: give us your peace, give us your peace.
Celebrant: The Gifts of God for the People of God.
Choir Director: Prayer of Spiritual Reception:
In union, O Lord, with the faithful at every altar of Thy Church, where the Holy Eucharist is now being celebrated, we desire to offer you praise and thanksgiving. We present to you our soul and body with the earnest wish that we may always be united to you. And since we cannot now receive you sacramentally, we beseech you to come spiritually into our heart. We unite ourselves to you, and embrace you with all the affections of our soul. Let nothing ever separate you from us. May we live and die in your love. Amen. (Adapted from The Armed Forces Prayer Book 1951)
Communion Hymn #458 My Song is Love Unknown
1 My song is love unknown,
my Savior’s love to me,
love to the loveless shown
that they might lovely be.
Oh, who am I,
that for my sake
my Lord should take
frail flesh and die?
2 He came from his blest throne
salvation to bestow,
but such disdain! So few
the longed-for Christ would know!
But oh, my friend,
my friend indeed,
who at my need
his life did spend!
3 Sometimes they crowd his way
and his sweet praises sing,
resounding all the day
hosannas to their King.
Then “Crucify!”
is all their breath,
and for his death
they thirst and cry.
4 Why? What has my Lord done?
What makes this rage and spite?
He made the lame to run,
he gave the blind their sight.
Sweet injuries!
Yet they at these
themselves displease
and 'gainst him rise.
5 They rise and needs will have
my dear Lord made away.
A murderer they save,
the Prince of life they slay.
Yet cheerful he
to suff'ring goes
that he his foes
from death might free.
6 In life, no house, no home
my Lord on earth might have;
in death, no friendly tomb,
but what a stranger gave.
What may I say?
Heav’n was his home
but mine the tomb
wherein he lay.
7 Here might I stay and sing;
no story so divine,
never was love, dear King,
never was grief like thine.
This is my friend,
in whose sweet praise
I all my days
could gladly spend!
Prayer after Communion – BCP pg. 366
Almighty and everliving God, we thank you for feeding us with the spiritual food of the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us in these holy mysteries that we are living members of the Body of your Son, and heirs of your eternal kingdom. And now, Father, send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of Christ our Lord. To him, to you, and to the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Blessing & Dismissal
Silent Recessional
Parish Intercessions April 10-16
Birthdays: Judi Johnson, Madi Spangenberg, Luke Bader-Saye, Sue Six, Dorothy Wasser, Bruce Beck, Sharra Ott
Anniversaries: Rick and Pat Lewis, Kristie and Pat McMahon
For the Pygmy Ministry, Fr. Charles & Alice their principal
For: Mo. Lou, our Priest-in-Charge, and Rev. John, our Deacon
For: Our Vestry & Staff
Upcoming Opportunities!
Weds. 5.30pm – Video Study The Chosen, Season 1 & Light Dinner, Dalton UMC 125 S Turnpike
7-8pm – Intentional Lenten Community with Mary-Jo Cliff via Zoom – All are welcome!
Thursdays 6-7 PM - Qigong Group in Commons Room - Contact Rosalie at 570-885-7412 or rallanfufaro@gmail.com
Ongoing – Rummage Sale items now being accepted at the church. Please deposit your goods downstairs in the labeled room in an orderly fashion.
April 10 - Palm Sunday service at 11 AM
April 13 – 8.30am Check Request Fulfillment, Epiphany Office (also April 27th)
April 13 – 7-8 PM – Intentional Lenten Community with Mary-Jo Cliff via Zoom – All are welcome!
April 14 - Maundy Thursday service at 5 PM
April 15 - Good Friday service at 5 PM
Stations of the Cross in Epiphany’s Parish Hall following 5pm worship
April 16 - Easter Vigil service online at 9 PM
April 16 - 9am – Decorate church with Easter flowers
9.30am – Altar Guild Mtg;
10am-Noon – Reconciliation in the Hyde Memorial Chapel (beside the office)
April 17 - Easter services at 8 (in the pavilion) & 11 AM
April 23 - 9 -10.30am – VESTRY Meeting at Epiphany Commons Room and via Zoom
April 23 - 9-10:30 AM Vestry Meeting
April 24 - Noon - Training for Chalice Bearers with Deacon John
April 30 - 8 AM - 6:30 PM - Gather 22: Hope Renewed, Diocesan Event at Split Rock Resort. Information about the workshops and to REGISTER here: https://diobeth.org/gather22/
May 1 – 11 am – Blessing of New Robes & Celebration of Chalice Bearer Ministry during worship
3 PM - Epiphany Chicken BBQ @ Pavilion – Confirmed!! Please contact Roger, Deacon John
May 7 – 10am-Noon - Funeral & Luncheon at Epiphany Church & Parish Hall – Details to follow
May14 - 9am-??? CLEAN-UP of Buildings & Grounds at Epiphany – All are welcome!! Contact Roger Mattes for information.
May 21 - 10am Visitation for Howard Hyde followed by his Memorial Service at11am – Interment and Luncheon follow . If you plan to attend the luncheon, respond to Ellie Hyde directly (daniwind1@gmail.com) with your name and number attending from your household.
June 5 - The Day of Pentecost: Whitsunday - Parish Potluck Picnic (stay tuned for details)
Lay Eucharistic Ministers:
Beginning on Easter Sunday April 17th, we would like to have a chalice bearer at the 11am service. Communion will still be in the standing position, in the aisle. If you are interested in being trained/re-trained, contact Deacon John emailmrjohn@epix.net
Easter Flower Envelopes:
You can find these in the pew holders at Epiphany. DUE TODAY April 10th to the parish office or in the offering plate.
May be given in memorial and thanksgiving. Mail donation and SENTIMENT to PO Box 189, Clarks Summit, PA 18411.
Thank you for helping to remember our loved ones and beautify the church on Easter Day!
Epiphany’s Prayer Request Form:
Your request will be added to our prayer list for 6 weeks. After which you are invited to submit another request for an additional 6 weeks.
There is no limit to the number of requests you may submit if the situation is ongoing. You may note in the special request section if the
need for prayer is shorter than 6 weeks. Your Epiphany family is honored to join you in prayer. Blessings .
*Prayer cards are available in church pews or the online form here: https://www.epiphanyglenburn.org/prayer-request.html
Altar Guild Meeting:
Saturday April 16th, 9.30-10am with Mo. Lou. All are welcome to gather in the church or participate via Zoom here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85697105971 Or call-in to 1-646-876-9923, enter 85697105971# when prompted. We will also be arranging the Easter plants!!
Reconciliation:
Sat. Apr 16th 10am-Noon, Epiphany church. Information to follow. “Repentance can become a very, very deep phenomenon in you if you understand the responsibility. Then even a small thing, if it becomes a repentance not just verbal, not just on the surface; if it goes deep to the roots, if you repent from the roots; if your whole being shakes and trembles and cries, and tears come out; not only out of your eyes but out of every cell of your body, then repentance can become a transfiguration.”— Osho. From: https://www.ucc.org/sermon-seeds/sermon-seeds-chosen/
Gather 22: Hope Renewed
Saturday April 30th. We are so excited for Gather 22: Hope Renewed, the spring formation event for DioBeth! Join us April 30th at Split Rock Resort in Lake Harmony for a full day of workshops, fellowship, and worship for the entire diocese. Our guest speaker is the Very Rev. Kelly Brown Douglas, dean of Episcopal Divinity School, will be talking about her new book, Resurrection Hope: A Future Where Black Lives Matter https://www.amazon.com/Resurrection-Hope-Future-Where-Matter/dp/162698445X/
There are many interesting sessions: Bp. Kevin’s Pickles – training to take communion to our homebound – ancient music & liturgy – meet & greet w/Kelly Brown Douglas – training for chalice bearers – how does Vestry work for current & potential members – Youth ministry what’s working, what’s not – self-care connecting to God – Survivor not Victim presentation about safeguard All God’s children.
If you're interested in forming a carpool, contact Adrien once registered: 570-563-1564
Information about the workshops and registration can be found here: https://diobeth.org/gather22/
Birthdays: Judi Johnson, Madi Spangenberg, Luke Bader-Saye, Sue Six, Dorothy Wasser, Bruce Beck, Sharra Ott
Anniversaries: Rick and Pat Lewis, Kristie and Pat McMahon
For the Pygmy Ministry, Fr. Charles & Alice their principal
For: Mo. Lou, our Priest-in-Charge, and Rev. John, our Deacon
For: Our Vestry & Staff
Upcoming Opportunities!
Weds. 5.30pm – Video Study The Chosen, Season 1 & Light Dinner, Dalton UMC 125 S Turnpike
7-8pm – Intentional Lenten Community with Mary-Jo Cliff via Zoom – All are welcome!
Thursdays 6-7 PM - Qigong Group in Commons Room - Contact Rosalie at 570-885-7412 or rallanfufaro@gmail.com
Ongoing – Rummage Sale items now being accepted at the church. Please deposit your goods downstairs in the labeled room in an orderly fashion.
April 10 - Palm Sunday service at 11 AM
April 13 – 8.30am Check Request Fulfillment, Epiphany Office (also April 27th)
April 13 – 7-8 PM – Intentional Lenten Community with Mary-Jo Cliff via Zoom – All are welcome!
April 14 - Maundy Thursday service at 5 PM
April 15 - Good Friday service at 5 PM
Stations of the Cross in Epiphany’s Parish Hall following 5pm worship
April 16 - Easter Vigil service online at 9 PM
April 16 - 9am – Decorate church with Easter flowers
9.30am – Altar Guild Mtg;
10am-Noon – Reconciliation in the Hyde Memorial Chapel (beside the office)
April 17 - Easter services at 8 (in the pavilion) & 11 AM
April 23 - 9 -10.30am – VESTRY Meeting at Epiphany Commons Room and via Zoom
April 23 - 9-10:30 AM Vestry Meeting
April 24 - Noon - Training for Chalice Bearers with Deacon John
April 30 - 8 AM - 6:30 PM - Gather 22: Hope Renewed, Diocesan Event at Split Rock Resort. Information about the workshops and to REGISTER here: https://diobeth.org/gather22/
May 1 – 11 am – Blessing of New Robes & Celebration of Chalice Bearer Ministry during worship
3 PM - Epiphany Chicken BBQ @ Pavilion – Confirmed!! Please contact Roger, Deacon John
May 7 – 10am-Noon - Funeral & Luncheon at Epiphany Church & Parish Hall – Details to follow
May14 - 9am-??? CLEAN-UP of Buildings & Grounds at Epiphany – All are welcome!! Contact Roger Mattes for information.
May 21 - 10am Visitation for Howard Hyde followed by his Memorial Service at11am – Interment and Luncheon follow . If you plan to attend the luncheon, respond to Ellie Hyde directly (daniwind1@gmail.com) with your name and number attending from your household.
June 5 - The Day of Pentecost: Whitsunday - Parish Potluck Picnic (stay tuned for details)
Lay Eucharistic Ministers:
Beginning on Easter Sunday April 17th, we would like to have a chalice bearer at the 11am service. Communion will still be in the standing position, in the aisle. If you are interested in being trained/re-trained, contact Deacon John emailmrjohn@epix.net
Easter Flower Envelopes:
You can find these in the pew holders at Epiphany. DUE TODAY April 10th to the parish office or in the offering plate.
May be given in memorial and thanksgiving. Mail donation and SENTIMENT to PO Box 189, Clarks Summit, PA 18411.
Thank you for helping to remember our loved ones and beautify the church on Easter Day!
Epiphany’s Prayer Request Form:
Your request will be added to our prayer list for 6 weeks. After which you are invited to submit another request for an additional 6 weeks.
There is no limit to the number of requests you may submit if the situation is ongoing. You may note in the special request section if the
need for prayer is shorter than 6 weeks. Your Epiphany family is honored to join you in prayer. Blessings .
*Prayer cards are available in church pews or the online form here: https://www.epiphanyglenburn.org/prayer-request.html
Altar Guild Meeting:
Saturday April 16th, 9.30-10am with Mo. Lou. All are welcome to gather in the church or participate via Zoom here: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85697105971 Or call-in to 1-646-876-9923, enter 85697105971# when prompted. We will also be arranging the Easter plants!!
Reconciliation:
Sat. Apr 16th 10am-Noon, Epiphany church. Information to follow. “Repentance can become a very, very deep phenomenon in you if you understand the responsibility. Then even a small thing, if it becomes a repentance not just verbal, not just on the surface; if it goes deep to the roots, if you repent from the roots; if your whole being shakes and trembles and cries, and tears come out; not only out of your eyes but out of every cell of your body, then repentance can become a transfiguration.”— Osho. From: https://www.ucc.org/sermon-seeds/sermon-seeds-chosen/
Gather 22: Hope Renewed
Saturday April 30th. We are so excited for Gather 22: Hope Renewed, the spring formation event for DioBeth! Join us April 30th at Split Rock Resort in Lake Harmony for a full day of workshops, fellowship, and worship for the entire diocese. Our guest speaker is the Very Rev. Kelly Brown Douglas, dean of Episcopal Divinity School, will be talking about her new book, Resurrection Hope: A Future Where Black Lives Matter https://www.amazon.com/Resurrection-Hope-Future-Where-Matter/dp/162698445X/
There are many interesting sessions: Bp. Kevin’s Pickles – training to take communion to our homebound – ancient music & liturgy – meet & greet w/Kelly Brown Douglas – training for chalice bearers – how does Vestry work for current & potential members – Youth ministry what’s working, what’s not – self-care connecting to God – Survivor not Victim presentation about safeguard All God’s children.
If you're interested in forming a carpool, contact Adrien once registered: 570-563-1564
Information about the workshops and registration can be found here: https://diobeth.org/gather22/
