prayer - Holy Trinity Lutheran Church

HOLY TRINITY
LUTHERAN CHURCH
THE EVE OF
THE RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD
THE GREAT VIGIL OF EASTER
APRIL 19, 2014 + 7:45 P.M.
WELCOME TO THE EASTER VIGIL, especially guests joining us for this
service at the heart of our faith and life together.
As you enter the dark church you may want to take off your coat before your
hand candle is lit.
This service will last approximately two hours, but for many it is timeless; we
enter eternity as we partake in these life-renewing rituals, stories and
sacraments. Feel free to move to the back of the church or outside and get a
breath of fresh air if you desire. There are two restrooms at the back of the
church.
Though this booklet includes the full text of the service, we invite you to refer
to the texts only as needed, and direct your five senses to the actions of the
liturgy, being fully present to the community and all that is happening.
Please note the shaded sections which give instructions for the service, and
the sidebars which give meanings for the various rituals and symbols.
Cover image: “The Red Sea Crossing” by Ted Larson [digitalartbytedlarson.com]
[2]
::: Gathering :::
GREETING
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of
the Holy Spirit be with you all.
And also with you.
Sisters and brothers in Christ, on this most holy night when our Savior Jesus
Christ passed from death to life, we gather with the church throughout the
world in vigil and prayer. This is the passover of Jesus Christ. Through light
and the word, through water and oil, bread and wine, we proclaim Christ's
death and resurrection, share Christ's triumph over sin and death, and await
Christ's coming again in glory.
Let us pray. Eternal God, in Jesus Christ you have given the light of life to all
the world. Bless this new fire, and increase in us a desire to shine forth with
the brightness of Christ's rising, until we feast at the banquet of eternal light;
through the Sun of righteousness, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Christ, yesterday and today, the beginning and the ending. To Christ belongs
all time and all the ages; to Christ belongs glory and dominion now and
forever.
Amen.
The presiding minister lights the paschal candle, and sings:
The light of Christ, rising in glory,
dispel the darkness of our hearts and minds.
PROCESSION
On the eve of Easter,
nearest the first full moon
after the spring equinox, we
gather outside, kindling a
new fire.
Since our primal beginnings,
humans have gathered
around fire for warmth,
heat, and each other’s
company.
Filled with the hope of
spring and longing for
renewal, we celebrate the
new creation brought to the
world through the death
and resurrection of Christ.
The presiding minister
traces the inscription 2014
on the candle. Rather than
merely recalling saving
events of several thousand
years ago, we celebrate the
presence of the risen Christ
among us this year.
During the procession the following is sung three times:
The light of Christ
Thanks be to God
Using all the doors into the church and all aisles in the nave, proceed to the pews
and remain standing for the Easter proclamation. As your candles are lit, please pass
the light to the person next to you. You may want to remove your coat before your
candle is lit.
As the assembly gathers, the following chant is sung.
Like the children of Israel,
we follow a pillar of fire in
the night.
The light of Christ breaks
the darkness of sin and
death and we are led from
bondage to freedom.
[3]
The Easter Vigil has Advent
overtones. Early Christians
believed that Christ would
return at midnight. This
chant reflects Advent
themes of watching and
keeping vigil as we wait for
the Risen Christ to come
among us.
We live for this night.
- Carlos Santiago,
first Puerto Rican beatified by
the Roman Catholic Church
EASTER PROCLAMATION
setting: John Weaver (b. 1937)
Choir, then all.
Refrain:
Rejoice, heavenly powers! Sing, choirs of angels! Exult, all creation around
God’s throne! Jesus Christ our King is risen! Sound the trumpet of
salvation! Refrain
Rejoice, O earth, in shining splendor, radiant in the brightness of your King!
Christ has conquered! Glory fills you! Darkness vanishes forever! Refrain
Rejoice, O mother church! Exult in glory! The risen Savior shines upon you!
Let this place resound with joy, echoing the mighty song of all God’s
people! Refrain
[4]
The text of the Easter
Proclamation is from the
fourth century.
At the Jewish Passover meal,
the youngest child asks, “Why
is this night different from all
other nights?” And the answer
comes: “This is the night of
our salvation.”
Over and over we sing out,
“This is the Night!” We call
Christ the Morning Star, the
fire in the eastern sky that
signals the approach of day,
for Christ shines on the whole
human race.
- Gail Ramshaw
It is truly right that with full hearts and minds and voices we should praise
you, the unseen God, the all-powerful Creator, and your only Son, our Lord
Jesus Christ. For Christ has ransomed us with his blood, and paid for us the
debt of Adam’s sin. Refrain
This is our passover feast, when Christ, the true Lamb, is slain, whose blood
consecrates the homes of all believers. This is the night when first you
saved our forebears: you freed the people of Israel from their slavery and
led them dry-shod through the sea. This is the night when Christians
everywhere, washed clean from sin and freed from all defilement, are
restored to grace and grow together in holiness.
This ancient dialog is used
tonight in three instances of
high thanksgiving: for light,
for water, and for bread and
wine.
This is the night when Jesus Christ broke the chains of death, and rose
triumphant from the grave. Refrain
Lord God, how wonderful your care for us! How boundless your merciful
love! To ransom a slave you gave away your Son. Most blessed of all nights,
chosen by God to see Christ rising from the dead!
The power of this holy night dispels all evil, washes guilt away, restores lost
innocence, brings mourners joy; it casts out hatred, brings us peace, and
humbles earthly pride. Night truly blessed, when heaven is wedded to
earth, and we are reconciled with God! Therefore, gracious God, in the joy
of this night, receive our evening sacrifice of praise, your church’s solemn
offering.
Accept this Easter candle. May it always dispel the darkness of this night.
May the Morning Star which never sets find this flame still burning: Refrain
Christ, that Morning Star, who came back from the dead, and shed his
peaceful light on all creation, your Son, who lives and reigns forever and
ever.
All:
Easter is our Passover, our
celebration of a God who
delivers from death and all
forms of oppression.
O Night brighter than day;
O Night brighter than the sun;
O Night more brilliant than
torches;
O Night more delightful than
paradise;
O Night which has banished
sleep;
O Night of the church’s bridal;
O Night of new birth in
baptism.
- Asterius of Amasea,
th
4 Century
PRAYER OF THE DAY
Eternal giver of life and light,
this holy night shines with the radiance of the risen Christ.
We sing the glories of this pillar of fire,
fed by the melting wax which the bees, your servants, have made.
Renew your church
with the Spirit given us in baptism,
that we may worship you in sincerity and truth
and may shine as a light in the world,
through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and forever.
Amen.
The large paschal candle
and individual candles are
100 percent beeswax, made
by Orthodox sisters in
South Carolina.
Early Easter Vigil texts
included thanksgiving for
the bees, reflecting the gift
of creation and the wax that
bees provide for the Easter
Candle.
Please be seated, keeping your hand candles lit.
[5]
::: Word :::
FIRST READING: CREATION (from Genesis 1 – 2)
Word of God, word of life.
Thanks be to God.
We hear the primal stories
of God’s mighty acts, yet
they are not just narratives
from the past. What
happened long ago is
happening for us now as we
participate in the mystery
of Jesus’ death and
resurrection.
The Spirit moved over the
waters, bringing order from
chaos. In the waters of
baptism the Spirit makes of
us a new creation. Jesus’
death and resurrection
brings light and life to all the
world.
RESPONSE
The following response will be sung during the reading, after each day of creation:
Text: Herbert F. Brokering, (b. 1926); Music: David N. Johnson (1922-1987). Both © 1968 Augsburg Publishing House
Silence.
PRAYER
Let us pray. Almighty God, you wonderfully created the dignity of human
nature and yet more wonderfully restored it. In your mercy, let us share
the divine life of him who came to share our humanity, Jesus Christ your
Son, our Lord.
Amen.
[6]
At the Easter Vigil we hear
our birth story: creation.
Gratitude to Mother Earth,
sailing through night and
day—and to her soil: rich, rare
and sweet.
- Mohawk Prayer
Touch the earth lightly,
use the earth gently,
nourish the life of the world in
our care;
gift of great wonder,
ours to surrender
trust for our children
tomorrow will bear.
- Shirley Erena Murphey
SECOND READING: FLOOD (from Genesis 6 – 8)
Word of God, word of life.
Thanks be to God.
RESPONSE – Psalm 46: God Will Be Our Refuge
Choir sings stanzas; congregation joins on refrains.
God will be our refuge, strength, and mighty fortress, everpresent help in our times of
deep distress. Though the mountains tremble and crumble into dust, though earth
and seas are shaken, in God we put our trust; though earth and seas are shaken, in
God we put our trust.
God re-creates the world
by sending forty days of
rain to destroy all that is
evil. The great flood is a
foreshadowing of our
baptism, in which our sinful
selves are drowned and we
are made new through the
death and resurrection of
Christ.
Refrain:
Although the winds be
mighty,
And high waves in the sea,
Yet Wisdom is the pilot –
The powerful Lord is he;
Despite transgressions
deluge,
Corruptions foul and dark,
We’ll yet escape the
drowning,
Because God is our ark.
- Ann Griffiths
th
18 century Welsh Methodist
Poet
Streams of living water sparkle bright as crystal, making glad the city, the dwelling of
the Lord. God is its foundation, and so it never shakes. God’s strong right arm
defends it as each new morning breaks; God’s strong right arm defends it as each
new morning breaks. Refrain
Though nations rage and bellow, kings and empires totter; God speaks but a word and
its thunder melts the earth. Everpresent with us, through depth and height and
length, the Lord remains our refuge, our stronghold, and our strength; the Lord
remains our refuge, our stronghold, and our strength. Refrain
See God’s works of power, fearsome deeds before us, causing wars to cease, breaking
bows and shattering spears. God will be exalted, whose ways are true and just: for
God is still our refuge, in whom we put our trust; for God is still our refuge, in whom
we put our trust. Refrain
Silence.
PRAYER
Let us pray. O God, strength of the powerless and light in all darkness:
Look in mercy upon your church, that wonderful and sacred mystery, that it
may be an ark of peace in the midst of chaos. Let the whole world come to see
that what was fallen is being raised up, that what was old is being made new,
and that all things are being restored to wholeness through him from whom
they first took being, your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
In this 7th century prayer,
the church is likened to the
ark, and Easter is the
restoration of all things.
[7]
THIRD READING: DELIVERANCE AT THE RED SEA (from Exodus 14 & 15)
Word of God, word of life.
Thanks be to God.
RESPONSE – Canticle of Miriam and Moses
John Weaver
Choir, then all. Verses are sung by the choir.
Refrain:
I will sing to the Lord, so lofty and uplifted; The horse and its rider have
been hurled into the sea. The Lord is my strength and my refuge; the Lord
has become my Savior. Refrain
Through the waters of
liberation God delivers the
chosen people from slavery
to freedom. Easter
celebrates Christ’s triumph
over death and the power
of evil.
In the waters of baptism we
share in this victory as we
work together for freedom,
justice, and peace in all the
earth.
Standing on the parted shores
of history we still believe what
we were taught before we
ever stood at Sinai’s foot: that
wherever we go, it is eternally
Egypt; that there is a better
place, a promised land; that
the winding way to that
promise passes through the
wilderness. That there is no
way to get from here to there
except by joining hands,
marching together.
- from a contemporary
Haggadah for Passover
This is my God whom I will praise, the God of my people whom I will exalt.
The Lord is a mighty warrior, whose name is Yahweh. Refrain
The chariots of Pharaoh and his army have been hurled into the sea. The
finest of those who bear armor have been drowned in the Red Sea. The
fathomless deep has overwhelmed them; they sank into the depths like a
stone. Refrain
Your right hand, O Lord, is glorious in might; your right hand, O Lord, has
over-thrown the enemy. Who can be compared with you, O Lord, among
the gods? Who is like you, gracious in holiness, awesome in renown, and
worker of wonders? Refrain
Silence.
PRAYER
Let us pray. O God, whose wonderful deeds of old shine forth even to our own
day: by the power of your mighty arm you once delivered your chosen people
from slavery under Pharaoh, a sign for us of the salvation offered to everyone
by the water of baptism. Grant that all the peoples of earth may partake in the
salvation of the Israelites and together dance on the safe side of the sea,
through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
[8]
O merciful God, save all
whom oppression drowns.
Wash away injustice. O
merciful God,we implore you:
This time also save the
Egyptians in your mercy wider
and deeper than all the
oceans of the earth.
- Gail Ramshaw
FOURTH READING: THE WISDOM OF GOD (from Proverbs 8–9)
Word of God, word of life.
Thanks be to God.
RESPONSE – Come and Seek the Ways of Wisdom
Stanza 1—choir; stanzas 2 & 3—all
Divine Wisdom, personified
as a great lady and a
goddess figure, invites us to
walk in her path of justice
and share her meal of life.
Our searching and longing
is fulfilled in the light of
Christ, the waters of life,
and at the Easter feast.
Wisdom is radiant and
unfading, and she is easily
discerned by those who love
her, and is found by those
who seek her.
- Wisdom 6:12
For Christians, Christ is
Wisdom (Sophia) incarnate.
As we sing in a stanza of “O
Come, O Come Emmanuel
(one of the O Antiphons (9th
century):
O Come, O Wisdom from on
high, embracing all things
mightily, in strength and
beauty come and stay, teach
us your will and guide our
way.
Text: Ruth Duck, 1993 © 1996 The Pilgrim Press. Music: MADELINE, Donna Kasbohm, 1995 © 1997 The Pilgrim Press
Silence.
PRAYER
O God, our wisdom, teacher of truth, you fill your house by continuing to call
all peoples into the way of insight. With your food and drink sustain us in the
path of justice, and by your love watch over those whom you have called
through your Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
Amen.
[9]
FIFTH READING: VALLEY OF THE DRY BONES (from Ezekiel 37)
Word of God, word of life.
Thanks be to God.
In Ezekiel’s vision of the dry
bones, the dead are
brought to life by the power
of God’s spirit. In baptism
God breathes the Spirit of
the Risen Christ into us and
we live.
With the leg bone connected
to the knee bone, the knee
bone connected to the thigh
bone, the thigh bone
connected to the hip bone …
Oh, hear the word of the
Lord!
- African American Spiritual
RESPONSE – Veni Sancte Spiritus
Choir sing verses over continuous congregational ostinato:
Breathe on me, breath of God,
fill me with life anew, that I
may love all that you love,
and do what you would do.
Breathe on me, breath of God,
so shall I never die, but live
with you the perfect life of
your eternity.
- Edwin Hatch
Come, Holy Spirit, from heaven shine forth
with your glorious light. Veni Sancte Spiritus.
Come from the four winds, O Spirit, come, Breath of God;
disperse the shadows over us, renew and strengthen your people.
Veni Sancte Spiritus.
Silence.
PRAYER
Living God, by the death and resurrection of your Son you have brought us out
of sin into righteousness and out of death into life. Breathe into us your lifegiving Spirit, that receiving the gifts of word and sacrament, we may live in the
hope of all your blessings to come, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.
Amen.
[10]
SIXTH READING: DELIVERANCE FROM THE FIERY FURNACE (from Daniel 3)
Word of God, word of life.
Thanks be to God.
Please stand.
RESPONSE – O all ye works of the Lord
Philip W. J. Stopford (b. 1977)
(from Festival Benedicite)
Please turn to face the rear of the church as the worship leaders process there.
O all ye works of the Lord, bless ye the Lord;
Praise him and magnify him forever.
O ye angels of the lord, bless ye the Lord;
Praise him and magnify him forever.
O ye heavens, bless ye the Lord;
Praise him and magnify him forever.
O ye waters that be above the firmament, bless ye the Lord;
O ye powers of the Lord, bless ye the Lord;
O ye sun and moon, ye stars of heaven,
O ye showers and dew, O ye winds of God,
O ye fire and heat, bless ye the Lord.
Praise him and magnify him forever.
O ye winter and summer; O ye dews and frosts,
O ye frost and cold, O ye ice and snow,
O ye nights and days, O ye light and darkness,
O ye lightnings and clouds, bless ye the Lord.
Praise him and magnify him forever.
O let the earth bless the Lord,
Yea, let us praise him and magnify him forever.
The three men in the fiery
furnace is an image of the
resurrection. Even in our
deepest suffering, God is in
the fire with us. We can
even gaze into the fire of
our own death, rejoicing in
the promise of resurrection.
Where are the Hebrew
children? Safe in the promised
land! Though the furnace
flamed around them, God
while in their trouble found
them, God with love and
mercy bound them, safe in the
promised land!
- African American spiritual
Wouldst thou know my
meaning? Lie down in the fire.
See and ask the flowing
Godhead through thy being:
Feel the Holy Spirit moving
and compelling thee within
the glowing fire and light of
God.
- Mechthilde of Mageburg,
th
13 century
Silence.
PRAYER
Almighty and eternal God, the only hope of the world, by the proclamation of
your prophets you declare to us the mysteries of your salvation. By the grace
of your Spirit increase the devotion of all the baptized, that strengthened by
your presence we may withstand hardship and sorrow and be united with your
Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
When directed, extinguish your hand candle.
In the spirit of vigil watching and waiting, a period of silence follows.
[11]
GOSPEL ACCLAMATION/PROCESSION
Please turn to face the cross as it moves forward.
Please join the assembly in joyfully singing the first Alleluias of Easter.
Alleluia is to be interpreted
“Praise God.” To be sure, that
is a short word, but it is great
praise.
- Caesarius of Arles,
th
6 century
So sing Alleluia whether you
do like Sills or Pavarotti or
croak it like a crow. In or out
of tune, it will make sweet
music tonight.
Let the sound flow into our
ears and the truth stream into
our hearts. And do not be
afraid to cry. If you are a new
creature in Christ you will be
happy in your tears.
- Gerard S. Sloyan
Turn to face the book as the gospel is read in the midst of the assembly.
[12]
GOSPEL: John 20:1–18
Alleluia! Christ is risen!
Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia!
The Holy Gospel according to John.
Glory to you, O Lord.
As the gospel is announced you may trace a small cross on your forehead, lips and breast, a
prayer that the Word may dwell in our minds, on our lips, and in our hearts.
The Gospel of the Lord
Praise to you, O Christ.
::: Baptism :::
Turn to face the font as the following is sung:
In John, from Jesus' death
comes life: thus he was
buried in a garden and,
although at first not
recognized by Mary, he
manifests his identity to her
and announces his
ascension to God.
Especially medieval
Christians treasured this
resurrection account for
the tenderness suggested
between Christ and the
woman. The baptized life of
the Christian was described
as just such an encounter
with the risen Christ in a
well-watered garden.
Baptism is especially
appropriate at the Easter
Vigil, since through baptism
we are joined to Jesus’
death and resurrection.
Those of us already
baptized renew our
baptismal vows and deepen
our commitment to our
baptismal calling.
Text: Zebulon M. Highben, based on Vigil texts. Music: Zebulon M. Highben. Text & Music © 2009 Augsburg Fortress.
READING: from Romans 6
Word of God, word of life.
Thanks be to God.
PRESENTATION
I present Soren Tomek for baptism.
Called by the Holy Spirit, trusting in the grace and love of God, do you desire to have
your child baptized into Christ?
I do.
As you bring your child to receive the gift of baptism, you are entrusted with
responsibilities: to live with him among God's faithful people, bring him to the word of
God and the holy supper, teach him the Lord's Prayer, the Creed, and the Ten
Commandments, place in his hands the holy scriptures, and nurture him in faith and
prayer, so that your child may learn to trust God, proclaim Christ through word and
deed, care for others and the world God made, and work for justice and peace. Do
you promise to help your child grow in the Christian faith and life?
[13]
I do.
Sponsors, do you promise to nurture Soren in the Christian faith as you are
empowered by God's Spirit, and to help him live in the covenant of baptism and in
communion with the church?
I do.
People of God, do you promise to support Soren and pray for him in his new life in
Christ?
All: We do.
PROFESSION OF FAITH
Parents and sponsors, and those affirming their baptism tonight, I ask you to profess
your faith in Christ Jesus, reject sin, and confess the faith of the church.
Do you renounce the devil and all the forces that defy God?
I renounce them.
Do you renounce the powers of this world that rebel against God?
I renounce them.
Do you renounce the ways of sin that draw you from God?
I renounce them.
Do you believe in God the Father?
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?
I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the virgin Mary,
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,
he is seated at the right hand of the Father,
and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit?
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.
[14]
What then is the significance
of such a baptism with water?
It signifies that the old person
in us with all sins and evil
desires is to be drowned and
die through daily sorrow for
sin and through repentance,
and on the other hand that
daily a new person is to come
forth and rise up to live before
God in righteousness and
purity forever.
- Martin Luther
To reject Satan … is to reject
an entire worldview made up
of pride and self-affirmation,
of that pride which has truly
taken human life from God
and made it into darkness,
death and hell.
- Alexander Schmemann
THANKSGIVING AT THE FONT
The Lord be with you.
And also with you.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Holy God, holy and merciful, holy and mighty, you are the river of life, you are the
everlasting wellspring, you are the fire of rebirth.
Glory to you for oceans and lakes, for rivers and streams. Honor to you for cloud and
rain, for dew and snow. Your waters are below us, around us, above us: our life is
born in you. You are the fountain of resurrection. Blessed be God forever. Blessed be
God forever.
Praise to you for your saving waters: Noah and the animals survive the flood, Hagar
discovers your well. The Israelites escape through the sea, and they drink from your
gushing rock. Naaman washes his leprosy away, and the Samaritan woman will never
be thirsty again. Blessed be God forever. Blessed be God forever.
At this font, holy God, we pray: Praise to you for the water of baptism and for your
Word that saves us in this water. Breathe your Spirit into all who are gathered here
and into all creation. Illumine our days. Enliven our bones. Dry our tears. Wash away
the sin within us, and drown the evil around us. Blessed be God forever. Blessed be
God forever.
Satisfy all our thirst with your living water, Jesus Christ, our Savior, who lives and
reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.
All: Amen.
Lord of the Passover, you
have lit this night with the
radiance of Christ; renew us
in our baptism, and bring us
through the Red Sea waters to
the promised land.
- New Zealand Prayer Book
With this prayer of
thanksgiving, we give
thanks for the water that
nourished us in the womb,
the watery rescues we
recall from scripture, the
water in this font, for the
water that will be poured
onto the bodies of the
baptized.
Here is God’s living water; it is
enough; so please, we ask
God, dry our tears.
- Gail Ramshaw
BAPTISM
Soren Tomek, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
After the baptism the following is sung twice:
Text: Galatians 3:27, International Commission on English in the Liturgy
Music: Baptized in Christ, Howard Hughes, b. 1930
Text © 1969 ICEL; Music © 1977 ICEL.
Let us pray. We give you thanks, O God, that through water and the Holy Spirit you
give your daughters and sons new birth, cleanse them from sin, and raise them to
eternal life. Sustain Soren Tomek with the gift of your Holy Spirit: the spirit of
wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge
and the fear of the Lord, the spirit of joy in your presence, both now and forever.
Amen.
Soren Tomek, child of God, you have been sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked with
the cross of Christ forever.
Amen.
Jesus said, I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will have the light of life.
See these people dressed in
white, God’s gonna trouble
the water. They must be
children of the Israelites,
God’s gonna trouble the
water.
Wade in the water,
Wade in the water, children,
wade in the water,
God’s gonna trouble the
water.
- African American Spiritual
With the laying of hands, we
pray for the Holy Spirit.
Anointing reflects the
practice of anointing kings
in the Hebrew scriptures.
The newly baptized are
anointed ( “chrismated”) to
be little Christs to let their
light shine and do good
works in the world.
[15]
AFFIRMATION OF BAPTISM
Dear friends, we give thanks to God for the gift of baptism and for these people, one
with us in the body of Christ, who are making public affirmation of their baptism.
I present Justin, who desires to make public affirmation of his baptism, and Scott, Martin,
Matthew, Kacy, Andrew, Ryan, Ziena, Lauren, Paul, Deb, Bobby and Leslie who are
becoming members of this congregation.
Let us pray. Merciful God, we thank you for these sisters and brothers, whom you
have made your own by water and the Word in baptism. You have called them to
yourself, enlightened them with the gifts of your Spirit, and nourished them in the
community of faith. Uphold your servants in the gifts and promises of baptism, and
unite the hearts of all whom you have brought to new birth. We ask this in the name
of Christ.
Amen.
You have made public profession of your faith. Do you intend to continue in the
covenant God made with you in holy baptism: to live among God's faithful people, to
hear the word of God and share in the Lord's supper, to proclaim the good news of
God in Christ through word and deed, to serve all people, following the example of
Jesus, and to strive for justice and peace in all the earth?
I do, and I ask God to help and guide me.
The rite of Affirmation of
Baptism may be used at
many times in the lives of a
baptized Christian. For
Justin, it marks a life
passage in what is
sometimes called
Confirmation.
Those becoming members
of the congregation
promise to live out their
baptismal faith as part of
this community.
And people of God, as you renew your baptismal vows this night:
We do, and we ask God to help and guide us.
People of God, do you promise to support these sisters and brothers and pray for
their life in Christ?
We do, and we ask God to help and guide us.
Let us pray. We give you thanks, O God, that through water and the Holy Spirit you
give us new birth, cleanse us from sin, and raise us to eternal life. Stir up in Justin the
gift of your Holy Spirit: the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel
and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord, the spirit of joy in your
presence, both now and forever.
Amen.
WELCOME
Let us welcome Soren, Justin, Andrew, Lauren, Martin, Matthew, Kacy, Deb,
Paul, Scott, Ryan, Ziena, Bobbie and Leslie in Christ to this community of faith.
We rejoice with you in the life of baptism.
Together we will give thanks and praise to God
and proclaim the good news to all the world.
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At the Easter Vigil the
entire assembly renews its
baptismal vows as well.
As was done at his baptism
and now again in the
Confirmation rite, hands
are laid on Justin’s head,
praying that the gift of the
Holy Spirit be stirred up in
him.
BAPTISMAL REMEMBRANCE
Please turn forward. The assembly will be sprinkled with water from the font. As you receive
the droplets you may make the sign of the cross, in grateful remembrance of your baptism.
During the asperges
(sprinkling), some people
reach out arms and hands
to receive the water on
their skin as it passes by.
Following the wilderness of
Lent, consider it Easter
raining on your body in a
very tangible way!
PEACE
The presiding minister bows toward the assembly which is the body of Christ and the
primary symbol of God’s presence in the liturgy.
The peace of the risen Christ be with you always.
And also with you.
The assembly is invited to share God’s peace with one another saying,
“Peace be with you,” or similar words.
Peace!
Peace for us!
Peace for everyone!
For all people, this, our hope!
Next year in Jerusalem!
Next year, may all be free!
- A Passover Haggadah
Please be seated.
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::: Meal :::
SETTING THE TABLE
OFFERTORY HYMN – Holy God, Holy and Glorious
Women
Men
Please stand.
GREAT THANKSGIVING
It is indeed right, our duty and our joy, that we should at all times and in all places give
thanks and praise to you, almighty and merciful God, for the glorious resurrection of
our Savior Jesus Christ, the true Paschal Lamb who gave himself to take away our sin;
who in dying has destroyed death, and in rising has brought us to eternal life. And so,
with Mary Magdalene and Peter and all the witnesses of the resurrection, with earth
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Our liturgy always holds
death and resurrection
together. This hymn, a
favorite at Holy Trinity,
reflects the gospel of John’s
understanding of the cross:
it is our glory and salvation.
The Crucified and Risen
Christ is beauty, wisdom,
and life that never ends.
During the hymn, incense is
used to honor the primary
symbols of Christ in the
liturgy: the paschal (Easter)
candle, the font, the
altar/table, and most
importantly, the assembly.
By incorporating the sense
of smell, the liturgy makes
clear the importance of our
bodies, all five senses, and
the goodness of creation.
and sea and all their creatures, and with angels and archangels, cherubim and
seraphim, we praise your name and join their unending hymn:
The text for this high
musical moment in the
liturgy is from Isaiah’s vision
of the temple, and the
shouts of praise as Jesus
enters Jerusalem on Palm
Sunday.
Blessed are you: God of light, God of hope, God of victory.
Praise to you for the creation of the world.
Praise to you for saving Noah and his family from the flood.
Praise to you for bringing the Israelites safely through the sea.
Praise to you for the three men alive in the fire.
Praise to you for the resurrection of Christ.
Praise to you for the font, the womb, the water, the new birth.
Praise to you for this feast, the milk and honey of the promised land.
In the night in which he was betrayed,
our Lord Jesus took bread, and gave thanks;
broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying:
Take and eat; this is my body, given for you.
Do this for the remembrance of me.
The liturgy comes to a
climax as we give thanks at
the table. We offer praise
for God’s mighty acts in
history even as we believe
they are happening anew
for us on this Easter Eve.
Again, after supper, he took the cup, gave thanks,
and gave it for all to drink, saying:
This cup is the new covenant in my blood,
shed for you and for all people for the forgiveness of sin.
Do this for the remembrance of me.
Let us proclaim the mystery of our faith:
With this bread and cup,
we remember Jesus’ dying and rising,
and his promise to come again.
Hear our prayers for the church and all who work for the mission of the gospel…
For the well-being of creation …
For peace and justice in the world, and all those who govern …
For the poor and oppressed, the sick, the bereaved, the lonely, all who suffer in mind,
body, or spirit, and anyone in need of our prayers ….
Have mercy, O God. Have mercy, O God.
Christ is present not only in
bread and wine, but in
community, the actions of
eating and drinking, and all
of the eucharistic liturgy.
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O God of resurrection:
Pour out your Holy Spirit on us and these gifts.
Bless this feast.
Enliven this bread.
Awaken this body.
Breathe new life into us.
Fill us with undying hope.
And send us forth, burning with your love.
By praying for the Holy
Spirit to come upon us, we
become the body of the
Risen Christ for our world.
And, so we cry: Come, Holy Spirit.
Come, Holy Spirit.
And so the church shouts: Come, Holy Spirit.
Come, Holy Spirit.
And so the earth pleads: Come, Holy Spirit.
Come, Holy Spirit.
With Blessed Mary and the saints of all times and places,
With the earth and all its creatures,
With sun and moon and stars,
We praise you:
O God, blessed and holy Trinity,
Now until the end of time:
One more time all creation
is invited to join in the
praise of this holy night.
THE LORD’S PRAYER
As a sign of openness to the divine presence, you may join the presider in praying the Our
Father with the ancient gesture of extended hands.
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The Lord’s Prayer is our
table prayer. Give us the
bread we need that through
us, God would feed the
world with divine mercy,
justice, and compassion.
BREAKING OF THE BREAD
Alleluia! Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.
Therefore, let us keep the feast. Alleluia!
HYMN: At The Lamb’s High Feast We Sing
With all our hearts, even
hearts of stone, we ask you,
Lord, that we might come this
night, to the long-promised
land, the land of milk and
honey, the land where your
name is made holy in deeds of
justice, the hungry fed and the
naked clothed, prisoners set
free, creation reverenced, and
all to share and share alike at
your table.
- Gabe Huck
Be seated
All are welcome at Christ's table, including children.
Bread is received in the hands (gluten free wafers available).
Wine is received either by drinking from the (silver) common cup,
or by saving the bread and dipping it in the second (glass) cup.
Those not communing may come forward for a blessing, keeping your hands folded
or extended over your chest. For those unable to consume either wine or bread,
communion is received fully in either element alone.
ANTHEM: Spring bursts today! (An Easter Carol)
We have waited for Christ’s
coming among us. We now
celebrate his presence at
the Lord’s Table and in this
assembly, the body of
Christ. We feast on the
food and drink of the
promised land, and know
that this is indeed eternal
life.
Alfred Fedak (b. 1953)
Spring bursts today, for Christ is ris’n and all the earth’s at play.
Flash forth, thou Sun, the rain is over and gone, its work is done.
Winter is past, sweet spring is come at last!
Bud, fig and vine, olive, fat with fruit and oil and wine.
Break forth thou morn in roses, thou but yesterday a thorn.
Up lift thy head, O pure white lily thro’ the winter dead.
Beside your dams leap and rejoice, you merrymaking lambs.
All herds and flocks rejoice, all beasts of thickets and of rocks.
Sing, creatures, sing, angels and men and birds, and ev’rything.
All notes of doves, fill all our world
This is the time of loves!
(Text: Christina G. Rossetti, 1830-1894)
SILENCE
Please stand
PRAYER
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::: Sending :::
BLESSING
May the Almighty, who shaped the earth and kindled the lights of heaven,
renew you in the image of God.
Amen.
May Christ, who shattered the chains of death, lead you forward in freedom.
Amen.
May the Spirit, who breathes forth resurrection power,
fill your hearts with boundless joy.
Amen.
May God bless you now and forever, in the name of the
Holy Trinity, + one God.
Amen.
SENDING HYMN: Day of Delight
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Having heard the word and
shared the eucharist, we
are sent to live our baptism
through words and deeds,
making known the love of
Christ, and working for
justice and peace in our
families, communities, and
world.
The Easter celebration
continues in Passavant Hall
with a festive champagne
reception. We invite you to
move immediately there for
conversation. If you must
leave now, go with joy and
gratitude in your heart.
As the Day of Resurrection
dawns, let us be on our way,
one foot confidently in front
of another. We have seen
what we have longed to see.
- Christopher Hoyer
DISMISSAL
Go in peace. The Risen Christ is with you.
Thanks be to God.
Alleluia! Christ is risen!
Christ is risen indeed! Alleluia!
POSTLUDE: Toccata
Eugene Butler (b. 1935)
::: Serving in this Liturgy:::
Presiding Ministers
Banner Bearer
Pr. Craig M. Mueller
Pr. Michelle L. Sevig
Josh Judd-Herzfeldt
Minister Of Music
David R. Brackley
Justin Stewart
Patty Erickson
Director of Liturgy
Readers
Clyde Andrew Walter
Assisting Minister
Ryan LaHurd
Crucifer
Forrest Stewart
Incense Bearer
Benjeman Nichols
Torchbearers
Josh Judd-Herzfeldt,
Molly Moran, Cassie Moran,
Megan Moran, Peder Sevig,
Erika Robeck, Drew Yoos,
Joel Cruz, Barbara Wahler,
Patty Erickson, Katie Mineck,
Forrest Stewart, Aana Vigen,
Justin Stewart
Communion Assistants
Kate Holmquest, Katie Mineck
Altar Guild
Rich Campbell
Julie Sevig
Ken Duckmann
Welcome Hospitality
Norm Kaiser, Katie Mineck,
Megan Eichhorn, Erik Friend
Fire
Matt Biddle
Bread Baker
Ken Duckmann
Reception Coordinator
Geraldine Kruse
Sacristans
Kerry Tupper, Joel Cruz,
Josh Evans
MUSICIANS
Trumpet
Jessica Jensen
Sopranos
Amy Buzby, Kim Duffy,
Lauren Haines, Rita Schnell,
Marji Shannon
Altos
Ayriole Frost, Beth Kregor,
Beth Mankowski, Mary Nack,
Rebecca Pallmeyer,
Barbara Wahler
Tenors
Sean Diller, Bob Nack,
A.J. Yoeckel
Basses
Pat Buzby, Andy Halvorson,
Jon Neihus, Al Stang, Jeff Stang,
Josh Weichel
Artwork: Ellie Stang, Lena Stole, Annika Sevig, Megan Moran, Molly Moran, Cassie Moran
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::: Joining Our Community Today :::
NEW MEMBERS
Bobby and Leslie Basham live in the neighborhood, and are excited to join the Holy Trinity family. They have
been married for about two years, and are expecting a little girl (their first) in May. Leslie is a strategy consultant
in the healthcare industry, and Bobby is an Assistant Director for the Chicago Cubs.
Scott Clodfelter, originally from Missouri, moved back to the Midwest from Atlanta when his partner was offered
a new career opportunity in Chicago. He spent most of his career in IT and marketing positions in the travel
industry and arts nonprofits, and is now a self-employed social media marketing consultant. They recently
bought a home in the Southport Corridor after renting in the Loop. A friend recommended Holy Trinity when he
learned that Scott was looking to affiliate with a church in the neighborhood. Scott has enjoyed the services at
Holy Trinity and loves being able to walk to church.
Martin Collerd currently resides in Lincoln Park along with his wife, Santina, and one-year-old daughter. He is
an accounting manager with an automotive parts company downtown. Santina is an environmental scientist with
the EPA, and works at their regional headquarters downtown. They have been attending Holy Trinity since
2012 when they were married at the church. He previously attended Holy Trinity from 1979-1993 with his
parents when they lived in Chicago. His family moved to Oak Park in 1993 and attended Good Shepherd
Lutheran Church. He is glad to be back in the Holy Trinity community.
Matthew & Kacy Dicke are young professionals who love this city, their neighborhood, and each other very
much, but realized that a home church was missing from their lives. They felt an immediate connection the first
time they attended Holy Trinity and were excited to join after attending the Holy Trinity Introduction. They are
both patent attorneys and work at a large law firm in the loop. They are avid travelers, runners, and eaters, and
look forward to getting to know this community and using this congregation as a base of spiritual growth and
platform for community service.
Paul and Deb Otto moved to Lakeview last year. Both have lifelong connections to Wrigley Field and now work
as seasonal employees for the Chicago Cubs. Before retirement they were educators and lived in Orland Park
for 29 years. They have three adult daughters and will soon be grandparents. Deb and Paul enjoy travel, exercise,
watching most sports, and being able to walk everywhere now that they live in the city. They are both lifelong
Lutherans and glad to be part of Holy Trinity’s welcoming community.
Andrew Shen discovered Holy Trinity’s South Loop venue from Google Maps when he was looking for a church
close to downtown, and found that the Saturday evening service worked out well with his schedule. During the
day, he commutes to Elmhurst by train and at night, he attends school in Streeterville where he also lives. This
long winter has reminded Andrew of his undergrad days at Carleton in Minnesota.
Ryan & Ziena Miller moved to Chicago just over four years ago when Ziena started work at DePaul University.
Ryan is currently the Director of Campus Life at the Illinois Institute of Technology, and enjoys exploring the city.
Since moving here, they have been searching for a church home, and are blessed to have discovered Holy Trinity
last year. Their son, Jacob, will be baptized here on April 27.
Lauren Haines moved to Chicago in July 2013 after graduating with her Master’s degree from Florida State
University. While in Tallahassee, Lauren was the Director of Choirs at Grace Lutheran Church. She currently
works in development at the Grant Park Music Festival and when she isn’t working, enjoys singing in the Holy
Trinity Choir, working with Holy Trinity’s Children’s Choir, and singing with the Chicago Chamber Choir.
BAPTISM
We welcome in baptism Soren Tomek Baber, son of Erika Robeck and Martin Baber. His sponsors are Karin
Robeck, Rachel and Randy Breyfogle .
CONFIRMATION
Justin Stewart was baptized on April 14, 2001 by his father, Ben, at Holden Village. He lives with his family in
Western Springs, and is a seventh grader at McClure Junior High School.
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::: Easter Flower Sponsors :::
In memory of Claire Evans and Elvina Moen
Ed Beach – In memory of Pamela Beach
Molly Beran – In memory of George & Tilly Beran and Ken Kohl
Boin Family – In memory of Joseph & Geraldine Boin
Richard Bough & David Easterbrook – In memory of Anthony J. Reisman
Rick Boyum – In memory of Art and Orpha Boyum
Tom Braham & Greg Zinkl – In thanksgiving for Justin Zinkl
Richard Campbell & Jon Niehus – In thanksgiving for God's many blessings
Adam Damerow – In thanksgiving for blessings received
Ken Duckmann & James Perez – In memory of our grandparents: Alvaro & Marta Miranda, Charly Jakobsen, and
Ken & Lillian Duckmann
Carrie Egan – In thanksgiving for a healthy, happy family
Patty Erickson – In memory of Ben Davis & Roberta McLain
Josh Evans – In memory of Arthur & Donna Albrecht and William V. Evans, Sr.
Kerry Fleming – In memory of Mr. & Mrs. C.T Fleming
John & Celina Flowers – In memory of Helen Flowers
Karin Garduño – In thanksgiving for Anja's first Easter
Laura Guengerich – In memory of Charles & Shirley Powell, beloved grandparents
Lynn Horn – In memory of Jim & Lucille Horn
Heather & Matt Kissling – In thanksgiving for our nephew, Keating
Tony & Geraldine Kruse – In memory of our parents
Patrice & Michael Macken – In memory of Harry & Milda Steele
Webster & Tessa Macomber – In memory of Martha Iverson
Craig Mueller & Ernest Vassuer - In thanksgiving for Holy Trinity's faithful and talented staff: Michelle Sevig,
David Brackley, Josh Judd-Herzfeldt, Katie Mineck, Lynn Horn, and Sean Diller
John Nordwall – In memory of Carolina, David, Henrik and Elvira Nordwall
Erika Robeck & Martin Baber – In thanksgiving for Soren Tomek Baber
Mary & Roy Ruckdeschel – In honor of Olivia & Grant Wilson; and Anna, Ella, & Mary Vicknair
Julie and Michelle Sevig – in honor of Peder Sevig’s baptismal anniversary (April 19) and in thanksgiving for his
growing faith.
Rebecca Sims & Randy Wilson – In honor of the baptismal anniversaries of Hope and Blake
Jon Skogen – In honor of Peder Sevig's baptism
Leon Stevens – In thanksgiving for Jackie Lane & Sharon Smitherman
Kathryn Vigen – In thanksgiving for Aana Marie for choosing to spend Easter with her
Dinah Wayne – In memory of Michael Rath
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The Paschal Candle is sponsored by
Janelle, Tim, Grant, & Reid Peterson
in memory of Rev. F. Leonard Peterson
::: Announcements & News :::
Whoever you are, wherever you're from, whatever the color of your skin, whoever you love or marry, or whatever your
feelings about religion or spirituality, you are welcome here.
Easter Sunday Services
We will continue to celebrate the resurrection of Christ with two Festival Eucharist services—9:00 a.m. &
11:00 a.m.—each featuring strings, brass, and the Holy Trinity Choir.
Holy Trinity Offers Saturday Night Services
5:00 p.m. at Grace Place, 637 S. Dearborn (South Loop)
Join us if you are downtown, cannot attend Sunday, or would like to avoid the busy Wrigleyville neighborhood on
Cubs home games.
More info: htloop.org
Offering at Holy Trinity
We rely on the generosity of members and friends to support the programs, staff, building, and ministries of
Holy Trinity and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. A large number of the congregation gives their
offerings through Electronic Funds Transfer. You can also donate online at giving.htchicago.org. We still
pass the offering plate as well! We appreciate your contributions of time, talent, and financial support!
Lunch With ELCA Missionary Robin Strickler
Sunday, April 27 + 11:45 a.m. + Lunch Provided
Robin Strickler is an ELCA missionary who has served 8 years in Rwanda, which is remembering this year the
20th anniversary of the 1994 genocide. Robin is the founder and director of a high school which focuses on
environmental and social sustainability. Now in its fifth year, the school is helping students to become future
leaders of Rwanda. Come and hear about Rwanda's efforts to engage in reconciliation and build a new
society.
ONE Northside Convention
Join 1,000 members of ONE Northside (formerly the Lakeview Action Coalition) at our Inaugural
Convention this spring to act powerfully for our shared values of racial, social and economic justice.
Together, we will ask for public commitments from our elected officials, local housing developers, the police
department, and corporate CEOs to advance our campaigns for affordable housing, education, mental health
justice, violence prevention and economic justice.
Details:
Sunday, May 4, 2014, 2:30 p.m. (Doors open at 2pm) at Anshe Emet Synagogue (3751 N. Broadway St. St.)
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