prayer - Holy Trinity Lutheran Church
Transcription
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. [16] 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. [17] ::: 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 [18] 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. [19] 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. [20] 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 [21] ::: 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 [22] 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 [23] ::: 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. [24] ::: 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 [25] 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.) [26]