Worship Companion for June - August, 2021 - Pentecost 2 - Pentecost 14, Year B - Faith Lutheran Church 730 Collingwood Ave Whitehall, OH 43213 ...
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Worship Companion for
June - August, 2021
Pentecost 2 - Pentecost 14, Year B
Faith Lutheran Church
730 Collingwood Ave
Whitehall, OH 43213
1Table of Contents
June 6, 2021 Second Sunday after Pentecost Page 4
June 13, 2021 Third Sunday after Pentecost Page 8
June 20, 2021 Fourth Sunday after Pentecost Page 12
June 27, 2021 Fifth Sunday after Pentecost Page 16
July 4, 2021 Sixth Sunday after Pentecost Page 21
July 11, 2021 Seventh Sunday after Pentecost Page 25
July 18, 2021 Eighth Sunday after Pentecost Page 30
July 25, 2021 Ninth Sunday after Pentecost Page 34
August 1, 2021 Tenth Sunday after Pentecost Page 39
August 8, 2021 Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost Page 43
August 15, 2021 Mary, Mother Of Our Lord Page 47
2August 22, 2021 Thirteenth Sunday after Pentecost Page 51
August 29, 2021 Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost Page 55
All artwork, Prayers Of Intercession, Lord’s Prayer, Blessing, Dismissal, and
Thanksgiving For The Word taken from Sundays & Seasons 2021.
All Call To Worship’s and Prayers of the Day written by Nate Terry
All Gospel Readings taken from the New International Version (NIV 1973).
Edited and compiled by Rev. Daniel W. Hille and Nate Terry.
Cover Art designed by Michael Leavitt (mikeleavittart.com)
3Second Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, June 6, 2021
4Call To Worship
Out of the depths I cry to you, Lord
Lord, hear my voice.
Let your ears hear my cry for mercy.
Lord, hear my voice.
Put your hope in the Lord, for in Him
is unfailing love and full redemption.
Lord, hear my voice.
Prayer of the Day
Holy Lord, help us to follow your way and love each other. Teach us new ways of serving
one another here on Earth in your name, so that all we connect with may know your
love. In the name of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - Mark 3:20-35
20
Then Jesus entered a house, and again a crowd gathered, so that he and his disciples
were not even able to eat. 21 When his family heard about this, they went to take charge
of him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.” 22 And the teachers of the law who came
down from Jerusalem said, “He is possessed by Beelzebul! By the prince of demons he is
driving out demons.” 23 So Jesus called them over to him and began to speak to them in
parables: “How can Satan drive out Satan? 24 If a kingdom is divided against itself, that
kingdom cannot stand. 25 If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot
stand. 26 And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has
come. 27 In fact, no one can enter a strong man’s house without first tying him up. Then
he can plunder the strong man’s house. 28 Truly I tell you, people can be forgiven all
their sins and every slander they utter, 29 but whoever blasphemes against the Holy
Spirit will never be forgiven; they are guilty of an eternal sin.” 30 He said this because
they were saying, “He has an impure spirit.” 31 Then Jesus’ mother and brothers
arrived. Standing outside, they sent someone in to call him. 32 A crowd was sitting
around him, and they told him, “Your mother and brothers are outside looking for you.”
33
“Who are my mother and my brothers?” he asked. 34 Then he looked at those seated
in a circle around him and said, “Here are my mother and my brothers! 35 Whoever does
God’s will is my brother and sister and mother.”
Sermon
5Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
God of the cosmos, we pray for creation; the gardens, waterways and creatures near to
us and diverse forms of life that remain unseen. Teach us to treat the natural world with
reverence, seeking restoration when human divisions have caused harm to your beloved
creation. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
God of all people, we pray for harmony among the nations. Cast out from us unclean
spirits of greed and fear, that we may work in solidarity with one another for the
common good. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
God of abundance, we pray for those who are oppressed or in any need. Encourage
those who have begun to lose heart. Strengthen and renew us with your Spirit. Lord, in
your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
Glory to you, O God, for your creative Word: making and mending all things,
evoking the cosmic hymn of praise,
and singing a love-song for your beloved: your vineyard, your flock, your people.
With all creation we sing, Glory!
Glory!
Blessed are you for your liberating Word: speaking through Moses and the prophets,
encountered in the Gospels,
and proclaimed in the assembly:
your freedom, forgiveness, and life for the world. With the whole world we say, Blessing!
Blessing!
6Holy are you, O God, for your living Word: among us wherever we gather,
welcoming everyone to your feast,
and, with grace and generosity,
bringing to earth the kingdom of heaven. With saints and angels, we cry, Holy! Holy!
Clothe us in your loving Spirit,
flowing from the Crucified and Risen One,
and keep us awake to your presence
in the people and places you call us to serve. Glory, praise, and blessing are yours, Holy
God, now and forever. Lord, remember us in your kingdom and teach us to pray...
Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
7Third Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, June 13, 2021
8Call To Worship
It is good to praise the Lord
and make music to your name, O Most High.
I sing for joy at what your hands have done!
For you make me glad by your deeds, O Lord
I sing for joy at what your hands have done!
The righteous will flourish like a palm tree,
they will flourish in the courts of the Lord.
I sing for joy at what your hands have done!
Prayer of the Day
Lord, thank you for your inspiring teachings. Help us to understand the multiple layers
of truth that your word provides. Guide us to use these truths and spread the great love
of your kingdom. In the name of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - Mark 4:26-34
26
He also said, “This is what the kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the
ground. 27 Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows,
though he does not know how. 28 All by itself the soil produces grain—first the stalk,
then the head, then the full kernel in the head. 29 As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the
sickle to it, because the harvest has come.”
30
Again he said, “What shall we say the kingdom of God is like, or what parable shall we
use to describe it? 31 It is like a mustard seed, which is the smallest of all seeds on
earth. 32 Yet when planted, it grows and becomes the largest of all garden plants, with
such big branches that the birds can perch in its shade.”
33
With many similar parables Jesus spoke the word to them, as much as they could
understand. 34 He did not say anything to them without using a parable. But when he
was alone with his own disciples, he explained everything.
Sermon
9Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
Holy God, you plant the seeds of faith in every nation. Enliven your church, so that the
good news of your grace may root and grow throughout the world. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Judge of nations, we pray for our leaders and those in power. Grant them the ability to
regard those under their charge with humility, dedicating their lives in service to others.
Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Divine comforter, you show compassion to those in need and provide relief to those
who call on you. Bless all who suffer, especially people trapped in cycles of poverty and
homelessness. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
Glory to you, O God, for your creative Word: making and mending all things,
evoking the cosmic hymn of praise,
and singing a love-song for your beloved: your vineyard, your flock, your people.
With all creation we sing, Glory!
Glory!
Blessed are you for your liberating Word: speaking through Moses and the prophets,
encountered in the Gospels,
and proclaimed in the assembly:
your freedom, forgiveness, and life for the world. With the whole world we say, Blessing!
Blessing!
Holy are you, O God, for your living Word: among us wherever we gather,
welcoming everyone to your feast,
and, with grace and generosity,
bringing to earth the kingdom of heaven. With saints and angels, we cry, Holy! Holy!
10Clothe us in your loving Spirit,
flowing from the Crucified and Risen One,
and keep us awake to your presence
in the people and places you call us to serve. Glory, praise, and blessing are yours, Holy
God, now and forever. Lord, remember us in your kingdom and teach us to pray...
Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
11Fourth Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, June 20, 2021
12Call To Worship
Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good;
His love endures forever.
Let those rebellious in spirit turn from their ways
and see the wonderful works of the Lord
His love endures forever.
Let all who are wise ponder the loving deeds of the Lord.
His love endures forever.
Prayer of the Day
Teacher, calm our minds in this ongoing time of tribulation. Give us the courage to cast
our troubles and doubts upon your name so that we may be free of worry and fear.
Thank you for the great gift you have given us that allows us to live freely in love. In the
name of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - Mark 4:35-41
35
That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other
side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the
boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves
broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping
on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we
drown?”
39
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind
died down and it was completely calm.
40
He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
41
They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves
obey him!”
Sermon
13Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
Holy God, you gather your people from east and west, north and south. We pray for the
mission of the church throughout the world, that your steadfast love may be made
known to all peoples. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
You keep watch over all nations. We pray for countries experiencing violence, hunger,
and unrest. Guide worldwide and local community organizations in their efforts to
establish safety and justice. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
You dwell with us in this faith community. We pray for our leaders and elders. Grant
them knowledge, patience, and kindness, that through their leadership you may be
exalted in this assembly. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
Glory to you, O God, for your creative Word: making and mending all things,
evoking the cosmic hymn of praise,
and singing a love-song for your beloved: your vineyard, your flock, your people.
With all creation we sing, Glory!
Glory!
Blessed are you for your liberating Word: speaking through Moses and the prophets,
encountered in the Gospels,
and proclaimed in the assembly:
your freedom, forgiveness, and life for the world. With the whole world we say, Blessing!
Blessing!
Holy are you, O God, for your living Word: among us wherever we gather,
welcoming everyone to your feast,
and, with grace and generosity,
bringing to earth the kingdom of heaven. With saints and angels, we cry, Holy! Holy!
14Clothe us in your loving Spirit,
flowing from the Crucified and Risen One,
and keep us awake to your presence
in the people and places you call us to serve. Glory, praise, and blessing are yours, Holy
God, now and forever. Lord, remember us in your kingdom and teach us to pray...
Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
15Fifth Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, June 27, 2021
16Call To Worship
I will exalt you Lord,
for you lifted me out of the depths and healed me.
We praise your Holy Name.
Sing praises of the Lord, all you peoples!
We praise your Holy Name.
You turned my wailing into dancing,
that my heart may sing your praises and not be silent.
Praise your Holy Name!
Prayer of the Day
Loving Healer, let us be courageous as the woman who touched your cloak. Give us the
wisdom to know that your healing power will always be there for us. Thank you for
continually loving us and restoring our minds and bodies. In the name of The Father,
The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - Mark 5:21-43
21
When Jesus had again crossed over by boat to the other side of the lake, a large
crowd gathered around him while he was by the lake. 22 Then one of the synagogue
leaders, named Jairus, came, and when he saw Jesus, he fell at his feet. 23 He pleaded
earnestly with him, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her
so that she will be healed and live.” 24 So Jesus went with him.
A large crowd followed and pressed around him. 25 And a woman was there who had
been subject to bleeding for twelve years. 26 She had suffered a great deal under the
care of many doctors and had spent all she had, yet instead of getting better she grew
worse. 27 When she heard about Jesus, she came up behind him in the crowd and
touched his cloak, 28 because she thought, “If I just touch his clothes, I will be
healed.” 29 Immediately her bleeding stopped and she felt in her body that she was
freed from her suffering.
30
At once Jesus realized that power had gone out from him. He turned around in the
crowd and asked, “Who touched my clothes?”
31
“You see the people crowding against you,” his disciples answered, “and yet you can
ask, ‘Who touched me?’ ”
1732
But Jesus kept looking around to see who had done it. 33 Then the woman, knowing
what had happened to her, came and fell at his feet and, trembling with fear, told him
the whole truth. 34 He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and
be freed from your suffering.”
35
While Jesus was still speaking, some people came from the house of Jairus, the
synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” they said. “Why bother the teacher
anymore?”
36
Overhearing what they said, Jesus told him, “Don’t be afraid; just believe.”
37
He did not let anyone follow him except Peter, James and John the brother of
James. 38 When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw a
commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. 39 He went in and said to them, “Why
all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” 40 But they laughed at
him.
After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who
were with him, and went in where the child was. 41 He took her by the hand and said to
her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). 42 Immediately the
girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were
completely astonished. 43 He gave strict orders not to let anyone know about this, and
told them to give her something to eat.
Sermon
18Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
God of hope, the ministry of your church extends across borders, from nearby neighbors
to far and distant countries. Accompany all those who labor eagerly in service of the
gospel, that through your good news all might experience transformation. Lord, in your
mercy,
hear our prayer.
Almighty God, we give you thanks for the air we breathe, the water we drink, the land
that provides our food. Guard all species of plants and animals from harsh changes in
climate and empower us to protect all you have made. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
We pray for this assembly and all those gathered together in worship. Revive our spirits,
renew our relationships, and rekindle our faith, that we might experience resurrection in
this community. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
Glory to you, O God, for your creative Word: making and mending all things,
evoking the cosmic hymn of praise,
and singing a love-song for your beloved: your vineyard, your flock, your people.
With all creation we sing, Glory!
Glory!
Blessed are you for your liberating Word: speaking through Moses and the prophets,
encountered in the Gospels,
and proclaimed in the assembly:
your freedom, forgiveness, and life for the world. With the whole world we say, Blessing!
Blessing!
19Holy are you, O God, for your living Word: among us wherever we gather,
welcoming everyone to your feast,
and, with grace and generosity,
bringing to earth the kingdom of heaven. With saints and angels, we cry, Holy! Holy!
Clothe us in your loving Spirit,
flowing from the Crucified and Risen One,
and keep us awake to your presence
in the people and places you call us to serve. Glory, praise, and blessing are yours, Holy
God, now and forever. Lord, remember us in your kingdom and teach us to pray...
Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
20Sixth Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, July 4, 2021
21Call To Worship
I lift my eyes to you who sit enthroned in Heaven.
I lift my eyes to you, O Lord.
Our Eyes look to the Lord, till he shows us his mercy.
I lift my eyes to you, O Lord.
Have mercy on us Lord, for we have endured no end of contempt.
I lift my eyes to you, O Lord.
Prayer of the Day
Holy Lord, we graciously accept your healing. Open our hearts so that you may dwell in
us all our days, and use us as disciples of your word. In the name of The Father, The Son,
and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - Mark 6:1-13
1
Jesus left there and went to his hometown, accompanied by his disciples. 2 When the
Sabbath came, he began to teach in the synagogue, and many who heard him were
amazed. “Where did this man get these things?” they asked. “What’s this wisdom that
has been given him? What are these remarkable miracles he is performing? 3 Isn’t this
the carpenter? Isn’t this Mary’s son and the brother of James, Joseph, Judas and
Simon? Aren’t his sisters here with us?” And they took offense at him.
4
Jesus said to them, “A prophet is not without honor except in his own town, among his
relatives and in his own home.” 5 He could not do any miracles there, except lay his
hands on a few sick people and heal them. 6 He was amazed at their lack of faith. Then
Jesus went around teaching from village to village. 7 Calling the Twelve to him, he began
to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits. 8 These were
his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no
money in your belts. 9 Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. 10 Whenever you enter a
house, stay there until you leave that town. 11 And if any place will not welcome you or
listen to you, leave that place and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against
them.”
12
They went out and preached that people should repent. 13 They drove out many
demons and anointed many sick people with oil and healed them.
22Sermon
Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
God of all, through the waters of baptism you claim people of all races, ethnicities, and
languages as your beloved children. Sustain the baptized and increase their faith, that
your gospel may be proclaimed throughout the earth. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
God of holiness, you send us out into the world to proclaim your love. We pray for our
outreach ministries. Equip us as we leave this place to witness and serve our neighbors.
Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
God of freedom, you have liberated us from sin and death and rescue us from all forms
of spiritual, social, and political oppression. Defend us from tyrants in our midst and
deliver us from all forms of slavery or corruption. Direct our freedom for works of
liberation and wholeness. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
We give you thanks that in every time and place you call forth prophets who move us
towards freedom. Thank you for those who work for human rights, community
organizers, and all who strive for liberty for all. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
Praise and thanks to you, Holy God, for by your Word you made all things:
you spoke light into darkness, called forth beauty from chaos,
and brought life into being. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
By your Word you called your people Israel to tell of your wonderful gifts:
freedom from captivity, water on the desert journey, a pathway home from exile, and
23wisdom for life with you. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Through Jesus, your Word made flesh, you speak to us and call us to witness:
forgiveness through the cross, life to those entombed by death, and the way of your
self-giving love. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Send your Spirit of truth, O God; rekindle your gifts within us: renew our faith, increase
our hope, and deepen our love, for the sake of a world in need. Faithful to your Word, O
God, draw near to all who call on you; through Jesus Christ, our savior and Lord, to
whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory forever. Lord, remember us in
your kingdom and teach us to pray...
Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
24Seventh Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, July 11, 2021
25Call To Worship
You, Lord, showed favor to your land.
You forgave the iniquity of your people,
and covered all their sins.
Restore us again, God our Savior,
and put away your displeasure toward us.
You forgave the iniquity of your people,
and covered all their sins.
Righteousness goes before him,
and prepares the way for his steps.
You forgave the iniquity of your people,
and covered all their sins.
Have mercy on us Lord.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, as we remember your servant John the Baptizer, we thank you for the gift of
Baptism. We remain grateful for all the promises you have made to use through your
son Jesus Christ and thank you for your unconditional love. In the name of The Father,
The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - Mark 6:14-29
14
King Herod heard about this, for Jesus’ name had become well known. Some were
saying, “John the Baptist has been raised from the dead, and that is why miraculous
powers are at work in him.”
15
Others said, “He is Elijah.”
And still others claimed, “He is a prophet, like one of the prophets of long ago.”
16
But when Herod heard this, he said, “John, whom I beheaded, has been raised from
the dead!”
17
For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and
put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had
married. 18 For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your
brother’s wife.” 19 So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But
26she was not able to, 20 because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to
be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he
liked to listen to him.
21
Finally the opportune time came. On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high
officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. 22 When the daughter
of Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests.
The king said to the girl, “Ask me for anything you want, and I’ll give it to you.” 23 And he
promised her with an oath, “Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my kingdom.”
24
She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?”
“The head of John the Baptist,” she answered.
25
At once the girl hurried in to the king with the request: “I want you to give me right
now the head of John the Baptist on a platter.”
26
The king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did
not want to refuse her. 27 So he immediately sent an executioner with orders to bring
John’s head. The man went, beheaded John in the prison, 28 and brought back his head
on a platter. He presented it to the girl, and she gave it to her mother. 29 On hearing of
this, John’s disciples came and took his body and laid it in a tomb.
Sermon
Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
Holy parent, you welcome your people into one family and gather all things to yourself.
Bestow your grace upon your beloved church, lavish your wisdom upon us, and redeem
us from our faults, that by our witness all might praise your glory. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
God of the oppressed, turn the ears of those who are in power to the voices of prophets
in our own day. Protect those who speak difficult truths when it is risky to do so. Lord, in
your mercy,
hear our prayer.
27God of love, we pray for this holy house and all those who worship here. We pray
especially for those whose efforts behind the scenes often go unnoticed; for the
custodian(s) and maintenance workers, for our office staff (other positions may be
named), and for all of our volunteers. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
Praise and thanks to you, Holy God, for by your Word you made all things:
you spoke light into darkness, called forth beauty from chaos,
and brought life into being. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
By your Word you called your people Israel to tell of your wonderful gifts:
freedom from captivity, water on the desert journey, a pathway home from exile, and
wisdom for life with you. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Through Jesus, your Word made flesh, you speak to us and call us to witness:
forgiveness through the cross, life to those entombed by death, and the way of your
self-giving love. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Send your Spirit of truth, O God; rekindle your gifts within us: renew our faith, increase
our hope, and deepen our love, for the sake of a world in need. Faithful to your Word, O
God, draw near to all who call on you; through Jesus Christ, our savior and Lord, to
whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory forever. Lord, remember us in
your kingdom and teach us to pray...
28Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
29Eighth Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, July 18, 2021
30Call To Worship
The Lord is my Shepherd, I lack nothing.
The Lord fills my every need.
He leads me and refreshes my soul
The Lord fills my every need.
Though I walk through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil.
The Lord fills my every need;
I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, thank you for your healing spirit. May we have that undeniable faith that your
followers had so that we may be healed and heal others as well. In the name of The
Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - Mark 6:30-34, 53-56
30
The apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to him all they had done and
taught. 31 Then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even
have a chance to eat, he said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and
get some rest.”
32
So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place. 33 But many who saw
them leaving recognized them and ran on foot from all the towns and got there ahead
of them. 34 When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them,
because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many
things.
53
When they had crossed over, they landed at Gennesaret and anchored there. 54 As
soon as they got out of the boat, people recognized Jesus. 55 They ran throughout that
whole region and carried the sick on mats to wherever they heard he was. 56 And
wherever he went—into villages, towns or countryside—they placed the sick in the
marketplaces. They begged him to let them touch even the edge of his cloak, and all
who touched it were healed.
Sermon
31Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
Nourish this congregation, O God. Prepare a table where we receive food for our
hungering spirits. Renew our commitment to provide for one another and revitalize our
ministries of feeding and nurturing hungry neighbors. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Tend your church, O God. Encourage bishops, pastors, and deacons in their
proclamation of the gospel. Raise up new leaders and encourage those pursuing a call
to ministry. Embolden all the baptized to embody your love and justice. Lord, in your
mercy,
hear our prayer.
You lead us home, O God. We give thanks for all who have died, now citizens with the
saints. As you have received them into your heavenly home, so welcome all of us to
dwell in your house forever. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
Praise and thanks to you, Holy God, for by your Word you made all things:
you spoke light into darkness, called forth beauty from chaos,
and brought life into being. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
By your Word you called your people Israel to tell of your wonderful gifts:
freedom from captivity, water on the desert journey, a pathway home from exile, and
wisdom for life with you. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Through Jesus, your Word made flesh, you speak to us and call us to witness:
forgiveness through the cross, life to those entombed by death, and the way of your
self-giving love. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
32Send your Spirit of truth, O God; rekindle your gifts within us: renew our faith, increase
our hope, and deepen our love, for the sake of a world in need. Faithful to your Word, O
God, draw near to all who call on you; through Jesus Christ, our savior and Lord, to
whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory forever. Lord, remember us in
your kingdom and teach us to pray...
Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
33Ninth Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, July 25, 2021
34Call To Worship
I will exalt you, my God the King;
I will praise your name for ever and ever.
Great is the Lord, and worthy of praise;
his greatness no one can fathom.
I will praise your name for ever and ever.
The Lord is righteous in all his ways,
and faithful in all he does.
I will praise your name for ever and ever.
Prayer of the Day
Great Teacher, teach us to follow you in our everyday lives. Open our minds to new
ideas and concepts so that we may be more like you and more effectively love our
neighbors. In the name of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - John 6:1-21
1
Some time after this, Jesus crossed to the far shore of the Sea of Galilee (that is, the Sea
of Tiberias), 2 and a great crowd of people followed him because they saw the signs he
had performed by healing the sick. 3 Then Jesus went up on a mountainside and sat
down with his disciples. 4 The Jewish Passover Festival was near.
5
When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to
Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” 6 He asked this only to test
him, for he already had in mind what he was going to do.
7
Philip answered him, “It would take more than half a year’s wages to buy enough bread
for each one to have a bite!”
8
Another of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, spoke up, 9 “Here is a boy with
five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many?”
10
Jesus said, “Have the people sit down.” There was plenty of grass in that place, and
they sat down (about five thousand men were there). 11 Jesus then took the loaves, gave
thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the
same with the fish.
3512
When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, “Gather the pieces that
are left over. Let nothing be wasted.” 13 So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets
with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten.
14
After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, “Surely this is the
Prophet who is to come into the world.” 15 Jesus, knowing that they intended to come
and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.
16
When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, 17 where they got into a boat
and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now it was dark, and Jesus had not yet
joined them. 18 A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough. 19 When they had
rowed about three or four miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the
water; and they were frightened. 20 But he said to them, “It is I; don’t be afraid.” 21 Then
they were willing to take him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore
where they were heading.
Sermon
Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
We pray for the church. Bless the ministries of our neighboring congregations. Empower
churches throughout the world and encourage missionaries who accompany global
neighbors. Kindle in us a spirit of collaboration, that all people may know your loving
works. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
We pray for those who govern. Cast out arrogance, selfishness, and corruption and
instruct those who lead to practice compassion and humility. Inspire them with a vision
of the common good and a commitment to ensure that all who hunger are fed. Lord, in
your mercy,
hear our prayer.
We pray for those bowed down by heavy burdens: those who are unemployed or
underemployed, those unable to find affordable housing, and those without health
insurance. Console those who grieve and hear the cries of those who call to you for
healing. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
36We pray for this assembly. Deepen our resolve to use what we have to serve those in
need. When we worry that we do not have enough resources for ministry, assure us of
your abundance. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
Praise and thanks to you, Holy God, for by your Word you made all things:
you spoke light into darkness, called forth beauty from chaos,
and brought life into being. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
By your Word you called your people Israel to tell of your wonderful gifts:
freedom from captivity, water on the desert journey, a pathway home from exile, and
wisdom for life with you. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Through Jesus, your Word made flesh, you speak to us and call us to witness:
forgiveness through the cross, life to those entombed by death, and the way of your
self-giving love. For your Word of life, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Send your Spirit of truth, O God; rekindle your gifts within us: renew our faith, increase
our hope, and deepen our love, for the sake of a world in need. Faithful to your Word, O
God, draw near to all who call on you; through Jesus Christ, our savior and Lord, to
whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be honor and glory forever. Lord, remember us in
your kingdom and teach us to pray...
37Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
38Tenth Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, August 1, 2021
39Call To Worship
All peoples, hear the teaching, listen to the word of God.
We will tell the next generation of your praiseworthy deeds, O Lord.
May the next generation know him, even children yet to be born.
We will tell the next generation of your praiseworthy deeds, O Lord.
May they put their trust in God and keep his commandments.
We will tell the next generation of your praiseworthy deeds, O Lord.
Prayer of the Day
Holy Lord, let our hearts and minds never go hungry. Let us look to you in times of
emptiness and hunger so that we may be filled with the blessings you have given and
continue to give. Teach us to use these gifts to satisfy our hearts and minds. In the name
of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - John 6:24-35
24
Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor his disciples were there, they got into
the boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus. 25 When they found him on the
other side of the lake, they asked him, “Rabbi, when did you get here?” 26 Jesus
answered, “Very truly I tell you, you are looking for me, not because you saw the signs I
performed but because you ate the loaves and had your fill. 27 Do not work for food that
spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For
on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval.” 28 Then they asked him, “What
must we do to do the works God requires?” 29 Jesus answered, “The work of God is this:
to believe in the one he has sent.” 30 So they asked him, “What sign then will you give
that we may see it and believe you? What will you do? 31 Our ancestors ate the manna in
the wilderness; as it is written: ‘He gave them bread from heaven to eat.’” 32 Jesus said to
them, “Very truly I tell you, it is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven,
but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is
the bread that comes down from heaven and gives life to the world.” 34 “Sir,” they said,
“always give us this bread.” 35 Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever
comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
Sermon
40Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
You call your church to be the body of Christ. Awaken all the baptized to the gifts you
provide for carrying out the work of ministry. Where the church is divided, knit us
together and restore the unity of the faith. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
You summon leaders to respond to the needs of your people. Instill those who govern
with patience when confronted with grievances and perseverance in seeking what
promotes the well-being of the community. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
You receive all who come seeking a sign of grace. Make this congregation a place of
hospitality for those accustomed to rejection. To those who have felt excluded here or
elsewhere, prepare us to welcome them in the name of Christ. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
By your Word you provided the gift of the Law,
you equip us with order and justice,
you bring harmony and shalom into our brokenness.
For your Word of peace, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
By your Word you call leaders and prophets,
you open our eyes to the error or our ways,
you grant wisdom and vision to your people and
bring healing of body, mind, spirit, and community.
For your Word of shalom, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
41By your Word made flesh, Jesus Christ,
you direct our path and open our hearts to your reign,
you draw near to us in Christ and break in to our reality
with the joy and peace of your rule.
For your Word with us, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Work in us, O God,
through your creative, faithful, just, forgiving, and powerful Word.
Being steeped in your Word, make us proclaimers of it and
send your Spirit to direct us in the way of Jesus Christ. Lord, remember us in your
kingdom and teach us to pray...
Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
42Eleventh Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, August 8, 2021
43Call To Worship
I will extol the Lord at all times.
Let us exalt his name together.
I sought the Lord, and he answered me;
he delivered me from all my fears.
Let us exalt his name together.
Taste and see that the Lord is good;
blessed is the one who takes refuge in him.
Let us exalt his name together.
Prayer of the Day
Lord, on this day we thank you for your greatest gift. Though we often forget, remind us
to give thanks for heaven that is waiting for us once our work here is finished. Help us
remember this during times of strife. In the name of The Father, The Son, and The Holy
Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - John 6:35, 41-51
35
Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go
hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. 41 At this the Jews there began
to grumble about him because he said, “I am the bread that came down from
heaven.” 42 They said, “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we
know? How can he now say, ‘I came down from heaven’?” 43 “Stop grumbling among
yourselves,” Jesus answered.
44
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise
them up at the last day. 45 It is written in the Prophets: ‘They will all be taught by
God.’ Everyone who has heard the Father and learned from him comes to me.
46
No one has seen the Father except the one who is from God; only he has seen the
Father. 47 Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. 48 I am the bread of
life. 49 Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, yet they died. 50 But here is the
bread that comes down from heaven, which anyone may eat and not die. 51 I am the
living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This
bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”
44Sermon
Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
For the church of Christ in all its diverse forms. For mission developers, new mission
starts, and all communities of faith exploring new models of ministry for the sake of the
gospel. For congregations facing difficult decisions about their future. Lord, in your
mercy,
hear our prayer.
For all who cry out to you in their affliction. For exiles, refugees, and others who face
long and difficult journeys, uncertain about the future. For all who mourn the death of a
loved one. For all who are sick. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
For those who have been raised to eternal life, we give thanks. With all the saints we
praise you for the bread of life that keeps us in your love forever. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
By your Word you provided the gift of the Law,
you equip us with order and justice,
you bring harmony and shalom into our brokenness.
For your Word of peace, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
By your Word you call leaders and prophets,
you open our eyes to the error or our ways,
you grant wisdom and vision to your people and
bring healing of body, mind, spirit, and community.
For your Word of shalom, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
45By your Word made flesh, Jesus Christ,
you direct our path and open our hearts to your reign,
you draw near to us in Christ and break in to our reality
with the joy and peace of your rule.
For your Word with us, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Work in us, O God,
through your creative, faithful, just, forgiving, and powerful Word.
Being steeped in your Word, make us proclaimers of it and
send your Spirit to direct us in the way of Jesus Christ. Lord, remember us in your
kingdom and teach us to pray...
Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
46Mary, Mother Of Our Lord
Sunday, August 15, 2021
47Call To Worship
Fear the Lord, you his holy people,
For those who fear him lack nothing.
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are attentive to their cry.
Those who fear the Lord lack nothing.
Come, his children, and listen to him,
For those who fear him lack nothing.
Prayer of the Day
Almighty God, in choosing the virgin Mary to be the mother of your Son, you made
known your gracious regard for the poor, the lowly, and the despised. Grant us grace to
receive your word in humility, and so to be made one with your Son, Jesus Christ our
Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and
forever. Amen.
Gospel - Luke 1:46-55
46
And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord
47
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
48
for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant.
From now on all generations will call me blessed,
49
for the Mighty One has done great things for me—
holy is his name.
50
His mercy extends to those who fear him,
from generation to generation.
51
He has performed mighty deeds with his arm;
he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts.
52
He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble.
53
He has filled the hungry with good things
but has sent the rich away empty.
54
He has helped his servant Israel,
remembering to be merciful
55
to Abraham and his descendants forever,
just as he promised our ancestors.
48Sermon
Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
God of wisdom, enlighten your church. Guide theologians, biblical scholars, authors, and
seminary professors as they seek greater knowledge and invite others into deeper
understanding. Teach us to ask faithful questions and open our minds to new ideas.
Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
God of compassion, tend to the wounded. Rescue those tormented by mental illness or
mired in addiction. Ease the anxiety of those struggling with dementia. Come quickly to
help all who are grieving and all those who suffer. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
God of beauty, inspire artists. Bless those whose visual and musical gifts enliven this
assembly (especially). Bless the creative work of poets, hymnwriters, composers, painters,
sculptors, and others that enrich our worship and daily life. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
By your Word you provided the gift of the Law,
you equip us with order and justice,
you bring harmony and shalom into our brokenness.
For your Word of peace, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
By your Word you call leaders and prophets,
you open our eyes to the error or our ways,
you grant wisdom and vision to your people and
bring healing of body, mind, spirit, and community.
For your Word of shalom, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
49By your Word made flesh, Jesus Christ,
you direct our path and open our hearts to your reign,
you draw near to us in Christ and break in to our reality
with the joy and peace of your rule.
For your Word with us, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
Work in us, O God,
through your creative, faithful, just, forgiving, and powerful Word.
Being steeped in your Word, make us proclaimers of it and
send your Spirit to direct us in the way of Jesus Christ. Lord, remember us in your
kingdom and teach us to pray...
Lord’s Prayer
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,
forever and ever.
Amen.
Blessing
The Lord bless you and keep you.
The Lord’s face shine on you with grace and mercy.
The Lord look upon you with favor and ☩ give you peace.
Amen.
Dismissal
Go in peace. Serve the Lord.
Thanks be to God.
50Thirteenth Sunday After Pentecost
Sunday, August 22, 2021
51Call To Worship
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them.
He delivers them from all their troubles.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.
He delivers them from all their troubles.
The righteous may have many troubles,
But the Lord delivers them from all their troubles.
Prayer of the Day
Eternal God, we graciously accept your words of eternal life. Give us the courage and
wisdom to choose the right path even in times of confusion and challenge, as the 12
disciples did. In the name of The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. Amen.
Gospel - John 6:56-69
56
Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them. 57 Just as
the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me
will live because of me. 58 This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your ancestors
ate manna and died, but whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.” 59 He said this
while teaching in the synagogue in Capernaum. 60 On hearing it, many of his
disciples said, “This is a hard teaching. Who can accept it?”
61
Aware that his disciples were grumbling about this, Jesus said to them, “Does this
offend you? 62 Then what if you see the Son of Man ascend to where he was
before! 63 The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to
you—they are full of the Spirit and life. 64 Yet there are some of you who do not
believe.” For Jesus had known from the beginning which of them did not believe and
who would betray him. 65 He went on to say, “This is why I told you that no one can
come to me unless the Father has enabled them.”
66
From this time many of his disciples turned back and no longer followed him. 67 “You
do not want to leave too, do you?” Jesus asked the Twelve. 68 Simon Peter answered
him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69 We have come to
believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”
Sermon
52Prayers of Intercession
With the whole people of God in Christ Jesus, let us pray for the church, those in need,
and all of God’s of creation.
God of courage, bless all leaders of your church. Make them ready to proclaim the
gospel of peace and strengthen them to preach your loving word. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
God of community, bless all who seek justice between nations and peoples. Give
guidance to bridge-builders, heal divisions, and inspire cooperation in times of crisis,
disaster, and war. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
God of change, bless our transitions. Guide all who are embarking on new stages in life
such as a new job, new school, or new community. Sustain enduring friendships and
kindle new relationships and interests. Lord, in your mercy,
hear our prayer.
Trusting in your mercy and goodness, we bring before you these prayers and whatever
else you see that we need, in the name of the one who sets us free, Jesus Christ, our
Savior. Amen.
Thanksgiving for the Word
By your Word you provided the gift of the Law,
you equip us with order and justice,
you bring harmony and shalom into our brokenness.
For your Word of peace, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
By your Word you call leaders and prophets,
you open our eyes to the error or our ways,
you grant wisdom and vision to your people and
bring healing of body, mind, spirit, and community.
For your Word of shalom, O God,
we give you thanks and praise.
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