May Sunday Services

  May Sunday Services  
May 3, 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 Fourth Sunday of Easter

Welcome: Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas

The Word of God

Prelude
Notturno from A Midsummer Night’s Dream of Felix Mendelssohn

Opening Hymn         The King of Love My Shepherd Is            Tune: St. Columbia Hymn No. 645

The King of love, my shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am his,
And he is mine forever.

Where streams of living water flow,
My ransomed soul he leadeth,
And where the verdant pastures grow,
With food celestial feedeth.

Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,
But yet in love he sought me,
And on his shoulder gently laid,
And home, rejoicing, brought me.

 

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 Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people: Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow where he leads; who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

The First Reading is from The Book of Acts 2:42-47                                                                                                             Read by Stephen Durby
Those who had been baptized devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.

The Word of the Lord

Response: Thanks be to God.

Psalm 23                           Dominus regit me                                                                                                                                Led by Meg Mongin
           1 The LORD is my shepherd; *
                I shall not be in want.
           2 He makes me lie down in green pastures *
                and leads me beside still waters.
           3 He revives my soul *
                and guides me along right pathways for his Name's sake.
           4 Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
                I shall fear no evil; *
                for you are with me;
                your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
           5 You spread a table before me in the presence of those who trouble me; *
                you have anointed my head with oil,
                and my cup is running over.
           6 Surely your goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, *
                and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

The Epistle is from the First Book of Peter 2:19-25                                                                                                              Read by Stephen Durby
It is a credit to you if, being aware of God, you endure pain while suffering unjustly. If you endure when you are beaten for doing wrong, what credit is that? But if you endure when you do right and suffer for it, you have God's approval. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you should follow in his steps.
                “He committed no sin,
                       and no deceit was found in his mouth.”
When he was abused, he did not return abuse; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he entrusted himself to the one who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, free from sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls.

The Word of the Lord

Response: Thanks be to God.
 
Gradual Hymn    The Lord, My God My Shepherd Is          Tune: Crimond Hymn No. 663, vs. 1 & 2

The Lord my God my shepherd is;
How could I want or need?
In pastures green, by streams serene,
He safely doth me lead.
 
To wholeness he restores my soul
And doth in mercy bless,
And helps me take the for his Name’s sake
The paths of righteousness.
 

At the introduction of the Gospel, the people respond:
Glory to you, Lord Christ.

The Gospel According to John                                                                                                                                                                        10:1-10
Jesus said, “Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the
shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.” Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. So again Jesus said to them, “Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.”

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 Meg Mongin
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, Jillian and
Michael and the family of Thomas Hearn.

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 Absolution
The Peace
Celebrant: The Peace of the Lord be always with you.
People: And also with you.

 
The Holy Communion

Offertory Hymn                   The Lord, My God My Shepherd Is      Tune: Crimond Hymn No. 663, vs. 4

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 Hundredth1 Hymn

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              For He Shall Feed His Flock Like a Shepherd
                                                                          from the oratorio Messiah of George Frederick Handel

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
 
Concluding Hymn   Savior Like a Shepherd Lead Us      Tune: Sicilian Mariners Hymn No. 708
 
Savior, like a shepherd lead us;
Much we need thy tender care;
In thy pleasant pastures feed us;
For our use thy folds prepare.
Blessed Jesus! Blessed Jesus!
Thou hast bought us, thine we are.

Early let us seek thy favor,
Early let us learn thy will;
Do thou, Lord, our only Savior,
With thy love, our bosoms fill,
Blessed Jesus! Blessed Jesus!
Thou hast loved us, love us still.

Celebrant: 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
Little Piece, Op. 72 No. 1 of Felix Mendelssohn

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: Stephen Durby and Meg Mongin


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

1 Arranged and voiced by Gregory J. Cava Copyright © 2018 Gregory J. Cava. Used by Permission.

 
May 24, 2020 Morning Prayer

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 Seventh Sunday of Easter 

The Office of Morning Prayer
 
Welcome: Lay Minister Barbara Dratch
 
Prelude
Mvt. III, Sarabande from the French Suite No. 1 (BWV 812) of Johann Sebastian Bach
 
Opening Hymn
 
Officiant: Alleluia. Christ is risen.
People: The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.
 
Celebrant: Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
 
Silence may be kept.
 
Officiant and People together,
 
Most merciful God,
we confess that we have sinned against you
in thought, word, and deed,
by what we have done,
and by what we have left undone.
We have not loved you with our whole heart;
we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves.
We are truly sorry and we humbly repent.
For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ,
have mercy on us and forgive us;
that we may delight in your will,
and walk in your ways,
to the glory of your Name. Amen.
 
 
The Officiant:
 
Almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us all our sins
through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen us in all
goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep us in
eternal life.  Amen.
 
Officiant  Lord, open our lips.
People  And our mouths shall proclaim your praise.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit* as
it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Alleluia.
 


Psalm 100                                          Jubilate
1 Be joyful in the LORD, all you lands; *
   serve the LORD with gladness and come before his presence with a
   song.
2 Know this: The LORD himself is God; *
   he himself has made us, and we are his; we are his people and the           
   sheep of his pasture.        
3 Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise; *
   give thanks to him and call upon his Name.
4 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting;*
   and his faithfulness endures from age to age.
Psalm 68:1-10, 33-36                 Exsurgat Deus
1 Let God arise, and let his enemies be scattered; *
        let those who hate him flee before him.
2 Let them vanish like smoke when the wind drives it away; *
        as the wax melts at the fire, so let the wicked perish at the presence of God.
3 But let the righteous be glad and rejoice before God; *
        let them also be merry and joyful.
4 Sing to God, sing praises to his Name;
        exalt him who rides upon the heavens; *
        YAHWEH is his Name, rejoice before him!
5 Father of orphans, defender of widows, *
        God in his holy habitation!
6 God gives the solitary a home and brings forth prisoners into freedom; *
        but the rebels shall live in dry places.
7 O God, when you went forth before your people, *
        when you marched through the wilderness,
8 The earth shook, and the skies poured down rain,
        at the presence of God, the God of Sinai, *
        at the presence of God, the God of Israel.
9 You sent a gracious rain, O God, upon your inheritance; *
        you refreshed the land when it was weary.
10 Your people found their home in it; *
        in your goodness, O God, you have made provision for the poor.
33 Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth; *
        sing praises to the Lord.
34 He rides in the heavens, the ancient heavens; *
        he sends forth his voice, his mighty voice.
35 Ascribe power to God; *
        his majesty is over Israel;
        his strength is in the skies.
36 How wonderful is God in his holy places! *
        the God of Israel giving strength and power to his people
Blessed be God!
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit* as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Alleluia. 
The First Reading  is from the Book of  Acts    1:6-14                            Read by Deb Howes
When the apostles had come together, they asked Jesus, “Lord, is this the time when you will restore the kingdom to Israel?” He replied, “It is not for you to know the times or periods that the Father has set by his own authority. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” When he had said this, as they were watching, he was lifted up, and a cloud took him out of their sight. While he was going and they were gazing up toward heaven, suddenly two men in white robes stood by them. They said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking up toward heaven? This Jesus, who has been taken up from you into heaven, will come in the same way as you saw him go into heaven.”
Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is near Jerusalem, a sabbath day’s journey away. When they had entered the city, they went to the room upstairs where they were staying, Peter, and John, and James, and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James son of Alphaeus, and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James. All these were constantly devoting themselves to prayer, together with certain women, including Mary the mother of Jesus, as well as his brothers.
Lector:  The Word of the Lord
Response:  Thanks be to God.

A Song of Praise                                 Benedictus es, Domine
 
Glory to you, Lord God of our fathers; *
 you are worthy of praise; glory to you.
Glory to you for the radiance of your holy Name; *
 we will praise you and highly exalt you for ever.
 
Glory to you in the splendor of your temple; *
 on the throne of your majesty, glory to you.
Glory to you, seated between the Cherubim; *
 we will praise you and highly exalt you for ever.
 
Glory to you, beholding the depths; *
 in the high vault of heaven, glory to you.
Glory to you, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; *
 we will praise you and highly exalt you for ever.

The Second Reading  is from the First Book of Peter   4:12-14; 5:6-11     Read by Deb Howes
Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that is taking place among you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you are sharing Christ's sufferings, so that you may also be glad and shout for joy when his glory is revealed.
If you are reviled for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the spirit of glory, which is the Spirit of God, is resting on you.
Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. Discipline yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary the devil prowls around, looking for someone to devour. Resist him, steadfast in your faith, for you know that your brothers and sisters in all the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering. And after you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, support, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the power forever and ever. Amen.
 
The Song of the Redeemed     Magna et mirabilia  Revelation 15:3-4
O ruler of the universe, Lord God,great deeds are they that you have done, *
 surpassing human understanding.
Your ways are ways of righteousness and truth, *
 O King of all the ages.
 
Who can fail to do you homage, Lord,
and sing the praises of your Name? *
 for you only are the Holy One.
All nations will draw near and fall down before you, *
 because your just and holy works have been revealed.
 
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever.  Amen.
 
 
Hymn          Like the Murmur of a Dove’s Song  Tune: Bridegroom  Hymn No. 513
 
Like the murmur of a dove’s song, like the challenge of her flight,
Like the vigor of the wind’s rush, like the new flame’s eager might:
Come, Holy Spirit, come.
 
To the members of Christ’s body, to the branches of the vine,
To the church in faith assembled, to her midst as gift and sign:
Come, Holy Spirit, come.
 
With the healing of division, with the ceaseless voice of prayer,
With the power to love and witness, with the peace beyond compare:
Come, Holy Spirit, come.
                                                
 
The Third Reading:                    John 17:1-11          Read by Barbara Dratch, Lay Minister
Jesus looked up to heaven and said, “Father, the hour has come; glorify your Son so that the Son may glorify you, since you have given him authority over all people, to give eternal life to all whom you have given him. And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do. So now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had in your presence before the world existed.
” I have made your name known to those whom you gave me from the world. They were yours, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. Now they know that everything you have given me is from you; for the words that you gave to me I have given to them, and they have received them and know in truth that I came from you; and they have believed that you sent me. I am asking on their behalf; I am not asking on behalf of the world, but on behalf of those whom you gave me, because they are yours. All mine are yours, and yours are mine; and I have been glorified in them. And now I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one, as we are one.”
Musical Interlude
 
The Minuets in G major and G Minor (BVW Anh. 114 and 115) of Christian Petzoid, from the Anna Magdalena Notebook of Johann Sebastian Bach
 
 
The Apostles’ Creed   In Unison
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
   creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
   He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
      and born of the Virgin Mary.
   He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
      was crucified, died, and was buried.
   He descended to the dead.
   On the third day he rose again.
   He ascended into heaven,
      and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
    He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
   the holy catholic Church,
   the communion of saints,
   the forgiveness of sins,
   the resurrection of the body,
   and the life everlasting.  Amen

The Peace  
Officiant: The Peace of the Lord be always with you
People:   And also with you.
 
Offertory Hymn:      Bread of Heaven on Thee We Feed   Tune:  Jesu, Jesu, du mein Hirt
Hymn No. 323
 
Bread of heaven on thee we feed,
For thy Flesh is meat indeed;
Ever may our souls be fed
With this true and living Bread;
Day by day with strength supplied,
Through the life of him who died.
 
Vine of heaven, thy Blood supplies
This blest cup of sacrifice;
Lord, thy wounds our healing give,
To thy cross we look and live;
Jesus, may we ever be
Grafted, rooted, built in thee.
 
Doxology:  Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow  Tune:   Old Hundred[1]  Hymn 380 vs. 1
 
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.
 
 
Officiant        The Lord be with you.
People And also with you.
Officiant        Let us pray.
 
Officiant and People
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.        
 
V.  Show us your mercy, O Lord;
R.  And grant us your salvation.
V.  Clothe your ministers with righteousness;
R.  Let your people sing with joy.
V.  Give peace, O Lord, in all the world;
R.  For only in you can we live in safety.
V.  Lord, keep this nation under your care;
R.  And guide us in the way of justice and truth.
V.  Let your way be known upon earth;
R.  Your saving health among all nations.
V.  Let not the needy, O Lord, be forgotten;
R.  Nor the hope of the poor be taken away.
V.  Create in us clean hearts, O God;
R.  And sustain us with your Holy Spirit.
Collect of the Day
Officiant: O God, the King of glory, you have exalted your only Son Jesus Christ with great triumph to your kingdom in heaven: Do not leave us comfortless, but send us your Holy Spirit to strengthen us, and exalt us to that place where our Savior Christ has gone before; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
Officiant:  Heavenly Father, in you we live and move and have our being:  We humbly pray you so to guide and govern us by your Holy Spirit, that in all the cares and occupations of our life we may not forget you, but may remember that we are ever walking in your sight; through Christ Jesus our Lord.  Amen.
Together:  Lord Jesus Christ, you stretched out your arms of love on
the hard wood of the cross that everyone might come within
the reach of your saving embrace:  So clothe us in your Spirit
that we, reaching forth our hands in love, may bring those
who do not know you to the knowledge and love of you; for
the honor of your Name.  Amen.
 
The Prayers of the People          Led by Dona Murphy
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, Jillian and Michael and the family of Dermott Breen.
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. We especially remember our dear friend in Christ, Dermott Breen.
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
 
A Prayer of St. Chrysostom
Almighty God, you have given us grace at this time with one
accord to make our common supplication to you; and you
have promised through your well‑beloved Son that when two
or three are gathered together in his Name you will be in the
midst of them:  Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions
as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of
your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting.  Amen.
 
Concluding Hymn:  Be Thou My Vision   Tune: Slane   Hymn No. 488 Vs. 1
 
Be thou my vision, O Lord of my heart;
All else be naught to me, save that thou art –
Thou be my best thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, thy presence, my light.
 
 
 
Officiant:  Alleluia. Let us bless the Lord.
People:  Thanks be to God. Alleluia.
 
 
 
 
Officiant: Let us read 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.

 
Postlude
The Prelude in C Minor, Op. 28 No. 20 of Frédéric Chopin
 
 
 
 
 
The Right Reverend Ian Douglas                      
Bishop   Episcopal Church of Connecticut
The Right Reverend Laura J. Ahrens  
Bishop Suffragan  Episcopal Church of Connecticut
 
Lay Ministers: Barbara Dratch and Dona Murphy
Music Director and Organist: Mr. Gregory J. Cava
Lector:  Deb Howes
 
 
 
 
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  Website: christchurchroxbury.net
Home phone 860-868-6832
 

[1]Arranged and voiced by Gregory J. Cava Copyright © 2018 Gregory J. Cava. All Rights Reserved. Used by Permission.

May 31, 2020 Morning Prayer

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 Day of Pentecost
Whitsunday
 
The Office of Morning Prayer
 
Welcome: Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas
 
Prelude
The Sonatina No. 1 in G Major of Ludwig van Beethoven
 
Opening Hymn:  Hail Thee, Festival Day!   Tune: Salve festa dies  Hymn 225
 
 
Refrain:         Hail thee, festival day! Blest day that art hallowed forever,
                   Day when the Holy Ghost shone in the world with God’s grace.
 
1. Lo, in the likeness of fire, on those who await his appearing,    
He whom the Lord foretold suddenly, swiftly descends: (Repeat Refrain)
 
2. Forth from the Father he comes, with seven-fold mystical offering,
Pouring on all human souls infinite riches of God. 
(Repeat Refrain) 
3. Hark! For myriad tongues Christ’s own, his chosen apostles,
          Preach to the ends of the earth Christ and his wonderful works: (Repeat Refrain) 
 
4. Praise to the spirit of Life, all praise to the fount of our being,
Light that dost lighten all, life that in all dost abide. 
(Repeat Refrain) 
 
 
Officiant: Alleluia. Christ is risen.
People: The Lord is risen indeed. Alleluia.
 
Celebrant: Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
 
Silence may be kept.
 
Officiant and People together,
 
Most merciful God,
we confess that we have sinned against you
in thought, word, and deed,
by what we have done,
and by what we have left undone.
We have not loved you with our whole heart;
we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves.
We are truly sorry and we humbly repent.
For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ,
have mercy on us and forgive us;
that we may delight in your will,
and walk in your ways,
to the glory of your Name. Amen.
 
 
The Absolution
 
The Officiant:
 
Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you all your sins
through our Lord Jesus Christ, strengthen you in all
goodness, and by the power of the Holy Spirit keep you in
eternal life.  Amen.
 
Officiant:  Lord, open our lips.
People:  And our mouths shall proclaim your praise.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit* as
it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Alleluia.
 
Psalm 100             In Unison                                                               Jubilate
1 Be joyful in the LORD, all you lands; *
   serve the LORD with gladness and come before his presence with a

   song.
2 Know this: The LORD himself is God; *
   he himself has made us, and we are his; we are his people and the           

   sheep of his pasture.        
3 Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise; *
   give thanks to him and call upon his Name.
4 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting;*

   and his faithfulness endures from age to age.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit* as
it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Alleluia.

Psalm 104:25-35, 37        In Unison                                                      Benedic, anima mea
25 O Lord, how manifold are your works! *
in wisdom you have made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.

26 Yonder is the great and wide sea
with its living things too many to number, *
creatures both small and great.

27 There move the ships,
and there is that Leviathan, *
which you have made for the sport of it.

28 All of them look to you *
to give them their food in due season.

29 You give it to them; they gather it; *
you open your hand, and they are filled with good things.

30 You hide your face, and they are terrified; *
you take away their breath,
and they die and return to their dust.

31 You send forth your Spirit, and they are created; *
and so you renew the face of the earth.

32 May the glory of the Lord endure for ever; *
may the Lord rejoice in all his works.

33 He looks at the earth and it trembles; *
he touches the mountains and they smoke.

34 I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; *
I will praise my God while I have my being.

35 May these words of mine please him; *
I will rejoice in the Lord.

37 Bless the Lord, O my soul. *
Hallelujah!


The First Reading is from the Book of Acts       2:1-21                  Read by Jim Stanton
When the day of Pentecost had come, the disciples were all together in one place. And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.
Now there were devout Jews from every nation under heaven living in Jerusalem. And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each. Amazed and astonished, they asked, "Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us, in our own native language? Parthians, Medes, Elamites, and residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya belonging to Cyrene, and visitors from Rome, both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabs-- in our own languages we hear them speaking about God's deeds of power." All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, "What does this mean?" But others sneered and said, "They are filled with new wine."
But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them, "Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. Indeed, these are not drunk, as you suppose, for it is only nine o'clock in the morning. No, this is what was spoken through the prophet Joel:
`In the last days it will be, God declares,
that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh,
and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
and your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.
Even upon my slaves, both men and women,
in those days I will pour out my Spirit;
and they shall prophesy.
And I will show portents in the heaven above
and signs on the earth below,
blood, and fire, and smoky mist.
The sun shall be turned to darkness
and the moon to blood,
before the coming of the Lord's great and glorious day.
Then everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.' "
Lector: The Word of the Lord.
Response:  Thanks be to God.

A Song of Praise    In Unison                                            Benedictus es, Domine
Glory to you, Lord God of our fathers; *
 you are worthy of praise; glory to you.
Glory to you for the radiance of your holy Name; *
 we will praise you and highly exalt you for ever.
 
Glory to you in the splendor of your temple; *
 on the throne of your majesty, glory to you.
Glory to you, seated between the Cherubim; *
 we will praise you and highly exalt you for ever.
 
Glory to you, beholding the depths; *
 in the high vault of heaven, glory to you.
Glory to you, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; *
 we will praise you and highly exalt you for ever.

The Second Reading is from the First Book of Corinthians  12:3b-13  Read by Jim Stanton
No one can say “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit. Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. To one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the discernment of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. All these are activated by one and the same Spirit, who allots to each one individually just as the Spirit chooses.
For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For in the one Spirit we were all baptized into one body-- Jews or Greeks, slaves or free-- and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.
Lector:  The Word of the Lord
Response:  Thanks be to God.

The Song of the Redeemed        In Unison                         Magna et mirabilia  Revelation 15:3-4
O ruler of the universe, Lord God, great deeds are they that you have done, *
 surpassing human understanding.
Your ways are ways of righteousness and truth, *
 O King of all the ages.
 
Who can fail to do you homage, Lord,
and sing the praises of your Name? *
 for you only are the Holy One.
All nations will draw near and fall down before you, *
 because your just and holy works have been revealed.
 
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: *
 as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever.  Amen.
 
Hymn:         Ev’ry Time I Feel the Spirit     African American Spiritual
 
Refrain:        Ev’ry time I feel the spirit, moving in my heart, I will pray,
                   Ev’ry time I feel the spirit, moving in my heart, I will pray.
 
  1. Upon the mountain, my Lord spoke, (Out of) His mouth came fire and smoke. (Repeat Refrain)
  2. All around me looked so shine, Asked my Lord if all was mine. (Repeat Refrain)
  3. Jordan River, chilly and cold, Chills the body but not the soul. (Repeat Refrain)
 
The Third Reading                     John 20:19-23                   Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas
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.”
At the conclusion of the Gospel:
Praise to you, Lord Christ.
 
Reflection                                                                                 Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas
 
The Apostles’ Creed   In Unison
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
   creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
   He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
      and born of the Virgin Mary.
   He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
      was crucified, died, and was buried.
   He descended to the dead.
   On the third day he rose again.
   He ascended into heaven,
      and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
    He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
   the holy catholic Church,
   the communion of saints,
   the forgiveness of sins,
   the resurrection of the body,
 
Officiant        The Lord be with you.
People           And also with you.
Officiant        Let us pray.
 
Officiant and People
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.        
 
V.    Save your people, Lord, and bless your inheritance;
R.    Govern and uphold them, now and always.
V.    Day by day we bless you;
R.    We praise your name for ever.
V.    Lord, keep us from all sin today;
R.    Have mercy upon us, Lord, have mercy.
V.    Lord, show us your love and mercy;
R.    For we put our trust in you.
V.    In you, Lord, is our hope;
R.    And we shall never hope in vain.

Collect of the Day
Officiant: Almighty God, on this day you opened the way of eternal life to every race and nation by the promised gift of your Holy Spirit: Shed abroad this gift throughout the world by the preaching of the Gospel, that it may reach to the ends of the earth; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Officiant:  Heavenly Father, in you we live and move and have our being:  We humbly pray you so to guide and govern us by your Holy Spirit, that in all the cares and occupations of our life we may not forget you, but may remember that war are ever walking in your sight; through Christ Jesus our Lord.  Amen.

In Unison:  Almighty and everlasting God, by whose Spirit the whole
body of your faithful people is governed and sanctified:
Receive our supplications and prayers which we offer before
you for all members of your holy Church, that in their
vocation and ministry they may truly and devoutly serve you;
through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 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 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:  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, Michael, Faith, Matt’s business and the family of Dermott Breen.
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. We especially remember our dear friend in Christ, Dermott Breen.
We also remember the over 100,000 Americans who have also died of the coronavirus.
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
 
Officiant:  A Prayer of St. Chrysostom            In Unison
Almighty God, you have given us grace at this time with one
accord to make our common supplication to you; and you
have promised through your well‑beloved Son that when two
or three are gathered together in his Name you will be in the
midst of them:  Fulfill now, O Lord, our desires and petitions
as may be best for us; granting us in this world knowledge of
your truth, and in the age to come life everlasting.  Amen.
 
Concluding Hymn     Come Gracious Spirit, Heavenly Dove  Tune: Mendon   Hymn 512
1. Come, Gracious Spirit, heavenly Dove, with light and comfort from above,          
Be thou our guardian, thou our guide o’er every thought and step preside.
 
 2. The light of truth to us display, and make us know and choose thy way;
Plant holy fear in every heart, that we may from thee may ne’er depart.
 
3. Lead us to Christ, the living way, nor let us from his precepts stray;          
Lead us to holiness, the road that we must take to dwell with God.
4. Lead us to heaven, that we may share fullness of joy for ever there,
         Lead us to God, our final rest, to be with him forever blest.
 
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.


Officiant:  The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, be with us all evermore.  Amen.
 
Postlude
 
The Spirit
Composed by Gregory J. Cava [1]
 
 
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
Lay Minister: Judy Martinez
Lector: Jim Stanton
 
Permission to podcast the music in this service obtained from One License, License No. A-733800
and Gregory J. Cava
 
 
[1] Copyright © 2020 Gregory J. Cava. Used by Permission.
 
 
The Rev. Sherry Hardwick Thomas, Priest in Charge
hardwickthomas@yahoo.com  Home phone: 860-868-6832
Christ Episcopal Church, 4 Wellers Bridge Rd, PO Box 4,  Roxbury CT  06783-0004
Office phone 860-355-3695  Email: christchurchoffice@frontier.com  Website: christchurchroxbury.net