Use the link above to access the recording of the service, and the Service leaflet below to follow along.
Permission to podcast the music in this service obtained from One License, License # A-733800 and for those works copyrighted by Gregory J. Cava, from the holder of the copyright.
Christ Episcopal Church
Roxbury, Connecticut
The Second Sunday of Easter
Welcome: Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas
The Word of God
Prelude Prelude No. 3 in D minor Composed by Gregory J. Cava1
Opening Hymn Alleluia! The Strife is O’er; the Battle Won. Tune: Victory
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
The strife is o’er, the battle done, the victory of life is won,
the song of triumph has begun, Alleluia!
The powers of death have done their worst, but Christ their legions hath dispersed;
Let shout of holy joy outburst. Alleluia!
The three sad days are quickly sped, he rises glorious from the dead:
All glory to our risen Head! Alleluia.
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Celebrant: Alleluia. Christ is risen.
People: The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.
Gloria In Unison
Glory to God in the highest,
and peace to his people on earth.
Lord God, heavenly King,
almighty God and Father,
we worship you, we give you thanks,
we praise you for your glory.
Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father,
Lord God, Lamb of God,
you take away the sin of the world:
have mercy on us;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father:
receive our prayer.
For you alone are the Holy One,
you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High,
Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit,
in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
The Lord be with you.
People And also with you.
Celebrant Let us pray.
The Collect
Almighty and everlasting God, who in the Paschal mystery established the new covenant of reconciliation: Grant that all who have been reborn into the fellowship of Christ's Body may show forth in their lives what they profess by their faith; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
The First Reading is from The Book of Acts 2:14a, 22-32 Read by Judith Kelly
Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd, “You that are Israelites, listen to what I have to say: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with deeds of power, wonders, and signs that God did through him among you, as you yourselves know— this man, handed over to you according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of those outside the law. But God raised him up, having freed him from death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power. For David says concerning him,
‘I saw the Lord always before me,
for he is at my right hand so that I will not be shaken;
therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced;
moreover my flesh will live in hope.
For you will not abandon my soul to Hades,
or let your Holy One experience corruption.
You have made known to me the ways of life;
you will make me full of gladness with your presence.’
“Fellow Israelites, I may say to you confidently of our ancestor David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. Since he was a prophet, he knew that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would put one of his descendants on his throne. Foreseeing this, David spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, saying,
‘He was not abandoned to Hades,
nor did his flesh experience corruption.’
This Jesus God raised up, and of that all of us are witnesses.”
The Word of the Lord
Response: Thanks be to God.
Psalm 16 In Unison Conserva me, Domine Led by Barbara Dratch
1 Protect me, O God, for I take refuge in you; *
I have said to the Lord, "You are my Lord,
my good above all other."
2 All my delight is upon the godly that are in the land, *
upon those who are noble among the people.
3 But those who run after other gods *
shall have their troubles multiplied.
4 Their libations of blood I will not offer, *
nor take the names of their gods upon my lips.
5 O Lord, you are my portion and my cup; *
it is you who uphold my lot.
6 My boundaries enclose a pleasant land; *
indeed, I have a goodly heritage.
7 I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel; *
my heart teaches me, night after night.
8 I have set the Lord always before me; *
because he is at my right hand I shall not fall.
9 My heart, therefore, is glad, and my spirit rejoices; *
my body also shall rest in hope.
10 For you will not abandon me to the grave, *
nor let your holy one see the Pit.
11 You will show me the path of life; *
in your presence there is fullness of joy,
and in your right hand are pleasures for evermore.
The Epistle is from the First Book of Peter 1:3-9 Read by Judith Kelly
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By his great mercy he has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who are being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith-- being more precious than gold that, though perishable, is tested by fire-- may be found to result in praise and glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, for you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
The Word of the Lord
Response: Thanks be to God.
Gradual Hymn We Walk by Faith and Not by Sight Tune: St. Boltolph
We walk by faith, and not by sight;
No gracious words we hear from him who spoke as none e’er spoke;
But we believe him near.
We may not touch his hands and side,
Nor follow where he trod; but in his promise we rejoice;
And cry “My Lord and God!”
Help then, O Lord, our unbelief;
And may our faith abound, to call on you when you are near,
And seek where you are found.
At the introduction of the Gospel, the people respond:
Glory to you, Lord Christ.
The Gospel According to John 2:10-31
When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, "Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you." When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained."
But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, "We have seen the Lord." But he said to them, "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe."
A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you." Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe." Thomas answered him, "My Lord and my God!" Jesus said to him, "Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe."
Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name.
At the conclusion of the Gospel:
Praise to you, Lord Christ.
Reflection Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas
The Nicene Creed
We believe in one God,
the Father, the Almighty,
maker of heaven and earth,
of all that is, seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father,
God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God,
begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation
he came down from heaven:
by the power of the Holy Spirit
he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary and was made man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again
in accordance with the Scriptures;
he ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,
and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son.
With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified.
He has spoken through the Prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead,
and the life of the world to come. Amen.
The Prayers of the People Led by Barbara Dratch
The Congregation will read the passages in bold print.
In peace, we pray to you, Lord God.
For all people in their daily life and work;
For our families, friends, and neighbors, and for those who
are alone.
For this community, the nation, and the world;
For all who work for justice, freedom, and peace.
For the just and proper use of your creation;
For the victims of hunger, fear, injustice, and oppression.
Gracious God, we pray for those for whom prayers have been requested: Dermott, Carolyn, Jennifer, Deb, Mary, Steve, Michael, Barbara and Graham. Charlie , Lee, Don, Marilyn, Grace, Virginia, Hanq, Isabel, Mandy, Sandy, Nanette, Tyler, Sam, Matt, Ana, Bergie, Jim , Steve, Marguerite, Mead, Gwyneth, Pauline, Hellen, Ginnie, Meredith, Mayo, Jim, Matthew, Lee, Jeffrey, Gail, Kathy, Ray, Marie, Susan, Allen, Michael, Pedro, James, Brian, Jim Robert, Nick and Jillian.
For all who are in danger, sorrow, or any kind of trouble;
For those who minister to the sick, the friendless, and the needy.
For the peace and unity of the Church of God;
For all who proclaim the Gospel, and all who seek the Truth.
For all bishops and other ministers, especially the laity who serve the Gospel in word and deed;
For all who serve God in his Church.
For the special needs and concerns of this congregation.
Silence
Hear us, Lord;
For your mercy is great.
We thank you, Lord, for all the blessings of this life.
Silence
We will exalt you, O God our King;
And praise your Name for ever and ever.
We pray for all who have died, that they may have a place in
your eternal kingdom.
Silence
Lord, let your loving-kindness be upon them;
Who put their trust in you.
Concluding Prayer: A Prayer for People Critically Ill or Facing Great Uncertainty In Unison
God of the present moment,
God who in Jesus stills the storm
and soothes the frantic heart;
bring hope and courage to all
who wait or work in uncertainty.
Bring hope that you will make them the equal
of whatever lies ahead.
Bring them courage to endure what cannot be avoided,
for your will is health and wholeness;
you are God, and we need you.
- Adapted from New Zealand Prayer Book, p. 765
Celebrant: Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Have mercy on us, most merciful Father;
in your compassion forgive us our sins,
known and unknown,
things done and left undone;
and so uphold us by your Spirit
that we may live and serve you in newness of life,
to the honor and glory of your Name;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Peace
Celebrant: The Peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.
The Holy Communion
Offertory Hymn Here, O My Lord, I See Thee Face to Face Tune: Nyack
Here, O my Lord, I see thee face to face;
Here would I touch and handle things un seen;
Here grasp with firmer hand eternal grace,
And all my weariness upon thee lean.
Here would I feed upon the Bread of God;
Here drink with thee the royal Wine of heaven;
Here would I lay aside each earthly load,
Here taste afresh the calm of sin forgiven.
Doxology: Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow Tune: Old Hundredth
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.
The Great Thanksgiving
Prayer A Book of Common Prayer page 361
| 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 him thanks and praise. |
Celebrant:
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and every-where to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.
But chiefly are we bound to praise you for the glorious resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; for he is the true Paschal Lamb, who was sacrificed for us, and has taken away the sin of the world. By his death he has destroyed death, and by his rising to life again he has won for us everlasting life.
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:
Celebrant and People
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
Then the Celebrant continues
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:
Celebrant and People
Christ has died.
Christ is risen.
Christ will come again.
The Celebrant continues
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 are bold to say,
People and Celebrant
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
The Celebrant breaks the consecrated Bread.
A period of silence is kept.
Celebrant: Alleluia, Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us;
People: Therefore let us keep the feast, Alleluia.
Communion Meditation Meditation in G Major of Gregory J. Cava
In Unison
Lord, Jesus Christ, we believe that you are present in the sharing of the Holy Eucharist. We desire through this sacrament to receive you into our bodies: heart, mind and soul. Since we cannot at this moment receive you physically through the bread and wine of this Holy Meal, we ask that you come spiritually into our hearts. We embrace you now as we unite ourselves to your presence. May we never be separated from your love. Amen.
The Blessing
As you go on your way, may the Lord Jesus Christ go with you.
May he be near you to defend you;
may he go before you to show you the way;
behind you to encourage you;
beside you to befriend you;
above you to watch over you;
and within you to give you peace.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,
God forevermore. Amen.
–Based on a 10th century blessing
Recessional Hymn Christ the Lord is Risen Again! Tune: Christ ist erstanden
1. Christ the Lord is risen again! Christ has broken every chain!
Now through all the world it rings that the Lamb is king of kings.
Alleluia!
REFRAIN
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!
Christ our pascal lamb indeed, Christ today your people feed. Alleluia!
2. He who gave for us his life, who for us endured the strife,
Takes our sin and guilt away that with angels we may say:
Alleluia!
REPEAT REFRAIN
3. He who bore all pain and loss comfortless upon the cross
Is exalted now to save, wrestling victory from the grave.
Alleluia!
REPEAT REFRAIN
In Unison
God be with you till we meet again;
By his counsels guide, uphold you;
With his sheep securely fold you.
God be with you till we meet again.
Till we meet, till we meet,
Till we meet at Jesus' feet,
Till we meet, till we meet,
God be with you till we meet again.
Dismissal
Alleluia, alleluia. Go in peace to love and serve the Lord with the power that raised Jesus
from the dead at work within you.
In the name of Christ. Amen. Alleluia, alleluia.
Postlude
Grave and Allegro molto e con brio movements from the Sonata Pathétique of Ludwig van Beethoven
The Right Reverend Ian Douglas
Bishop Episcopal Church of Connecticut
The Right Reverend Laura J. Ahrens
Bishop Suffragan Episcopal Church of Connecticut
Celebrant: The Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas
Music Director and Organist: Mr. Gregory J. Cava
Lectors: Judith Kelly and Barbara Dratch
1 Copyright © 2004 Gregory J. Cava. Used by Permission.
2 Copyright © 2011 Gregory J. Cava. Used by Permission.
Permission to podcast the music in this service obtained from One License, License No. A-733800, and Gregory J. Cava.
The Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas, Missional Priest in Charge
Christ Episcopal Church, 4 Wellers Bridge Rd, PO Box 4, Roxbury CT 06783-0004
Office phone 860-355-3695 Email: christchurchoffice@frontier.com
Home phone 860-868-6832
April 26, 2020 Sunday Service
Use the link above to access the recording of the service, and the Service leaflet below to follow along.
Permission to podcast the music in this service obtained from One License, License # A-733800 and for those works copyrighted by Gregory J. Cava, from the holder of the copyright.
Christ Episcopal Church
Roxbury, Connecticut
The Third Sunday of Easter
Welcome: Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas
The Word of God
Prelude
The Allegretto from the 7th Symphony of
Ludwig van Beethoven
Opening Hymn O praise ye the Lord! Tune: Laudate Dominum (Hymn 432)
O praise ye the Lord! Praise him in the height;
Rejoice in his word, ye angels of light;
YE heavens, adore him by whom ye were made,
And worship before him, in brightness arrayed.
O praise ye the Lord! Thanksgiving and song
To him be outpoured all ages along!
For love in creation, for heaven restored,
For grace of salvation, O praise ye the Lord!
Celebrant: Alleluia. Christ is risen.
People: The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.
Gloria In Unison
Glory to God in the highest,
and peace to his people on earth.
Lord God, heavenly King,
almighty God and Father,
we worship you, we give you thanks,
we praise you for your glory.
Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father,
Lord God, Lamb of God,
you take away the sin of the world:
have mercy on us;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father:
receive our prayer.
For you alone are the Holy One,
you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High,
Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit,
in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
The Lord be with you.
People And also with you.
Celebrant Let us pray.
The Collect
O God, whose blessed Son made himself known to his disciples in the breaking of bread: Open the eyes of our faith, that we may behold him in all his redeeming work; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
The First Reading is from The Book of Acts 2:14a, 36-41 Read by Deb Howes
Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd, “Let the entire house of Israel know with certainty that God has made him both Lord and Messiah, this Jesus whom you crucified.”
Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” Peter said to them, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.” And he testified with many other arguments and exhorted them, saying, “Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.” So those who welcomed his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand persons were added.
The Word of the Lord
Response: Thanks be to God.
Psalm 116:1-3, 10-17 In Unison Dilexi, quoniam Led by Judy Martinez
1 I love the Lord, because he has heard the voice of my supplication, *
because he has inclined his ear to me whenever I called upon him.
2 The cords of death entangled me;
the grip of the grave took hold of me; *
I came to grief and sorrow.
3 Then I called upon the Name of the Lord: *
"O Lord, I pray you, save my life."
10 How shall I repay the Lord *
for all the good things he has done for me?
11 I will lift up the cup of salvation *
and call upon the Name of the Lord.
12 I will fulfill my vows to the Lord *
in the presence of all his people.
13 Precious in the sight of the Lord *
is the death of his servants.
14 O Lord, I am your servant; *
I am your servant and the child of your handmaid;
you have freed me from my bonds.
15 I will offer you the sacrifice of thanksgiving *
and call upon the Name of the Lord.
16 I will fulfill my vows to the Lord *
in the presence of all his people,
17 In the courts of the Lord'S house, *
in the midst of you, O Jerusalem.
Hallelujah!
The Epistle is from the First Book of Peter 1:17-23 Read by Deb Howes
If you invoke as Father the one who judges all people impartially according to their deeds, live in reverent fear during the time of your exile. You know that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish. He was destined before the foundation of the world but was revealed at the end of the ages for your sake. Through him you have come to trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are set on God.
Now that you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mutual love, love one another deeply from the heart. You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God.
The Word of the Lord
Response: Thanks be to God.
Gradual Hymn Shepherd of Souls Tune: St. Agnes (Hymn 343 vs. 1 & 3)
Shepherd of souls refresh and bless thy chosen pilgrim flock
With manna in the wilderness, with water from the rock.
Be known to us in breaking bread, and do not then depart;
Savior, abide with us and spread thy table in our heart.
At the introduction of the Gospel, the people respond:
Glory to you, Lord Christ.
The Gospel According to Luke 24:13-35
Now on that same day two of Jesus' disciples were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, “What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?” They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, “Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?” He asked them, “What things?” They replied, “The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.” Then he said to them, “Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?” Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures.
As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, “Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.” So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?” That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. They were saying, “The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!” Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread.
At the conclusion of the Gospel:
Praise to you, Lord Christ.
Reflection Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas
The Nicene Creed
We believe in one God,
the Father, the Almighty,
maker of heaven and earth,
of all that is, seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father,
God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God,
begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation
he came down from heaven:
by the power of the Holy Spirit
he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary and was made man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again
in accordance with the Scriptures;
he ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,
and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son.
With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified.
He has spoken through the Prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead,
and the life of the world to come. Amen.
The Prayers of the People Led by Judy Martinez
The Congregation will read the passages in bold print.
In peace, we pray to you, Lord God.
For all people in their daily life and work;
For our families, friends, and neighbors, and for those who are alone.
For this community, the nation, and the world;
For the victims of hunger, fear, injustice, and oppression.
For the just and proper use of your creation;
For all who work for justice, freedom, and peace.
For this community, the nation, and the world;
Gracious God, we pray for those for whom prayers have been requested: Dermott, Carolyn, Jennifer, Deb, Mary, Steve, Michael, Barbara and Graham. Charlie , Lee, Don, Marilyn, Grace, Virginia, Hanq, Isabel, Mandy, Sandy, Nanette, Tyler, Sam, Matt, Ana, Bergie, Jim , Steve, Marguerite, Mead, Gwyneth, Pauline, Hellen, Ginnie, Meredith, Mayo, Jim, Matthew, Lee, Jeffrey, Gail, Kathy, Ray, Marie, Susan, Allen, Michael, Pedro, James, Brian, Jim, Robert, Nick, Jillian and Michael.
For all who are in danger, sorrow, or any kind of trouble;
For those who minister to the sick, the friendless, and the needy.
For the peace and unity of the Church of God;
For all who proclaim the Gospel, and all who seek the Truth.
For all bishops and other ministers, especially the laity who serve the Gospel in word and deed;
For all who serve God in his Church.
For the special needs and concerns of this congregation.
Silence
Hear us, Lord;
For your mercy is great.
We thank you, Lord, for all the blessings of this life.
Silence
We will exalt you, O God our King;
And praise your Name for ever and ever.
We pray for all who have died, that they may have a place in your eternal kingdom.
Silence
Lord, let your loving-kindness be upon them;
Who put their trust in you.
Celebrant:
Concluding Prayer: A Prayer for People Critically Ill or Facing Great Uncertainty In Unison
God of the present moment,
God who in Jesus stills the storm
and soothes the frantic heart;
bring hope and courage to all
who wait or work in uncertainty.
Bring hope that you will make them the equal
of whatever lies ahead.
Bring them courage to endure what cannot be avoided,
for your will is health and wholeness;
you are God, and we need you.
- Adapted from New Zealand Prayer Book, p. 765
Celebrant: Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Have mercy on us, most merciful Father;
in your compassion forgive us our sins,
known and unknown,
things done and left undone;
and so uphold us by your Spirit
that we may live and serve you in newness of life,
to the honor and glory of your Name;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Absolution
The Peace
Celebrant: The Peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.
The Holy Communion
Offertory Hymn Shepherd of Souls Tune: St. Agnes (Hymn 343, vs. 2 and 4)
We would not live by bread alone, but by thy word of grace,
In strength of which we travel on, to our abiding place.
Lord, sup with us in love divine, thy Body and thy Blood,
That living bread, that heavenly wine, be our immortal food.
Doxology: Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow Tune: Old Hundredth1
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.
The Great Thanksgiving
Prayer A Book of Common Prayer page 361
| 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 him thanks and praise. |
Celebrant:
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and every-where to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.
But chiefly are we bound to praise you for the glorious resurrection of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord; for he is the true Paschal Lamb, who was sacrificed for us, and has taken away the sin of the world. By his death he has destroyed death, and by his rising to life again he has won for us everlasting life.
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:
Celebrant and People
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord, God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
Then the Celebrant continues
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:
Celebrant and People
Christ has died.
Christ is risen.
Christ will come again.
The Celebrant continues
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 are bold to say,
People and Celebrant
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
The Celebrant breaks the consecrated Bread.
A period of silence is kept.
Celebrant: Alleluia, Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us;
People: Therefore let us keep the feast, Alleluia.
Communion Meditation New Britain
In Unison
Lord, Jesus Christ, we believe that you are present in the sharing of the Holy Eucharist. We desire through this sacrament to receive you into our bodies: heart, mind and soul. Since we cannot at this moment receive you physically through the bread and wine of this Holy Meal, we ask that you come spiritually into our hearts. We embrace you now as we unite ourselves to your presence. May we never be separated from your love. Amen.
The Blessing
As you go on your way, may the Lord Jesus Christ go with you.
May he be near you to defend you;
may he go before you to show you the way;
behind you to encourage you;
beside you to befriend you;
above you to watch over you;
and within you to give you peace.
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit,
God forevermore. Amen.
–Based on a 10th century blessing
Recessional Hymn We Know that Christ is Raised Tune: Engelbe (Hymn 296 vs 1, 2 and 4))
We know that Christ is raised and dies no more.
Embraced by death he broke its fearful hold;
And our despair he turned to blazing joy.
Alleluia!
We share by water in his saving death.
Reborn we share with him an Easter life.
As living members of a living Christ.
Alleluia!
A new creation comes to life and grows
As Christ’s new body takes on flesh and blood.
The universe restored and whole will sing:
Alleluia! Amen.
In Unison
God be with you till we meet again;
By his counsels guide, uphold you;
With his sheep securely fold you.
God be with you till we meet again.
Till we meet, till we meet,
Till we meet at Jesus' feet,
Till we meet, till we meet,
God be with you till we meet again.
Dismissal
Alleluia, alleluia. Go in peace to love and serve the Lord with the power that raised Jesus
from the dead at work within you.
In the name of Christ. Amen. Alleluia, alleluia.
Postlude
Entr’acte
Composed by Franz Schubert
The Right Reverend Ian Douglas
Bishop Episcopal Church of Connecticut
The Right Reverend Laura J. Ahrens
Bishop Suffragan Episcopal Church of Connecticut
Celebrant: The Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas
Music Director and Organist: Mr. Gregory J. Cava
Lectors: Deb Howes and Judy Martinez
[1] Arrangement and voicings Copyright © 2017 Gregory J. Cava. Used by Permission.
Permission to podcast the music in this service obtained from One License, License No. A-733800,
and Gregory J. Cava.
The Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas, Missional Priest in Charge
Christ Episcopal Church, 4 Wellers Bridge Rd, PO Box 4, Roxbury CT 06783-0004
Office phone 860-355-3695 Email: christchurchoffice@frontier.com Home phone 860-868-6832
|
|
|
