Prelude: “Awake, Thou Spirit of the Watchman” – 17th century German tune, arr. Jean Pasquet

Opening Hymn: Hymn #400, All Creatures of our God and King

Lyrics:

Leader: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

People: And blessed be God’s kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

God of all power and love, we give thanks for your unfailing presence and the hope you provide in times of uncertainty and loss. Send your Holy Spirit to enkindle in us your holy fire. Revive us to live as Christ’s body in the world: a people who pray, worship, learn, break bread, share life, heal neighbors, bear good news, seek justice, rest and grow in the Spirit. Wherever and however we gather, unite us in common prayer and send us in common mission, that we and the whole creation might be restored and renewed, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gloria

All together
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.

Leader: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.

The Collect of the Day
All together
O Lord, mercifully receive the prayers of your people who call upon you, and grant that they may know and understand what things they ought to do, and also may have grace and power faithfully to accomplish them; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

The Lessons

Leader: Please be seated for today’s readings

First Scripture Reading 

Ezekiel 33:7-11
You, mortal, I have made a sentinel for the house of Israel; whenever you hear a word from my mouth, you shall give them warning from me. If I say to the wicked, “O wicked ones, you shall surely die,” and you do not speak to warn the wicked to turn from their ways, the wicked shall die in their iniquity, but their blood I will require at your hand. But if you warn the wicked to turn from their ways, and they do not turn from their ways, the wicked shall die in their iniquity, but you will have saved your life.

Reader: The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.

Reader: Let us say together
Psalm 119:33-40

Second Scripture Reading 

Romans 13:8-14
Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, “You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not covet”; and any other commandment, are summed up in this word, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law.

Reader: The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.

The Gospel Hymn: Hymn #4 – Christ Whose Glory Fills the Skies

Lyrics:
Christ, whose glory fills the skies Christ, the true, the only Light, Sun of Righteousness, arise, Triumph o’er the shades of night; Dayspring from on high, be near, Daystar, in my heart appear.

Dark and cheerless is the morn Unaccompanied by Thee; Joyless is the day’s return, Till Thy mercy’s beams I see, Till they inward light impart, Glad my eyes, and warm my heart.

Visit then this soul of mine, Pierce the gloom of sin and grief; Fill me, Radiancy divine, Scatter all my unbelief; More and more Thyself display, Shining to the perfect day.

Leader: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew.
People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.

Holy Gospel

Matthew 18:15-20
Jesus said, “If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”

Leader: The Gospel of the Lord.
People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.

Leader: Please be seated for the Message of the Day

Interlude: “Adagio” – George Muffat

Leader: Please stand, as you are able, as we recite together The Nicene Creed

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 Lord’s Prayer
Leader: And now as Christ has taught us, we are bold to say
Together

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.

Leader: Please be seated for the The Prayers of the People

Reader:
Gathered in the name of Christ, who stands among us with upraised hands, let us offer prayers for all in danger and need. 

For this parish family of St. Peter’s – Trinity, that we may have the grace to be faithful to the mission that has been entrusted to us, and reap the harvest of the kingdom of God.
To you, O Lord.

For all peoples, tribes, clans, and families and for mercy, justice, and peace in the world.
To you, O Lord.

For abundant fruits of the earth, and for safety from violent storms.
To you, O Lord.

For the sick and the suffering, travelers and refugees, prisoners and their families, for the dying and all the departed.
To you, O Lord.

We your children beseech you to hear us, O Lord God, to look upon this world struck by pandemic, and drive from us this disease.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to strengthen the weak, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. Give health and comfort to all who are already stricken with illness, and surround with your love those who are fearful or overcome with anxiety and worry,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give wisdom and stamina to all who are working on tests, vaccines, and treatments, uphold, strengthen, and protect all those who are treating and ministering to the sick, and give to your people a heart to love their neighbor and to look after those who are most vulnerable.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

Let us pray for our own needs and those of others. [The people add their intercessions and thanksgivings.]

Almighty and eternal God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth: Mercifully accept the prayers of your people, and strengthen us to do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Leader: Together we pray
Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use us, we pray, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Leader: Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.

All 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.

Leader: 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

The Peace
Leader: The peace of the Lord is always with you.
People: And also with you.

Leader: Let us say together this Prayer for Spiritual Communion
Together:
In union, O Lord, with your faithful people at every altar of your Church, where the Holy Eucharist is now being celebrated, I desire to offer to you praise and thanksgiving. I remember your death, Lord Christ; I proclaim your resurrection; I await your coming in glory. Since I cannot receive you today in the Sacrament of your Body and Blood, I beseech you to come spiritually into my heart.

The Closing Hymn: Hymn #376 – Joyful, Joyful, we adore thee

Lyrics:

. 

The Blessing
Leader says: The Peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God.  And the blessing of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be with us all today and always. Amen.

Postlude: “Sonata in G” – Domenico Scarlatti

We hope you enjoyed today’s online worship. Please leave a comment below

Prelude: “Arietta” – F. J. Haydn

Opening Hymn: Hymn #450 – All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name

Lyrics:

Leader: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
People: And blessed be God’s kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

God of all power and love, we give thanks for your unfailing presence and the hope you provide in times of uncertainty and loss. Send your Holy Spirit to enkindle in us your holy fire. Revive us to live as Christ’s body in the world: a people who pray, worship, learn, break bread, share life, heal neighbors, bear good news, seek justice, rest and grow in the Spirit. Wherever and however we gather, unite us in common prayer and send us in common mission, that we and the whole creation might be restored and renewed, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gloria

All together
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.

Leader: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.

The Collect of the Day

All together
O Lord, mercifully receive the prayers of your people who call upon you, and grant that they may know and understand what things they ought to do, and also may have grace and power faithfully to accomplish them; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

The Lessons

Leader: Please be seated for today’s readings

First Scripture Reading: Jeremiah 15:15-21

Reader: The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.

Psalm 26:1-8

Second Scripture Reading: Romans 12:9-21

Reader: The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.

The Gospel Hymn: Hymn #707 – Take My Life and Let It Bee

Lyrics:

Leader: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew.
People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.

Holy Gospel: Matthew 16:21-28
Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and undergo great suffering at the hands of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, “God forbid it, Lord! This must never happen to you.” But he turned and said to Peter, “Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; for you are setting your mind not on divine things but on human things.”

Leader: The Gospel of the Lord.
People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.

Leader: Please be seated for the Message of the Day

Interlude: “The Grace of God” – James Southbridge

Leader: Please stand, as you are able, as we recite together The Nicene Creed

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.

Leader: Please be seated for the The Prayers of the People

Reader: A Litany during a Pandemic

God the Father, Have mercy upon us.
God the Son, Have mercy upon us.
God the Holy Spirit, Have mercy upon us.
Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy upon us.

Spare us, good Lord, spare your people, whom you have redeemed with your most precious blood, and by your mercy preserve us through this crisis, and for ever.
Spare us, good Lord.

From all evil and wickedness, from disease and illness, especially this coronavirus,
Good Lord, deliver us.

From all ignorance and apathy and from all willingness to engage in activities that could harm others,
Good Lord, deliver us.

From all blindness of heart, from pride and a sense of invincibility,
Good Lord, deliver us.

We your children beseech you to hear us, O Lord God, to look upon this world struck by pandemic, and drive from us this disease.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to strengthen the weak, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give health and comfort to all who are already stricken with illness,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give patience and grace to all those who are in quarantine or who fear that they have already contracted the virus,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to surround with your love those who are fearful or overcome with anxiety and worry,
We beseech you to hear us, Good Lord.

That it may please you to give wisdom and stamina to all who are working on tests, vaccines, and treatments,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to uphold, strengthen, and protect all those who are treating and ministering to the sick,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give to your people a heart to love their neighbor and to look after those who are most vulnerable.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to support, help, and comfort those who are concerned about finances and employment,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to help students whose schools are closed grow in wisdom and knowledge and to give their teachers creativity and perseverance,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to heal the sick, lift up the stricken and ease their breathing,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to receive into your bosom those who have died and embrace those who are grieving,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

Son of God, we beseech you to hear us.
Son of God, we beseech you to hear us.

O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,
Have mercy upon us.

O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,
Have mercy upon us.

O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,
Grant us your peace.

[Litany by Fr. Rick, Rector of St. Mark’s, Basking Ridge, NJ, adapted. Used with permission.]

Let us pray for our own needs and those of others.
Comfort and heal all those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit, praying for Deirdre, Becky, Chris, Nicole, Laura, Mary, Joseph, Roger, Sue, Eileen, Doris, Dianne and David, give them courage and hope in their troubles, and bring them the joy of your salvation.

Almighty and eternal God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth: Mercifully accept the prayers of your people, and strengthen us to do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Leader: Together we pray
Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use us, we pray, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Leader: Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.

All 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.

Leader: 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

The Peace
Leader: The peace of the Lord is always with you.
People: And also with you.

Prayer for Spiritual Communion
Leader and People:
In union, O Lord, with your faithful people at every altar of your Church, where the Holy Eucharist is now being celebrated, I desire to offer to you praise and thanksgiving. I remember your death, Lord Christ; I proclaim your resurrection; I await your coming in glory. Since I cannot receive you today in the Sacrament of your Body and Blood, I beseech you to come spiritually into my heart.

The Closing Hymn: Hymn #484 – Praise the Lord Through Every Nation

Lyrics:

The Blessing

The Peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God.  And the blessing of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be with us all today and always. Amen.

Postlude: “Grand Chorus” – Oneta Taylor Wylie

We are pleased to bring you these weekly remote service bulletins. Please leave a comment so we know you are participating.

Prelude: “Built on the Rock” – Lindeman/Rasley

Opening Hymn: Hymn #427 – When Morning Gilds the Sky

Lyrics:
1. When morning gilds the skies, my heart, awaking, cries, may Jesus Christ be praised! When evening shadows fall, this rings my curfew call, may Jesus Christ be praised!

2. When mirth for music longs, this is my song of songs: may Jesus Christ be praised! God’s holy house of prayer hath none that can compare with: Jesus Christ be praised!

3. No lovelier antiphon in all high heaven is known than, Jesus Christ be praised! There to the eternal Word the eternal psalm is heard: may Jesus Christ be praised!

4. Ye nations of mankind, in this your concord find: may Jesus Christ be praised! Let all the earth around ring joyous with the sound: may Jesus Christ be praised!

5. Sing, suns and stars of space, sing, ye that see his face, sing, Jesus Christ be praised! God’s whole creation o’er, both now and evermore shall Jesus Christ be praised!

Leader: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
People: And blessed be God’s kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

God of all power and love, we give thanks for your unfailing presence and the hope you provide in times of uncertainty and loss. Send your Holy Spirit to enkindle in us your holy fire. Revive us to live as Christ’s body in the world: a people who pray, worship, learn, break bread, share life, heal neighbors, bear good news, seek justice, rest and grow in the Spirit. Wherever and however we gather, unite us in common prayer and send us in common mission, that we and the whole creation might be restored and renewed, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gloria
All together

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.

Leader: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.

The Collect of the Day
All together
O Lord, mercifully receive the prayers of your people who call upon you, and grant that they may know and understand what things they ought to do, and also may have grace and power faithfully to accomplish them; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

The Lessons

Leader: Please be seated for today’s readings

First Reading: Isaiah 51:1-6

Reader: The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.

Psalm 138

Second Reading: Romans 12:1-8

Reader: The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.

The Gospel Hymn: Hymn #522  – Glorious Things of Thee are Spoken

Lyrics:
1. Glorious things of thee are spoken, Zion, city of our God.  He whose word cannot be broken formed thee for his own abode. On the Rock of Ages founded, what can shake thy sure repose?  With salvation’s walls surrounded, thou may’st smile at all thy foes.

2. See! the streams of living waters, springing from eternal love, well supply they sons and daughters and all fear of want remove. Who can faint, when such a river ever will their thirst assuage?  Grace which, like the Lord, the giver, never fails from age to age.

3. Round each habitation hovering, see the cloud and fire appear for a glory and a covering, showing that the Lord is near. Thus deriving from their banner, light by night, and shade by day, safe they feed upon the manna which he gives them when they pray.

4. Blest inhabitants of Zion, washed in the Redeemer’s blood!  Jesus, whom their souls rely on, makes them kings and priests to God. ‘Tis his love his people raises over self to reign as kings; and as priests, his solemn praises each for a thankoffering brings.

Holy Gospel

Leader: The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew.
People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.

Matthew 16:13-20
When Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?” And they said, “Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” And Jesus answered him, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not prevail against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Then he sternly ordered the disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.

Leader: The Gospel of the Lord.
People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.

Leader: Please be seated for the Message of the Day

Interlude: “Where True Charity and Love Dwell” – plainsong

Leader: Please stand, as you are able, as we recite together The Nicene Creed

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.

Leader: Please be seated for the The Prayers of the People

Reader: A Litany during a Pandemic

God the Father, Have mercy upon us.
God the Son, Have mercy upon us.
God the Holy Spirit, Have mercy upon us.
Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy upon us.

Spare us, good Lord, spare your people, whom you have redeemed with your most precious blood, and by your mercy preserve us through this crisis, and for ever.
Spare us, good Lord.

From all evil and wickedness, from disease and illness, especially this coronavirus,
Good Lord, deliver us.

From all ignorance and apathy and from all willingness to engage in activities that could harm others,
Good Lord, deliver us.

From all blindness of heart, from pride and a sense of invincibility,
Good Lord, deliver us.

We your children beseech you to hear us, O Lord God, to look upon this world struck by pandemic, and drive from us this disease.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to strengthen the weak, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give health and comfort to all who are already stricken with illness,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give patience and grace to all those who are in quarantine or who fear that they have already contracted the virus,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to surround with your love those who are fearful or overcome with anxiety and worry,
We beseech you to hear us, Good Lord.

That it may please you to give wisdom and stamina to all who are working on tests, vaccines, and treatments,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to uphold, strengthen, and protect all those who are treating and ministering to the sick,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That is may please you to give to your people a heart to love their neighbor and to look after those who are most vulnerable.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to support, help, and comfort those who are concerned about finances and employment,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to help students whose schools are closed grow in wisdom and knowledge and to give their teachers creativity and perseverance,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to heal the sick, lift up the stricken and east their breathing,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to receive into your bosom those who have died and embrace those who are grieving,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

Son of God, we beseech you to hear us.
Son of God, we beseech you to hear us.
O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,
Have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,
Have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,
Grant us your peace.
[Litany by Fr. Rick, Rector of St. Mark’s, Basking Ridge, NJ, adapted. Used with permission.]

Let us pray for our own needs and those of others. [The people add their intercessions and thanksgivings.]

Comfort and heal all those who suffer in body, mind, or spirit, praying for Deirdre, Becky, Chris, Nicole, Laura, Mary, Joseph, Roger, Sue, Eileen, Doris, and David, give them courage and hope in their troubles, and bring them the joy of your salvation.

Almighty and eternal God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth: Mercifully accept the prayers of your people, and strengthen us to do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Leader: Together we pray
Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use us, we pray, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Leader: Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.

All 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.
Leader: 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

The Peace
Leader: The peace of the Lord is always with you.
People: And also with you.

Prayer for Spiritual Communion
Leader and People:
In union, O Lord, with your faithful people at every altar of your Church, where the Holy Eucharist is now being celebrated, I desire to offer to you praise and thanksgiving. I remember your death, Lord Christ; I proclaim your resurrection; I await your coming in glory. Since I cannot receive you today in the Sacrament of your Body and Blood, I beseech you to come spiritually into my heart.

The Closing Hymn: Hymn #379 – God is Love, Let Heaven Adore Him

Lyrics:
1 God is Love: let heaven adore him; God is Love: let earth rejoice; let creation sing before him, and exalt him with one voice. God who laid the earth’s foundation, God who spread the heavens above, God who breathes through all creation, God is Love, eternal Love.
2 God is Love: and love enfolds us, all the world in one embrace; with unfailing grasp God holds us, every child of every race. And when human hearts are breaking under sorrow’s iron rod, then we find that selfsame aching deep within the heart of God.
3 God is Love: and though with blindness sin afflicts all human life, God’s eternal loving-kindness guides us through our earthly strife. Sin and death and hell shall never o’er us final triumph gain; God is Love, so Love for ever o’er the universe must reign

The Blessing
Leader: The Peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God. And the blessing of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be with us all today and always. Amen.

Postlude: “Con spirito” – Muzio Clementi

The Lessons

Lyrics

1. Christ is the world’s true Light, its Captain of salvation, the Daystar clear and bright of every race and nation. New life, new hope awakes, for all who own his sway. Freedom her bondage breaks, and night is turned to day.
2. In Christ all races meet, their ancient feuds forgetting, the whole round world complete, from sunrise to its setting. When Christ is throned as Lord, all shall forsake their fear, to ploughshare beat the sword, to pruning hook the spear.
3. One Lord, in one great Name unite us all who own thee; cast out our pride and shame that hinder to enthrone thee. The world has waited long, has travailed long in pain. To heal its ancient wrong, come, Prince of Peace, and reign.

Thank you for sharing your time with us today. Please comment below to share your thoughts with the congregation

St. Peter’s-Trinity Church started holding in-person worship on August 16, 2020

As our society learns more about how this virus spreads, there is strong evidence that we can adjust our behaviors and actions to minimize risk while maintaining some aspects of normalcy. Wearing masks, keeping 6 feet apart, and increased sanitizing of surfaces are powerful tools to help reduce the risk of infection: tools we can employ at St. Peter’s-Trinity to allow people back inside the church to feed their spiritual hunger for the worship space. Understanding, of course, that many parishioners feel unsafe being in a public place. With this in mind, the current remote service postings will continue to be available on the church website until the Coronavirus is no longer a threat to anyone.

There are certain aspects of traditional worship which are too risky to be considered acceptable at this time. Therefore, until it seems safe, the following restrictions will remain in place:

• MASKS must be worn at all times
• One service per Sunday (currently set at 10am, but may change in the future)
• No communion
• No contact between parishioners (Peace restricted to smiling and waving)
• No Choir
• No Sunday school
• No coffee hour

Steps have already been taken to prepare the worship space for people to use it. Certain pews have been cordoned off to ensure 6-8 feet of staggered seating throughout the church.

Overview:

• The church doors will opened 15 minutes before worship begins
• Everyone will enter through the ramp door and leave through the main center door.
• No one will be allowed to enter from the back stairway (this entrance will be dedicated/restricted to the celebrant only)
• There will be an offering basket in a central location for those who wish to use their weekly offering envelopes
• Church bulletins will be handed out using gloves. Please keep your church bulletin for your personal use in the following weeks. You can also download and print your own church bulletin from our bulletin repository page.
• You can bring your own prayer book or bible for use during worship

Beginning of Service:
The Usher will unlock the side vestibule doors 15 minutes before service and start to greet guests, taking temperatures and handing out masks and programs as needed. The Usher reminds people to maintain social distance and to keep their program for next week. The Usher directs people toward empty areas of the church where they can sit. The Usher points out offering basket which will be located in a central location for people to place their offering if they choose.

Worship begins and proceeds with restrictions mentioned earlier. The breadth and scope of the Worship Service is still to be determined and may include “Phases” as we react to the evolving Coronavirus parameters.  The conclusion of the service includes a reminder announcement concerning exit procedure. 

Exit procedure:
Everyone is to remain in their pews until their turn to exit. Those in the back will exit first so that those in the front will be exiting past already emptied pews. Please exit promptly so as to not impede others. A brief fellowship in the parking lot (with masks and distance) is encouraged when weather permits.

After Service:
A cursory disinfecting wipe down of appropriate surfaces (pews, doorknobs, handrails) occurs. Keep in mind the space will be unused and empty for the entire week before the next service. Church doors are locked.

The Lessons

Thank you for viewing this remote worship bulletin.

We look forward to seeing everyone together again soon.

We are a strong, loyal congregation with a rich history.

The Lessons

Prelude: “Largo” – Ellen Jane Lorenz

The Opening Hymn: Softly and Tenderly

Lyrics:

Leader: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
People: And blessed be God’s kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

God of all power and love, we give thanks for your unfailing presence and the hope you provide in times of uncertainty and loss. Send your Holy Spirit to enkindle in us your holy fire. Revive us to live as Christ’s body in the world: a people who pray, worship, learn, break bread, share life, heal neighbors, bear good news, seek justice, rest and grow in the Spirit. Wherever and however we gather, unite us in common prayer and send us in common mission, that we and the whole creation might be restored and renewed, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gloria

Leader: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.

The Collect of the Day
All together
O God, the protector of all who trust in you, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy: Increase and multiply upon us your mercy; that, with you as our ruler and guide, we may so pass through things temporal, that we lose not the things eternal; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

The Lessons

1 Kings 3:5-12
At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night; and God said, “Ask what I should give you.” And Solomon said, “You have shown great and steadfast love to your servant my father David, because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you; and you have kept for him this great and steadfast love, and have given him a son to sit on his throne today. And now, O Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David, although I am only a little child; I do not know how to go out or come in. And your servant is in the midst of the people whom you have chosen, a great people, so numerous they cannot be numbered or counted. Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, able to discern between good and evil; for who can govern this your great people?”

It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this. God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches, or for the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, I now do according to your word. Indeed I give you a wise and discerning mind; no one like you has been before you and no one like you shall arise after you.”

The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.

Psalm 119:129-136

129 Your decrees are wonderful; * therefore I obey them with all my heart.

130 When your word goes forth it gives light; * it gives understanding to the simple.

131 I open my mouth and pant; *I long for your commandments.

132 Turn to me in mercy, *as you always do to those who love your Name.

133 Steady my footsteps in your word; *let no iniquity have dominion over me.

134 Rescue me from those who oppress me, *and I will keep your commandments.

135 Let your countenance shine upon your servant *and teach me your statutes.

136 My eyes shed streams of tears, *because people do not keep your law.

Romans 8:26-39
The Spirit helps us in our weakness; for we do not know how to pray as we ought, but that very Spirit intercedes with sighs too deep for words. And God, who searches the heart, knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.

We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn within a large family. And those whom he predestined he also called; and those whom he called he also justified; and those whom he justified he also glorified.

What then are we to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us? He who did not withhold his own Son, but gave him up for all of us, will he not with him also give us everything else? Who will bring any charge against God’s elect? It is God who justifies. Who is to condemn? It is Christ Jesus, who died, yes, who was raised, who is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. Who will separate us from the love of Christ? Will hardship, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 

As it is written, “For your sake we are being killed all day long; we are accounted as sheep to be slaughtered.”

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The Word of the Lord.
People: Thanks be to God.

The Gospel Hymn: If thou but trust in God to guide thee

Lyrics:
If thou but trust in God to Guide thee, And hope in him through all thy ways, He’ll give thee strength whate’er betide thee, And bear thee through the evil days. Who trusts in God’s unchanging love Builds on a rock that naught can move. Sing, pray and keep his ways unswerving; So do thine own part faithfully, And trust his word, though undeserving; Thou yet shalt find it true for thee; God never yet forsook in need The soul that trusted him indeed.

The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Matthew [13:31-33,44-52]

People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.

Jesus put before the crowds another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.”

He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like yeast that a woman took and mixed in with three measures of flour until all of it was leavened.”

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which someone found and hid; then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls; on finding one pearl of great value, he went and sold all that he had and bought it.

“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and caught fish of every kind; when it was full, they drew it ashore, sat down, and put the good into baskets but threw out the bad. So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous and throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

“Have you understood all this?” They answered, “Yes.” And he said to them, “Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.”

The Gospel of the Lord.
People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.

A Message from:  The Reverend Lois Keen

Interlude: “A Ground in G” – Henry Purcell

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

Litany during a Pandemic

God the Father, Have mercy upon us.

God the Son, Have mercy upon us.

God the Holy Spirit, Have mercy upon us.

Holy Trinity, One God, Have mercy upon us.

Spare us, good Lord, spare your people, whom you have redeemed with your most precious blood, and by your mercy preserve us through this crisis, and for ever. Spare us, good Lord.

From all evil and wickedness, from disease and illness, especially this coronavirus, Good Lord, deliver us.

From all ignorance and apathy and from all willingness to engage in activities that could harm others, Good Lord, deliver us.

From all blindness of heart, from pride and a sense of invincibility, Good Lord, deliver us.

We your children beseech you to hear us, O Lord God, to look upon this world struck by pandemic, and drive from us this disease. We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to strengthen the weak, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give health and comfort to all who are already stricken with illness, We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give patience and grace to all those who are in quarantine or who fear that they have already contracted the virus, We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to surround with your love those who are fearful or overcome with anxiety and worry, We beseech you to hear us, Good Lord.

That it may please you to give wisdom and stamina to all who are working on tests, vaccines, and treatments, We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to uphold, strengthen, and protect all those who are treating and ministering to the sick, We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That is may please you to give to your people a heart to love their neighbor and to look after those who are most vulnerable. We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to support, help, and comfort those who are concerned about finances and employment, We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to help students whose schools are closed grow in wisdom and knowledge and to give their teachers creativity and perseverance, We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to heal the sick, lift up the stricken and east their breathing, We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to receive into your bosom those who have died and embrace those who are grieving, We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

Son of God, we beseech you to hear us. Son of God, we beseech you to hear us.

O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, Have mercy upon us.

O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, Have mercy upon us.

O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, Grant us your peace.

[Litany by Fr. Rick, Rector of St. Mark’s, Basking Ridge, NJ, adapted. Used with permission.]

Let us pray for our own needs and those of others, praying especially for Deirdre, Becky, Chris, Nicole, Laura, Mary, Joseph, Tammy, Roger, Sue, Eileen, Doris, David and Cindi, give them courage and hope in their troubles, and bring them the joy of your salvation.

Almighty and eternal God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth: Mercifully accept the prayers of your people, and strengthen us to do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Together we pray
Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use us, we pray, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.

All 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 Leader says:
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

The Peace
The Leader says to the people: The peace of the Lord is always with you.
People: And also with you.

Offertory Sentence
Through Christ let us continually offer to God the sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his Name. But do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. (Hebrews 13:15,16)

The Closing Hymn: Spread, O spread, thou mighty word

Lyrics:

The Blessing
The Peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God.  And the blessing of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be with us all today and always. Amen.

Postlude: “Sonatina in F: Allegretto” – Johann Baptist Wanhall

Thank you for sharing your time with us today for this remote worship. May the blessing of the Lord be with you now and forever.

Prelude: “Air from Alcina” – G.F. Handel

The Opening Hymn: Hymn #365; Come, Thou Almighty King

Leader: Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
People: And blessed be God’s kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

God of all power and love, we give thanks for your unfailing presence and the hope you provide in times of uncertainty and loss. Send your Holy Spirit to enkindle in us your holy fire. Revive us to live as Christ’s body in the world: a people who pray, worship, learn, break bread, share life, heal neighbors, bear good news, seek justice, rest and grow in the Spirit. Wherever and however we gather, unite us in common prayer and send us in common mission, that we and the whole creation might be restored and renewed, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gloria

Leader: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.

The Collect of the Day
All together

O Lord, mercifully receive the prayers of your people who call upon you, and grant that they may know and understand what things they ought to do, and also may have grace and power faithfully to accomplish them; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

The Lessons

Isaiah 44:6-8
Thus says the Lord, the King of Israel,
and his Redeemer, the Lord of hosts:

I am the first and I am the last;
besides me there is no god.

Who is like me? Let them proclaim it,
let them declare and set it forth before me.

Who has announced from of old the things to come?
Let them tell us what is yet to be.

Do not fear, or be afraid;
have I not told you from of old and declared it?
You are my witnesses!

Is there any god besides me?
There is no other rock; I know not one.

The Word of the Lord. People: Thanks be to God.

Psalm 86:11-17
11 Teach me your way, O Lord,
and I will walk in your truth; *
knit my heart to you that I may fear your Name.

12 I will thank you, O Lord my God, with all my heart, *
and glorify your Name for evermore.

13 For great is your love toward me; *
you have delivered me from the nethermost Pit.

14 The arrogant rise up against me, O God,
and a band of violent men seeks my life; *
they have not set you before their eyes.

15 But you, O Lord, are gracious and full of compassion, *
slow to anger, and full of kindness and truth.

16 Turn to me and have mercy upon me; *
give your strength to your servant;
and save the child of your handmaid.

17 Show me a sign of your favor,
so that those who hate me may see it and be ashamed; *
because you, O Lord, have helped me and comforted me.

Romans 8:12-25
Brothers and sisters, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh– for if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, “Abba! Father!” it is that very Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ– if, in fact, we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.

I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory about to be revealed to us. For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the children of God; for the creation was subjected to futility, not of its own will but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and will obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning in labor pains until now; and not only the creation, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly while we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. For in hope we were saved. Now hope that is seen is not hope. For who hopes for what is seen? But if we hope for what we do not see, we wait for it with patience.

The Word of the Lord.

People: Thanks be to God.

The Gospel Hymn: Hymn #482; Lord of All Hopefulness

The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John.
People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.

Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
Jesus put before the crowd another parable: “The kingdom of heaven may be compared to someone who sowed good seed in his field; but while everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and then went away. So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared as well. And the slaves of the householder came and said to him, ‘Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where, then, did these weeds come from?’ He answered, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The slaves said to him, ‘Then do you want us to go and gather them?’ But he replied, ‘No; for in gathering the weeds you would uproot the wheat along with them. Let both of them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Collect the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.’”

Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples approached him, saying, “Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field.” He answered, “The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man; the field is the world, and the good seed are the children of the kingdom; the weeds are the children of the evil one, and the enemy who sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers, and they will throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Let anyone with ears listen!”

The Gospel of the Lord.

People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.

The Sermon:  The Reverend Lois Keen

Interlude: “The Lord into His Garden Comes” – early New England melody, arr. Benton Price

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 – Litany during a Pandemic

God the Father,
Have mercy upon us.

God the Son,
Have mercy upon us.

God the Holy Spirit,
Have mercy upon us.

Holy Trinity, One God,
Have mercy upon us.

Spare us, good Lord, spare your people, whom you have redeemed with your most precious blood, and by your mercy preserve us through this crisis, and for ever.
Spare us, good Lord.

From all evil and wickedness, from disease and illness, especially this coronavirus,
Good Lord, deliver us.

From all ignorance and apathy and from all willingness to engage in activities that could harm others,
Good Lord, deliver us.

From all blindness of heart, from pride and a sense of invincibility,
Good Lord, deliver us.

We your children beseech you to hear us, O Lord God, to look upon this world struck by pandemic, and drive from us this disease.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to strengthen the weak, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give health and comfort to all who are already stricken with illness,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to give patience and grace to all those who are in quarantine or who fear that they have already contracted the virus,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to surround with your love those who are fearful or overcome with anxiety and worry,
We beseech you to hear us, Good Lord.

That it may please you to give wisdom and stamina to all who are working on tests, vaccines, and treatments,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to uphold, strengthen, and protect all those who are treating and ministering to the sick,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That is may please you to give to your people a heart to love their neighbor and to look after those who are most vulnerable.
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to support, help, and comfort those who are concerned about finances and employment,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to help students whose schools are closed grow in wisdom and knowledge and to give their teachers creativity and perseverance,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to heal the sick, lift up the stricken and east their breathing,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

That it may please you to receive into your bosom those who have died and embrace those who are grieving,
We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.

Son of God, we beseech you to hear us.
Son of God, we beseech you to hear us.

O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,
Have mercy upon us.

O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,
Have mercy upon us.

O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,
Grant us your peace.

[Litany by Fr. Rick, Rector of St. Mark’s, Basking Ridge, NJ, adapted. Used with permission.]

Let us pray for our own needs and those of others, praying especially for Deirdre, Becky, Chris, Nicole, Laura, Mary, Joseph, Tammy, Roger, Sue, Eileen, Doris, David and Cindi, give them courage and hope in their troubles, and bring them the joy of your salvation.

Almighty and eternal God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth: Mercifully accept the prayers of your people, and strengthen us to do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Together we pray
Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use us, we pray, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.

All 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 Leader says: 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

The Peace

 The Leader says to the people: The peace of the Lord is always with you.
People: And also with you.

Offertory Sentence
Through Christ let us continually offer to God the sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his Name. But do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. (Hebrews 13:15,16)

The Closing Hymn: #344; Lord, dismiss us with thy blessing

The Blessing
The Peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God.  And the blessing of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be with us all today and always. Amen.

Postlude: “March” – J.C.F. Bach

May the rest of your day be filled with peace and joy. Thank you for visiting our Remote Worship Bulletin.

Prelude: “Andante Cantabile” – Peter Tschaikowsky

The Opening Hymn: Hymn 440; Blessed Jesus At Thy Word

Lyrics:
Blessed Jesus, at thy word we are gathered all to hear thee;
let our hearts and souls be stirred now to seek and love and fear thee;
by thy teachings pure and holy, drawn from earth to love thee solely.
All our knowledge, sense, and sight lie in deepest darkness shrouded, till thy Spirit breaks our night with the beams of truth unclouded;
thou alone to God canst win us; thou must work all good within us.
Gracious Lord, thyself impart!
Light of Light, from God proceeding, open thou our ears and heart, help us by thy Spirit’s pleading.
Hear the cry thy Church upraises; hear, and bless our prayers and praises.

Leader:  Blessed be God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
People:  And blessed be God’s kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.

God of all power and love, we give thanks for your unfailing presence and the hope you provide in times of uncertainty and loss. Send your Holy Spirit to enkindle in us your holy fire. Revive us to live as Christ’s body in the world: a people who pray, worship, learn, break bread, share life, heal neighbors, bear good news, seek justice, rest and grow in the Spirit. Wherever and however we gather, unite us in common prayer and send us in common mission, that we and the whole creation might be restored and renewed, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Gloria

Leader: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.
Leader: Let us pray.

The Collect of the Day
All together
O Lord, mercifully receive the prayers of your people who call upon you, and grant that they may know and understand what things they ought to do, and also may have grace and power faithfully to accomplish them; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

The Lessons

Isaiah 55:10-13
As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return there until they have watered the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it. For you shall go out in joy, and be led back in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall burst into song, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. Instead of the thorn shall come up the cypress; instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle; and it shall be to the Lord for a memorial, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.

The Word of the Lord. People: Thanks be to God.

Psalm 65:9-14

9 You visit the earth and water it abundantly;
you make it very plenteous; *
the river of God is full of water.

10 You prepare the grain, *
for so you provide for the earth.

11 You drench the furrows and smooth out the ridges; *
with heavy rain you soften the ground and bless its increase.

12 You crown the year with your goodness, *
and your paths overflow with plenty.

13 May the fields of the wilderness be rich for grazing, *
and the hills be clothed with joy.

14 May the meadows cover themselves with flocks,
and the valleys cloak themselves with grain; *
let them shout for joy and sing.

Romans 8:1-11
There is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For God has done what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do: by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and to deal with sin, he condemned sin in the flesh, so that the just requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For this reason the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law– indeed it cannot, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

But you are not in the flesh; you are in the Spirit, since the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, though the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also through his Spirit that dwells in you.

The Word of the Lord.

People: Thanks be to God.

The Gospel Hymn: Hymn 632; O Christ, the Word Incarnate

Lyrics:

The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to John.
People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.

Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
Jesus went out of the house and sat beside the sea. Such great crowds gathered around him that he got into a boat and sat there, while the whole crowd stood on the beach. And he told them many things in parables, saying: “Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly, since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Let anyone with ears listen!”

“Hear then the parable of the sower. When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what is sown in the heart; this is what was sown on the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy; yet such a person has no root, but endures only for a while, and when trouble or persecution arises on account of the word, that person immediately falls away. As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the lure of wealth choke the word, and it yields nothing. But as for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it, who indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.”

The Gospel of the Lord.

People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.

The Sermon: The Reverend Lois Keen

Interlude: “Lord, Let My Heart be Good Soil” – Handt Hanson

Lyrics:
Lord, let my heart be good soil, open to the seed of your word.  Lord, let my heart be good soil, where love can grow and peace is understood.

When my heart is hard, break the stone away.  When my heart is cold, warm it with the day.  When my heart is lost, lead me on your way.

Lord, let my heart, Lord, let my heart, Lord, let my heart be good soil.

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 Litany during a Pandemic

God the Father,
Have mercy upon us.

God the Son,
Have mercy upon us.

God the Holy Spirit,
Have mercy upon us.

Holy Trinity, One God,
Have mercy upon us.

Spare us, good Lord, spare your people, whom you have redeemed with your most precious blood, and by your mercy preserve us through this crisis, and for ever.

Spare us, good Lord.
From all evil and wickedness, from disease and illness, especially this coronavirus,

Good Lord, deliver us.
From all ignorance and apathy and from all willingness to engage in activities that could harm others,

Good Lord, deliver us.
From all blindness of heart, from pride and a sense of invincibility,

Good Lord, deliver us.
We your children beseech you to hear us, O Lord God, to look upon this world struck by pandemic, and drive from us this disease.

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to strengthen the weak, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to give health and comfort to all who are already stricken with illness,

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to give patience and grace to all those who are in quarantine or who fear that they have already contracted the virus,

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to surround with your love those who are fearful or overcome with anxiety and worry,

We beseech you to hear us, Good Lord.
That it may please you to give wisdom and stamina to all who are working on tests, vaccines, and treatments,

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to uphold, strengthen, and protect all those who are treating and ministering to the sick,

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That is may please you to give to your people a heart to love their neighbor and to look after those who are most vulnerable.

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to support, help, and comfort those who are concerned about finances and employment,

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to help students whose schools are closed grow in wisdom and knowledge and to give their teachers creativity and perseverance,

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to heal the sick, lift up the stricken and east their breathing,

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
That it may please you to receive into your bosom those who have died and embrace those who are grieving,

We beseech you to hear us, good Lord.
Son of God, we beseech you to hear us.

Son of God, we beseech you to hear us.
O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,

Have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,

Have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world,

Grant us your peace.
[Litany by Fr. Rick, Rector of St. Mark’s, Basking Ridge, NJ, adapted. Used with permission.]

Let us pray for our own needs and those of others, praying especially for Deirdre, Becky, Chris, Nicole, Laura, Mary, Joseph, Tammy, Roger, Sue, Eileen, Doris, David and Cindi, give them courage and hope in their troubles, and bring them the joy of your salvation.

Almighty and eternal God, ruler of all things in heaven and earth: Mercifully accept the prayers of your people, and strengthen us to do your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Together we pray
Almighty and eternal God, so draw our hearts to you, so guide our minds, so fill our imaginations, so control our wills, that we may be wholly yours, utterly dedicated to you; and then use us, we pray, as you will, and always to your glory and the welfare of your people; through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Let us confess our sins against God and our neighbor.
Silence may be kept.

All 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 Leader says:
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

The Peace
The Leader says to the people: The peace of the Lord is always with you.
People: And also with you.

Offertory Sentence
Through Christ let us continually offer to God the sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his Name. But do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. (Hebrews 13:15,16)

The Closing Hymn: Hymn 645; The King of love my Shepherd is

Lyrics:

The Blessing
The God of peace, who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ, the great Shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant: Make us perfect in every good work to do his will, working in us that which is well-pleasing in his sight; through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever.  And the blessing of God, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be with us all today and always. Amen.

Postlude: “Rondeau” – Friedrich Wilhelm Marpurg

Thank you for joining us in sharing this remote worship.