THE DIVINE LITURGY - PART 1

 The Celebration of the Eucharist
in the Catholic Diocese of the Old Catholics in Germany
For the liturgical use
drafted by the Liturgical Commission
and edited by the Bishop and Standing Committee
Bremberger Brothers Publishing House Munich
1995
Second edition 1997
© Liturgical Commission of the Catholic Diocese of the Old Catholics in Germany 1995
The present publication is the official altar book of the Old Catholic diocese in Germany; this church has been in full communion with the Anglican Communion since the 1931 Bonn Agreement. It is therefore fitting that the book which is used in the parishes of this diocese – and in many a Roman Catholic or Lutheran parish in Germany, in convents, and in Old Catholic parishes in other countries – should be made available in an English version to bishops, liturgists, and other interested people in the Anglican Communion and beyond.
The aim of this English version is to allow those who are interested and unable to use the original German book a look into the heart of this part of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. The original intention had been to present a form which would lend itself to being instantly used in a liturgical setting. For reasons quite beyond the justification of anyone involved in this endeavour, a thorough revision of the draft translation has proved not to be possible without a delay which would be intolerable. It is for this motive that this present version is made available.
The texts do not exactly correspond to a Cranmerian style. This is not only due to the virtual impossibility to revise them, as outlined above, but also in order to offer a glimpse into the spirituality and thinking at present alive in this church. It may serve as an invitation to receive some inspiration when it comes to the contents of a particular day or season. This is also the reason why, although the entire book has been copyrighted by the Liturgical Commission, permission has been given freely and officially to use the texts contained in this publication as a resource. After all, official liturgical texts are not the property of any one body or church, let alone any individual, but the vehicle for the entire people of God to worship God. If anyone desires to use a text from this collection, the Liturgical Commission appreciates a reference to the altar book of this diocese, but does not restrict the use otherwise or will make it dependent upon prior inquiry and approval. It is satisfied if any one text should indeed serve its purpose of bringing the voice of the people of God to the One whom to worship is our primary task and glory.
As should be the normal case among sister churches, some Anglican churches, in particular The Anglican Church of Canada, have graciously given permission to use some of their texts in a German translation for being included among the prayers contained in the German altar book. In case an English text has been used as a source in its entirety, the original place has been indicated; in most instances, the original English version appears here, too. In other cases, the version presented here is an English rendering of what the Liturgical Commission has made of the original text. Those reading and using the English version should therefore always consult their Anglican sources for a particular text, should it look even remotely familiar. In case the English version (at least literally) corresponds to the Anglican source, the copyright is still held by the respective authority, and the text re-translated into English is in this case not in the public domain.
A history of the origins of this book and a broad interpretation of its contents can be found in an article by Thaddeus A. Schnitker, "Die Feier der Eucharistie: Das neue alt-katholische Eucharistiebuch", in Liturgisches Jahrbuch, 45 (1995), 238-249.
Inquiries, comments or any correspondence about this book may be addressed to The Chaplain to the Bishop, Catholic Diocese of the Old Catholics in Germany, Gregor-Mendel-Strasse 28, 53115 Bonn, Germany.
The Incarnation
First Sunday of Advent
Collect
Living God, come to save us. Free us from the power of sin and injustice, and help us to walk in the way of justice to meet Christ so that he may find us awake when he comes, he, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, whatever we are and have comes from you. Accept our prayers and gifts as signs that we are yours through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent I
Prayer after Communion
Living and life-giving God, you have again fed us at the table of your Son. May we, in the power of this food, go to meet your Son who will lead us to you, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
Second Sunday of Advent
Collect
Stir us up, holy and strong God, that we may serve you with ready hearts. Do not let the daily tasks and cares prevent us from meeting your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, we bring our gifts and pray: come and help us in our helplessness and limits through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent I
Prayer after Communion
Father, we thank you for your word and for the meal which me received. Teach us who joined in this celebration to see the world with your eyes and to love what remains more than what passes away
through Christ, our Lord.
For Weekdays in Advent I (until 16 December inclusively)
Collect
Eternal God, you announce your coming in the midst of our dark age. Make us watchful that we count on you in everything and trust you through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Collect
God, our Father, it is through your mercy that we have become a new creation in Christ. Do not turn your eyes from us. Heal all the wounds of our guilt by the coming of your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Collect
Gracious God, may your grace precede our efforts and follow our works, that we may obtain help for our lives and with great desire expect the coming of your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Collect
God of light, let your glory shine in our hearts and take the shadows of death of our sins away, that we may be revealed as children of light when your Son comes, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our lives, we come before you with prayers and gifts. Whatever we have comes from you. We ask you to call us to your table in the coming kingdom of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent I
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, you have given us new strength by your word and the bread of life. Lead us through this dark age and turn our eyes to the coming of your Son, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
Third Sunday of Advent
Collect
God, our Father, light and joy come into the world by your Son. Help us to give this light and this joy to others so that all people may experience your loving-kindness. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, we bring these gifts before you as your Son has commanded us. Give to all the world the salvation which you have promised through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent I or II
Prayer after Communion
God of mercy, we have experienced in this holy meal how good you are to us. You free us from all guilt. Approaching the coming feast with much joy we thank and praise you through Christ, our Lord.
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Collect
Stir up your power, our God, and come. Let your mercy help us that we do not fail to meet your Son by our idleness and languor. We ask this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father in heaven, what we bring is your gift. Accept these gifts and bless them. We praise you through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent II
Prayer after Communion
God, source of all joy, we thank you for having given us, in this meal, a share in your life now already. Make us expect the coming of your Son in joy and be the more eager in your service the more the feast of his birth is at hand, of Christ, our Lord.
For Weekdays in Advent II (after 16 December)
Collect
God, our Father, in these days we prepare ourselves to celebrate the incarnation of your Son in a dignified manner. Let our prayer come to you and bless our efforts that our life be renewed and find new roots in you. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Collect
O Father, you alone are God. In Jesus Christ, your Son you come to us helpless and yet, you are stronger than all powers of this world. We ask you in these days: Strengthen us by your Word and Sacrament until he comes again, your Son Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Collect
Father in heaven, we pray: In these days prepare our hearts to be a home for your Son that we may receive him with us and praise and magnify you in joy through him who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Christmas -- In the Night
Collect
God, source of all life, the radiance of your divine light has dawned upon us in this holy night. Grant that we perceive and keep this mystery in faith until we shall see your glory unveiled. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, in joy and thanksgiving we offer our gifts and pray: Let us grow into the likeness of your Son whom you have given us, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Christmas II
Prayer after Communion
God, close to us, we rejoice over the birth of our Saviour. Grant that we follow him in all the ways of our lives und come to your eternal joy through him, Christ, our Lord.
Christmas Day I
Collect
All-merciful Father, your Word became flesh and brought us your light. Help us to pass on this light. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of peace, fill these gifts of the earth with your blessing. Unite us in this holy meal with your Son and grant us your loving-kindness through him, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Christmas II
Prayer after Communion
Merciful God, we give you thanks. As you have given us your Son and united us with him in this meal, so preserve our joy and our gratitude through him, Christ, our Lord.
Christmas Day II
Collect BAS *
God, you wonderfully created us in your image and likeness and yet more wonderfully restored us. May we share the divine life of your Son who humbled himself to share our humanity. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, accept our prayers and offers and this whole world with its weal and woe for which, out of love, you gave your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Christmas II
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father in heaven, we thank you that you have made us glad by the birth of your Son and nourished us in this meal. Yours is the glory for ever.
Between Christmas and Epiphany
First Sunday after Christmas (Sunday in the Octave)
Collect
God, our Father, your Son has become like us in every respect and shown us the way of life. Make us share his mind and pass on his mercy and loving-kindness. We ask you this through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Octave Day of Christmas (1 January)
Collect
God and creator, you care for the work of your hands and meet us in Jesus Christ, our brother, who brings your salvation to the poor, release to the captives and joy to those who mourn. Open us, we ask you, to the mystery of his birth, give us faith and bless our lives, so that the world may know what you began among us in Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Second Sunday after Christmas
Collect
God of light, you illumine all who believe in you. Reveal yourself to us that we may know you and turn our hearts to you. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
The Prayers over the Gifts and after Communion are the following or taken from those of Christmas.
On the Octave Day, the prayers for New Year's Day may also be taken.
Collect (on Weekdays)
God, source of all life, you made your Son take our flesh that he may set the world free from the powers of evil. Give us a share, we ask you, in the freedom of your children through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Our God, you sanctify the world by the incarnation of your Son. Accept our gifts and make us perceive what you have prepared for those who love you, through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Christmas I
Prayer after Communion
God and Father, rejoicing over the birth of our Saviour we have celebrated his meal. For his sake give us the power to offer you our whole life through him, Christ, our Lord.
The Epiphany
Collect
God, hidden and yet present, today you have made the glory of your Son appear in our lowliness and have made him known as the saviour of the world. As you brought the wise men to him from afar, so bring us ever closer to him our Lord and brother Jesus Christ. To him, with you and the Holy Spirit, all worship, praise and glory now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father of all light, like the wise men we bring our worship and our gifts to you. Accept us, with all we are and have, by him who appeared today, Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
We thank you, great God, for the gifts of your love. Illumine, we pray, all the ways of our lives with your light which has shone on us in Christ, our Lord.
In places where The Epiphany is not a bank holiday and there is no (evening) eucharist, this feast will be celebrated on the Sunday next to 6 January.
The Sundays of the Baptism of Jesus and of the Wedding at Cana are always celebrated on the two Sundays after the celebration of The Epiphany.
If The Epiphany is celebrated on the Sunday after 6 January, the Sunday of the Wedding at Cana supersedes the Third Sunday after Epiphany (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time).
Weekdays after The Epiphany
Collect
God, shepherd of your people, you call and gather a people serving you from all the nations of the earth. Establish your gentle rule over all who sit in darkness and the shadow of death that they may know and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, you show yourself to all who seek you. Give us an experience of the life of your Son in the fellowship and communion of this bread and this cup until you gather us into your kingdom through him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of never-ending love, we thank you for the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Strengthen us by this meal on our way to you through Christ, our Lord.
Sunday of the Baptism of Jesus (First Sunday after The Epiphany)
Collect
God of loving-kindness, at his baptism in the Jordan you revealed Jesus as your beloved Son. Grant to us, who have been born again by the water and the Holy Spirit, to live as your sons and daughters through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, accept our gifts and grant us your Holy Spirit who came down on Jesus at his baptism. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Good God, you have given us your word, the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Help us to listen to your Son that we may not only be called your children but are in truth through him, Christ, our Lord. we thank you for the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Strengthen us by this meal on our way to you through Christ, our Lord.
Weekdays after the Sunday of the Baptism of Jesus
Collect
Eternal God, your only Son, born of you before all times, has visibly appeared in our flesh. As he has become like us, so create our inmost being anew after his image. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our creator, this bread and this wine are tokens of our love to you. Accept them through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Merciful God, your Son has commanded us this celebration as a memorial to him. Preserve in us the longing for this meal and make us live from it, until you bring the world and times to fulfilment through Christ, our Lord.
Sunday of the Wedding at Cana (Second Sunday after The Epiphany)
Collect
God, friend of life and joy, you revealed your glory and majesty to us in Jesus. Make us look at him, hear his word and follow him in faith. This we ask through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of life, the gifts which we have prepared are tokens of our dedication to you. As bread and wine are sanctified in the power of the Spirit, so sanctify us also according to the image of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we thank you for your life-giving Word and for the fellowship with your Son. Make us one of heart and soul by your Spirit, and lead us, in the strength of this food, to the marriage banquet of eternal life through Christ, our Lord.
Weekdays after the Sunday of the Wedding at Cana
Collect
God, creator of world and human beings, your goodness and loving-kindness have appeared on earth in your only Son. Open our eyes, we ask you, for his signs and strengthen our faith in the power of your love through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, the bread and the wine on this altar are tokens of our dedication. Be in our midst when we celebrate the meal of your Son until he comes again, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all good gifts, in the bread which we broke, and in the cup which we shared, you have given us a sign of your coming kingdom. May the gift which we have received bear fruit in our lives through Christ, our Lord.
Easter
Lent
Ash Wednesday
The liturgy of this day is characterised by penitence. There is no penitential act in the opening part of the liturgy.
Collect
Faithful God, we begin this period of remembrance and of preparation for Easter, putting our trust in you. We ask you: Be with us and lead us in these forty days, that we turn to you, listen to your word and serve you in our fellow humans through your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
or:
God of mercy and forgiveness, do not leave us in these days of penitence. Assist us with you healing Spirit, that with ready hearts we may walk on the way which your Son has shown us, Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Blessing and Imposition of the Ashes
The following intercessions may be used after the sermon.
Litany of Penitence, I
Priest:
Christ is our saviour and intercedes for us with the Father. Let us pray to him that he may forgive our sins and cleanse us from all that is wrong.
Reader 1:
You have been sent to bring the good news to the poor and to lift up those who are bowed down. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 2:
You have come to call sinners, not the just. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 1:
You have forgiven the sins of the sinful woman because she has shown great love to you. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 2:
You did not refrain from sharing with tax collectors and sinners. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 1:
You carried back the lost sheep to the flock on your shoulders. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 2:
You did not judge the woman caught in adultery, but made her go her way in peace. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 1:
You called Zacchaeus the tax collector to penitence and to new life. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 2:
You promised Paradise to the penitent criminal when you hung on the cross. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Or:
Litany of Penitence, I (BAS *)
Priest:
Most holy and merciful Father, we confess to you, to one another, and to the whole communion of saints in heaven and on earth, that we have sinned by our own fault in thought, word, and deed; by what we have done, and by what we have left undone.
Reader:
We have not loved you with our whole heart, and mind, and strength. We have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. We have not forgiven others, as we have been forgiven. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We have been deaf to your call to serve as Christ served us. We have not been true to the mind of Christ. We have grieved your Holy Spirit. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you, O God, all our unfaithfulness: the pride, hypocrisy, and impatience of our lives. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you our self-indulgent appetites and ways, and our exploitation of other people. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you our anger at our own frustration, and our envy of those more fortunate than ourselves. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you our intemperate love of worldly goods and comforts, and our dishonesty in daily life and work. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you our negligence in prayer and worship, and our failure to commend the faith that is in us. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
Accept our repentance for the wrong we have done; for our blindness to human need and suffering, and our indifference to injustice and cruelty. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
Accept our repentance for all false judgements, for uncharitable thoughts towards our neighbours and for our prejudice and contempt toward those who differ from us. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
Accept our repentance for our waste and pollution of your creation, and our lack of concern for those who come after us. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
Restore us, O God of mercy. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Prayer over the Ashes and the Imposition of Ashes
Priest:
God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you are close to the lowly and rejoice over all who turn around. Incline your ears to our prayers and bless all who will carry the sign of + these ashes. Help us to spend the forty days of penitence in the mind of Jesus Christ. Forgive us our sins, renew us in the image of your Son and grant us life eternal through his resurrection. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
All:
Amen.
The ashes are sprinkled with holy water. Then the priest applies the ashes to all who come forward, speaking to each:
Repent, and believe in the good news. (Cf. Mk 1.15)
Or:
Remember that you are dust,
and to dust you shall return. (Cf. Gen 3.19)
The clergy come forward to receive the ashes last of all. One of them applies the ashes to the presider with the words above.
While the ashes are imposed, hymns or anthems may be sung.
After the imposition the priest and those who helped wash their hands.
The service continues with the offertory.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, look upon these gifts, signs of our readiness to turn around. Give us love toward each other without which we cannot exist before you. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Lent I
Prayer after Communion
God, our salvation, give us an ever deeper experience of what this meal means for our lives, and let the forty days until Easter become for us an acceptable time through Christ, our Lord.
First Sunday of Lent
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you prayed and fasted forty days in the wilderness and resisted temptation. We ask you: Be with us when we are weak, and send us your Spirit that we may know and overcome what separates us from you, who with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit are with us all the days and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
We thank you, our God, for all that you have entrusted to us. Bless these gifts and grant us to serve our sisters and brothers in the power of your love through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Lent I
Prayer after Communion
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, in Jesus you have given us the bread that gives life to the world. We thank you for it and ask: Repel self-indulgence and lack of love from our midst and lead us by your love to eternal salvation in him, Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Gracious God, for the sake of your Son you forgive the sinners their sins and grant the just their reward. We acknowledge our failure; have pity on us in our weakness and forgive us what we have done wrong. We ask this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Or:
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you resisted temptation. Forgive us when we are weak, and send us your Spirit that we may know and overcome what separates us from you, who with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit are with us all the days and for ever.
Prayer after Communion
Good Father and eternal God, you have gathered us at the table of your Son and strengthened us with your gifts. Grant us as everlasting salvation what we have celebrated under this hidden sign, the fellowship in your Spirit with Christ, who is praised now and for ever.
Second Sunday of Lent
Collect
God, our Father, on the mountain you testified to Jesus as your beloved Son and ordered us to listen to him. Nourish us with his word and purify the eyes of our hearts that we may be able to recognise his glory. We praise you through him in the Holy Spirit now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Blessed are you, Lord, creator of the world. Yours is all that we are and have. Accept these signs of our thanks to your honour through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the Transfiguration
Prayer after Communion
God of light and life, you have given us a share in the glory of your Son. We thank you that we may experience now already what you have prepared for us in the life eternal through Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Holy God, you rejoice over all who turn around to you. Turn our hearts to you and give us new eagerness in the Holy Spirit, that we may remain steadfast in the faith and be ready to do the good through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Or:
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you gave your life to death. But we want to stick to our lives and keep them. We ask you: Take us with you on your way that we may find the true life with you. To you be glory for ever.
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, you have strengthened us at the table of your Son with the word and the bread of life. You have given us a share in his life and in his glory. We thank you and ask: Be with us with your Spirit, and strengthen our hope in the eternal fulfilment with you through Christ, our Lord.
Third Sunday of Lent
Collect
God, full of compassion and mercy, you know our human poverty. Look on our need and grant us forgiveness. Keep your hand over us and prevent us from all dangers that might threaten us. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
We ask you, O God, to look on our gifts, signs of our devotion. Accept them and give us strength to care for each other in love through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Lent II
Prayer after Communion
God, Father of the poor and needy, you have strengthened us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. You want to be with us on all our ways through this time. We thank and praise you through Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Holy God, we cannot prove ourselves before you with what we do. Help us to overcome with your grace whatever presses us down. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Or:
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you gave your life for the life of the world. Make us partakers of your mystery that only whose life is given will find life. To you be blessing, praise and glory now and for ever.
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, as you have given us your word and the bread of life, we thank you for your goodness and pray: be with us throughout these forty days of preparation and help us to live from the gospel through Christ, our Lord.
Fourth Sunday of Lent
Collect
All-merciful Father, in your Son you wonderfully reconciled humanity with you. Give us the courage of faith that with a glad heart we may meet you through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, friend of life, we offer you our gifts in joyful expectation of Easter. Grant that this joy may become visible also in our lives through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Lent II
Prayer after Communion
We thank you, God, our salvation, for this food and for your word, the true light enlightening every human being. Heal the blindness of our hearts that we may know what is right before you, and sincerely love you through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Father in heaven, you sent your Son into the world that he might overcome the power of evil. Strengthen us that we may not be overcome by the temptations. We ask this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you gather your church on earth and have the word of reconciliation proclaimed in it. Send us your Spirit that we may receive the good news in our hearts and live together as children of our Father in heaven. To you be glory for ever.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, your word which we heard and the meal which we celebrated render your mighty acts alive in our midst. We thank you and we ask you to complete what you have begun in us through Christ, our brother and Lord.
Fifth Sunday of Lent
Collect
Our Father in heaven, for love to the world your Son has handed himself over to death. Make us abide in his love and live from it. We ask this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good gifts, we offer you bread and wine, the signs of your goodness with which you feed us. We thank and praise you through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the Passion I
Prayer after Communion
Great God, in the celebration of the eucharist you give us communion with you and with each other. Make us living members of the body of your Son who has become one with us in this meal, Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Wonderful and merciful God, in the passion and death of your Son you have shown your love to the world. Open our eyes for the mystery of our salvation through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you gave your life for the life of the world. Make us partakers of your mystery that only whose life is given will find life. To you be blessing, praise and glory now and for ever.
Prayer after Communion
Lord Jesus Christ, you have strengthened us with your word and sacrament. Let your power be strong in us that we may serve you and each other in joy and patience, who with the Father and the Holy Spirit live and work now and for ever.
The Holy Week
Palm Sunday
The double character of this day, the celebration of the entrance of Jesus and the celebration of the of the eucharist with the memorial of the passion of Jesus, should be kept.
In places where there are enough worshippers, the celebration of the entrance of Jesus should be held in a way that they gather in front of the church or another suitable place and walk behind the cross. They will experience that the branches are not something "consecrated by magic" but blessed branches with which we extend our hands to vote for Jesus. The branch that is put behind the cross at home reminds us of this confession.
If for serious reasons the celebration is to be shortened, it makes sense to celebrate the liturgy of the word according to each reading year and, at the place of the collect, to bless the branches.
Blessing of the Branches and Solemn Entrance
The congregation stands in a semi-circle before the cross.
Opening acclamation
Liturgical Greeting
(A short introduction is possible.)
Prayer over the Congregation and the Branches
God, our Father, we confess our adherence to Jesus, your Son, our only Lord. Bless us and these branches with which we intend to show that we belong to Jesus, and make us ready to follow him with our cross in steadfast faithfulness, today and all days of our lives until the end of eternity.
A hymn or anthem can be sung during the distribution of the branches.
Gospel of the Entrance of Jesus
The pericopes are indicated in the liturgical calendar.
Procession
The congregation enters the church behind the cross that has been adorned. Incense and candles accompany the cross and book of gospels.
At the procession and the entrance, the traditional anthem Gloria, laus et honor is sung.
Celebration of the Eucharist
Collect
God, great and incomprehensible, in obedience to your will your Son, our redeemer, took our flesh. He humbled himself and accepted the shame of the cross. Give us the strength to follow him on the way of passion that we may get a share in his resurrection. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life for ever and ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of mercy, through the passion of your Son you grant us the forgiveness which we do not deserve for our deeds. Accept these gifts as signs of our trust in your mercy through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the Passion of the Lord II
Prayer after Communion
God of heaven and earth, you have strengthened your congregation with your word and sacrament. We ask you: let your power be strong in us that we worthily serve you in our lives and bear fruit in patience. To you be glory for ever.
On the Weekdays of Holy Week
Collect
Good God and Father, you gave your Son over to passion and death to give us a share in his life. Make us contemplate his sacrifice these days and always remain in your love through him, Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, many people acclaimed you when you entered Jerusalem and yet abandoned you afterwards. We ask you: make us stay with you and confess that we are yours when there is protest and temptation. To you be glory for ever.
Preface of the Passion of the Lord II
Prayer after Communion
Holy God, in this meal we have celebrated the memorial of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus. Strengthen us through the power of this food in our anxieties and temptations, and lead us through the death to the life that remains, through Christ, our Lord.
Maundy Thursday
We celebrate the evening of the last supper of Jesus and the beginning of the passion at Gethsemani: fear, betrayal and arrest.
Today especially, the Gloria in excelsis should be sung with its full text and not substituted by a paraphrase.
After the Gloria, the organ and bells remain silent.
At the washing of the feet, Ubi caritas may be sung.
In the intercessions, prayers should be made for the congregations of our own diocese as well as the ecumenical neighbouring congregations.
The celebration of the eucharist ends with the prayer after communion.
The blessing will not be given until the paschal vigil.
If there is a distribution of holy communion on Good Friday, the eucharistic bread is reserved from the celebration today. Where possible, opportunity should be given for silent prayer, meditation and the reading of the farewell discourses of Jesus (John 14-17).
Collect
God of mercy and consolation, on the evening before he suffered your dear Son instituted the meal of his love as the symbol of the new and everlasting covenant with you. Give us the fullness of your compassion and love, and make us extend it to the sisters and brothers through your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or:
Great God, our Father, we share the bread and receive the body of Jesus Christ, your Son. Make us live in love and peace from its power, for we are his body in this world. To you be glory for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good Father, on this day your Son gave us an example of his serving love. Let our gifts be a sign of our readiness to accept each other as you have accepted us in Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord and brother.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
We thank you, good God, that today we have been strengthened for our own way in the supper of your Son. Continue to gather us for the fellowship with him, until, at the heavenly supper of eternal life, we praise and magnify you for ever.
Good Friday
The day of the passion and death of Jesus is celebrated with a liturgy of the word. This can be done in every parish and community as it may also be presided by a deacon or reader.
It makes sense to celebrate the liturgy in the afternoon, at the hour of death of Jesus.
The opening and dismissal are simple: There is no singing during the entrance, the organ does not play. The ministers kneel or (prostrate) before the nude altar. After silent prayer, the collect follows. After a prayer concluding the liturgy, all leave the worship building in silence.
The liturgy of the word has two climaxes: the reading of the passion and the solemn intercessions. The veneration of the cross (and the distribution of holy communion) marks the end. In some places, the veneration of the cross immediately follows the passion or after the sermon. The solemn intercessions are said before the (uncovered) cross and finished by the Lord's prayer (with the distribution of holy communion possibly following).
The passion may be read with several roles. It may be interrupted at suitable places by verses of the hymn O sacred head, sore wounded.
As a matter of principle, all the four versions of the passion are to be proclaimed in the parishes in the course of the years; should it not be possible to read the respective version on Palm Sunday, the passion according to the gospel of John may be substituted by a synoptic version.
A passion hymn or chorale may be sung before the sermon.
Collect
God, our Father, you did not abandon us to the power of darkness but in your mercy redeemed us. Protect, free and sanctify us by your Son who suffered and died for us and whom you drew out of death, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Sprit lives and works now and for ever.
Intercessions
Form I
(Presider:)
Lord Jesus Christ, grain of wheat falling into the earth and dying that we might have life, we call upon you.
(Reader 1)
For all who call themselves Christians, after you, for the churches in their divisions and separation, and for their work for fellowship and unity; for all men and women to whom a special ministry has been given; for our diocese and our parishes.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Draw us all to you. Help us to live according to your gospel and to be one in you.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For the peoples of this earth and their governments, for the Council of Europe, the United Nations and all parliaments, for the authorities in politics, economy and society, for all suffering from war and the consequences of war, for the persecuted and all who live in lack of freedom and in oppression.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Grant to the peoples the spirit of reconciliation and guide their feet into the way of justice and peace.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For all who have lost their faith, and for all who do not find faith because we are in their way of seeing you.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Make the light of your gospel shine, and make us faithful witnesses of your salvation.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For the young people in our parish, in the churches and in the world.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Give them confidence. Let us shape our society in a way that they may grow into a world and a church which enable them to have life and a future.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For all who are in the shadow side of life: for the handicapped and sick, for the elderly and lonely, for the single parents and for the children without families, for the unemployed and for all who are disregarded, marginalised or excluded by us.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Be close to them and lead people to them who have open ears and hearts for their needs.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For all who do no longer see a road, for the desperate and helpless, for all who have been disappointed, exploited and betrayed by people, who have fled into stubbornness of heart or addiction, who have become caught in guilt, who see themselves abandoned by God.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Take them into your cry on the cross and give them a share in your new life.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For all who suffer from injustice, for the hungry and exploited people who by the work of their hands and with the fruits of their fields must create our abundance; and for ourselves being prisoners of our thoughtlessness and our claims.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Help us to respect the dignity of humans and their right to live and to share the gifts of the earth with each other.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For the whole creation groaning in labour pains and hoping for redemption; for all who care for its integrity and for all who suffer from its destruction.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Help us to experience that we are stewards only and that your good gift belongs to all, to the children and the children's children everywhere in the world.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For the dying and the dead, for all who have given us life and faith, for all in whose death we share in guilt by indifference, hardness of heart and our way of life.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Lead them through your death to unending life.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Presider)
Lord Jesus Christ, the Father did not leave you in death. He raised you and exalted you to this right hand. Intercede for us and stay with us on all our ways. To you be glory and honour and praise now and for ever.
Form II
Instead of the silence for prayer between the intention and the collect, a sung acclamation may be the answer, e.g. a triple Lord, have mercy or Kyrie, eleison.
1. For the holy Church
Let us pray, brothers and sisters, for the holy Church of God, that our Lord and God grant it peace in all the world, unite and protect it and grant us a life in quietness and safety, to the praise of his name.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, eternal God, in Christ you revealed your glory to all peoples. Protect what your mercy has created, that your Church in all the world may persevere in steadfast faith. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
2. For our Bishop
Let us pray for our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops, all men and women in the apostolic ministry and for all the people of God.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, your Spirit sanctifies and governs the whole body of the Church. Hear our prayer for our Bishop and for all who minister in your Church. Give them the grace to serve you faithfully. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
3. For the catechumens
Let us also pray for all who prepare for baptism: Our God and Father may open their hearts for his word, he grant them the forgiveness of sins in baptism and receive them into his house that they may find life in Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everlasting God, you continue to lead people to your Church. Grant to all who prepare for baptism to grow in faith and in knowledge. Let them be born again from the spring of baptism and accept them as your children. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
4. For the unity of the Christians
Let us pray for all brothers and sisters who believe in Christ, that our Lord and God may lead them on the way to truth and unity them in the unity of the holy Church.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, you alone can overcome the division and grant the unity. Have mercy on your Christian people, sanctified by the one baptism. Unite them in the faith in your Son and in the bond of love. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
5. For all who do not believe in Christ
Let us pray for all who do not believe in Christ, that the Holy Spirit illumine them and lead them on the way of salvation.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, assist all who do not confess Christ, that they may live in integrity before you and find the truth. Grant to us that we perceive the mystery of our faith more and more and grow in love towards each other. Make us faithful witnesses of your goodness. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
6. For all who do not believe in God
Let us also pray for all who do not know God, that, with his help. they may follow their consciences and thereby come to the God and Father of all peoples.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, you created the human beings that they might seek you and find their rest in you. Be recognised in the many acts of your compassion and in the deeds of your faithful ones that the people, despite all obstacles, may find you and confess you to be the true God and Father. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
7. For those in authority
Let us pray for those who govern us: Our Lord and God may direct their minds and their hearts according to his will, that they may seek the true peace and the freedom, to the benefit of all peoples.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, the hearts of peoples and the rights of nations are in your hand. Graciously look on those who govern us, that in all the world safety and freedom may dwell, welfare of peoples and liberty of worship. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
8. For all people in need
Let us pray to God, the almighty Father, for all who are in need of his help: May he purify the world from all error, take away the illnesses, dispel the hunger, solve unjust fetters, give safety to the homeless, a happy return to the pilgrims and travellers, health to the sick and life eternal to the dying.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, comforter of the sorrowful, strength of those who suffer, hear all who call upon you in their afflictions, and let them experience your mercy in every need. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Form III
[This Form is a translation of a Good Friday intercession prayer by Huub Oosterhuis and copyrighted; therefore, it is not reprinted here.]
Veneration of the Holy Cross
The veneration is begun with the triple call to worship.
Presider:
This is the wood of the cross on which hung the Saviour of the world.
Congregation:
Come, let us worship.
Different forms of the veneration of the holy cross by the congregation are possible. The Improperia originating in the Ancient Church are particularly suitable.
Distribution of Holy Communion
The distribution of holy communion may also be part of the intercessions, Form III. If the distribution is done now, only the corporal is placed on the altar, and the eucharistic bread is brought. A suitable anthem or hymn may be sung during these preparations.
The Lord's Prayer
Presider:
Being united by the one baptism in the same Holy Spirit and in the one Body of Christ, we pray as daughters and sons of God:
Congregation:
Our Father in heaven ...
Invitation to Holy Communion
Presider:
Let us receive the Body of the Lord and call upon his name.
Congregation:
Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say a word, and I shall be healed.
Distribution of Holy Communion
A passion hymn may be sung during the distribution.
Dismissal
After the distribution
Let us pray. Almighty, everliving God, you have given us the new life by the death and resurrection of your Son. Preserve in us what your compassion has accomplished, and, as we have received this sacrament, give us the strength to serve you. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Or, especially if holy communion has not been distributed:
Almighty God, you hear those who call upon you, and you know the prayers of those who remain silent. We thank you that, by the passion and death of your Son, you have called us from afar to your people. Increase our faith and forgive us our sins. Strengthen us through your Holy Spirit, keep us in the truth, teach what we do not know, fill in what we lack, and strengthen what we have recognised. At the end of our days, unite us with your saints through Christ, our crucified and risen Lord.
The Paschal Vigil
Introduction
The pattern of the liturgy
In its traditional form, the paschal vigil has the following parts:
The Service of Light
The Vigil with Readings
Holy Baptism or The Renewal of Baptismal Vows
The Celebration of Holy Eucharist
The traditional pattern A is well-known and widespread. Several attempts have been made in ecumenism as well as in our diocese to offer a different composition of the liturgy. The parts marked by an asterisk (*) in pattern A should not be left out of any composition.
Pattern A
The Service of Light
1.1 Prayer at the Fire
1.2 Explanation of the Candle
* 1.3 Entrance with the Light
* 1.4 Exsultet
Readings of the Vigil
* 2.1a Reading (Creation or Noah)
* 2.2a Responsorial Psalm or Hymn
2.3a Prayer
* 2.1b Reading (Exodus)
* 2.2b Responsorial Psalm or Hymn
2.3b Prayer
* 2.1c Reading (Eschatological Outlook)
* 2.2c Responsorial Psalm or Hymn
2.3c Prayer
The Celebration of the Eucharist, first part
3. Gloria
4. Collect
* 5. New Testament Reading
* 6. Alleluia
* 7.1 Gospel
* 7.2 Sermon
* 8. Intercessions
Holy Baptism or The Renewal of Baptismal Vows
* 9.1 Thanksgiving over the Water
* 9.2 Renewal of Baptismal Vows or Holy Baptism
The Celebration of the Eucharist, second part
with the following changing parts:
10.0 Prayer over the Gifts
* 10.1 Preface and (remainder of) the Eucharistic Prayer
Our Father, Anthem at the Breaking, The Peace
* 10.2 Prayer after Communion
* 10.3 Solemn Blessing
Pattern B
2 - 1 (- 3 - 4) - 5 - 6 - 7 - 9 - 8 - 10
The readings of the Vigil are advanced, at some places even read at a different place. The entrance with the light takes place after the readings of the Vigil and figures as the beginning of the proclamation of the resurrection. In this pattern, the collect and Gloria double as hymnic elements to the Exsultet. They may therefore be left out. The Gloria (not a paraphrase) may be sung as a response to the gospel of the resurrection.
Pattern C
1 - 2 - 9 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 10
In this pattern, the renewal of baptismal vows is taken after the readings of the Vigil, for these readings share references to baptism. The Gloria (not a paraphrase) then figures as the hymn of praise for the salvation given in baptism, rooted in the resurrection (New Testament readings) and celebrated in the eucharist.
Pattern D
1 - 2 - 5 - 6 - 7.1 + 3 - 7.2 - 9 - 8 - 10
In this pattern, the readings of the Vigil and the New Testament readings constitute a continuous liturgy of the word. The entire liturgy begins with the service of the light, the readings follow in the light of the paschal candle. The festive Alleluia figures as the beginning of the proclamation of the Easter gospel. The Gloria (not a paraphrase) constitutes the song of thanksgiving of the congregation for the proclamation of the resurrection.
General Notes
The meaning of the celebration requires that it begins in the dark, late in the evening or early in the morning. Modern songs or hymns may be chosen, compatible with the readings and the liturgy, for instance, Taizé chants or modern anthems.
Technical directions should be given before the celebration.
The entrance with the burning paschal candle and the Exsultet are the centre of the service of light. The blessing of the fire and the marking of the paschal candle may be left out. At places there has been the tradition of kindling the paschal the fire with the light of the paschal candle at the end of the entire liturgy only.
Two texts are given for the Exsultet. The second text is suitable if there is no one able to sing.
The Old Testament readings of the Vigil are part of the celebration like the water is part of baptism. The Exodus reading must nowhere be left out. At least one more reading from the Prophets should follow. A short introduction (praefamen), a responsorial psalm and a collect are offered for each reading.
The praefamen puts each reading in the total context of the Paschal Vigil and thereby facilitates listening and joining in the celebration. These praefamina should be short and to the point and should not anticipate the sermon. In the Paschal Vigil in particular, the responsorial psalms should have precedence of hymns or chants. If the collects after the readings of the Vigil and the responsorial psalms are left out, the collect of the eucharist should not be left out in patterns A and C.
It is part of the celebration of the Paschal Vigil that the Alleluia which has not been heard since Ash Wednesday, should be intoned in a festive way. According to the pattern followed, this is done either at the fire or, traditionally, before the gospel. Care should be taken when choosing the hymns and responsorial chants that it should not be anticipated there. This is also true for the acclamation of the congregation to the recited Exsultet.
The Service of Light
The fire is kindled outside the building. The priest greets the congregation with the liturgical greeting.
Blessing of the Fire
Let us pray.
O God, you wrap yourself with light as with a cloak. Through Christ you have given the light of glory to all who believe in you. Bless + this new fire that gives light to the night and inflame in us the longing for you, the unending light, that we may with pure hearts be brought to the eternal Easter. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Or:
Eternal God, Creator and ruler of the universe, in many ways you have destined your creature, the light, to point to you, to your truth and glory, your love and goodness. You have ordered the darkness, and there was light. As a sign of light of your covenant with Noah you put the rainbow in the clouds; in the burning bush you promised to Moses the road to liberty. In the pillar of fire you went ahead of your people, through darkness and desert. We ask you to bless this new fire at which we kindle the paschal candle. Or, as an alternative ending: We praise you for this new fire, the sign of your closeness, at which we now kindle the paschal candle.
Marking the Paschal Candle
Christ yesterday and today (the vertical arm of the cross)
the beginning and the end (the horizontal arm)
Alpha (above the cross)
and Omega (below the cross)
All time belongs to him (first numeral)
and all the ages (second numeral)
to him belongs glory and power (third numeral)
through every age for ever. Amen (fourth numeral).
Five grains are inserted.
By his holy wounds (1)
shining in glory (2)
may Christ the Lord (3)
guard us (4)
and keep us (5).
The paschal candle is lighted.
Christ is risen from the dead.
May his light dispel the darkness of our hearts and the world.
Entrance with the Paschal Candle
One of the assistants (deacon or reader) carries the paschal candle into the church, incense and cross, acolytes, carrying candles that are not yet lighted, preceding, and the other assistants following.
At the entrance, the priest or deacon sings for the first time:
Christ is the light.
All: Thanks be to God.
The priest now lights his candle from the paschal candle.
At the second acclamation, when the procession has reached the center of the church, the assistants light their candles; after the third acclamation, in front of the altar, the light is distributed to all; all lights in the church are lighted.
The Exsultet
There are two versions of the text.
The traditional Exsultet is sung by the deacon. If there is no deacon, it may be sung by a cantor.
The recited Exsultet is used if there is no one to sing the traditional Exsultet. The text is recited by the priest and livened up by an acclamation of the congregation.
Rejoice now, heavenly hosts and choirs of angels,
and let your trumpets should Salvation
for the victory of our mighty King.
Rejoice and sing now, all the round earth,
bright with a glorious splendour,
for darkness has been vanquished by our eternal King.
Rejoice and be glad now, Mother Church,
and let your holy courts, in radiant light,
resound with the praises of your people.
(The Lord be with you.
And also with you.)
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
It is truly right and good, always and everywhere, with all whole heart and might and voice, to praise you, the invisible, almighty, and eternal God, and your only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. To you, eternal Father, he paid for us the debt of Adam's sin, and by his blood, shed for love, delivered your faithful people.
This is the Passover feast in which the true Lamb was slain, whose blood consecrates the homes of all believers and preserves the people from death and destruction.
This is the night when you brought our fathers and all the children of Israel out of bondage in Egypt and led them through the Red Sea on dry land.
This is the night when the pillar of fire dispelled the darkness of sin.
This is the night when throughout all the earth all who believe in Christ are separated from the sin of the world, freed from all defilement, restored to the kingdom of grace and inserted in the fellowship of your Church.
This is the blessèd night when Christ broke the chains of death and rose victorious from the grave.
Truly, we would have been born in vain unless the Saviour had redeemed us.
How incomprehensible is your love, O Father: to ransom the slave you gave the Son.
O truly saving sin of Adam, you became a blessing for us as Christ's death has destroyed you.
O happy guilt, how great a redeemer did you find.
O truly blessèd night when Christ rose from the dead. This is the night of which it is written, "The night is as bright as the day, the night will surround me as shining light."
The splendour of this night dispels all evil, washes guilt away, grants forgiveness to sinners, brings mourners joy. It casts out pride and hatred and brings peace and concord.
In this blessèd night, holy Father, receive our songs of praise and accept this candle as our solemn offering. Even if its light has been distributed, it did not loose the power of its splendour.
The flame is nourished by the wax which the busy bees prepared for this candle.
O truly blessèd night when heaven is wedded to earth and God and people are joined.
Therefore we ask you, O Lord: the candle, sanctified to the praise of your name, may shine continually to dispel the darkness in this night. May it shine until the morning star appears, that true Morning Star who for ever knows no setting, your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ who rose from the dead, who shines in his Easter light to all peoples, and who lives and reigns with you for ever and ever.
Congregation: Amen.
The recited Exsultet, with an acclamation of the congregation to be sung, is a paraphrase of the sung Exsultet. [Therefore it is not reproduced here.]
When this Exsultet is used, the Alleluia is to be announced in a festive way beforehand.
The acclamation of the congregation reads as follows:
Christ is alive. He is risen from the dead, alleluia.
It is repeated at several places in this text.
The Readings of the Paschal Vigil
1. Creation
Approaching the First Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Why do we hear what we have known for already, and why do we go back to the beginning?
That we might not forget whence we come and where we go. That we might praise the Creator, the source of all life, and see, recognise and believe that we are humans.
Reading: Gen 1.1 - 2.4a or Gen 2.4b-24
From Psalm 104
O Lord, how manifold are your works! *
in wisdom you have made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
All of them look to you *
to give them their food in due season.
You give it to them, they gather it; *
you open your hand, and they are filled with good things.
You hide your face, and they are terrified; *
you take away their breath,
and they die and return to their dust.
You send forth your Spirit, and they are created; *
and so you renew the face of the earth.
May the glory of the Lord endure for ever; *
may the Lord rejoice in all his works. (BCP)
Collect
God, Creator of the universe, you have entrusted your creation to us, full of your great goodness. We praise you and thank you for the light breaking upon us in this night, Jesus Christ, your Son, whom you have raised from the death to new life in this time and in your eternity.
2. Noah
Approaching the Second Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Why do we hear from the evil spreading through all humanity?
That we might not forget that the evil is still alive, but also that we receive God's compassion, his mercy and his faithfulness, the reconciliation of heaven and earth.
Reading: Gen 6.13 - 7.12,18 - 8.12; 9.13,15,16
From Psalm 118
I called to the Lord in my distress; *
the Lord answered by setting me free.
The Lord is at my side, therefore I will not fear; *
what can anyone do to me?
The Lord is at my side to help me; *
I will triumph over those who hate me.
It is better to rely on the Lord *
than to put any trust in flesh. (BCP)
Collect
God of the covenant, you saved Noah and his family from the floods of destruction. Help us to resist the temptations of the evil in the power of your Spirit, that the peace of your covenant may remain alive for us and this earth. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
3. The Sacrifice of Isaac
Approaching the Third Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Why do we go back to the beginnings of the people of Israel?
That we might not forget that God promised salvation to Abraham and his children, but also to us. That we might thank God because he spared Abraham's son, but gave his own beloved Son for the life of the world.
Reading: Gen 22.1-18
From Psalm 16
O Lord, you are my portion and my cup; *
it is you who uphold my lot.
I have set the Lord always before me; *
because he is at my right hand I shall not fall.
My heart, therefore, is glad, and my spirit rejoices; *
my body also shall rest in hope.
For you will not abandon me to the grave, *
nor let you holy one see the Pit. (BCP)
Collect
God, friend of life, you abhor that humans kill each other in your name. Let us live together in concord and peace with all people who call Abraham their father. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
4. The Exodus through the Red Sea
Approaching the Fourth Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Every night we go our own ways, but in this night we have been assembled at this one place.
Because we were slaves but called to freedom, because we were saved that we might belong together, because we are being called to freedom in this night.
Reading: Ex 14.15 - 15.1
From Exodus 15
I will sing to the Lord, for he is lofty and uplifted; *
the horse and its rider has he hurled into the sea.
The Lord is my strength and my refuge *
and has become my Saviour.
This is my God and I will praise him; *
the God of my people and I will exalt him.
Your right hand, O Lord, is glorious in might; *
your right hand, O Lord, has overthrown the enemy.
With your constant love you lead the people you redeemed; *
with your might you brought them in safety to your holy dwelling.
The Lord shall reign *
for ever and ever. (BCP *)
Collect
God, your wonderful deeds of old shine forth even to our own day. What your mighty arm once did for one people, you now do for all peoples. You once delivered Israel from the slavery under Pharaoh and led them through the floods of the Red Sea; but now you lead us to freedom through the water of baptism. Grant that all the peoples may become children of Abraham and attain to the dignity of your people Israel. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
5. The Springs of Salvation
Approaching the First Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights?
We experience meaning and calling: our life is held, loved and redeemed. Whoever listens to the word of God will find life. Meaning is found by the person who is good soil for the word from the mouth of God.
Reading: Is 55.1-11
From Isaiah 12
Surely, it is God who saves me; *
I will trust and not be afraid.
The Lord is my stronghold and my sure defence *
and will be my Saviour.
Therefore you shall draw water with rejoicing *
from the springs of salvation.
And on that day you shall say, *
Give thanks to the Lord and call upon his name;
make his deeds known among the peoples.
Sing the praises of the Lord who has done great things, *
and this is known in all the world.
Cry aloud, inhabitants of Zion, ring out your joy, *
for the great one in the midst of you is the Holy One of Israel. (BCP* )
Collect
God, you are rich for all you seek you. You have spoken to us through the word of the prophets, and you have sent your Son, your eternal Word. Make us listen to him and thereby bring fruit for eternal life through him, Christ, our Lord.
6. The New Heart and the New Spirit
Approaching the Sixth Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Why do we hear from people forgetting God and being abandoned by God?
We experience joy and redemption: God will give us a new heart, a heart of flesh and not of stone. He will give us a new spirit, his Spirit who is both gift and task.
Reading: Ez 36.16-17a,18-28
From Psalm 42
As the deer longs for the water-brooks, *
so longs my soul for you, O God.
My soul is athirst for God, athirst for the living God; *
when shall I come to appear before the presence of God?
My tears have been my food day and night, *
while all day long they say to me,
"Where now is your God?" (BCP)
Collect
God, full of compassion, smile upon all whom in baptism you have given a new heart and a new spirit. Make them witnesses to your salvation: that things that had grown old are being made new, things that had become dark are being given light, things that had been dead are being raised to life, and that all things are being made whole in him who is the author of all, in Jesus Christ, our Lord.
7. The Dry Bones
Approaching the Seventh Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights?
As humans we are often lost and without hope. But today we sense something of God's life-giving Spirit. In the darkness of death and from the pit of our sins, it is God who saves us. We experience life and home, shelter and protection. Easter is breaking upon us, life that knows no setting.
Reading: Ez 37.1-14
From Psalm 18
I love you, O Lord, my strength, *
O Lord my stronghold, my crag, and my haven.
My God, my rock in whom I put my trust *
my shield, the horn of my salvation, and my refuge;
you are worthy of praise.
The breakers of death rolled over me, *
and the torrents of oblivion made me afraid.
I called upon the Lord in my distress *
and cried out to my God for help.
He brought me out into an open place; *
he rescued me because he delighted in me.
You, O Lord, are my lamp; *
my God, you make my darkness bright.
You lengthen my stride beneath me, *
and my ankles do not give way.
Therefore will I extol you among the nations, O Lord, *
and sing praises to your name. (BCP)
Collect
Be with us, living God, and raise us from the graves of our hopelessness. Pour out your Spirit who gives life and makes us messengers of your incorruptible life. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
First Part of the Celebration of the Eucharist
Collect
God of life and Father of light, you make this night bright through raising your Son. The world sees and knows in him what has been your will throughout the ages: that things that had grown old are being made new, things that had become dark are being given light, things that had been dead are being raised to life, and that all things are being made whole in him who is the author of all, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who lives and gives life with you, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
The Epistle: United with Christ in His Death and Resurrection
Approaching the Epistle
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights?
At other times we are persons who are often burdened and weary. But today, light is falling into our dark, lost life. Being baptised into Christ, we have been united with him in his death. The self of sin is dying. But the Lord lives. That is why we, too, live through him to God for ever and ever.
Romans 6.3-11
Approaching the festive Easter Alleluia
Since Ash Wednesday we have done without the Alleluia. Filled with joy, we now sing this shout of exultation to our risen Lord.
The Easter Gospel
Year A: Mt 28.1-10
Year B: Mk 16.1-8
Year C: Lk 24.1-12
Holy Baptism
If there is a baptism, a meaningful and sensible selection should be made from the Order of Holy Baptism, and the following Thanksgiving over the Water should be used.
P: We give you thanks, God, almighty Father. Through the gift of water you feed and keep every living creature.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: We give you thanks, for through the waters of the Red See you led your people from the slavery to freedom, into the land of promise.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: We give you thanks, that you sent Jesus, your Son. He was baptised by John in the Jordan and anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Christ.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: Going to the darkness of death and being raised to the light of new life for us, he set us free from the bondage of death and sin and opened for us the gate to eternal joy and freedom.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: We give you thanks, that you called N.N. to this new life. May your Spirit sanctify this water so that, through baptism, N.N. be united with Christ in his death and his resurrection and keep free from sin.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: Anoint N.N. with your Holy Spirit and bring him/her to a new birth in the fellowship of your Church, so that he/she may share in your promise.
A: We praise and magnify you through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.
The Renewal of Baptismal Vows
If there is no baptism, the following text is used.
P: Almighty, everlasting God, we bless and praise you. Your invisible power works the salvation of all peoples through visible signs. You wonderfully created and yet more wonderfully restored us.
A: We bless and praise you.
P: In the beginning you created water that it may render the earth fruitful, quench our thirst and refreshen us. You set your people free from the slavery in Egypt, you led them through the Red See and strengthened the thirsting people with water from the rock.
A: We bless and praise you.
P: The prophets and saints saw in the streams of living water the saving power of your creation. Jesus Christ, our Saviour, descended into the water of the Jordan to become in all like us.
A: We bless and praise you.
P: May through him descend into this water the power of the Holy Spirit, so that all who have been buried with Christ through baptism into his death, may also rise to eternal life with him through baptism. Holy, everlasting God, we bless and praise you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord and brother, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
P: Will you overcome the evil by the good, in the power of the risen Christ?
A: We will.
P: Will you resist the power of the evil and care for peace, justice and the integrity of creation?
A: We will.
P: Will you live in the liberty of the children of God?
A: We will.
P: Will you Will you join the way of the community and respect and assist each other in love?
A: We will.
The questions of belief follow.
P: Do you believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth?
A: We believe.
P: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was born of the Virgin Mary, who suffered and was buried, rose from the dead and is seated at the right hand of the Father?
A: We believe.
P: Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the dead and the life everlasting?
A: We believe.
Instead of these questions, the Apostles' Creed (recited or sung) may be used. At the end the priest says,
P: The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ has given us new life by water and the Holy Spirit and has forgiven us all sins. He keep us through his grace in Christ Jesus, our Lord, to life eternal.
A: Amen.
If (in Southern Germany in particular) food (eggs, meat, bread) are to be blessed, they are brought to the altar at the preparation of the gifts.
Second Part of the Celebration of the Eucharist
Prayer over the Gifts
God of life, we bring you our gifts in the joy of this paschal vigil. Grant that this joy becomes visible in our lives as well through him, our risen Lord.
Preface of Easter I
Eucharistic Prayer XIX
Prayer after Communion
God, shepherd of your people, we thank you that you have fed us in this holy meal with the true paschal lamb, Jesus Christ. Let us, in the power of this food, live as risen ones in him, Christ, our Lord.
Dismissal
The solemn blessing may be used.
The Easter dismissal, with "Alleluia" added, is suitable also after the regular blessing.
The Fifty Days of Easter
Easter Sunday - The Day
Collect
God of life, your Son has overcome the death and opened the door to eternal life. Rejoicing in the feast of his resurrection we ask you: Renew us by your Spirit that we too may rise to new life through him, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, accept the gifts and prayers which, in the joy of Easter, we bring to the altar as signs that we are yours. Give us your blessing and strength through the death and the resurrection of your Son, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter I
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all good gifts, we thank you for food and drink at the table of your Son. Fill us with the spirit of love and unite us in the faith, that we may live as witnesses to the resurrection and proclaim your praise in all the world through Christ, our Lord.
Easter Monday
Collect
Living God, in the celebration of the resurrection of your Son you give us new life and unending joy. Be always close to us in your Son that we may walk free on the way to your glory and praise and bless you in the Holy Spirit now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God,
accept the gifts and prayers of your congregations. Let us find joy and true life in you through Christ, our risen Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all life, in the breaking of the bread we have known Christ, the Risen One. Nourish us always with this food, and enable us to proclaim your goodness and love to the world. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
During Easter Week 1 (Holy Baptism)
Collect
Living God, by water and the Holy Spirit you have born us anew to paschal life. Keep this life in us through your risen Son, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good Father, we bring bread and wine for the Easter meal with Jesus. Keep us in the joy of your baptized through him, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
Faithful God, in our baptism and in the celebration of the Easter meal you have given us a pledge of our future glory. Keep us in the communion with you until you bring us to completion in your eternity.
During Easter Week 2 (The Children of God)
Collect
Living God, through the resurrection of your Son you have given your salvation to the world. Make us heirs of your incorruptible life through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our salvation, accept the gifts which we offer in the joy of Easter. Let them be signs of our thankfulness and devotion to you through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God, friend of life, you saved Jesus from the death and called him to your glory. He is present among us as often as we celebrate this meal in remembrance of him. For this we thank you through him, Christ, our Lord.
During Easter Week 3
Collect
God, creator of all things, each year you raise nature to new life. We have become a new creation through the death and resurrection of your Son. Let us also live as renewed people through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Or:
God, we did not see your Son Jesus Christ with our own eyes, and our hands did not touch his body, and yet we dare to believe in him. Make us certain of his presence. Let us believe, though we do not see. To you be glory for ever.
Or:
God, author of all life, we believe and proclaim that our Lord Jesus Christ died and rose for us. Raise us also to new life through the power of the Holy Spirit. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, like the communities of the Apostles we want to contribute to joint works of love in different ways. What we offer to you today let be a sign of our love through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God of life, you destined us yourself to be branches at the vine of Jesus Christ. You give us life when we abide in him. We thank and ask you: Let us bear fruits through him, Christ, our Lord.
Or:
God of faithfulness, you never abandon humanity. In this paschal meal we have remembered the passion of your Son and celebrated his resurrection. You called him from death to life as the first-fruits of those who have fallen asleep. Be with your eternal love with our lives, until we have been completed in you through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Second Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
Everliving God, you have strengthened the apostle Thomas in the faith in the resurrection of your Son. Carry us when we doubt, and lead us on the way of Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Living God, accept what we offer today. In our community and in the poor and tormented, let us experience the presence of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God of truth, you gave your Son in our hands in the signs of bread and wine. May your Spirit take us that we may be strengthened in faith and grow in love to you and to each other, through him, Christ, your risen Son, our brother and Lord.
Third Sunday in Eastertide -- Sunday of the Good Shepherd
Collect
God, Shepherd of your people, you did not abandon Jesus, your Son, in death but raised him to life incorruptible. He calls us all by our names and into your liberty. Make us listen to his voice and follow him on the ways of our lives. We praise you through him in the Holy Spirit now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of tender love, you spread the table of life before us and fill us the cup of salvation. Grant us comfort in the fellowship of our saviour and good shepherd, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Lord and Saviour, good shepherd, you lead us to the waters of life. Let us reach your eternal kingdom in the power of this food, where there will be one shepherd and one flock. To you be praise and glory now and for ever.
Weekdays before Ascension Day I
Collect
God, origin and goal of every human being, you raised Jesus from the dead and made him Lord over heaven and earth. His kingdom is present where your word is proclaimed and his bread is broken. Let our hearts be aware of his presence and live in it until he comes in glory, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and gives life with you now and for ever.
Or:
God,
friend of life and of humans, you raised your Son Jesus from the shadow of death and also called us into a communion which death cannot destroy. Let us live from the confidence that you will fulfil in us what you have begun in Jesus, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
Holy God, you received our brother Jesus, your beloved Son, into your eternal glory. It is your will that we will also live with him for ever. Guide us to this great goal through the word of your truth and the Spirit whom you have given us through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
Good God, you entrusted your creation to us and will set it free from its bondage to decay, like us. Make us live in your creation and preserve it as those you have redeemed. We ask this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your risen Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, creating and completing this world, in bread and wine we bring your creation before you and ask: Heal its wounds through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, our salvation, through this paschal food Christ lives in us and we live in him. Let us abide in him and witness to him in word and deed, to Christ, our Lord.
Fourth Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
God, the light of your wisdom illumines those who err that they may find back to you. Help us so to live that we are not only called Christians but in truth are. We ask you this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, accept the gifts which your church offers you in the joy of Easter. As you have given it reason for such rejoicing, keep the joy until all has been fulfilled through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all good things, we thank you for the bread of life and the wine of gladness which we received from your hand. Guided by you, let us always be grateful in word and deed through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Fifth Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
God, our Father, you have redeemed us through your Son and accepted us as your beloved children. Look on all who believe in Christ. Clinging to you make them find the true liberty through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, creator of the universe, in this paschal celebration you give us a share in your divine life. Grant that we may recognise the traces of your love in this world and direct our lives on you, through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God, rich for all who call upon you, we thank you that we were guests at the table of your Son whom you saved from death into your incorruptible life. Let us live as people of Easter and always praise your goodness through Christ, our Lord.
Weekdays before Ascension Day II
Collect
Living God, you did not abandon Jesus in death but proclaimed him living before his disciples. Let us perceive in faith that he is now in our midst, speaks to us and breaks us the bread, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
God of loving-kindness, you are with us in Jesus Christ, your risen Son. We ask you: Set us free from the power of death, and let us in self-sacrificing love witness to the life which you always give us through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Or:
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, by raising your Son you have given hope to the world and rescued your faithful from eternal death. Give us always a joyful heart and a firm faith in him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father, our gifts are signs of our openness and our trust. Accept them and all the world with its well and woe, through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father, we thank you for Jesus, the bread for the life of the world. Strengthen us through him on our way through this time to the goal of your eternity.
Sixth Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
God of all life, in great gladness we praise the resurrection of your Son. Let the paschal mystery which we celebrate in these fifty days shape and transform all our lives. We ask you this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, Father of all people, your Son promised to be in our midst when we gather together in his name. May he himself fill our prayer to your glory, who live and give life now and for ever.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
Good God, you have given us new life in the resurrection of your Son. We thank you for this paschal meal and praise you with all the church through Jesus Christ in the Holy Spirit today and for ever.
Ascension Day
Collect
Eternal God, in the ascension of your Son you have exalted humanity and revealed its dignity. Give us the firm trust that we too have been called to that glory into which Christ has gone before us, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, accept the gifts and prayers of your congregation. Set us free from all that separates us from you, and let us love you above all else through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Our Father in heaven, you have given us who still live on earth a share in the heavenly banquet of eternal life. Direct our minds and hearts more and more to Christ who lives and works with you now and for ever.
Weekdays between Ascension Day and Pentecost
Collect
Good Father, your Son Jesus promised us to be with us all the days to the end of the age. Send us your Spirit that his promise might find its fulfilment in us. We ask you this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Or:
God, friend of life, you have given us Jesus that he may walk with us and guide us on our way to you. We thank you and ask: Strengthen us with your Holy Spirit, and keep in us the joy of Easter through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Or:
Great God, your Son has promised us the Holy Spirit. We ask you: Let us grow in this Spirit in recognising your will, in your truth and your love. We ask you this, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our salvation, accept the gifts which we offer, and through your Holy Spirit make us a gift which is yours for ever through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface (between Ascension Day and Pentecost)
Prayer after Communion
God, source of life, you raised Jesus from the dead. He breaks the bread with us and always renews his presence among us. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, that what we speak and do may bear witness to your mighty acts through Christ, our Lord.
Seventh Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
God, wonderful in your light, by glorifying your Son you opened the limits of our and your world, of heaven and earth, of time and eternity. Make us scale walls with him and live from his spirit. This we ask through him, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, may our prayers come to you and accept the gifts which we offer in the joy of this Eastertide. Keep us in the joy until everything has been accomplished through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface (between Ascension Day and Pentecost)
Prayer after Communion
God, source of all life, you created us anew through the resurrection of your Son. In your loving-kindness turn towards us and abide with your compassion always with us until we rise to life incorruptible and may gaze at you as you are. This we ask through Christ, our Lord.
Pentecost (Masses of the Holy Spirit)
Collect
Great God, you sanctify your Church among all peoples and nations by pouring the Spirit on this day. Fill all the world with the gifts of your Holy Spirit. What your love worked in the beginning of creation, work today in the hearts of all who believe in you and seek you. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you call your people from among all peoples and gather it together in the Holy Spirit. Grant that your Church remains faithful to its mission, that it may be leaven for humanity which you want to renew and transform into one family in Christ. This we ask through him who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
Great God, you entice us in the signs of storm and fire. Send your Spirit into our lives and break the narrow confines of our thoughts by the fire of your wisdom. This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now, always and for ever.
Or:
God, you created the world and do not abandon it. Pour out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth. Stir us up that we work for justice and peace and the integrity of your good creation. This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or:
God, you filled (on this day) the hearts of your faithful with the fire of the Holy Spirit. May we, in this Spirit, know what is right and always perceive his comfort and help. This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now, always and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we bring these gifts before you. Sanctify us by the fire of your Spirit who once came down on the community waiting and set their hearts on fire through Christ, our Lord.
Or:
Creator of all life, accept what we bring before you today. Let the Spirit whom you gave to your Church be felt in the world through all who believe in you. This we ask through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, we thank you that you have united us, at the table of your Son, to a fellowship of love. Keep your Church in your word, renew it in Christ, and unite it in your Spirit through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Or:
God, creator of heaven and earth, you have nourished us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Fill our hearts with the joy of the Holy Spirit. Grant that what we have received in this celebration will once be ours as the gift that remains through Christ, our Lord.
Or:
God, creator of life, the inextinguishable fire of your Holy Spirit always reaches when we celebrate the Eucharist. We thank you for this gift and ask: Let us always perceive the reflection of your future through Christ, your Son, our risen brother and Lord.
The Order of the Holy Eucharist
The Eucharist may be preceded by the celebration of reconciliation.
Opening
Opening Song
Either: Psalm with antiphon
At the end of the psalm, the Gloria Patri is sung.
Or: Opening hymn from the hymnal
Or: Kyrie litany or Kyrie hymn
Greeting
P[resider]: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
A[ll]: Amen.
P: The Lord be with you.
Or: Grace and peace to you from the One who is and who was and who is to come.
Or: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
A: And also with you.
Kyrie
The Kyrie is not sung or said if they have been used as the opening song in the Kyrie litany or the Kyrie hymn .
C[antor]: Lord, have mercy (upon us).
A: Lord, have mercy (upon us).
C: Christ, have mercy (upon us).
A: Christ, have mercy (upon us).
C: Lord, have mercy (upon us).
A: Lord, have mercy (upon us).
Gloria
The Gloria is not sung on weekdays, on Sundays in Advent and in Lent.
[The German version of the Gloria is here printed, alternating between C and A; it is not reprinted here.]
Collect
P: Let us pray.
Silence
Prayer
A: Amen.
The Word of God
The biblical readings before the gospel are read by members of the parish (readers).
First Reading
After the reading:
R[eader]: Here ends the reading.
A: Thanks be to God.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm with antiphon (or psalm hymn)
Second Reading
After the reading:
R: Here ends the reading.
A: Thanks be to God.
Alleluia
with biblical verse
During Lent, an appropriate antiphon
Gospel
The gospel is read by the deacon. If there is no deacon, one of the celebrants reads the gospel. If there is no deacon or second priest, the presider him/herself will read the gospel. In this case, the liturgical greeting before the gospel is not repeated.
D[eacon]: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
D(P): The Holy Gospel according to N.
A: Glory to you, O Lord.
At the end of the gospel
D(P): These are the words of the Holy Gospel, they are words of eternal life.
A: Praise to you, O Christ.
Sermon
or other means of proclamation
The Confession of Faith
The creed is not said on weekdays.
Either: The Apostles' Creed
Or: The Nicene Creed
(The German versions are here printed, the Nicene Creed alternating between C and A. The texts are not reprinted here. The Nicene Creed is said without the filioque clause.]
Intercessions
The intercessions are introduced by the presider, the individual petitions being read by members of the parish. A short silence is held after each petition. A response by all follows.
The Peace
The Peace will be exchanged either here or after the Eucharistic Prayer and introduced with one of the following verses:
Either: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Rom 15. 13)
Or: Agree with one another, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. (2 Cor 13. 11b)
Or: Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which you were called in the one body. And be thankful. (Col 3. 15)
Or: May the God of peace sanctify you entirely, and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thess 5. 23)
Then the presider sings or says:
P: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
A: Peace be with all of us.
The deacon or presider says:
Give each other a sign of peace and reconciliation.
The Supper of the Lord
Preparation of the Gifts
A psalm or hymn are sung at the preparation. There may also be silence or instrumental music.
Prayer
P: Pray, brothers and sisters, that our gifts be acceptable to God, the almighty Father.
A: To his glory and the salvation of the world.
Or.
P: All things come from you.
A: Of your own do we give you our gifts.
Or:
P: Let us pray.
Silence
Prayer
A: Amen.
The Eucharistic Prayer
The Eucharistic Prayer is selected from the texts printed in this book.
The versions III, IV, VII and XX have a proper Preface. For the other versions, the Preface of the day is taken or an appropriate Preface is selected from this book.
The Dialogue at the beginning
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: Lift up your hearts.
A: We lift them to the Lord.
P: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
A: It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Now follows the first part of the Eucharistic Prayer, the Preface.
Sanctus
[The German version of the Sanctus is here printed, alternating between C and A; it is not reprinted here.]
Anamnetic Acclamation
In versions IV, VIII, XI, XII, XIII, XVII, XIX, XXI and XXIII, the Anamnetic Acclamation is introduced in the following way:
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
In versions VI and XX, the Anamnetic Acclamation is introduced in the following way:
(Deacon / presider:)
Great is the mystery of faith.
In versions VII, IX, X, XIV, XV and XVI (as well as in I and II), the Anamnetic Acclamation is introduced in the following way:
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
In all versions, the Acclamation is the same:
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
Great Doxology
The Great Doxology at the end of the Eucharistic Prayer is sung by all participants together with the presider, if provided by the respective version.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
The Lord's Prayer
Introduction
Either: Admonished and taught by our Lord's instruction, we are bold to say:
Or: Let us pray as the Lord taught us to pray:
Or: We are called children of God and indeed we are. Therefore we pray in confidence:
Or: We have received the Spirit who makes us children of God. Therefore we are bold to say:
[The German version of the Lord's Prayer is here printed; it is not reprinted here.]
The Peace
Unless exchanged at the end of the ministry of the Word of God, the Peace is exchanged here.
P: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
A: Peace be with all of us.
The deacon or presider says:
Give each other a sign of peace and reconciliation.
The Breaking of the Bread
The Agnus Dei
[The German version of the Agnus Dei is here printed, alternating between C and A; it is not reprinted here.]
Or:
The Lamb that was slain and has reconciled us to God by his blood, is worthy to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honour and glory and praise.
Or:
C: Jesus, Lamb of God,
A: have mercy on us.
C: Jesus, bearer of our sins,
A: have mercy on us.
C: Jesus, redeemer of the world,
A: have mercy on us.
The following sequence is also possible:
The Breaking of the Bread, The Peace, The Lord's Prayer.
Invitation
for example:
P: Now let us receive the body and blood of the Lord and call upon his name.
A: Lord, I am not worthy that you enter under my roof. Only say a word and my soul will be healed.
Or:
P: This is the bread of life (and the cup of salvation).
A: We, being many, are one body, for we all share in the one bread (and in the one cup).
Distribution of the Holy Meal
A psalm with antiphon or a hymn many be sung during or after the Distribution.
Prayer after Communion
A period of silence is held before the Prayer after Communion.
P: Let us pray.
Prayer
A: Amen.
Blessing and Dismissal
Before the Blessing
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
Before the Blessing by the Bishop
B: Blessed be the name of the Lord.
A: From this time forth for evermore.
B: Our help is in the name of the Lord.
A: The maker of heaven and earth.
Blessing
P: The almighty God bless you: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
If desired, the Solemn Blessing may be used [text printed hereafter].
Dismissal
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
During Eastertide:
D: Go in peace, alleluia, alleluia.
A: Thanks be to God, alleluia, alleluia.
The liturgy may be closed with a hymn.
The Solemn Blessing
The solemn blessing is not appropriate during Lent and Advent.
If used -- at higher feasts --, care is to be taken that the character of the dialogue be kept; the responses by the congregation are indispensable. It is introduced by the simple liturgical greeting, the congregation giving the usual answer.
The final sentence reads, "May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit", the congregation answering, "Amen". The dismissal is then sung or said with the usual response by the congregation.
1. The Aaronitic Blessing
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The Lord look upon you with favour and grant you peace.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
2. From Philippians 4
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The peace of God which passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in the fellowship with Christ Jesus.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
3. On Christmas / In Christmastide
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The merciful God has dispelled the darkness by the birth of his Son and illumined this night / this day / this time with the splendour of his light; may he shine in your hearts with the light of his grace.
A: Amen.
P: To the shepherds he had the angel proclaim great joy; may he fill all your life with this joy.
A: Amen.
P. In Christ God has linked heaven and earth; may he give his peace to all people of good will.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
4. On Epiphany / Presentation of the Lord
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: God our Father has called us from darkness into his wonderful light; may he bless and strengthen you in faith, hope and love.
A: Amen.
On Epiphany
P: The magi followed the star and found Christ; may God lead you too on the way of your pilgrimage on earth to the vision of his glory.
A: Amen.
On the Presentation of the Lord
P. Hanna and Simeon met Christ and knew him as the saviour of the peoples. May his light be radiant in your hearts and illumine your ways.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
5. At the Paschal Vigil
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: Through his life and suffering Christ has led us to the joy of Easter; may he be with you all the days of your life until that Easter joy that has no end.
A: Amen.
P: In this night that has become bright by the resurrection of our saviour, may God in his loving-kindness bless you and lead you to the sun that will never set.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace, alleluia, alleluia.
A: Thanks be to God, alleluia, alleluia.
6. In Eastertide
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The almighty God has set us free from sin and death by the resurrection of his Son; may he bless you and give you his joy.
A: Amen.
P: In baptism he has accepted us as children of his grace; may he give you the promised heritage.
A: Amen.
P. May Christ with whom we have been raised by faith keep in you the gift of redemption.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace, alleluia, alleluia.
A: Thanks be to God, alleluia, alleluia.
7. On Pentecost / For the Holy Spirit
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The merciful God has (on this day) illumined the disciples by the infusion of the Holy Spirit; may he bless you and give you the riches of his gifts.
A: Amen.
P: May the Holy Spirit who has united the many languages in the confession of faith strengthen you in the truth and guide you from believing to seeing.
A: Amen.
P. May that fire which descended upon the disciples in many tongues cleanse your hearts and kindle in you God's love.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace (alleluia, alleluia).
A: Thanks be to God (alleluia, alleluia).
8. At Confirmation
B/P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
B: Blessed be the name of the Lord.
A: From this time forth for evermore.
B: Our help is in the name of the Lord.
A: The maker of heaven and earth.
B/P: You have become daughters and sons of God by the new birth from water and the Holy Spirit; may he keep you in his mercy and love.
A: Amen.
B/P: You have been fed with the bread of life and have drunk from the cup of salvation; may God strengthen you on all the ways of your life.
A: Amen.
P. The good news has been proclaimed to you, and you have been anointed with the chrism of gladness; may God keep you in the fellowship of his people and lead you to never-ending joy.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
Prefaces
Preface of Advent I
We thank you, Father in heaven, and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
You promised him as Saviour to lost humanity. His truth shines for those who seek, his power strengthens the weak, his mercy brings forgiveness to sinners. For he is the Saviour of the world whom you sent because of your faithfulness.
Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with the cherubim and seraphim and all the choirs of angels, and sing the glory of your name:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Advent II
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise your mercy.
The day of redemption is shining, and the time of our salvation is at hand, as the saviour comes, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Through him we praise the work of your love, joining the choirs of angels, to proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Christmas I
It is right to give you thanks, and a good and joyful thing to praise you, holy Father, through your only Son Jesus Christ.
For he, your eternal Word, became human. You, O God, have come to us in visible form in him, and you kindle in us the love for what no eye has ever seen.
Therefore we praise you with all the choirs of angels and join all Christians to proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Christmas II
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
For the mystery of his birth is great: Today he, the invisible God, appeared in visible form as a human. Born of you before all ages, he subjected himself to the laws of time. Everything has been recreated in him. He heals the wounds of all creation, lifts up what had fallen, and calls us into the kingdom of your peace.
Therefore heaven and earth, angels and humans praise you and proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of The Epiphany
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God.
For today you unveil the mystery of our salvation, today you reveal the light to the nations, Jesus Christ, your Son. He has appeared on earth as a mortal and has created us anew in the splendour of his divine life.
Therefore we join all angels and saints in proclaiming the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Baptism of Jesus
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise your greatness.
For at the baptism in the Jordan you reveal the mystery of your Son by wonderful signs: the voice from heaven proclaims him your beloved Son who has appeared on earth as your eternal Word living among humans. The Spirit alights on him and testifies him to be your servant whom you have anointed to bring the good news of joy to the poor.
Therefore we join the angels and archangels, the thrones and powers and all the throngs of heaven in praising your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Wedding at Cana
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, all-merciful Father, and to praise you with all creation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He did the first of his signs at the wedding at Cana; in the water become wine he shows us your power to save. He gives us a foretaste of the heavenly banquet and reveals himself to be the messiah whom you have sent.
Therefore we praise you full of joy and join heaven and earth proclaiming your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Lent I
We thank you, holy Father, for in these forty days of penitence you call us anew to follow your Son, that with him we might resist the evil and fulfil his commandment of love.
You strengthen our trust in your closeness, you set us free from the powers of everyday life, you open our hand for the needs of the poor. In this way you lead us with pure hearts to the joy of Easter and prepare us to meet your risen Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Through him we praise your mercy and join the throngs of angels and all those redeemed in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Lent II
We praise you, all-merciful, eternal God, in this time of the forty days, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He calls us to turn around and to believe the gospel. He himself is your word, his death is our life.
Through him we praise your mercy and join the throngs of angels and those who live with you in joyfully singing:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Passion of the Lord I
We thank you, Father in heaven, and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He has loved us and given himself to death for us. He has died for all that we might not perish but have eternal life.
Through him all those you redeemed magnify you and join the choirs of angels to sing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Passion of the Lord II also on Palm Sunday and on the Feast of the Holy Cross
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, all-merciful Father, and to praise you with all creation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He was lifted up from the earth to the cross to draw all people to himself. Through his passion and his death he became the author of salvation for the entire creation.
Therefore we praise you with all angels and saints and proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Maundy Thursday also on Corpus Christi Day
It is indeed right to joyfully thank you, great God.
For our Lord Jesus Christ has instituted this celebration as the memorial of his love, his death and his incorruptible life. He has given us a sign of the new and everlasting covenant and promised that it would find its fulfilment in the coming kingdom.
Therefore we praise you with your angels and saints and proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Easter I
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to give thanks to you, Father, always and everywhere, but chiefly to celebrate this night (this day) as our paschal lamb has been sacrificed, Jesus Christ.
For he is the true lamb who has taken away the sin of the world. By his death he destroyed death, and by his resurrection he created life anew.
Therefore in this night (today) all the world rejoices in paschal joy, therefore the company of heaven and the choirs of angels magnify you, singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Easter II
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to give thanks to you, Father, as our paschal lamb has been sacrificed, Jesus Christ.
The old is passed, the fallen world redeemed, life in Christ renewed.
Therefore we praise you in the joy of Easter and join the choirs of angels, singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Good Shepherd also on Sundays throughout the year
We thank you, holy Father, and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
In him you have shown yourself to be the Father of all peoples and accepted us as your beloved children. In his resurrection you have overcome the power of death and also called us to life eternal. Your Son, the Good Shepherd, nourishes us through the meal of his love and fills us with his Spirit that we might attain the goal of our lives.
Therefore we praise you with all your creation, singing in the joy of Easter:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Ascension
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
After his resurrection he appeared to his disciples. You raised him to your right hand before their eyes that he may raise us to be your children and heirs of your glory.
Therefore all the world rejoices (today) in paschal joy, and we join the praise of the angels and the company of heaven, singing with one voice:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Between Ascension and Pentecost also at confirmation services in Eastertide
We praise you, God, our Father, and magnify you through your Son Jesus Christ.
Risen from the dead, he sent the Holy Spirit to his disciples, his life in abundance, his salvation and his peace. Through him you give us the breath of life of your Spirit in whom we call you, "Abba, Father".
Therefore we praise you in paschal joy and join the praise of heaven and all Christians on earth:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Pentecost
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, holy Father, always and everywhere, and to celebrate this day in festal joy.
For today you completed the paschal mystery, today you sent the Holy Spirit to all whom you raised with Christ and called to be your children. On Pentecost you fill your Church with life: your Spirit gives to all peoples the knowledge of the one living God and unites the many tongues in confessing the one faith.
Therefore all peoples on earth praise you in paschal joy, and we join the praise of heaven and magnify your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
The Holy Spirit
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you, eternal God and Father, always and everywhere through our Lord Jesus Christ.
You have called the Church from among all peoples and have kept it by your Holy Spirit up to the day of today. You do not cease to call all of us to the unity of the Spirit.
Therefore we praise your mercy now and for ever, joining the choirs of angels in praising your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Holy Trinity
It is indeed right, holy God, to thank you, it is good to praise you, the source of all life.
You have created, redeemed and sanctified us. We adore you in your divine greatness and bow before the unsearchable mystery of your trinity.
We praise you with all your creatures, joining the praise of your angels and saints singing without end:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Day of Thanksgiving for the Eucharist also on Maundy Thursday
We thank you, holy Father, and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He is the bread coming from heaven to satisfy our hunger for life. He testified to your love and gave his life for us, like a piece of bread that is broken. You made him the head of a new humanity. We are members of his body and share in his indestructible life. He gave us the heritage of his love, we break the bread and share the cup.
In this way we honour you by celebrating his memorial, singing with all creation the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Last Sundays of the Liturgical Year
It is right to praise you, God, our Father, through Jesus Christ, your Son.
You exalted him as Lord of creation that he might present to you a kingdom, eternal and universal: the kingdom of truth and life, the kingdom of holiness and grace, the kingdom of justice, love and peace. Then every knee will bow at the name of Jesus, and heaven and earth will proclaim your glory.
Therefore we join all the angels and saints, singing in joy:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, I
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise you with all creation.
For in you we live, we move and we have our existence. Each day anew we know the works of your loving-kindness. In this life you already give us the Holy Spirit as pledge of eternal glory. Through him you raised Jesus from the dead and gave us the sure hope that the paschal mystery will be fulfilled in us.
Therefore we join the praise of heaven, singing with all your creatures the hymn of joy:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, II
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise you with all creation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He suffered the darkness of this world and of death, but you raised him to new life. Therefore in him we are a new creation, overcome fear and prepare the way for his coming.
Through him we bless your mercy now and for ever, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, III
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise you with all creation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
In living faith we remember his death, proclaim his resurrection and, full of hope and confidence, await his coming in glory.
We praise you with all those made perfect, joining the hymn of your angels:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, IV
We thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
For he is the One who suffered death for all of us so that we may not perish in death. He is the One who died for all of us so that we may live with you forever.
Through him those whom you redeemed bless you, joining the choirs of angels in singing the praise of your glory: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, V God leads his church
We thank you, God our Father, for you called us to life.
You do not abandon us on our way and hear us when we cry to you. You once led your people Israel through the wilderness. Today you accompany the church in the power of your Spirit. You Son prepares us the road through this time to the joy of eternal life.
Therefore we join all the angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, VI Jesus, our way
We thank you, holy and strong God. You direct the destiny of this world and care for each person. You gather us to be a fellowship that we listen to your word and follow your Son in faith. He is the way, on this way we come to you; he is the truth, it alone sets us free; he is the life and fills us with joy.
Therefore we bless your mercy now and for ever, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, VII Jesus, the brother of all
We thank you, faithful God and Father, for your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord and saviour. He had compassion for the poor and sick, the outcasts and sinners. He was a brother to those in need and despair. His life and message show us that you care for us humans like a good father and a loving mother.
Therefore we bless your loving-kindness and faithfulness, joining all the angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Presentation of the Lord 2 February
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you always and everywhere, Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God.
For today Mary brought your eternal Son to the temple; Simeon, illumined by the Spirit, praised him as the glory of your people Israel; Hanna, the prophet, proclaimed him as the saviour and blessed your name.
We join Simeon and Hanna in meeting our saviour in joy, and the angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Annunciation of the Lord 25 March
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to glorify your love.
For the angel (today) brought tidings to Mary, and she accepted your word with faith in her heart. She conceived your eternal Word through the power of the Holy Spirit; it took flesh in her womb to living among us mortals. You fulfilled your promise to Israel and sent whom the peoples await, your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Through him we bless your mercy, joining the choirs of angels in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
John the Baptist 24 June
We thank you, Father in heaven, and glorify you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
John the Baptist prepared his way and proclaimed that this is the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.
Therefore we raise our voices, joining the choirs of angels and the cloud of witnesses in praising your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
The Transfiguration of the Lord 6 August
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, through your beloved Son Jesus Christ.
In him you have shone upon us to give the light of the knowledge of your glory in his face.
Therefore we magnify you, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Michael and All Angels 29 September
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to bless and thank you, God our Father.
You send your heavenly messengers to repel the powers of darkness; you preserve your church through the ministry of your angels.
We join our voices with theirs, confessing without end:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
All Saints 1 November also at special memorials of saints
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, all-merciful Father, and to glorify you with all creation.
For today we see your holy city, our home, the heavenly Jerusalem, where our sisters and brothers brought to perfection praise you forever. To it we are on our way in faith and walk to the end of your promise with confidence.
Therefore we magnify you in the fellowship of your saints, joining the choirs of angels in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
At the Anniversary of the Dedication of a Church
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, holy God, whom heaven and earth cannot contain.
For your glory this house was built in which you gather your pilgrim church to show it an image of your presence and to give the grace of your communion. You build a temple for yourself from living stones. From all places you call us as your people and join us to the body of your Son. Here you direct our eyes to the heavenly Jerusalem and give us the hope to behold your everlasting peace.
Therefore we praise you in your church, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Mary, the Mother of God
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise the work of your mercy.
You chose Mary from among all humans and blessed her before all women. The dawn of salvation shines in her. She bore Christ, the sun of righteousness.
Through him we bless your mercy now and forever, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Apostles
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank and praise you, holy Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
After his resurrection he sent his apostles to proclaim the good news and to teach all peoples. He promised to be present all the days until the end of time.
Therefore we magnify your holy name, joining the angels and saints and all Christians in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Witnesses of Faith
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank and praise you, holy Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He built his church through the ministry of prophets and apostles, of martyrs and evangelists. They glorified his name by the witness of their lives.
Therefore bless you, joining the choirs in heaven and all Christians on earth in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Unity of Christians
We bless you, Father in heaven, and thank you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
In him you led us to the knowledge of truth and made us members of his body through one faith and one baptism. Through him you poured out your Holy Spirit on all the peoples that he might do great things with his gifts. He lives in the hearts of the faithful, he permeates and guides the whole church and works its unity in Christ.
Therefore we bless your mercy now and forever, joining the choirs of angels in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Thanksgiving for the Harvest
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you, almighty Father, and to bless you with your manifold creation.
We thank you for the fruits of our labour and for the harvest of this year. We thank you for keeping our lives in your loving-kindness.
We join the choirs of angels and saints in singing with great joy the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
The Turn of the Year, Anniversaries and Jubilees
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you always and everywhere, God our Father.
We thank you that in your loving-kindness, you have led us through the years and receive us anew into the communion of your love through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Therefore we bless you with all your creation and sing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Marriage
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you, our Father, and to magnify the work of your creation.
For you created us humans in your image and gave us the gift of love. You join man and woman in matrimony to a holy fellowship in Christ and promise your blessing to their covenant.
Therefore we bless you, joining the choirs of heaven and all Christians on earth in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Of the Departed I
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you, Father in heaven, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
In him shines the hope that we will rise in glory. Even burdened by the fate of sure death, we are comforted by the promise of future immortality. For your faithful, O God, life will be changed, not taken. And when the tent of our pilgrimage on earth decays, an eternal home is prepared for us in heaven.
Therefore we join the angels and those made perfect in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Of the Departed II
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to thank you, the living God, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
For he is the salvation of the world, the life of the mortals, the resurrection of the dead.
Through him heaven and earth, angels and humans bless you, joining their voices in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Eucharistic Prayer
Eucharistic Prayer I
After the Sanctus
We give you thanks, O God, our Father, through your beloved Son Jesus, the Christ. You sent him in the fullness of time to be our saviour and redeemer, as the angel of your holy will. He is your eternal Word, inseparable from you. Through him you created everything, and you saw that it was good. He became human by the power of the Holy Spirit and was born of the Virgin Mary. You revealed him as your Son. To accomplish your will and to gather a holy people for you, he stretched out his hands in suffering, to bring release to those who place their hope in you. He gave himself freely to death to break the power of death, to shatter the chains of evil, to banish the darkness and to reveal the resurrection.
On the night he was handed over, he took bread and gave you thanks, broke the bread and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you. After supper he like wise took the cup, and when he had given thanks to you, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, drink, this is the cup of the new and eternal covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial for me.
Remembering, therefore, the death and resurrection of your Son, we bring you this bread and this cup and celebrate the mystery of our faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
We thank you that you have made us worthy to stand before you and to serve you.
We ask you: Send your Holy Spirit upon these gifts and upon the celebration of your Church. Gather it to unity at your Table. Strengthen it by your Spirit in its faith in you and keep it in the truth, that we may praise you and give you glory through your Son Jesus, the Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer II
After the Sanctus
All-merciful Father, accept our praise, our thanks and our gifts. We humbly implore you and pray you to bless us and all who are united to the meal of love to proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes. The whole Church on earth joins us in this celebration. Listen to our prayer and grant us unity and peace and your Spirit. Look on all who seek you and believe in you. Strengthen our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Bless all peoples and all who are responsible for peach and justice. Remember also all for whom we ask you. (Silence) Like us, they are all yours. You look into our hearts, you know our faith but also our fears. Make us open for you and lead us to salvation, uniting us in one holy fellowship. We praise you with Mary, the mother of our redeemer, and with all the apostles, martyrs and confessors of faith. May their word, example and prayer bear fruit among all of us and for all of us. Send us your Holy Spirit, the giver of all life and all sanctification that with these gifts of the earth, the commandment of your Son be fulfilled. Give us in the bread that we break a sharing in the body of the Lord, and in the cup which we bless a sharing in the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.
On the day before he suffered, he took the bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you. After supper he like wise took the cup, and when he had again given thanks to you, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, drink, this is the cup of the new and eternal covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial for me.
We and all your Church therefore remember the saving death of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, his resurrection from the dead and his exaltation to your right hand. He gives himself for us as a pure and holy sacrifice, giving himself to us as the holy bread of eternal life and in the cup of everlasting salvation.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Father, you have called us to communion around this Table. Fill us through this body and blood of your Son with all the blessing and all grace of heaven. We ask you to remember all who have gone before us in the sign of faith and rest in peace. (Silence) May we and all for whom your Son has died share in his resurrection. Accept us sinners too who trust in the fullness of your love into the fellowship of your salvation, with all whose life has come to completion with you, not because we would merit it but because you are granting your mercy through our Lord Jesus Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
(according to the first order of Mass by Adolf Thürlings [1885])
Eucharistic Prayer III
Preface
We give you thanks, God our Father, for from you comes our life. You created us and you do not abandon us from your hands. You are always close to us. You once led your people through the desert. Today you go with your Church in the power of your Spirit. Your Son himself is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore we praise you with all the angels and saints, joyfully singing:
After the Sanctus
Blessed are you, God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Father of all mercy and God of all consolation. You loved the world so much that you gave your only Son so that all who believe in him might not perish but have eternal life.
He instituted a lasting memorial of his saving deeds. On the night he was handed over, he took bread and gave you thanks, broke the bread and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you. After supper he like wise took the cup, and when he had again given thanks to you, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, drink, this is the cup of the new and eternal covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial for me.
We therefore remember before you, O Father, the incarnation of your Son, his words and signs, his humiliation, his obedience to death on the cross and his resurrection in glory. You exalted him above all and gave him the name that is above every name so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend in heaven, on earth and under the earth and every tongue should confess:
(All:)
Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.
(Presider:)
With praise and thanksgiving we bring these signs of his sacrifice before you and pray: Send your Holy Spirit and fill these gifts with his life-giving power so that they may become for us the body and blood of your beloved Son. May the bread which we break be a sharing in the body of the Lord, and the cup which we bless be a communion with the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(Presider or All:)
Make us all one body, for we all partake of the one bread.
(Presider:)
In the fellowship with Mary the Mother of God, the apostles and martyrs, with Saint Willibrord and all the saints, with our Bishop N. and Archbishop N., with the fellowship of bishops, with all women and men in the apostolic ministry and with all your Church, we praise you and look with joy for the coming of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
(Eucharistic Prayer of the Union of Utrecht 1982)
Eucharistic Prayer IV
Preface
It is indeed right and a good thing that we give you thanks, holy Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ. You made the visible and the invisible. You created us in your own image and made a covenant with us. You revealed your promises through the words of your prophets. Therefore with all the angels and saints we proclaim your glory and sing together:
After the Sanctus
You are holy indeed, God our Father. So loved the world so much that you sent your Son. He took flesh from Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit.
May the power of this Spirit today sanctify our eucharist that he may fulfil the word of your beloved Son who wishes to give us his body and his blood.
On the night before he was handed over, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until your Son comes again, we do as he commanded us by celebrating the memorial of the passion, resurrection and ascension of your Christ. He always lives before you as our high priest, interceding for us and bringing his only and perfect sacrifice before you on our behalf.
Sanctify your Church as you did on Pentecost; your Holy Spirit may guide it into all truth. He may strengthen it for its mission to the ends of the earth. He may prepare your eternal kingdom so that we may have a share in the inheritance of your saints in light; with Mary, the prophets, apostles and martyrs, (with Saint N.) we look for the coming of your beloved Son.
(Deacon:)
Come, Lord Jesus.
(All:)
Maranatha, our Lord comes.
(Presider:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever.
(All:)
Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer V
After the Sanctus
We praise you, holy Father, for you are always with us on our way, especially when Jesus, your Son, gathers us for the meal of love; like the disciples at Emmaus, he interprets the Scriptures and breaks the bread for us.
Therefore we ask you, holy God: send your Spirit upon bread and wine, so that Jesus Christ be present in our midst with his body and blood.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread at the supper and gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore we celebrate the memorial of our reconciliation and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Your Son has passed through suffering and death to new life and is risen to your glory. Look upon your Christ who sacrifices himself with body and blood and, in his sacrifice, opens the way to you, our Father.
Merciful God, grant us the spirit of love, the Spirit of your Son. Strengthen us by his body and blood and renew us in his image. Guide our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Make all members of the Church understand the signs of the time and grow in faithfulness to your gospel. Make us open for the people around us, so that we share their mourning and fear, their hopes and joys and show them the way to salvation. Have mercy on our brothers and sisters who have gone in the peace of Christ and on all the departed whose faith no one knows as you do, and lead them to the resurrection. When our own way reaches its end, receive us into your kingdom where we may expect the fullness of life and of glory for ever. In the fellowship of Mary, the blessed Virgin and Mother of God, of the apostles and martyrs, (of Saint N.) and of all your saints, we praise and glorify you through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer VI
After the Sanctus
We praise you, God, holy Father, and glorify you in your holy, life-giving Spirit who in the beginning hovered over the waters, who spoke through the prophets, who gave light and strength to your chosen people. When the fullness of time had come, Jesus, your Son, took flesh from Mary by the Holy Spirit. In the power of the Spirit he proclaimed the good news of salvation to the poor, freedom to those in prison and joy to those who mourn. So that we might live no longer for ourselves but for him who was crucified and raised, you also gave your Spirit to us that he might continue and complete the saving deeds of your Son.
Send this Spirit upon our eucharist that he may fulfil the word of your Son who on the night before he suffered took bread at the supper and praised you for your great deeds, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, praised your mercy and loving-kindness, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore we celebrate the memorial of your Son and proclaim his death and resurrection, his exaltation to your right hand, and look for the day in which he will make all things new.
(Deacon:)
Great is the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we come before you with these signs of his sacrifice and pray that you Spirit may fill all who share in the body and blood of your Son with his power and his life. May he bring your Church together to unity. Strengthen through him all whom you have called to your service: our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops, all women and men in the apostolic ministry and all your people wherever they may be. We praise you in fellowship with Mary the mother of your Son, with your apostles and martyrs and with all your saints through Jesus, your Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer VII
Preface
It is indeed right and a good thing to thank you always and everywhere, holy Father, creator of heaven and earth. You made everything through your word and saw that it was good. You created us in your image that we may share in your life and your glory may shine through us. When the fullness of time had come, you gave us Jesus, your Christ, the way, the truth and the life. You testified to him as your beloved Son whose mission it was to proclaim the good news to the poor. He left us the eucharist that we may remember his death and resurrection and receive him as our food. Therefore, with all the angels and saints, we proclaim your glory:
After the Sanctus
You are holy indeed, and all creation proclaims your praise.
Fill our eucharist with your life-giving Spirit (who spoke through Moses and the prophets, who overshadowed the Virgin Mary with his grace, who, at the Jordan, descended upon Jesus and, on Pentecost, upon the apostles) that this bread and this wine may become for us the body and blood of Christ.
On the night before he was handed over, he took bread at the supper and gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
We therefore celebrate today the memorial of our redemption: the birth and life of your Son among us, his baptism by John, his last supper with the apostles, his death and descent to those held by death. We proclaim his resurrection and exaltation to you where, as our high priest, he intercedes for us and for all. We look for his coming in glory and through him bring this bread and this cup before you. Remember the sacrifice of your Son and, through him, set all people and all your creation free. Strengthen the covenant which you made with us.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
When we receive the body and blood of Christ fill us with your Holy Spirit that we may become one body and one spirit in Christ, one living sacrifice to the praise of your glory.
(All:)
Come, creator Spirit.
(Presider:)
Remember, Lord, your one holy catholic and apostolic Church, redeemed by the blood of your Son. Grant it unity, deepen its faith and keep it in peace. Strengthen our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Remember especially ... Remember also our departed sisters and brothers whose faith is known to you alone. Accompany them to the banquet in your presence which has been prepared for all people, together with Mary, with the patriarchs and prophets, the apostles and martyrs, ... , and with all the saints who live from your friendship. With all of them we praise and bless you and look for the coming of your kingdom in which, together with all creation redeemed from sin and death, we glorify you through Christ, our Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer VIII
After the Sanctus
We praise you, O God, and glorify you. You did not abandon to sin and death what you, almighty God, created. Through Jesus Christ, your Word, you call us all to life. He took our sins upon himself, making peace between you and mortals.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread at the supper and gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
We thank you, Father in heaven, remembering the life and passion of your Son and his sacrifice on the cross and praising his resurrection, the victory over sin and death.
Give us, Father, your Holy Spirit and renew our life through him. Bless these gifts to be the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Unite all who share in the body and blood of Christ in the unity of faith, in the fellowship of love and in the hope in your glory.
(All:)
Maranatha. Our Lord comes.
(Presider:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever.
(All:)
Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer IX
After the Sanctus
We thank you, O God, for the bread, for everything we need like bread: for the air we breathe, for the people who share our life, for the peace, for your closeness in words and signs. We thank you, O God, for the wine, for everything that makes us glad like the wine: for the son and the stars in the skies, for the love given us, for the hope in your kingdom. We thank you for Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother and friend.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread at the supper and gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Before you, O Father, we do what your Son, our brother, has commanded us to do. We listen to his word. We celebrate his memorial. We see him suffer and die for us. United at his Table we feel that he is among us as the Living one.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
We ask you in his name: Fill these gifts with your Spirit that they may become for us the body and blood of your Son. Fill us and all the world with your Spirit. Change us, help us to become as you have willed us to be. In this bread which we break may we know that we are united in Jesus as his community, for joint service to the people, despite all that separates us. In this cup which we drink may we feel that Jesus is our joy, in life and in death, despite all that frightens and burdens us.
(Deacon/Presider:)
Our Lord comes.
(All:)
Yes, come, Lord Jesus.
(Presider:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever.
(All:)
Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer X
After the Sanctus
Good Father, we stand before you empty-handed, showing our needs. Whatever is ours does not suffice if we do not have you. You are the meaning, the true goal and the depth of our existence. You are not a God who would not reach out. You have taken pity on our poverty and weakness and have given into our outstretched hands your singular gift, your Son. He is the way, the truth and the life.
We therefore ask you: Your Spirit may raise from these earthly gifts, the bread and the wine, your immortal gift to us, the fulfilment of all hope, the refuge of the guilty, the salvation of the sick, the resurrection of the dead: our Lord Jesus Christ.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, Father, we celebrate the memorial of your Son. We remember that you gave him to us out of love. We remember his life, the words through which he spoke into our lives, the signs with which he gives us the hope in the fulfilment of the world. We remember his passion and death by human hands. But we are filled with your Easter certainty: He lives. He is risen. He reigns in your unbounded majesty and has established the kingdom of his love among us.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Look on all people, O God, who are in special need of your and our love and care: on those tormented, disrespected and exploited, on all whose illnesses no one heals. Remember also the lonely, those without hope, those mourning and all who crave in their hearts for love. Encourage all who proclaim your word: strengthen our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Grant to our departed your closeness and perfect them in your immeasurable loving-kindness. Together with all your saints give us a share in the victory over death and over all that frightens and oppresses us. We ask you this through our Lord Jesus Christ, the author of our salvation.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XI
After the Sanctus
God, our Father, we thank you with all our heart, for you have called us to life and wish our happiness in Jesus, your Son. He is the revelation of your loving-kindness and your will to save us. He is the redeeming word for us, your helping hand. We can no longer forget how he became one with us in suffering and death, he who was totally one with you, as he came to fulfil your will. He bore our burdens -- and called us to follow his love. All our life we owe you our thanks for him.
It was before the passover. As he loved his own who were in world, he gave them a love unsurpassed by any. He knew that he had come from you and would return to you. Therefore he took the bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until your Son comes again, we do what he commanded us to do. Faithful to his word, we celebrate the memorial of his obedience and sacrifice in suffering and death, the victory of his resurrection and his glorification with you. In trust we look for the day of his coming.
Send now, Father, the comforter and helper into our midst, your Holy Spirit. Accept through him these gifts and fill them with your life. Kindle in us the fire of your love and give us trust that we may come closer to each other and understand each other better.
We also ask you, Father, for your Church: Protect and guide it, give it peace and unity all over the world. Give wisdom and strength to our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all men and women in the apostolic ministry. Remember in your loving-kindness also the people who are particularly dear to us, and remain faithful to those whom death has taken from this life. With all your people, with Mary, the mother of our Lord, with the apostles and martyrs and with all your saints, with all people on earth who put their trust in you we ask you for your mercy, worship your greatness and give you thanks through Jesus, your Son.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XII
After the Sanctus
Indeed, we stand before you in wonder and gratitude, Creator of the universe. You called our livable planet into existence, our earth. In its fruitfulness and in the manifold creatures we sense your motherly care, long before our restlessness and ambition could take hold of it. You became particularly close to us in Jesus, your Son. He did not see you as a god of vengeance and despotism, but as the Loving One who addresses us, to whom we may respond with affection and trust.
It is in this trust that we ask you: Your Holy Spirit come upon our gifts, upon bread and wine, so that in these peaceful gifts Jesus Christ may become present among us.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we celebrate the memorial of your Son, O God. He called us all his sisters and brothers. In his sensitivity for the weak and in his standing up for the outcasts, the old roles of man and woman merged into the one uniting power: that of love. He responded to injustice with forgiveness, to illness with healing, to despair with hope, to disdain with dignity.
Fill us all with his Spirit: all the Church, the people in all their distinctiveness, those in authority and all who are in special need of the spirit of reconciliation. This meal strengthens us. It unites us to all who witnessed to the coming of your kingdom, to Mary, his mother, to Mary Magdalen, the loving one, to all women and men who knew to be sent, to be apostles (to Elizabeth, the princess of the poor, to Hildegard, the healing one, to Teresa, the light of inwardness). All martyrs live before you and all who were the victims of madness and greed for power. Let us live to see the future of your kingdom, not because we could buy it through our achievements, but because you are long-suffering and abounding in mercy. We ask you this through Christ, the author of our salvation.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XIII
After the Sanctus
Our Father, God of power and might, fill our praise with your glory. Bless this gift, complete it, accept it as rendering present the one sacrifice of our Lord.
Send your Holy Spirit upon us and our eucharist, sanctify this bread to be the body of Christ and this cup to be the blood of Christ that the Holy Spirit, the creator, fill the word of your beloved Son.
On the night in which he was handed over, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we celebrate the memorial of the incarnation and the passion of your Son, his resurrection from the dead, his ascension into the glory of the heavens where he always intercedes for us. We look and pray for the day of his coming. Remembering his saving deeds and his gifts we bring before you the signs of the eternal sacrifice of Christ, as our thanksgiving and intercession: the bread of life coming from heaven, and the cup of the banquet in your kingdom. Accept our praise, our gifts and prayers in Christ, as you have been pleased to accept the gifts of your servant Abel, the just one, the sacrifice of our father Abraham and of your high priest Melchizedek. We humbly ask you that this prayer may be lifted by the hands of your angel to your altar before you. May we be filled by the Holy Spirit in sharing in this Table when we receive the body and blood of your Son, and may we be gifted with all the graces and blessings of heaven through Christ, our Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XIV
After the Sanctus
Good God, we gather in houses from stone to pray to you. But you created us for a greater dignity: you live in the depths of our hearts. You sent us Jesus, your Christ, that your divinity may shine forth from our speaking and doing. He became the foundation, the cornerstone of your Church into which we may be inserted as living stones. Accompanied and strengthened by him and in our weakness, we proclaim your kingdom, the kingdom of love and peace, the new and unfading city, the temple of your Spirit in which everything that lives praises you.
Therefore we ask you: Your Holy Spirit come upon these gifts of the earth, upon bread and wine, that your Son Jesus Christ may be living among us in these signs, as our hope and our salvation.
On the night in which he was betrayed, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, again gave you thanks, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, Father, we celebrate the memorial of your Son. People put him to death but you did not abandon him in death. He is alive. He reigns in your incomparable glory.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Christ, the stone whom the builders rejected, became the foundation of a new future not abandoned to decay. He lives among us in his word. He lives among us in the signs of his salvation. He lives among us in the closeness of each human being in need of our love and affection.
Father, look upon your whole Church. Make it more similar to Christ, sign of your care for us, sign of your feast with us, sign of the everlasting covenant in which your saints live with you. We ask you this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom you have given us all good things.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XV
After the Sanctus
All-merciful Father, we praise you and thank you: you told Moses your name and revealed yourself as God-with-humans. You led your people Israel through the desert, day and night, in the pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire. When the fullness of time had come, you sent your Son, the Emmanuel, in whom you are with us in bodily form, all the days until the end of this age. He made known to us your mercy, gave us healing and freedom.
On the night before he gave himself freely to death, he took bread, sang the praise of your great deeds, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup with wine, praised your mercy, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore we celebrate the memorial of your Son and do according to his commandment, bringing bread and wine before you and proclaiming his death and his resurrection. When he comes in glory he will wipe every tear from our eyes, death will be no more, sorrow and crying and pain will be no more; all things will be made new.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
We ask you, Father, send your holy, life-giving Spirit upon these gifts. In the bread which we eat and in the wine which we drink, make us one with him, your Son, our brother and Lord. Unite us in him to the fellowship with the patriarchs and prophets, with Miriam, Deborah, and Ruth, with John the Baptist, with Mary, the mother of your Son, with your apostles, with Mary of Magdala and with the whole cloud of witnesses.
We praise and magnify you and sing of your mercy together with our Bishop N., with the fellowship of bishops, with all women and men in the apostolic ministry and with all your people on earth through Jesus, your Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XVI (Christmas)
After the Sanctus
Truly, you are holy, God, our Father. We praise you through your beloved Son, our Lord and brother Jesus, the Christ. For in this night / on this day we may perceive that the fullness of time has come. Behold, he comes to do your will. Therefore we celebrate the meal which he commanded us as a memorial to him, so that, by giving thanks for your love, we may experience your presence.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup with wine, again gave you thanks, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, Father, we remember before you his incarnation and birth, his life among us, his humility to the death on the cross, his resurrection and exaltation to your glory, and, filled with hope, we await the day when he will come again and make all things new.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Father, we bring before you bread and wine, the tokens of the offering of your Son, and we ask you to sanctify these gifts by your life-giving Spirit. Unite us with your Son and with each other when we eat this bread and drink from this cup, proclaiming his death until he comes.
Strengthen our Bishop N., the fellowship of the bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Give to our departed the joy of your eternal light. At the end of our pilgrimage receive us into your glory, together with them, where, with Mary and Joseph, with the shepherds and wise men, with Simeon and Hanna, with the angels and with all who have found your salvation we will behold, praise and magnify you through your word become flesh, Jesus, our saviour, brother and Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XVII (Reconciliation)
After the Sanctus
Blessèd are you, Lord of all power and might, in your Son Jesus, the Christ, who came in your name. He is your saving word for humanity. He is the hand which you extend to sinners. He is the way in which your peace reaches us. God, our Father, because we had turned away from you, you drew us back by your Son, the good Shepherd. He was obedient for us unto death so that we might get back to you and to each other. That is why we celebrate the reconciliation which has been granted to us in your Son.
On the night, before he gave himself for us on the cross, he took the bread, praised you for your mighty acts, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup with wine, praised your compassion, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we celebrate the memorial of our reconciliation and proclaim the gift of your love, your Son who entered death for us, whom you set free from death and raised to your right hand.
We ask you: look on the signs of our devotion, on this bread and on this cup. Send your Holy Spirit on these gifts and sanctify them to be the body and blood of your Son. Accept us also in your Son and in this meal grant us the Spirit whom he has promised, the Spirit of unity who takes away what separates us, who brings us together in Christ and who makes us instruments of your peace.
Strengthen our bishop N., the fellowship of bishops, and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. As you have gathered us here at the table of your Son, in communion with Mary, his mother, (with Saint N.) and with all your saints, so gather the peoples of all nations and languages, of all classes and groups to the banquet of the eternal reconciliation and of the lasting peace through him, our brother and Lord, Jesus, your Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XVIII (Maundy Thursday)
After the Sanctus
You are holy indeed, God, our Father, and holy is your dear Son, your eternal Word. He has revealed your name to us and given us a sign of his love as he sacrificed himself for us.
On the night in which he was betrayed and, out his own free will, subjected himself to suffering, this is today, he took bread, praised you for your mighty acts, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup with wine, praised your compassion, gave the cup to his disciples saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, in this hour, we celebrate his memorial, his obedience unto death, unto death on the cross. You have exalted him and given him the glory and power that he may give incorruptible life to those whom you have entrusted to him, that we may know you, the only true God, and whom you have sent, Jesus, your Christ. So we come before you, with bread and wine, as he has commanded us, and celebrate the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. (Presider:)
Father, we ask you: Look upon the signs of our devotion, and sanctify these gifts through your Spirit. Give us in this bread and in this wine the Body and Blood of your Son, his life and the fellowship in him. Let us remain in him and keep us in the unity with our Bishop N., with the fellowship of the bishops, with all women and men in the apostolic ministry and with all your people on earth.
Lead us with Mary, the mother of your Son, with the disciples, with all who have already reached the end of their way, and with all who are still looking for you, to the joyful banquet of your eternal glory through Jesus, your Son, our Lord and brother.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XIX (Easter and Eastertide I)
After the Sanctus
We praise you, Father in heaven, in this night of joy (on this day / in this Eastertide). To rescue us from the power of darkness you did not abandon your Son in death. In him we have received freedom, the forgiveness of sins, the abundance of new life.
On the night before he suffered, he took the bread, spoke the blessing, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. After supper he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
In this way we celebrate Easter, the suffering and death of your Son, the new life which you have given him. He, the firstborn from the dead, exalted to your right hand, intercedes for us. He will come again in glory to give us the fullness of life. We bring bread and wine before you, the signs to which he himself has given the promise of his presence.
Send your Holy, life-giving Spirit upon us and upon these gifts that in them we might share in the fulness of life of your beloved Son. Make us witnesses to your love in the fellowship of your table.
Raise your Church to new life and rescue it from all powers of death of fear, of intolerance, of lack of freedom and of injustice. Raise our dead to your incorruptible life. When our own way comes to a close, give us the glory to which your Son has gone before us.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XX (Easter and Eastertide II)
Preface
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to praise you, the creator of all life, and to give thanks to you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
For you called him to new life from the grave and with him rescued our life from death.
Therefore in heaven the choirs of angels rejoice, and all creatures praise you. We unite our voices to theirs, as we join them to the everlasting praise of your goodness and glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
After the Sanctus
You are indeed holy, God, source of all holiness. You bring light out of darkness, life out of death, word our of silence. We thank you for our earthly life and for the world which you have given us. We thank you for the new world to come and for your love which will penetrate all. We praise you for your grace which you have bestowed on Israel, your chosen people: for the salvation from Egypt, for the gift of the promised land, and for your faithfulness to the covenant which you made with them. We thank you for leading them back from the exile and for the words of the prophets, not lost to us. We praise you for the death and resurrection of your beloved Son who fulfilled and will still fulfil your promises.
On the night before he suffered, he took the bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. After supper he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, Father, with this bread and this cup we remember the incarnation of your Son and the covenant whom he has made with us: Born in our flesh, he shared the table with the outcast and the sinners. He gave his life. In particular, in joy and gratitude, we remember today his resurrection.
(Deacon / presider:)
Great is the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Send your Holy, life-giving Spirit upon us and upon these gifts. Unite us and all who receive the Body and Blood of Christ in his communion and fellowship. Let us enter the splendour of your heavenly kingdom and receive our heritage with all your saints in light. We long for our resurrection and for the completion of the world, when Christ will come again in beauty and power to celebrate his promised great banquet with us.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XXI (Eucharist with children and families I)
After the Sanctus
Good God, we thank you for Jesus who came in your name as friend of the poor and children. He showed us how we can live with you and with each other. He came to overcome the evil and to set us free from fear and need. He promised us that his Holy Spirit would always be with us and help us to live as your children.
On the night before he suffered, he sat at table with his disciples and took the bread, he thanked you, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Then he took the cup with wine, blessed you, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
God, our Father, we stand before you. We bless and praise you. We remember the death and resurrection of Jesus. He takes us with him on our way to you.
We ask you: Send your Spirit that these gifts of bread and wine may become the body and blood of Jesus who loved us to his death. Give all of us who share in this meal the spirit of love so that more and more we may become one heart and one soul. Look on all whom we love. Be close to those who suffer and are sad. May our departed be happy with you. Look on all people on our earth. Guide all of us to the great feast in your kingdom where, with Mary and all the saints, we are happy for ever and praise you through Jesus Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XXII (Eucharist with children and families II)
After the Sanctus
You are holy indeed, great God. You are good to all of us. We thank you. We thank you especially for Jesus Christ. He came to us because we had separated ourselves from you. He opened us the eyes and ears so that we know that you are our Father and all of us are brothers and sisters. He has now joined us together at his Table that we may do what he did.
On the night before his death Jesus was together with his disciples to keep the passover meal with them. He took the bread, thanked you, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Then he took the cup with wine, blessed you, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore we have been gathered here, Father, and remember joyfully all that Jesus did for us and still does for us now.
(Presider / deacon:)
In this meal which he entrusted to us we celebrate his death and resurrection, the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we celebrate the memorial of your Son. You accepted his sacrifice. We ask you: Accept us too with all that we bring to you. Jesus gave his life. You raised him. He lives among us. When he comes again in glory, there will be no more need, nobody will cry and be said any longer.
Through your Spirit make us a fellowship of sisters and brothers when we receive the body and blood of your Son, the one bread and the one cup. Through this holy meal give us the strength to live according to your will. May we deal with the gifts of the earth from which bread and wine for this holy meal have been taken in reverence and responsibility. Make us join in helping that justice and peace may grow among us. May we at the end forever be with you, together with all who believe in you, and sing your praise together with Mary and with all the angels and saints. This we ask through Jesus, your Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XXIII (when remembering the departed)
After the Sanctus
Holy, immortal God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ and our Father, we praise and thank you because your mercy is infinite. For love you created us mortals and breathed in us life from your immortal life. You will not suffer that grow cold forever the hands that were raised to you, the eyes that looked for your beauty, the hearts that longed for your rest. You will not suffer those to perish in death whom you have called to eternal fellowship and communion with you, you give a share in the mystery of the death and resurrection of your Son.
On the night before he suffered, he took the bread, praised your great deeds, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Then he took the cup with wine, blessed your mercy, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until your Son comes again, we do what he has commanded us to do. We proclaim his death, his resurrection and his imperishable life with you.
Therefore we ask you: Send your life-giving Spirit upon these gifts that they may become for us the bread of eternal life and the cup of everlasting salvation. May we, by sharing in this meal, become one with your Son and with each other. Raise us at the end of time when he comes and makes all new; grant us then, (together with N. and) with all who have gone before us, the never-ending life in your glory. With our Bishop N., with all women and men in the apostolic ministry and with all your Church we praise you, God of life. You are worthy to receive the blessing and the honour and the power, for your created all things and people. Through your will they are, and in your love they remain in Jesus, our living Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
The Sundays in Ordinary Time
Trinity Sunday First Sunday after Pentecost
Collect
God, creator of heaven and earth, you are Lord of the universe. In Jesus Christ your Son, you shared our life and death. Your Spirit lives in us and keeps us alive. May your love, your loving-kindness and compassion find space in our lives. Your kingdom come. This we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Living God, accept our gifts and prayers. Help us to listen to your word and so share in your divine life through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Triune God, we thank you for celebrating and receiving this Eucharist. Let us be faithful in all we do and proclaim your power and glory in all the world. To you be honour and praise and worship, now and for ever.
Day of Thanksgiving for the Eucharist
Collect
God and creator of the world, it is your will that we live. We gather together as your community and celebrate the supper of your Son. Fill us with the gifts of his Spirit: with love as brothers and sisters, and with sure hope and confidence. We ask you this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of life, we bring bread and wine before you. As this bread has been prepared from many grains, and this wine been pressed from many grapes, so gather the many peoples from among all nations into the kingdom of your peace which we expect through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, you invited us to share at your table, you nourished us with your word and your meal on our way through this era, through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (1 Cor 1. 10-13,17)
God, our Father, through the cross of your Son you give us your salvation and bind us together as your church. Help us to live from the gospel and to be of one mind to be credible witnesses to your Christ. We ask this through him, your Son, our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 1. 14-20)
Merciful God, through your Son you call us to turn around and to believe in the gospel. Strengthen us by your Spirit that we may follow this call decisively. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading (Neh 8. 2-4a,5-6,8-10)
God, our strength and our joy, take from us all faintheartedness and sorrow. May we hear your word and keep it on our way to the fullness of life through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Eternal God, direct our actions according to your will and grant that we recognise your beloved Son in our sisters and brothers, him, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, you yourself magnify your name among the peoples. Give us in this bread and wine the food of immortality through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Jesus Christ, you have strengthened us with the Word and the Bread of life. Keep us trusting that you are close that we may experience your presence and grow in faithfulness to your commandments, who live, now and for ever.
If The Epiphany is celebrated on the Sunday after 6 January, the Sunday of the Wedding at Cana takes precedence over the Third Sunday after Epiphany (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time).
Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, All Readings
All-merciful God, you accept us in our weakness, you are our refuge. Be our comfort and our strength that we may give your justice and peace to others. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 1. 21-28)
God and Father of Jesus Christ, you give authority to your Son to proclaim words of life incorruptible. Open our ears and hearts that we receive his message and live from it through him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (1 Cor 12. 31 -- 13. 13)
God, source and origin of our life, from you come loving-kindness and patience. Free us from blind zeal, from egoism and wrath. May we advance in your knowledge until we see you face to face. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Great God, you created us in your image and likeness. Grant that we may turn to you with all our hearts and love our neighbours as your Son has done before, Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Gracious God, you created bread and wine that we may find food and joy from your gifts. May we find at this table the strength, the peace and the life which you promised through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, you have satisfied us with the food which you alone can give. May we live from it and rejoice in your loving-kindness and mercy, and may our joy bear fruit in good works. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 5. 13-16)
God, you are present when we call upon you. Make us the salt of the earth and the light of the world, that our fellow humans may recognise that you lead us and give us life. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 1. 29-39)
Mighty God, look on our helplessness. You know everything that holds us down and makes us sick. Restore us in the name of your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Is 6. 1-2a,3-8; Lk 5. 1-11)
Holy God, no one has the power to approach you, you meet us and call us to your service. Grant us to be ready to listen to your word and to praise your name before the people. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our Father, our names have been written in your palms. We put all our trust in you and your mercy. Stay with us in temptation and need, and protect us through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Merciful God, we come to you with gifts and prayers, trusting in your loving-kindness. Do not regard our sins and iniquities, but keep us in the fellowship with you in Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, in this celebration you have given us a share in your divine life. Let us never be separated from you but keep us in your love. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (1 Cor 2. 6-10)
God, hidden and incomprehensible, what no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, you have prepared for those who love you. Open our hearts for the great gift of your love. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit live and give life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 1. 40-45)
Father of all consolation, your Son has healed sick and given new meaning to their lives. Look with compassion on all the suffering people in our world, free them from loneliness and bitterness and give them your saving health. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading (Jer 17. 5-8)
Great God, source and hold of our lives, help us to trust in your word and your promise, for you alone are our hope and trust. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, lover of all you have created, it is your joy to be among the humans. Give us a ready and sincere heart open for you and your presence. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, as often as we celebrate the memorial of the sacrifice of Christ, our salvation is rendered present among us. Grant that we fulfil the commandment of your Son rightly through him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of life, you have strengthened us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. In the strength of this food we can live our everyday lives and endure in the hope for our future with you. Go with us on our way there through Christ, our Lord.
Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 5. 38-48)
Father in heaven, you make your sun rise on evil and good and send rain on righteous and unrighteous. Help us to accept each other as you accept us. We ask you this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, All Readings
Faithful God, your salvation you have not only promised but in your Holy Spirit given us already a share in your life. Free us from all that immobilises and prevents us from advancing in confidence to the abundance of life. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 6. 27-38)
Father of mercy and God of all consolation, preserve us from hard-heartedness and self-righteousness. Help us to forgive injustice and to accept each other in the spirit of reconciliation, as you accept us through your Son Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Merciful God, you have spoken to us through your Son. Make us meditate on your word and ponder it in our hearts that we may speak and act according to your law. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, we have gathered around the table of your Son. May we recognise in this holy meal what you will prepare for us at the end of time, and receive us into your eternal dwelling place through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we have shared in celebrating the meal of your Son and remembered his death and resurrection. Strengthen us through the power of this food that we may seek your glory and the well-being of our fellow humans, until we will have been made perfect in your love through Christ, our Lord.
Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Is 49. 14-15; Mt 6. 24-34)
God, you are for us Father and Mother, you know better than we do what we need. Take us out of the little worries of our everyday lives that we may be open for your kingdom and your righteousness. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (2 Cor 3. 1b-6)
God, you love us with inexpressible love. Through Christ we have great confidence in you. Work in us that we may serve you with sincere and joyful hearts, not according to the letter but from your life-giving Spirit. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading and Gospel (1 Cor 15. 54-58; Lk 6. 39-45)
God of life, you fill our hearts with your good news. Free us from self-righteousness, and make us credible in testifying to you and your word. This we ask through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, you created the world and do not abandon it from your hands. Look upon our perplexities in the necessities of our times. Pour out your Spirit on us and your world and renew the face of the earth. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, we offer you these gifts. Accept them as signs of our devotion and make them the sacrament of our redemption through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of life and holiness, in baptism you have made us new people. May we put away the habits of our former way of life and be renewed in holiness and righteousness. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 7. 21-27)
God, strength of the weak, help us that we will confess you not only with our lips but fulfil your will in our action and thereby build our lives on a secure ground. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (2 Cor 4. 6-11)
Great God, creator of life in the midst of all darkness, give us space when we are crushed, and show us ways when we are perplexed. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 8. 41-43; Lk 7. 1-10)
God, our Father, you do not regard origin or position, you are present for those who put their trust in you. Give us a wide heart, and may we together know the healing power of the gospel. This we ask through Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, you are for us like Father and Mother, our lives come from you and find their fulfilment in the light of your face. Keep from us what may harm us, and grant us what your salvation. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our creator, we offer bread and wine. In them we bring our lives before your face. Bless us and all your creation through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Holy God, you have renewed your covenant with us in the meal that we have celebrated. May we live as instruments of your peace. Help us to love where there is hatred; pardon where there is injury, reconcile where there is discord. Grant us the strength to understand our fellow humans, to love and to comfort through Christ, our Lord.
Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 9. 9-13)
All-merciful Father, you Son has come to call the sinners into his presence and to heal. Deliver us also from all self-righteousness and grant us your mercy. This we ask you through him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (2 Cor 4. 13 -- 5. 1)
God, our salvation, you burst the narrow confines of our small world. Grant that we may not become lost in the visible but look out to the invisible, to the habitations that remain, which your Son has prepared for us in your eternal home, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 17. 17-24; Lk 7. 11-17)
God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you are a God of the living, not of the dead. Fill us with your life-giving Spirit and help us to live in justice, peace and in accordance with your creation. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our creator, every good gift comes from you, the Father of lights. Fill us with your spirit that we know what is right, and, with your help, also do it. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, in the celebration of these mysteries we do what your Son has commanded us to do. Grant that we may praise and magnify you and, in doing so, receive your salvation through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we thank you for giving us divine life in the supper of your Son. May we always experience your love in this sacrament and live from its strength. We ask you this through Christ, our Lord.
Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Ex 19. 2-6a; Mt 9. 36 - 10. 8)
God, our creator, yours is the earth and all that is in it. Grant that we may be faithful workers in your vineyard, and send us to proclaim the liberating power of your gospel. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 4. 26-34)
God, our Father, every good gift and every growth come from you. You have promised us your kingdom. May we hope for its coming, even if we do not see how the seed of your word grows. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, All Readings
God of mercy, your Son has given his life for us. We may come to you with our guilt. Free us from the bonds of sin. Accept us in Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our hope and strength, without you we can do nothing. Help us that our thinking, speaking and doing may proceed from you and find their fulfilment in you. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, creator of the world, the grain from many ears and the grapes from many vines have been gathered for this bread and this wine. Gather in this way the peoples from all nations into the kingdom of your peace through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, you have strengthened us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. May your power work in us, and enable us to spend our lives following your Son who lives and gives life with you, now and for ever.
Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Jer 20. 10-13; Mt 10. 26-33)
God, source of all love, your unlimited trust has taken its habitation in us. Putting our trust in you may we proclaim your good news and witness to your faithfulness before all peoples. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 4. 35-41)
God, our salvation and strength, show us your saving help when fear and storms are threatening. You have proved it in Jesus whom you did not abandon in death. Save us through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, All Readings
Our Father, in Jesus, the crucified and risen One, you have given us the great sign of your love. All barriers have been broken down between us. Look on all who suffer from the burden of their crosses. Help us not only to look on ourselves but to join others in carrying their burden. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy God, grant that we have always reverence for your name and love you from all our hearts. Guide us by your hand and root us firmly in your love. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, your Son calls us to his table and gathers us to the fellowship of his supper. Grant us what these gifts of bread and wine signify, the life that never dies, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we thank you for having received the body and the blood of your Son. Guide us through your Spirit, that we adhere to you not only in words but may witness to your loving-kindness also by our actions through him, Christ, our Lord.
Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Rom 6. 3-4,8-11)
Loving God, in Jesus whom you raised from the dead we too share in your life. Free us from false security and anxiousness. Help us to walk the way of life in joy with Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading (Wisd 1. 13-15; 2. 23-24)
God, you are for us Father and Mother, whatever is and lives comes from you. You have created us according to your image and called us to life incorruptible. Help us to resist all powers of destruction, to preserve your creation and gratefully to be worthy of its gifts. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, All Readings
God, our Father, in Christ you have called us to the liberty of your children. Pull us out of all compulsions and addictions and lead us into the liberty and power of those who know themselves loved by you. This we ask you, the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God of our lives, in baptism you have made us children of light. Do not allow the darkness of unbelief to prevail over us. Keep us in the light of your faithfulness, and let the sun of your righteousness rise in this dark and unjust world. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, author of all good things, you yourself have given us the gifts which we offer you. Accept them as signs of our devotion, and give us the strength to live according to your will, that we may witness to your loving-kindness in our everyday lives through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, you are the physician of our souls and heal us by the strength of this food. Free us from the bonds of our faults and foolishness, and guide us into the way of peace through Christ, our Lord.
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 11. 25-30)
God, you created heaven and earth. We praise you and thank you that you have become close to us in Jesus, your Son. Free us from whatever presses upon us, and give us the knowledge of your mercy and loving-kindness. This we ask you through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (2 Cor 12. 7-10)
God, your power helps us in our weakness, and in your grace is our strength. Grant that we do not despair in our limits and helplessness but, in all our cares and necessities, throw ourselves on you alone. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Is 66. 10-14c; Lk 10. 1-12,17-20)
All-merciful Father, in you we experience comfort and shelter as at the heart of a mother. You carry us on your arms and fill our hearts with peace. Give us the courage to pass on the experience of your love. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our creator, in your beloved Son you have shown us your image of humanity and begun the renewal of all creation. Fill us with joy in the redemption and lead us into your future. This we ask of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Our god, we have prepared the table for celebrating the holy meal. You yourself enable us to do so worthily through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of mercy and love, we have celebrated the memorial of the passion and resurrection of Christ and received the holy sacrament. What your Son has given us in his infinite love may not become our judgement but our help to eternal salvation through him, Christ, our Lord.
Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Is 55. 10-11; Mt 13. 1-23)
Holy God, by your word was everything made. Open our ears and our hearts for you. May we trust in the power of your word that it might not return to us empty. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (Eph 1. 3-14)
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you have chosen us before the foundation of the world. In Jesus you have bestowed on us the redemption, the forgiveness of all our trespasses, from the riches of your grace. May our lives praise you and witness to your glory. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 10. 25-37)
Our God, your word is very near. We can live according to it and hold ourselves at your law. May we love you and each other with all our heart and all our soul, with all our mind and all our strength. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our life find its meaning and fulfilment in you. You show the light of truth to those seeking and give support and confidence to those doubting. Pour out the fullness of the Spirit upon all who confess your name that they may be a blessing for this world. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, author of all things, you grant food and drink for our daily life. Accept as tokens of our gratitude what you have put into our hands, through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God in our midst, you renew us through your sacraments. Grant us your help, and may the redemption which we have celebrated be efficient in our lives through Christ, our Lord.
Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Rom 8. 26-27)
Loving God, you know our toils and cares and help us in our weakness. Your Holy Spirit intercedes for us, bringing before you what is too deep for words. Give us confidence in all our needs. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (Jer 23. 1-6; Mk 6. 30-34)
God, shepherd of your people, you gather us when we are scattered. Take us back when we go astray, take from us all perplexity and fear and grant us always your mercy. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading and Gospel (Col 1. 24-28; Lk 10. 38-42)
God, our Father, in Jesus you come to us and give us hope in the abundance of life. May we not fail to hear his word in all the cares and occupations of every day. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Faithful God, you have called us into your service. Strengthen us in faith, in hope and in love. May we live with open eyes and hearts and keep on the way of your commandments. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we bring before you the products of the earth and of our labour. Be with us in the power of your Spirit when we celebrate the supper of your Son, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, rich in mercy and loving-kindness, you made us partakers in the supper of your Son. May we be one in him and become the light for the world. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Rom 8. 28-30)
Great God, Jesus has become our brother, and we may call you Father. May we comprehend this more and more with our hearts and minds and so find the abundance of life in Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (Eph 4. 1-6)
Good God, in faith and hope we are one body in Christ, your Son. May we bear and share with each other that we may we credible in proclaiming the message of life. This we ask you through him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 11. 1-13)
God, our Father in heaven, you give your good gifts to all living. Precede our petitions and give us your Holy Spirit that in him we may know to pray according to your will. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy God, the refuge of all who put their trust in you, without you nothing is righteous and nothing is holy. Guide us into the way of our life and help us so to use the passing goods that we may not loose the eternal ones. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Immortal God, you have given us bread and wine as food for our passing life. We bring these gifts before you; return them to us as the sacrament of immortality through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father, you have given us the bread of life and the cup of joy. Shape us in the image of your Son who has become our food in this sacrament, Christ, our Lord.
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Is 55. 1-3; Mt 14. 13-21)
God, the source of all life, in your creation you give us your gifts in abundance. Open our eyes and hearts for each other, that we may begin to share and all may be satisfied. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (John 6. 24-35)
God, friend of humans, your Son nourishes the hungry with the word of truth and the bread of life. Renew our minds and make us live in newness of life, in holiness and righteousness before you through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (Col 3. 1-5,9-11)
God, day for day you care for us and know what we need. Make us free that we may not get lost in the cares and toils of our days. Set our minds on things that remain, that we may share in Christ's life in glory, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, you create and guide our life. May we know your love to be anew every day, until we see you as you are. We ask you this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we come with gifts before you, trusting in your loving-kindness. What we do in honour of you may become a blessing for all peoples through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we thank you for the meal of your Son. May our share in this holy celebration be known in our everyday lives. This we ask you through him, Christ, our Lord.
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 19. 9ab,11b-13a; Mt 14. 22-33)
God, you are with us even if we do not perceive you in mighty signs. Free us from our anxieties and support our little faith, that we may know your presence and praise you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 19. 4-8; John 6. 41-51)
God, our strength, we are often desperate and helpless, like your prophet Elijah; we see no way and feel no strength. Help us when we languish, and strengthen us with the bread of life, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading and Gospel (Hebr 11. 1-2,8-19; Lk 12. 32-48)
Holy and strong God, as to Abraham and Sarah, so to give to us the power of faith in your presence. In the face of our helplessness, may we not despair but, in the readiness of faith, go to meet your Son, our Lord and brother Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
All-merciful God, we may call you Father and Mother, for you have adopted us as your children and given us the Spirit of your Son. Grant that we may grow in this Spirit and, in the end, receive the promised heritage through Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, we prepare the table for the holy meal in your honour. May the power of this meal be visible in our actions through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, our salvation, as Jesus, your son, healed the sick and brought dead ones to life, so may we, in our meeting with him, gain new strength and become heralds of the salvation which he has proclaimed to us, today and all days of our lives.
Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Is 56. 1,6-7; Mt 15. 21-28)
Good God, you love all people and make no distinction. Keep us from disrespecting and rejecting fellow humans who, like us, are strangers and pilgrims on the roads of this world. We ask you this, this Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (John 6. 51-58)
Our Father in heaven, from you comes the living bread, Jesus Christ, your beloved Son. May we and all the world be filled with his strength which flows and works into the life eternal. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (Hebr 12. 1-4)
God and Father of all people, we look to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. Give us perseverance and decisiveness, and may we walk on the way of faith in confidence. We ask this through him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Merciful God, what no eye has seen nor ear heard you have prepared for those you love you. Give us the strength to love you in all and above all, and so to receive the riches of your promises which exceed everything what we can hope for. We ask you this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, you have fulfilled the many sacrifices of the first covenant in the one sacrifice of the new covenant. Bless our gifts and give to all people what we offer you in your honour through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father, we received the bread of life and the cup of joy. Shape us in the image of your Son who has become our food in this sacrament, Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Rom 11. 33-36)
God in all and above all, source of all wisdom and knowledge, everything has been created from you, through you and to you. We come from you, and our ways lead to you. Make us open for you, for you are greater than our hearts. We praise and glorify you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading Gospel (Is 24. 1-2a,15-17,18b; John 6. 60-69)
God, shepherd of your people, you led Israel through the desert by a pillar of light and a pillar of cloud. To us you sent your Son as the way, the truth and the life. Keep us from complaining and leaving the word of eternal life, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Is 66. 18-21; Lk 13. 22-30)
God, our salvation, you have brought us together from many nations that together we may walk on the way of peace and justice. Strengthen our weak hands and feeble knees, and may we gather from east and west, from north and south and see your salvation in our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our Father, you bind all who believe in you on their ways together. Grant that we may love your word and long for what you have promised, that in the changes of this life our hearts may be fixed where the lasting joys are. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Wonderful and merciful God, you have shown to the world your love in the passion and death of your Son. Open our eyes that in the sign of bread and wine, we may recognise the depth of his devotion. Make us follow him on the way of obedience and love, him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we have celebrated the memorial of your Son, have eaten the one bread and drunk from the one cup. May we, in the strength of this food, join in walking on the way of faith to meet Jesus Christ our Lord. To him be glory for ever.
Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First and Second Readings (Jer 20. 7-9; Rom 12. 1-2)
God, our Father, you renew our minds that we may know your will and be transformed. Let us not be conformed to this world but trust in your word and confess it boldly in the power of your Spirit. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 7. 1-8,14-15,21-23)
God of our life, stir us up from our habits and securities. Grant that we give you honour not only with our lips but serve you and each other from the bottom of our hearts, in simplicity and joy. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (Hebr 12. 18-19,22-24a)
Great God, in the name of your Son you have called us to one communion and fellowship greater than the congregation gathered here. With the righteous made perfect since creation, with all the faithful in all the world and with all the angels and saints we praise and magnify your loving-kindness, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, creator of the world, every good thing comes from you. Plant in our hearts the love for you and bind us more and more to you. Give growth to what is good and holy, and preserve what you have worked. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, we have nothing what you would not have given us; yet we come before you with gifts and prayers. Hear us through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you have done great things for us. We thank you for our fellowship. Grant that we may never lose what you have given us in your Son, and give us a share when you will make everything new in Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 18. 15-20)
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we have gathered in the name of your Son, he is in our midst. May we live from the joy of the gospel. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 7. 31-37)
Living God, open our ears and loosen our tongues that we may hear and proclaim the gospel of your Son, to your glory and for the salvation of the world. This we ask through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading (Wisd 9. 13-19)
Holy God, your greatness surpasses all our understanding. Free us from presumption, from selfishness and from the burden of our cares, that we may be free to know the inexhaustible riches of your wisdom through our Lord and Master Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy God, you have adopted us as your beloved children. Look on all who trust in you. Strengthen us in the faith and love and give us a share in your life. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, you have fed your people in the desert with manna and made water to stream from the rock. You will feed us as well at the table of your Son. Accept the gifts which we have prepared for this meal through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good and faithful God, in the supper of your Son you make us always share in the life of the world to come. We thank you and pray: the Spirit, whom we have received, keep the hope alive in us and guide us to works of love, until you will make your creation complete through Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading and Gospel (Rom 14. 7-9; Mt 18. 21-35)
God, you are for us like a Father and a Mother. We do not hold our lives in our hands. We are yours, whether we live or whether we die. May we, trusting in you, pass your love to others and forgive each other as you always forgive us. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 8. 27-35)
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son humbled himself and entered the bitter way of his passion. When we suffer, and the quest for the meaning receives no answer, give us patience and confidence through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading and Gospel (1 Tim 1. 12-17; Lk 15. 1-32)
God of loving-kindness and compassion, you sent Jesus into the world to seek what was lost, and to accept what had been excluded. Lead us from all the ways of our lives back to him, the source of life eternal. To you be glory and honour through Jesus, your Son, in the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, creator and ruler of all things, graciously look on us. Grant that we serve you with all our hearts and know the power of your love. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we come before you with bread and wine to celebrate the memorial of your Son and to give you thanks. Be in our midst that our time may be illumined by the reflection of your glory through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, source of all life, you have called us to the table of your Son and known his presence. We thank you that you have us share in the love of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading (Is 55. 6-9)
God of wisdom and loving-kindness, your thoughts are not our thoughts, and our ways are not your ways. Guide us in your mercy that we may not stray from the way to you and not lose the goal, which you show us, out of sight. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (Js 3. 16 -- 4. 3)
God of peace and love, take away from our hearts all evil thoughts and wishes. Make us instruments of your peace, that the seed of your righteousness rise and the world become new in Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (1 Tim 2. 1-8)
God, Father of us all, we include in our petitions all whose names no one recalls before you and whose dignity has been disrespected. May the Sun of your Righteousness rise on us and your kingdom come through Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy God, you have commanded your people Israel to love you and the neighbours. Your Son has given us an example of this love to the end. Grant to us too the power to be faithful to this commandment, until we reach the goal of our lives. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we prepare bread and wine for the supper of your Son. May all who gather around his table know the salvation which he has brought us, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, friend of life, we thank you for having strengthened us at the table of your Son with your word and the meal of life. You have given us a share in his life and his glory. Be with us with your Holy Spirit and strengthen our hope in our fulfilment in you through Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Phil 2. 1-11)
Father, you have exalted Jesus, the tortured and crucified One, above all and given us a share in his life. May we live like he did, respect and assist each other and praise you through him, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading (Num 11. 25-29)
God, powerful in your signs, put your Spirit on all your people. Wake us from sluggishness and superficiality, and make us your witnesses that the world may know you and believe in whom you sent, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (1 Tim 6. 11-16)
Holy, magnificent God, you alone are immortal, you dwell in unapproachable light. Yours is honour and eternal dominion. Help us to stand before you in sincerity and integrity and in this way to give witness before the world to Jesus Christ through whom you give us eternal life. He lives and works with you in the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Great God, you reveal your greatness and power chiefly in showing mercy and sparing. Accept us in your loving-kindness even if guilt is burdening us. Grant that we may walk on the way of our life in hope and trust and reach the joy of your glory. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Our God, the gifts which we have prepared are tokens of our devotion. As the bread and the cup will be sanctified in the power of your Spirit, shape us more and more in the image of our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, it is your will that we may have life in abundance. You strengthen us by your word and the supper of your Son. We ask you: your Spirit free us from anxieties. Christ, whom we have received, penetrate our thinking, feeling and acting that we may always be your witnesses through him, Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Phil 4. 6-9)
All-merciful Father, you are rich for all who call upon you. We thank you that in everything we may come to you and let our requests be known to you. Keep our hearts and minds in the fellowship with Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (Gen 2. 18-24; Mk 10. 2-18)
God, our creator, you have entrusted your creation to us, not for dominating and exploiting but for preserving it. Give us knowledge and wisdom and make us grateful for the riches of your gifts. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (2 Tim 1. 6-8,13-14)
Faithful God, we call upon you: give us perseverance and endurance, self-discipline and love. Increase our faith and strengthen our faithfulness, that, in the power of your Spirit, we may pass on the message that you have entrusted to us. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, source of our joy, in your loving-kindness you give us more than we deserve and greater things than we request. Take away what may burden our consciences, and give us that peace which only your mercy can give. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Great God, accept our gifts, and what each one offers to your glory, may be for the salvation of all through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of loving-kindness and friendliness, you grace us with your gifts. May we not walk from one day to the next as if we lacked a goal, but keep us in the hope which you rouse in us through the supper of your Son. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading (Is 25. 6-10a)
God of life, you will wipe away all tears and take away anxiety and death for ever. Help us to console each other and to put our hope in you. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading and Gospel (Hebr 4. 12-13; Mk 10. 17-30)
God, our Father, our life is bare to you. Give us the Spirit of discernment and wisdom, that we may live according to your commandments and know the liberation which you give us through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 17. 11-19)
Father in heaven, it is your will that we always praise and thank you. Tear us away from all superficiality and fill our hearts with the knowledge of salvation, that we may give you thanks and magnify you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Great God, may your grace precede our thinking and acting and follow us, that we may keep your word in our hearts and be ready to do the good. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our salvation, you give us the peace and the strength to serve you with sincere hearts. May we honour you with these gifts and know the fellowship with your Son and with each other. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of mercy and loving-kindness, in this holy supper you already give us a share in the life of your Son. Preserve in us this grace, make us more and more the image of your Son, and make our fellowship with him complete when he comes, Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First and Second Readings (Is 45. 1,5-6; 1 Thess 1. 1-5b)
God, you alone are our Lord and there is no other. Take us by your hand, guide and strengthen us in the faith and in the hope which you give us through your Son, our brother Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 10. 35-45)
Good God, your Son has become the servant of all and has given his life for us. Help us that we may not lord it over others but serve each other as he has served us, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 18. 1-8)
God, our Father, hear us when we call and have mercy on us. Help us to deal with each other in justice and kindness and thereby to be credible in witnessing to your mercy through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, ruler of the universe, as you have revealed yourself to Israel, make yourself known to us too. Make us ready to follow your law, and give us hearts that serve you in sincerity. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and creator of the world, we offer bread and wine and prepare the supper of your Son. As you now gather us around his table, so unite us with all your saints at the supper of your coming kingdom through him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good and faithful God, you have gathered us in the supper of your Son which we have celebrated, that we may live with you and with each other in reconciled communion. May your Spirit work in us and keep in us the readiness to grant forgiveness and to make peace through Christ, our Lord.
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Ex 22. 20-26; Mt 22. 34-40)
God of love and peace, fill us with your Spirit. Free us from thinking only about ourselves and disregarding our neighbours. Give us the strength to pass on your mercy and love, even beyond borders. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (Jer 31. 7-9; Mk 10. 46b-52)
God, Father of your people Israel and Father of all people, have mercy on us. Take away all blindness of mind and heart, and fill us with your consolation, that we may proclaim your praise and magnify you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, First and Second Readings (Sir 35. 15b-17,20-22a; 2 Tim 4. 6-8,16-18)
God of justice, you listen to the cry of the afflicted. Look on the misery and desolation in the world. Break the power of the evil and lead us into your kingdom through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Good god, increase in us the faith, the hope and the love. Help us to listen to your word, that we may attain what you have promised. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father, we offer you bread and wine and ask you: gather us at your table and strengthen us with your power through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of life, we thank you that you give us fellowship in the supper of your Son. We ask you: keep us alive in the Holy Spirit and lead us towards the fullness through Christ, our Lord.
Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading and Gospel (1 Thess 2. 7b-9,13; Mt 23. 1-12)
God, our Father, you give us your word and your law. May it be at work among us and help us to do what we teach. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (Deut 6. 1-6; Mk 12. 28b-34)
Holy God, you have written your law in our hearts. Grant that we hear it and live accordingly in order not to be far from your kingdom. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Wisd 11. 22 -- 12. 2; Lk 19. 1-10)
God, you love the living, you look for us and invite us without reservation. May we meet your Son in this celebration who seeks out and saves the lost, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, shepherd of your people, it is your gift and your work if people serve you in sincerity. Take away from us what prevents us on our way to you, that we may go to find the joy which you have promised through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, accept us with these gifts, and through the celebration of our redemption give us a share in your salvation through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we have been guests at the table of your Son and shared the bread of life and the cup of salvation with each other. Preserve in us the new life which you have given us, that we may bring fruits of love for time and eternity.
Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading and Gospel (1 Thess 4. 13-18; Mt 25. 1-13)
God, friend of life, you did not abandon Jesus, your Son, in death and wish to lead us to life too. Give us a heart that is awake that your Son may not find us asleep when he comes, Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 17. 10-16; Mk 12. 38-44)
Merciful God, no one is little before you, you look on all who suffer need and affliction. Help us to share with each other and to accept the weak, that we may pass on the gift of your love through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 20. 27-38)
Mighty God, our ideas are often narrow and confined. Broaden our vision and open our hearts that we may see life with your eyes and praise you in joy eternal from face to face. This we ask you through your Son Jesus Christ, who lives and gives life with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, friend of humans, you have written us in your palms. Keep from us what may hurt us, and take away what may oppress us, that with joyful hearts we may praise and magnify you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, it is only small things which we offer. In your goodness grant us a share in the abundance of life. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the last Sundays in the liturgical year
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, we thank you for having nourished us with your word and the bread of life. Preserve us in your love and lead us on the way to you through Christ, our Lord.
Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 25. 14-30)
Immeasurably great God, it is from you that our talents come which we often hide because we are afraid. May we know that we win when we give ourselves away. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, All Readings
God, our creator, you do not abandon us and do not give us over to death. Your life-giving word will not pass away. May we, in confidence and joy, meet your Son when he comes in glory, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Mal 3. 19-20b; Lk 21. 3-19)
God, Sun of Righteousness, illumine us in all our darkness and trouble. Give us your word and wisdom that we may not be ashamed to confess you and gain salvation and life. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, the source of all good things, you alone are our Lord. Give us the knowledge that we will become free if we open our hearts to your will, and that we will find the perfect joy if we remain faithful in your service. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, look with kindness upon your people gathered for your praise. Accept what we offer, and increase through this celebration our love. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the last Sundays in the liturgical year
Prayer after Communion
Our Father in heaven, we live from your word and from the supper of your Son. Work through these great gifts that he remain in us and we in him, Christ, our Lord.
Sunday of Christ Coming Again
Reading Collects
Year A, All Readings
God of life, we believe and confess that your Son will come again to bring to perfection all that is. May we perceive to what great future we have been called together with all of creation. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, All Readings
God, our Father, your Son, raised to your right hand, is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. Keep all destructive powers away from us, rescue us from the darkness and guide us to the kingdom of justice, of love and of peace through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (Col 1. 12-20)
Eternal God, we give you thanks that you have rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred into the kingdom of your beloved Son. In him we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. May we be with him when he comes again in glory, he, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy and eternal God, you have set your Son free from death that we might have life through him. Open our hearts for the least of his sisters and brothers, that the world may know his justice, his peace and his love. Gather all people together in Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father in heaven, we come before you with our gifts, tokens of our readiness to fulfil your will. We ask you: receive us into the table fellowship of your Son, today and for ever.
Preface of the last Sundays in the liturgical year
Prayer after Communion
God and faithful God, in the supper of your Son you always give us a share in the life of the world to come. We thank you for this and ask: The Spirit whom we have received keep the hope alive in us and guide us to works of love, until you will bring your creation to perfection through Christ, our Lord.
Feast Days and Holy Days
31 December / 1 January: New Year's Eve and New Year's Day
Collect
Eternal God, our times are in your hands. We thank you that, in your grace, you have led us to this day. Keep us all the days of our lives in your ways and help us to do your will. This we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
or:
Collect
God, you are without beginning and without end. Whatever exists comes from you. We begin this new year in the name of your Son and ask you: go with us on all our ways through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, who keep our times in your hands, we offer you our gifts and the year ahead of us. May we find shelter in your love all the days through Christ, our Lord.
Preface for New Year and Jubilees
Prayer after Communion
Father in heaven, in Jesus you have given us your love. We thank and ask you: Be close to us all the days of this year in him, Christ, our Lord.
25 January: The Conversion of Saint Paul
Collect
God, the salvation of all people, by the preaching of your apostle Paul you brought the light of the gospel into all the world. May we be grateful for your word and witness before the world to your truth through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we come to you with our gifts and ask: Illumine our hearts with the light of the faith and fill us, who celebrate your meal, with the same Spirit who urged the apostle Paul to proclaim your light among the people, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of grace, you chose Paul to be the apostle of the gentiles and to call to unity. May we, through the meal we have celebrated, grow in the faith and in unity through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
2 February: The Presentation of the Lord
The Presentation of the Lord is remembered by a procession with candles and the following celebration of the Eucharist.
The Gathering
Prayer over the Candles and the People Present
God, the source and origin of all light, (on this day) you have revealed to Simeon and Hanna the Christ as the light to illumine the nations. Bless + these candles which we carry in our hands (and light throughout the year). Illumine our hearts that all, who with burning lights enter your house today, may in the end see the inextinguishable light of your glory. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
The Procession
The priest or one of the priest's assistants, normally the deacon, now invites all to join the procession, by using the following or some similar words:
Let us go forth in peace.
All: In the name of Christ. Amen.
The cantor or the schola now begin the Canticle of Simeon. The Canticle of Simeon is part of the indispensable elements of this service.
Different sequence:
Blessing of the Candles - Canticle of Simeon - Invitation to Procession
If the distance is longer, other hymns, anthems or chants may be sung.
The Celebration of the Eucharist
Collect
God, Father of lights, Jesus, your Son, was today presented in the temple as yours and recognised by Simeon and Hanna as the true light that enlightens all the world. Holding burning candles in our hands, we ask you: Dispel all darkness from our hearts and make us witnesses to your light, until we praise you in the Holy Spirit through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or:
Eternal God, merciful Father, you gave Simeon to see your saviour, and gave Hanna words to praise the redeemer. We ask you: open our eyes, too, that we may behold the splendour of your love in your son Jesus Christ and confess him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Great God, your Son sacrificed himself for the life of the world. Accept us and all the world in these gifts through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God of your people Israel and Father of all humankind, we thank you for this celebration. You fulfilled the prayer of Simeon and Hanna and made them behold the salvation of the world, after many years of waiting. Give to us as well that we may live in hope and confidence, meet Christ and find fulfilment in him, who lives and works with you, now and for ever.
24 February: Saint Matthias, Apostle
Collect
God, you know the hearts of all humans. It was your will that Matthias be joined to the college of apostles. By the ministry of faithful shepherds and teachers, keep your church in your truth through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, accept our gifts and our praise and strengthen our weak faith through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, you give to your people a share in your life. Keep us who have received the bread of life and the cup of salvation faithful to Christ, our Lord.
19 March: Saint Joseph of Nazareth
Collect
God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, you chose Joseph from the family of David and entrusted to him the care for your Son. Help us to keep your word and to live before you in righteousness through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, origin of all things, you give food and drink for our daily lives. What you have given into our hands in our hands accept as signs of our gratitude through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Our Father in heaven, on the feast of Saint Joseph you have gathered us around the table of your Son. You have fed us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. May we increase through this meal in wisdom and grace through Christ, our Lord.
25 March: The Annunciation of our Lord Jesus Christ
Collect
God of your people, through the message of the angel you have announced the incarnation of your Son. Pour your grace into our hearts and lead us, through his passion and cross, to the glory of the resurrection through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father of light, accept all we offer before you today. May we share in your wisdom and love through Christ, your incarnate word.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Eternal God, we thank you for your word and for this supper with which you give us life. May we, like Mary, by being obedient to your will, be sisters and brothers of your Son, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
25 April: Saint Mark, Evangelist
Collect
God, shepherd of your people, you chose Mark to proclaim your salvation through the word of the gospel. May we listen to the message and believe it and faithfully follow our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our salvation, accept our gifts and our praise and keep us faithful to your gospel through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, we thank you for the gifts which we received at your table. Strengthen us by them in our faith in the salvation which you make known to us in the message proclaimed by Saint Mark the evangelist through Christ, our Lord.
1 May: Saint Philip and Saint James, Apostles
Collect
Mighty God, you gave grace and strength to the apostles Philip and James to bear witness for Jesus Christ. Grant us fellowship with your Son, that we may confess him fearlessly as our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, we magnify you, for your power has been made perfect in the weakness of your apostles. Accept us with our gifts and prayers through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
HOly God, in Jesus Christ we find the way to you. WE have listened to his word and have met him in his supper. Preserve us in your unending love through him, Christ, our Lord.
11 June: Saint Barnabas, Apostle
Collect
God of all consolation, you chose Barnabas, full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, to go to the gentiles as the messenger of reconciliation and consolation. Lead all people to the liberty of your children and keep us faithful to Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, accept what we offer today. Kindle in us the fire of that love through which your apostle Barnabas bore witness to the gospel, to Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of loving-kindness, we have heard your word and received the bread of life at the table of your Son. Strengthen our witness for your truth in the world, and lead all people to your kingdom of justice and peace through Christ, our Lord.
24 June: The Birth of Saint John the Baptist
Collect
Blessèd are you, God of Israel. You called John the Baptist to guide your people to meet Christ. Give us the joy in the Holy Spirit, and guide all who believe in you into the way of salvation and peace through Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our salvation, accept the gifts which we offer you today in festal joy. Make us free that we may serve you without fear, in holiness and righteousness all the days of our lives through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Saint John the Baptist
Prayer after Communion
We thank you, God and Father, for your word and your banquet. Your tender compassion has broken upon us as the dawn from on high. Grant us thoughts of righteousness, and guide our feet into ways of peace through Christ, our Lord.
29 June: Saint Peter and Saint Paul
Collect
God of your people, your apostles Peter and Paul glorified you in their life and in their death. Grant to your church, taught by their teaching and example and made one in unity by your Spirit, to stand firm on the one ground, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, glorified in your saints, accept the gifts which we bring on the feast day of your apostles. Support us in our weakness, that the power of Christ may be made perfect in us. To you be glory for ever.
Prayer after Communion
Our Father in heaven, renew the life of your church by the power of this sacrament. Grant that we may devote ourselves to the breaking of the bread and the teaching of the apostles and be united in your love in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
2 July: The Visitation: The Visit of Mary to Elizabeth
Collect
God, unsearchable in your will, you chose Mary, the young woman from Nazareth, to be the mother of your Son. She listened to your word and followed it with a faithful heart. Grant that we may also open ourselves to your word and magnify your wonders through Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
or:
Collect
God, great in your mercy, you have looked with favour on your lowly servant Mary and chose her to be the mother of your Son. Give us a humble heart, that we may join her in praising your goodness and receiving your mercy. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of mercy, accept our gifts, as you have accepted the service of Mary, the mother of your Son Jesus Christ, who lives with you and in our midst, now and for ever.
Preface of Mary
Prayer after Communion
God of faithful love, we have been strengthened by your gifts which we received. Help us always to praise you for the great things you have done to us through Christ, our Lord.
22 July: Saint Mary of Magdala
Collect
God, our salvation, your Son chose Mary of Magdala to be the first to proclaim his resurrection to the disciples. Give us the courage to bear witness to him, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of life and salvation, accept our gifts, as your Son has accepted the gifts of the women on his way, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of mercy, we have celebrated the death and resurrection of your Son and shared in the wedding banquet of the Lamb. May we, by bringing the message of the resurrection of your Son to this world, full of suffering and death, become witnesses to the new life in Christ, our Lord.
25 July: Saint James the Greater, Apostle
Collect
God, glorified in your saints, James was the first apostle to seal the testimony to Christ with his blood. Grant to your church the courage to confess the faith, and may your kingdom come. This we ask through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, today we honour James, who was the first apostle to have drunk the cup of suffering. Accept our gifts as signs of our devotion, and preserve us in the faith in Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, friend of mortals, we have eaten the bread of life and drunk from the cup of salvation. Give us strength to serve the people, so that, in compassion and mercy, we may follow Jesus Christ, who lives and works with you, now and for ever.
6 August: The Transfiguration of the Lord
Collect
God, Father of all light, on the holy mountain you revealed, in your beloved Son and before chosen witnesses, our future glory. May in the darkness of this age shine your light to us, Jesus Christ, your image and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, accept our gifts and show us your glory, as it shone to the disciples in Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, in the symbol of the supper which we celebrated you grant us a share in your glory now already. Give us the strength to witness to your Son in word and deed, who lives with you and in our midst, now and for ever.
15 August: The Dormition of Mary
Collect
Eternal God, on the day when Mary, Mother of God, feel asleep, we thank you for the great things you have done for her. When our own way comes to an end, receive us into your kingdom, that, in fellowship with Mary, we may praise and magnify you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Great God, we bring our gifts before you and praise your mercy. Show strength with your arm and fill the hungry with your gifts through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Mary
Prayer after Communion
God, in your love you care for the weak and humble. We proclaim your holy name and praise the mother of our saviour. We thank you for the mercy which you bestow on us and all through Christ, our Lord.
24 August: Saint Bartholomew, Apostle
Collect
God of our forebears, the apostle Bartholomew believed and proclaimed your word. May your church persevere in the faith of the apostles and faithfully proclaim what they bore witness to unto death. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, accept our gifts and prayers. May we be faithful to Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of our salvation, you have nourished us at the table of your Son. Guide us on our way, and may your kingdom come in our time in Christ, our Lord.
8 September: The Birth of Mary
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you blessed those who hear the word of God and obey it. Strengthen our faith, that, like Mary, we may do your will. To you, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be praise and glory, now and for ever.
The Prayer over the Gifts and the Prayer after Communion are the same as on 15 August.
14 September: Feast of the Holy Cross
Collect
Compassionate God, you gave your Son to the trouble of the world, into the hard hands of the self-righteous. On the cross he brought salvation and life through his death. Give us open hearts for his love, that we may be borne by it and cling to you, whether we live or die. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Merciful God, we bring these gifts before you as the memorial of the passion of your Son. Through his death, the pillory of the cross has become the sign of hope. To you be glory and praise and honour, now and for ever.
Preface of the Passion of the Lord, II
Prayer after Communion
God, our hope, we thank you that you have given us a share in the supper of your Son. As he took our flesh and became like us, so may we follow him, Christ, our brother and Lord.
21 September: Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist
Collect
Merciful God, your Son called Matthew to be an apostle and evangelist. He continues to call people today who proclaim his message. Open us for his call and free us from greed and egoism that we may follow him, Jesus Christ, Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, we come before you with our prayers and gifts. You founded and strengthened the faith of the church by the preaching of the apostles. Nourish us with the word of truth and strengthen us with the bread of life through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of loving-kindness, in this celebration you grant us the same joy with which Matthew received the Lord into his house. May we be prevented from despising the invitation to the supper of your Son, who came to call all to salvation, Christ, the saviour of the world.
29 September: Saint Michael, the Archangel, and All Angels
Collect
God, greater than all powers and dominions, in a wonderful order you ordain the ministry of angels and mortals to finish your work. We ask you: Show your power in our lives, that, in good and bad times, we may know that you are close to and help. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, the cherubim and seraphim praise you. Accept the signs of our thank. May our praise be joined to the song of angels surrounding your throne. To you be glory for ever.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Holy God, you have nourished us with the bread of heaven and the cup of life. May we, in the strength of this food, continue on the way of salvation and praise and glorify you through Christ, our Lord.
First Sunday in October: Harvest Thanksgiving
Collect
God, creator of the world, you entrusted the earth to us and bless our human efforts. May we gratefully and joyfully accept your loving-kindness, be worthy of your gifts and share with those who suffer. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, in gratitude we bring gifts from the fruit of the earth and of our labour before you. We bring bread and wine to celebrate the supper, which your Son has commanded us, and we pray: Accept us in these gifts and all the world with its weal and woe, through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we thank you for our daily bread, for your word and for the food that remains unto life eternal. May we pass on your gifts and witness to the people about your love. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
18 October: Saint Luke, Evangelist
Collect
Jesus Christ, your evangelist Luke made known your love to the poor and sick and reported of the faithfulness of the women who accompanied you on your way. May we see your face in the little and oppressed ones and give you glory, who, with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, are with us all the days and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, we glorify you, for your power has been made perfect in the weakness of your messengers. Accept us with our gifts and prayers through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, friend of life, we thank you for the medicine of immortality which you have given us in this meal. Send us to heal the sick and to proclaim the gospel to the poor through Christ, our Lord.
28 October: Saint Simon and Saint Jude Thaddeus, Apostles
Collect
God, at all times you call people to your service. We thank you that, by the message of the apostles, you have led us to know your Son. Send us messengers who proclaim your good message. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, we glorify you, for your power has been made perfect in the weakness of your apostles. Accept us with our gifts and prayers through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Great God, you have strengthened us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Your Holy Spirit, who filled us and our gifts, keep us in the faithfulness and love to you through Christ, our Lord.
1 November: All Saints
Collect
Holy and eternal God, you accepted us into the communion of your saints who, at all times and in all places, glorified your name. May we know with gratitude that we have been joined to an endless choir of those who believe, bound together in the confession of you and in the joy that we will see you face to face. We ask this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy and strong God, we give you thanks for your saints. Accept our gifts and help us to follow Christ, who lives with you for ever.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Holy, immortal God, we praise your glory reflected in the saints. Lead us in our pilgrimage to the wedding banquet of eternal life where you yourself will be the perfection of the saints and we may see you face to face. To you be glory and praise for ever.
2 November: All Souls
Collect
God of all life, we believe and confess that you raised your Son as the firstborn of the dead. Strengthen our hope that you will also raise our sisters and brothers to eternal life. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Gracious and righteous God, look with kindness on our gifts and hear our prayer. With all who have gone before us, lead us to the glory of your Son, who lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Preface for the Commemoration of the Dead, II
Prayer after Communion
God of love, we have celebrated the memorial of the death and resurrection of Christ. Direct our eyes beyond the graves; may we with confidence meet your future and gain the life in Christ, our Lord.
7 November: Saint Willibrord, First Archbishop of Utrecht
Collect
Good God, friend of mortals, you called Willibrord to be a messenger of your light. Illumine our hearts that in our times we may proclaim your mighty acts and gladly witness to your message, to Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our salvation, we bring our gifts on the feast day of Saint Willibrord and ask you: keep us in the faith through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Father in heaven, we thank you for the supper of your Son which we celebrated on the feast day of Saint Willibrord. Grant that this food and this drink increase in us the faith, hope and love. Send us out to the people that, in word and deed, we may be witnesses to your Son, Christ, our Lord.
30 November: Saint Andrew, Apostle
Collect
God, friend of mortals, Andrew followed the call of your Son without hesitation and brought his brother Simon Peter with him. Give us the strength to follow Jesus Christ unreservedly and to lead others to him. This we ask you through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our fathers and mothers, may the meal which we celebrate with these gifts strengthen us on our way to you, through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, strengthen us by the food which we received at your table. May we, like the apostle Andrew, follow the Crucified One and be brought to the resurrection through him, Christ, our Lord.
21 December: Saint Thomas, Apostle
Collect
Eternal God, hidden and yet close, you led your apostle Thomas to faith in the resurrection of your Son. Preserve our faith when we doubt, that, like him, we may confess Christ as our Lord and God, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Living God, accept our gifts and keep in us the hope in the life of the world to come through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all good things, we have celebrated the supper with your risen Son and received the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Strengthen us, that we who do not see yet believe through Christ, our risen Lord.
26 December: Saint Stephen, Deacon, First Martyr
Collect
God of mercy and love, on this day we honour the first martyr of the church. Grant that, by loving our enemies, we may follow the example of Saint Stephen who, while dying, prayed for those who persecuted him. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father of all, accept these gifts as signs of our readiness. May we, like Stephen, serve you and our fellow humans with singleness of heart through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Faithful God, we thank you for this holiday period. In the birth of your Son you grant us your salvation. In Stephen, the deacon, you show us the example of faithfulness unto death. Strengthen us, that in our lives we may give witness to your Son, Christ, our Lord.
27 December: Saint John, Apostle, Evangelist
Collect
Loving God, you called the evangelist John to proclaim the incarnation of your eternal Word. In great love he accompanied your Son until under the cross. We ask you: Fill us with your love. May Christ grow in us that we, with our minds illumined and our hearts filled with love, grasp what you have done to us. Through him we praise you in the Holy Spirit, now and all days and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father of light, accept all we bring before you today. May we share in your widom and love through your incarnate Word, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Eternal God, John proclaimed your Son as the Word that took flesh among us. We heard his word, received him as the bread of life and drank from the cup of salvation. May we stay with you and behold your glory in him, Christ, our Lord.
28 December: The Children of Bethlehem, Martyrs
Collect
Father in heaven, with the children of Bethlehem receive all into the arms of your mercy who innocent are handed over to death. Frustrate the evil in this world, and establish among us the kingdom of your justice, your love and your peace through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Righteous God, accept the gifts which we bring before you. Preserve us from cruelty and indifference to the suffering of innocent. May we be advocates of the weak and exploited through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Our Lord and brother Jesus Christ, comforter of the oppressed and saviour of the broken, you have nourished us at the table of hope and life. May we be peaceful and compassionate for the suffering. Have mercy on all children of this earth who have become victims of brutality, who, with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, are with us all the days and for ever.
At the Anniversary of the Dedication of a Church
Collect
God, creator of heaven and earth, year after year we celebrate (in joy) the blessing of this house, thanking you for the communion with all who have worshiped here and still do. Fill those who seek you here, with your joy and peace in the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father in heaven, accept the prayers of your people, and grant that all who celebrate the eucharist may be built up as living stones of your church through Christ, our Lord.
Preface for the Anniversary of the Dedication of a Church
Prayer after Communion
God, whom no temple can contain, you have gathered us here and strengthened us with your word, with the bread of life and the cup of blessing. Gather us also at the day of your glory for the eternal wedding supper in your heavenly Jerusalem. We praise and worship you through Christ, our Lord.
Commemorations of Martyrs
Collect
Faithful God, you have given Saint N. the courage to confess Jesus Christ and to witness to this faith unto death. Make us ready, by giving an account for the hope which is in us, to follow your Son who in the unity of the Holy spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, great in your saints, you have strengthened Saint N. in faith and in trust in your might. Make us, too, grow in the confidence that in all the needs of our life you are with us and we may know your salvation in Jesus Christ, the Crucified and Risen One, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Commemorations of Holy Men and Women
Collect
God, our Father, you alone are the Holy One, and no-one is good without your help. Grant that, like Saint N., we may live according to your will and reach the goal which you mean to give us. This we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, inscrutable wisdom, you have poured out your Spirit upon your daughters and sons and in visions made known to them your greatness and loving-kindness. We thank you at the feast of Saint N. that you have filled her/him with the spirit of counsel, of might and piety, and with love to you and her/his neighbours. We ask you that we, by also following your Son, may know the joy that lasts through him, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
At the Synod and for Other Meetings
Collect
God, source of all wisdom, be close to those who have gathered to consider the renewal and mission of your church. Teach us in all things first to seek your glory. May we know what is right, and give us the courage to do so. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God and Father, your Son has promised to be in the midst of us when we gather together in his name. Pour out your Spirit over us; bless what we discuss and resolve; give us to consider what is necessary, and to do what serves your glory. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our Father, you have called us into the universal fellowship of your church. Send us the Spirit of wisdom, truth, and peace. May we know what you expect of us, and make us ready to accomplish with one mind what we have recognised as your commission. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
For Peace
Collect
God of peace, it is your will to reconcile everything in heaven and on earth. May the plan of your great love dawn upon our acts of destruction and our pain, and give peace to your church, peace among the people, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, friend of life, we hunger for peace and thirst for love; we are afraid of injustice and hatred. May your Spirit work among us, that we may give love and peace to each other and are ready to share with each other. This we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our creator, the antagonisms in the world accuse us: riches and need, hunger and abundance, carelessness and suffering face each other. Help us all that we stop aggravating the antagonisms, and begin being brothers and sisters to each other in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Mission and Expansion of the Faith
Collect
God of all peoples and periods, you have sent your Son into the world as a light for the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. We ask you to glorify your name among the people, and lead all coming to the faith to your eternal kingdom of justice and love through him, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Unity of Faith
Collect
God, shepherd of your people, you call men and women from all countries and peoples to follow your Son. We ask you to destroy the walls that separate us from each other, and make us be one in your love, that you may be known among the peoples: the Father of us all, with the Son, in the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ and our Father, before he suffered your Son prayed that all may be one. May we become one with him as he is one with you. Gather all under the one shepherd, Jesus, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, we bring bread and wine for the supper as your Son has commanded us. As this bread has been brought together from many grains, and the wine from many grapes, so gather your church from the ends of the earth to be one people through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God of our life, we thank you that you have strengthened us through your word and the supper of your Son. Gather all, who have become one through the one baptism, around the one table of your Son, Christ, our Lord.
For Celebrating Confirmation
Collect
God of our life, anoint us with the oil of gladness and pour out your Spirit upon us. Strengthen us through him in faith, encourage us to follow Jesus, and gather us in the fellowship of your people through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, hear our prayer and accept these gifts as tokens of our readiness to open ourselves for your Holy Spirit through Christ, our brother and Lord.
Preface of the Holy Spirit or of the liturgical season
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, we thank you. You have anointed us with your Holy Spirit and strengthened us with the Body and Blood of your Son. Stay close to us and make us walk confidently on the way of our life in the power of your gifts, until everything is accomplished in your eternity.
For a Wedding
Collect
God of life, you have gathered us before your altar to celebrate this wedding. Preserve the couple N. and N. and all of us from expecting happiness only from ourselves. Grant that in the midst of this world, we may look to Jesus who is our way and our end and who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of love, we ask you to accept our thanks which we offer on the wedding day of the couple N. and N. May they always know to be a gift for each other through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Faithful God, we have been united in this supper with you and with each other. Stay all the days with N. and N. who have promised each other love and faithfulness for their whole life. May their love grow and all dangers be kept from them through Christ, our Lord.
Wedding Anniversary
Collect
God of loving-kindness, your goodness knows no end. We thank you for all the help which you have given to this marriage. We ask you that N. and N. may continue to grow in love and together reach the goal of their lives, you, the eternal God, who with your Son and the Holy Spirit rules and governs all creation, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, graciously accept these gifts as tokens of our gratitude. Bring our human desire for happiness on earth and in heaven to fulfilment through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Faithful God, we thank you for the joy of this celebration. We have eaten from the one bread and kept communion with you. Give N. and N. the strength even in the days to come to grow in this communion which they have begun before you. May they pass on their love which you have given them. Strengthen them to do so with your Spirit through Christ, our Lord.
At a Funeral
Collect
Father of mercy, you are our light and our life. Through the death and resurrection of your Son you have taken the hopelessness of death from us. Take N. up in your grace and raise her/him to fullness of life which your Son has promised us, Jesus Christ, our hope, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God and Father, you do not wish that one of your human creatures perish. Much more than us seeking you, you are always seeking us. Hear our prayer for N. Do not regard her/his sins but the good that she/he has done. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, our hope, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God of all consolation, we are helpless in the face of the death of N. and do not understand. It is hard for us to see your justice and wisdom in it. We ask you to take N. up into your peace, and to give us strength and consolation in this hour of trial through Jesus Christ, the Crucified and Risen One, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Living God, you have given your Son as our bread and our life beyond death. May we find strength and consolation in this hour, as with this bread and wine we celebrate the memorial of his passion and confess his resurrection, until he comes in glory, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the Departed I or II
Prayer after Communion
God, you are a God of the living, not of the dead. In the supper of your Son we may always know that he is with us on the ways of our life, that he remains our hope beyond death. We ask you to accept our sister / our brother N. into the communion of all those made perfect, and to give her/him a part in the banquet of that life which is imperishable through Christ, our risen Lord.
 

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The Celebration of the Eucharist
in the Catholic Diocese of the Old Catholics in Germany
For the liturgical use
drafted by the Liturgical Commission
and edited by the Bishop and Standing Committee
Bremberger Brothers Publishing House Munich
1995
Second edition 1997
© Liturgical Commission of the Catholic Diocese of the Old Catholics in Germany 1995
The present publication is the official altar book of the Old Catholic diocese in Germany; this church has been in full communion with the Anglican Communion since the 1931 Bonn Agreement. It is therefore fitting that the book which is used in the parishes of this diocese – and in many a Roman Catholic or Lutheran parish in Germany, in convents, and in Old Catholic parishes in other countries – should be made available in an English version to bishops, liturgists, and other interested people in the Anglican Communion and beyond.
The aim of this English version is to allow those who are interested and unable to use the original German book a look into the heart of this part of the One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church. The original intention had been to present a form which would lend itself to being instantly used in a liturgical setting. For reasons quite beyond the justification of anyone involved in this endeavour, a thorough revision of the draft translation has proved not to be possible without a delay which would be intolerable. It is for this motive that this present version is made available.
The texts do not exactly correspond to a Cranmerian style. This is not only due to the virtual impossibility to revise them, as outlined above, but also in order to offer a glimpse into the spirituality and thinking at present alive in this church. It may serve as an invitation to receive some inspiration when it comes to the contents of a particular day or season. This is also the reason why, although the entire book has been copyrighted by the Liturgical Commission, permission has been given freely and officially to use the texts contained in this publication as a resource. After all, official liturgical texts are not the property of any one body or church, let alone any individual, but the vehicle for the entire people of God to worship God. If anyone desires to use a text from this collection, the Liturgical Commission appreciates a reference to the altar book of this diocese, but does not restrict the use otherwise or will make it dependent upon prior inquiry and approval. It is satisfied if any one text should indeed serve its purpose of bringing the voice of the people of God to the One whom to worship is our primary task and glory.
As should be the normal case among sister churches, some Anglican churches, in particular The Anglican Church of Canada, have graciously given permission to use some of their texts in a German translation for being included among the prayers contained in the German altar book. In case an English text has been used as a source in its entirety, the original place has been indicated; in most instances, the original English version appears here, too. In other cases, the version presented here is an English rendering of what the Liturgical Commission has made of the original text. Those reading and using the English version should therefore always consult their Anglican sources for a particular text, should it look even remotely familiar. In case the English version (at least literally) corresponds to the Anglican source, the copyright is still held by the respective authority, and the text re-translated into English is in this case not in the public domain.
A history of the origins of this book and a broad interpretation of its contents can be found in an article by Thaddeus A. Schnitker, "Die Feier der Eucharistie: Das neue alt-katholische Eucharistiebuch", in Liturgisches Jahrbuch, 45 (1995), 238-249.
Inquiries, comments or any correspondence about this book may be addressed to The Chaplain to the Bishop, Catholic Diocese of the Old Catholics in Germany, Gregor-Mendel-Strasse 28, 53115 Bonn, Germany.
The Incarnation
First Sunday of Advent
Collect
Living God, come to save us. Free us from the power of sin and injustice, and help us to walk in the way of justice to meet Christ so that he may find us awake when he comes, he, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, whatever we are and have comes from you. Accept our prayers and gifts as signs that we are yours through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent I
Prayer after Communion
Living and life-giving God, you have again fed us at the table of your Son. May we, in the power of this food, go to meet your Son who will lead us to you, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
Second Sunday of Advent
Collect
Stir us up, holy and strong God, that we may serve you with ready hearts. Do not let the daily tasks and cares prevent us from meeting your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, we bring our gifts and pray: come and help us in our helplessness and limits through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent I
Prayer after Communion
Father, we thank you for your word and for the meal which me received. Teach us who joined in this celebration to see the world with your eyes and to love what remains more than what passes away
through Christ, our Lord.
For Weekdays in Advent I (until 16 December inclusively)
Collect
Eternal God, you announce your coming in the midst of our dark age. Make us watchful that we count on you in everything and trust you through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Collect
God, our Father, it is through your mercy that we have become a new creation in Christ. Do not turn your eyes from us. Heal all the wounds of our guilt by the coming of your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Collect
Gracious God, may your grace precede our efforts and follow our works, that we may obtain help for our lives and with great desire expect the coming of your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Collect
God of light, let your glory shine in our hearts and take the shadows of death of our sins away, that we may be revealed as children of light when your Son comes, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our lives, we come before you with prayers and gifts. Whatever we have comes from you. We ask you to call us to your table in the coming kingdom of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent I
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, you have given us new strength by your word and the bread of life. Lead us through this dark age and turn our eyes to the coming of your Son, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
Third Sunday of Advent
Collect
God, our Father, light and joy come into the world by your Son. Help us to give this light and this joy to others so that all people may experience your loving-kindness. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, we bring these gifts before you as your Son has commanded us. Give to all the world the salvation which you have promised through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent I or II
Prayer after Communion
God of mercy, we have experienced in this holy meal how good you are to us. You free us from all guilt. Approaching the coming feast with much joy we thank and praise you through Christ, our Lord.
Fourth Sunday of Advent
Collect
Stir up your power, our God, and come. Let your mercy help us that we do not fail to meet your Son by our idleness and languor. We ask this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father in heaven, what we bring is your gift. Accept these gifts and bless them. We praise you through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Advent II
Prayer after Communion
God, source of all joy, we thank you for having given us, in this meal, a share in your life now already. Make us expect the coming of your Son in joy and be the more eager in your service the more the feast of his birth is at hand, of Christ, our Lord.
For Weekdays in Advent II (after 16 December)
Collect
God, our Father, in these days we prepare ourselves to celebrate the incarnation of your Son in a dignified manner. Let our prayer come to you and bless our efforts that our life be renewed and find new roots in you. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Collect
O Father, you alone are God. In Jesus Christ, your Son you come to us helpless and yet, you are stronger than all powers of this world. We ask you in these days: Strengthen us by your Word and Sacrament until he comes again, your Son Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Collect
Father in heaven, we pray: In these days prepare our hearts to be a home for your Son that we may receive him with us and praise and magnify you in joy through him who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Christmas -- In the Night
Collect
God, source of all life, the radiance of your divine light has dawned upon us in this holy night. Grant that we perceive and keep this mystery in faith until we shall see your glory unveiled. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, in joy and thanksgiving we offer our gifts and pray: Let us grow into the likeness of your Son whom you have given us, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Christmas II
Prayer after Communion
God, close to us, we rejoice over the birth of our Saviour. Grant that we follow him in all the ways of our lives und come to your eternal joy through him, Christ, our Lord.
Christmas Day I
Collect
All-merciful Father, your Word became flesh and brought us your light. Help us to pass on this light. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of peace, fill these gifts of the earth with your blessing. Unite us in this holy meal with your Son and grant us your loving-kindness through him, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Christmas II
Prayer after Communion
Merciful God, we give you thanks. As you have given us your Son and united us with him in this meal, so preserve our joy and our gratitude through him, Christ, our Lord.
Christmas Day II
Collect BAS *
God, you wonderfully created us in your image and likeness and yet more wonderfully restored us. May we share the divine life of your Son who humbled himself to share our humanity. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, accept our prayers and offers and this whole world with its weal and woe for which, out of love, you gave your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Christmas II
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father in heaven, we thank you that you have made us glad by the birth of your Son and nourished us in this meal. Yours is the glory for ever.
Between Christmas and Epiphany
First Sunday after Christmas (Sunday in the Octave)
Collect
God, our Father, your Son has become like us in every respect and shown us the way of life. Make us share his mind and pass on his mercy and loving-kindness. We ask you this through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Octave Day of Christmas (1 January)
Collect
God and creator, you care for the work of your hands and meet us in Jesus Christ, our brother, who brings your salvation to the poor, release to the captives and joy to those who mourn. Open us, we ask you, to the mystery of his birth, give us faith and bless our lives, so that the world may know what you began among us in Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Second Sunday after Christmas
Collect
God of light, you illumine all who believe in you. Reveal yourself to us that we may know you and turn our hearts to you. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
The Prayers over the Gifts and after Communion are the following or taken from those of Christmas.
On the Octave Day, the prayers for New Year's Day may also be taken.
Collect (on Weekdays)
God, source of all life, you made your Son take our flesh that he may set the world free from the powers of evil. Give us a share, we ask you, in the freedom of your children through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Our God, you sanctify the world by the incarnation of your Son. Accept our gifts and make us perceive what you have prepared for those who love you, through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Christmas I
Prayer after Communion
God and Father, rejoicing over the birth of our Saviour we have celebrated his meal. For his sake give us the power to offer you our whole life through him, Christ, our Lord.
The Epiphany
Collect
God, hidden and yet present, today you have made the glory of your Son appear in our lowliness and have made him known as the saviour of the world. As you brought the wise men to him from afar, so bring us ever closer to him our Lord and brother Jesus Christ. To him, with you and the Holy Spirit, all worship, praise and glory now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father of all light, like the wise men we bring our worship and our gifts to you. Accept us, with all we are and have, by him who appeared today, Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
We thank you, great God, for the gifts of your love. Illumine, we pray, all the ways of our lives with your light which has shone on us in Christ, our Lord.
In places where The Epiphany is not a bank holiday and there is no (evening) eucharist, this feast will be celebrated on the Sunday next to 6 January.
The Sundays of the Baptism of Jesus and of the Wedding at Cana are always celebrated on the two Sundays after the celebration of The Epiphany.
If The Epiphany is celebrated on the Sunday after 6 January, the Sunday of the Wedding at Cana supersedes the Third Sunday after Epiphany (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time).
Weekdays after The Epiphany
Collect
God, shepherd of your people, you call and gather a people serving you from all the nations of the earth. Establish your gentle rule over all who sit in darkness and the shadow of death that they may know and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, you show yourself to all who seek you. Give us an experience of the life of your Son in the fellowship and communion of this bread and this cup until you gather us into your kingdom through him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of never-ending love, we thank you for the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Strengthen us by this meal on our way to you through Christ, our Lord.
Sunday of the Baptism of Jesus (First Sunday after The Epiphany)
Collect
God of loving-kindness, at his baptism in the Jordan you revealed Jesus as your beloved Son. Grant to us, who have been born again by the water and the Holy Spirit, to live as your sons and daughters through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, accept our gifts and grant us your Holy Spirit who came down on Jesus at his baptism. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Good God, you have given us your word, the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Help us to listen to your Son that we may not only be called your children but are in truth through him, Christ, our Lord. we thank you for the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Strengthen us by this meal on our way to you through Christ, our Lord.
Weekdays after the Sunday of the Baptism of Jesus
Collect
Eternal God, your only Son, born of you before all times, has visibly appeared in our flesh. As he has become like us, so create our inmost being anew after his image. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our creator, this bread and this wine are tokens of our love to you. Accept them through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Merciful God, your Son has commanded us this celebration as a memorial to him. Preserve in us the longing for this meal and make us live from it, until you bring the world and times to fulfilment through Christ, our Lord.
Sunday of the Wedding at Cana (Second Sunday after The Epiphany)
Collect
God, friend of life and joy, you revealed your glory and majesty to us in Jesus. Make us look at him, hear his word and follow him in faith. This we ask through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of life, the gifts which we have prepared are tokens of our dedication to you. As bread and wine are sanctified in the power of the Spirit, so sanctify us also according to the image of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we thank you for your life-giving Word and for the fellowship with your Son. Make us one of heart and soul by your Spirit, and lead us, in the strength of this food, to the marriage banquet of eternal life through Christ, our Lord.
Weekdays after the Sunday of the Wedding at Cana
Collect
God, creator of world and human beings, your goodness and loving-kindness have appeared on earth in your only Son. Open our eyes, we ask you, for his signs and strengthen our faith in the power of your love through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, the bread and the wine on this altar are tokens of our dedication. Be in our midst when we celebrate the meal of your Son until he comes again, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all good gifts, in the bread which we broke, and in the cup which we shared, you have given us a sign of your coming kingdom. May the gift which we have received bear fruit in our lives through Christ, our Lord.
Easter
Lent
Ash Wednesday
The liturgy of this day is characterised by penitence. There is no penitential act in the opening part of the liturgy.
Collect
Faithful God, we begin this period of remembrance and of preparation for Easter, putting our trust in you. We ask you: Be with us and lead us in these forty days, that we turn to you, listen to your word and serve you in our fellow humans through your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
or:
God of mercy and forgiveness, do not leave us in these days of penitence. Assist us with you healing Spirit, that with ready hearts we may walk on the way which your Son has shown us, Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Blessing and Imposition of the Ashes
The following intercessions may be used after the sermon.
Litany of Penitence, I
Priest:
Christ is our saviour and intercedes for us with the Father. Let us pray to him that he may forgive our sins and cleanse us from all that is wrong.
Reader 1:
You have been sent to bring the good news to the poor and to lift up those who are bowed down. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 2:
You have come to call sinners, not the just. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 1:
You have forgiven the sins of the sinful woman because she has shown great love to you. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 2:
You did not refrain from sharing with tax collectors and sinners. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 1:
You carried back the lost sheep to the flock on your shoulders. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 2:
You did not judge the woman caught in adultery, but made her go her way in peace. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 1:
You called Zacchaeus the tax collector to penitence and to new life. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Reader 2:
You promised Paradise to the penitent criminal when you hung on the cross. Christ, hear us.
All:
Christ, graciously hear us.
Or:
Litany of Penitence, I (BAS *)
Priest:
Most holy and merciful Father, we confess to you, to one another, and to the whole communion of saints in heaven and on earth, that we have sinned by our own fault in thought, word, and deed; by what we have done, and by what we have left undone.
Reader:
We have not loved you with our whole heart, and mind, and strength. We have not loved our neighbours as ourselves. We have not forgiven others, as we have been forgiven. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We have been deaf to your call to serve as Christ served us. We have not been true to the mind of Christ. We have grieved your Holy Spirit. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you, O God, all our unfaithfulness: the pride, hypocrisy, and impatience of our lives. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you our self-indulgent appetites and ways, and our exploitation of other people. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you our anger at our own frustration, and our envy of those more fortunate than ourselves. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you our intemperate love of worldly goods and comforts, and our dishonesty in daily life and work. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
We confess to you our negligence in prayer and worship, and our failure to commend the faith that is in us. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
Accept our repentance for the wrong we have done; for our blindness to human need and suffering, and our indifference to injustice and cruelty. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
Accept our repentance for all false judgements, for uncharitable thoughts towards our neighbours and for our prejudice and contempt toward those who differ from us. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
Accept our repentance for our waste and pollution of your creation, and our lack of concern for those who come after us. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Reader:
Restore us, O God of mercy. Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
All:
Have mercy on us sinners, O God.
Prayer over the Ashes and the Imposition of Ashes
Priest:
God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you are close to the lowly and rejoice over all who turn around. Incline your ears to our prayers and bless all who will carry the sign of + these ashes. Help us to spend the forty days of penitence in the mind of Jesus Christ. Forgive us our sins, renew us in the image of your Son and grant us life eternal through his resurrection. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
All:
Amen.
The ashes are sprinkled with holy water. Then the priest applies the ashes to all who come forward, speaking to each:
Repent, and believe in the good news. (Cf. Mk 1.15)
Or:
Remember that you are dust,
and to dust you shall return. (Cf. Gen 3.19)
The clergy come forward to receive the ashes last of all. One of them applies the ashes to the presider with the words above.
While the ashes are imposed, hymns or anthems may be sung.
After the imposition the priest and those who helped wash their hands.
The service continues with the offertory.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, look upon these gifts, signs of our readiness to turn around. Give us love toward each other without which we cannot exist before you. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Lent I
Prayer after Communion
God, our salvation, give us an ever deeper experience of what this meal means for our lives, and let the forty days until Easter become for us an acceptable time through Christ, our Lord.
First Sunday of Lent
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you prayed and fasted forty days in the wilderness and resisted temptation. We ask you: Be with us when we are weak, and send us your Spirit that we may know and overcome what separates us from you, who with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit are with us all the days and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
We thank you, our God, for all that you have entrusted to us. Bless these gifts and grant us to serve our sisters and brothers in the power of your love through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Lent I
Prayer after Communion
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, in Jesus you have given us the bread that gives life to the world. We thank you for it and ask: Repel self-indulgence and lack of love from our midst and lead us by your love to eternal salvation in him, Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Gracious God, for the sake of your Son you forgive the sinners their sins and grant the just their reward. We acknowledge our failure; have pity on us in our weakness and forgive us what we have done wrong. We ask this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Or:
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you resisted temptation. Forgive us when we are weak, and send us your Spirit that we may know and overcome what separates us from you, who with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit are with us all the days and for ever.
Prayer after Communion
Good Father and eternal God, you have gathered us at the table of your Son and strengthened us with your gifts. Grant us as everlasting salvation what we have celebrated under this hidden sign, the fellowship in your Spirit with Christ, who is praised now and for ever.
Second Sunday of Lent
Collect
God, our Father, on the mountain you testified to Jesus as your beloved Son and ordered us to listen to him. Nourish us with his word and purify the eyes of our hearts that we may be able to recognise his glory. We praise you through him in the Holy Spirit now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Blessed are you, Lord, creator of the world. Yours is all that we are and have. Accept these signs of our thanks to your honour through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the Transfiguration
Prayer after Communion
God of light and life, you have given us a share in the glory of your Son. We thank you that we may experience now already what you have prepared for us in the life eternal through Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Holy God, you rejoice over all who turn around to you. Turn our hearts to you and give us new eagerness in the Holy Spirit, that we may remain steadfast in the faith and be ready to do the good through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Or:
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you gave your life to death. But we want to stick to our lives and keep them. We ask you: Take us with you on your way that we may find the true life with you. To you be glory for ever.
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, you have strengthened us at the table of your Son with the word and the bread of life. You have given us a share in his life and in his glory. We thank you and ask: Be with us with your Spirit, and strengthen our hope in the eternal fulfilment with you through Christ, our Lord.
Third Sunday of Lent
Collect
God, full of compassion and mercy, you know our human poverty. Look on our need and grant us forgiveness. Keep your hand over us and prevent us from all dangers that might threaten us. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
We ask you, O God, to look on our gifts, signs of our devotion. Accept them and give us strength to care for each other in love through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Lent II
Prayer after Communion
God, Father of the poor and needy, you have strengthened us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. You want to be with us on all our ways through this time. We thank and praise you through Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Holy God, we cannot prove ourselves before you with what we do. Help us to overcome with your grace whatever presses us down. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Or:
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you gave your life for the life of the world. Make us partakers of your mystery that only whose life is given will find life. To you be blessing, praise and glory now and for ever.
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, as you have given us your word and the bread of life, we thank you for your goodness and pray: be with us throughout these forty days of preparation and help us to live from the gospel through Christ, our Lord.
Fourth Sunday of Lent
Collect
All-merciful Father, in your Son you wonderfully reconciled humanity with you. Give us the courage of faith that with a glad heart we may meet you through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, friend of life, we offer you our gifts in joyful expectation of Easter. Grant that this joy may become visible also in our lives through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Lent II
Prayer after Communion
We thank you, God, our salvation, for this food and for your word, the true light enlightening every human being. Heal the blindness of our hearts that we may know what is right before you, and sincerely love you through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Father in heaven, you sent your Son into the world that he might overcome the power of evil. Strengthen us that we may not be overcome by the temptations. We ask this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you gather your church on earth and have the word of reconciliation proclaimed in it. Send us your Spirit that we may receive the good news in our hearts and live together as children of our Father in heaven. To you be glory for ever.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, your word which we heard and the meal which we celebrated render your mighty acts alive in our midst. We thank you and we ask you to complete what you have begun in us through Christ, our brother and Lord.
Fifth Sunday of Lent
Collect
Our Father in heaven, for love to the world your Son has handed himself over to death. Make us abide in his love and live from it. We ask this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good gifts, we offer you bread and wine, the signs of your goodness with which you feed us. We thank and praise you through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the Passion I
Prayer after Communion
Great God, in the celebration of the eucharist you give us communion with you and with each other. Make us living members of the body of your Son who has become one with us in this meal, Christ, our Lord.
On Weekdays
Collect
Wonderful and merciful God, in the passion and death of your Son you have shown your love to the world. Open our eyes for the mystery of our salvation through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you gave your life for the life of the world. Make us partakers of your mystery that only whose life is given will find life. To you be blessing, praise and glory now and for ever.
Prayer after Communion
Lord Jesus Christ, you have strengthened us with your word and sacrament. Let your power be strong in us that we may serve you and each other in joy and patience, who with the Father and the Holy Spirit live and work now and for ever.
The Holy Week
Palm Sunday
The double character of this day, the celebration of the entrance of Jesus and the celebration of the of the eucharist with the memorial of the passion of Jesus, should be kept.
In places where there are enough worshippers, the celebration of the entrance of Jesus should be held in a way that they gather in front of the church or another suitable place and walk behind the cross. They will experience that the branches are not something "consecrated by magic" but blessed branches with which we extend our hands to vote for Jesus. The branch that is put behind the cross at home reminds us of this confession.
If for serious reasons the celebration is to be shortened, it makes sense to celebrate the liturgy of the word according to each reading year and, at the place of the collect, to bless the branches.
Blessing of the Branches and Solemn Entrance
The congregation stands in a semi-circle before the cross.
Opening acclamation
Liturgical Greeting
(A short introduction is possible.)
Prayer over the Congregation and the Branches
God, our Father, we confess our adherence to Jesus, your Son, our only Lord. Bless us and these branches with which we intend to show that we belong to Jesus, and make us ready to follow him with our cross in steadfast faithfulness, today and all days of our lives until the end of eternity.
A hymn or anthem can be sung during the distribution of the branches.
Gospel of the Entrance of Jesus
The pericopes are indicated in the liturgical calendar.
Procession
The congregation enters the church behind the cross that has been adorned. Incense and candles accompany the cross and book of gospels.
At the procession and the entrance, the traditional anthem Gloria, laus et honor is sung.
Celebration of the Eucharist
Collect
God, great and incomprehensible, in obedience to your will your Son, our redeemer, took our flesh. He humbled himself and accepted the shame of the cross. Give us the strength to follow him on the way of passion that we may get a share in his resurrection. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life for ever and ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of mercy, through the passion of your Son you grant us the forgiveness which we do not deserve for our deeds. Accept these gifts as signs of our trust in your mercy through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the Passion of the Lord II
Prayer after Communion
God of heaven and earth, you have strengthened your congregation with your word and sacrament. We ask you: let your power be strong in us that we worthily serve you in our lives and bear fruit in patience. To you be glory for ever.
On the Weekdays of Holy Week
Collect
Good God and Father, you gave your Son over to passion and death to give us a share in his life. Make us contemplate his sacrifice these days and always remain in your love through him, Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, many people acclaimed you when you entered Jerusalem and yet abandoned you afterwards. We ask you: make us stay with you and confess that we are yours when there is protest and temptation. To you be glory for ever.
Preface of the Passion of the Lord II
Prayer after Communion
Holy God, in this meal we have celebrated the memorial of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus. Strengthen us through the power of this food in our anxieties and temptations, and lead us through the death to the life that remains, through Christ, our Lord.
Maundy Thursday
We celebrate the evening of the last supper of Jesus and the beginning of the passion at Gethsemani: fear, betrayal and arrest.
Today especially, the Gloria in excelsis should be sung with its full text and not substituted by a paraphrase.
After the Gloria, the organ and bells remain silent.
At the washing of the feet, Ubi caritas may be sung.
In the intercessions, prayers should be made for the congregations of our own diocese as well as the ecumenical neighbouring congregations.
The celebration of the eucharist ends with the prayer after communion.
The blessing will not be given until the paschal vigil.
If there is a distribution of holy communion on Good Friday, the eucharistic bread is reserved from the celebration today. Where possible, opportunity should be given for silent prayer, meditation and the reading of the farewell discourses of Jesus (John 14-17).
Collect
God of mercy and consolation, on the evening before he suffered your dear Son instituted the meal of his love as the symbol of the new and everlasting covenant with you. Give us the fullness of your compassion and love, and make us extend it to the sisters and brothers through your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord and brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or:
Great God, our Father, we share the bread and receive the body of Jesus Christ, your Son. Make us live in love and peace from its power, for we are his body in this world. To you be glory for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good Father, on this day your Son gave us an example of his serving love. Let our gifts be a sign of our readiness to accept each other as you have accepted us in Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord and brother.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
We thank you, good God, that today we have been strengthened for our own way in the supper of your Son. Continue to gather us for the fellowship with him, until, at the heavenly supper of eternal life, we praise and magnify you for ever.
Good Friday
The day of the passion and death of Jesus is celebrated with a liturgy of the word. This can be done in every parish and community as it may also be presided by a deacon or reader.
It makes sense to celebrate the liturgy in the afternoon, at the hour of death of Jesus.
The opening and dismissal are simple: There is no singing during the entrance, the organ does not play. The ministers kneel or (prostrate) before the nude altar. After silent prayer, the collect follows. After a prayer concluding the liturgy, all leave the worship building in silence.
The liturgy of the word has two climaxes: the reading of the passion and the solemn intercessions. The veneration of the cross (and the distribution of holy communion) marks the end. In some places, the veneration of the cross immediately follows the passion or after the sermon. The solemn intercessions are said before the (uncovered) cross and finished by the Lord's prayer (with the distribution of holy communion possibly following).
The passion may be read with several roles. It may be interrupted at suitable places by verses of the hymn O sacred head, sore wounded.
As a matter of principle, all the four versions of the passion are to be proclaimed in the parishes in the course of the years; should it not be possible to read the respective version on Palm Sunday, the passion according to the gospel of John may be substituted by a synoptic version.
A passion hymn or chorale may be sung before the sermon.
Collect
God, our Father, you did not abandon us to the power of darkness but in your mercy redeemed us. Protect, free and sanctify us by your Son who suffered and died for us and whom you drew out of death, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Sprit lives and works now and for ever.
Intercessions
Form I
(Presider:)
Lord Jesus Christ, grain of wheat falling into the earth and dying that we might have life, we call upon you.
(Reader 1)
For all who call themselves Christians, after you, for the churches in their divisions and separation, and for their work for fellowship and unity; for all men and women to whom a special ministry has been given; for our diocese and our parishes.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Draw us all to you. Help us to live according to your gospel and to be one in you.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For the peoples of this earth and their governments, for the Council of Europe, the United Nations and all parliaments, for the authorities in politics, economy and society, for all suffering from war and the consequences of war, for the persecuted and all who live in lack of freedom and in oppression.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Grant to the peoples the spirit of reconciliation and guide their feet into the way of justice and peace.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For all who have lost their faith, and for all who do not find faith because we are in their way of seeing you.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Make the light of your gospel shine, and make us faithful witnesses of your salvation.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For the young people in our parish, in the churches and in the world.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Give them confidence. Let us shape our society in a way that they may grow into a world and a church which enable them to have life and a future.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For all who are in the shadow side of life: for the handicapped and sick, for the elderly and lonely, for the single parents and for the children without families, for the unemployed and for all who are disregarded, marginalised or excluded by us.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Be close to them and lead people to them who have open ears and hearts for their needs.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For all who do no longer see a road, for the desperate and helpless, for all who have been disappointed, exploited and betrayed by people, who have fled into stubbornness of heart or addiction, who have become caught in guilt, who see themselves abandoned by God.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Take them into your cry on the cross and give them a share in your new life.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For all who suffer from injustice, for the hungry and exploited people who by the work of their hands and with the fruits of their fields must create our abundance; and for ourselves being prisoners of our thoughtlessness and our claims.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Help us to respect the dignity of humans and their right to live and to share the gifts of the earth with each other.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For the whole creation groaning in labour pains and hoping for redemption; for all who care for its integrity and for all who suffer from its destruction.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Help us to experience that we are stewards only and that your good gift belongs to all, to the children and the children's children everywhere in the world.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Reader 1)
For the dying and the dead, for all who have given us life and faith, for all in whose death we share in guilt by indifference, hardness of heart and our way of life.
(Silence)
(Reader 2)
Lead them through your death to unending life.
Let us pray to the Lord.
[Lord, have mercy; or Kyrie, eleison]
(Presider)
Lord Jesus Christ, the Father did not leave you in death. He raised you and exalted you to this right hand. Intercede for us and stay with us on all our ways. To you be glory and honour and praise now and for ever.
Form II
Instead of the silence for prayer between the intention and the collect, a sung acclamation may be the answer, e.g. a triple Lord, have mercy or Kyrie, eleison.
1. For the holy Church
Let us pray, brothers and sisters, for the holy Church of God, that our Lord and God grant it peace in all the world, unite and protect it and grant us a life in quietness and safety, to the praise of his name.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, eternal God, in Christ you revealed your glory to all peoples. Protect what your mercy has created, that your Church in all the world may persevere in steadfast faith. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
2. For our Bishop
Let us pray for our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops, all men and women in the apostolic ministry and for all the people of God.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, your Spirit sanctifies and governs the whole body of the Church. Hear our prayer for our Bishop and for all who minister in your Church. Give them the grace to serve you faithfully. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
3. For the catechumens
Let us also pray for all who prepare for baptism: Our God and Father may open their hearts for his word, he grant them the forgiveness of sins in baptism and receive them into his house that they may find life in Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everlasting God, you continue to lead people to your Church. Grant to all who prepare for baptism to grow in faith and in knowledge. Let them be born again from the spring of baptism and accept them as your children. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
4. For the unity of the Christians
Let us pray for all brothers and sisters who believe in Christ, that our Lord and God may lead them on the way to truth and unity them in the unity of the holy Church.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, you alone can overcome the division and grant the unity. Have mercy on your Christian people, sanctified by the one baptism. Unite them in the faith in your Son and in the bond of love. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
5. For all who do not believe in Christ
Let us pray for all who do not believe in Christ, that the Holy Spirit illumine them and lead them on the way of salvation.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, assist all who do not confess Christ, that they may live in integrity before you and find the truth. Grant to us that we perceive the mystery of our faith more and more and grow in love towards each other. Make us faithful witnesses of your goodness. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
6. For all who do not believe in God
Let us also pray for all who do not know God, that, with his help. they may follow their consciences and thereby come to the God and Father of all peoples.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, you created the human beings that they might seek you and find their rest in you. Be recognised in the many acts of your compassion and in the deeds of your faithful ones that the people, despite all obstacles, may find you and confess you to be the true God and Father. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
7. For those in authority
Let us pray for those who govern us: Our Lord and God may direct their minds and their hearts according to his will, that they may seek the true peace and the freedom, to the benefit of all peoples.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, the hearts of peoples and the rights of nations are in your hand. Graciously look on those who govern us, that in all the world safety and freedom may dwell, welfare of peoples and liberty of worship. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
8. For all people in need
Let us pray to God, the almighty Father, for all who are in need of his help: May he purify the world from all error, take away the illnesses, dispel the hunger, solve unjust fetters, give safety to the homeless, a happy return to the pilgrims and travellers, health to the sick and life eternal to the dying.
Bent your knees.
Silence
Rise.
Almighty, everliving God, comforter of the sorrowful, strength of those who suffer, hear all who call upon you in their afflictions, and let them experience your mercy in every need. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Form III
[This Form is a translation of a Good Friday intercession prayer by Huub Oosterhuis and copyrighted; therefore, it is not reprinted here.]
Veneration of the Holy Cross
The veneration is begun with the triple call to worship.
Presider:
This is the wood of the cross on which hung the Saviour of the world.
Congregation:
Come, let us worship.
Different forms of the veneration of the holy cross by the congregation are possible. The Improperia originating in the Ancient Church are particularly suitable.
Distribution of Holy Communion
The distribution of holy communion may also be part of the intercessions, Form III. If the distribution is done now, only the corporal is placed on the altar, and the eucharistic bread is brought. A suitable anthem or hymn may be sung during these preparations.
The Lord's Prayer
Presider:
Being united by the one baptism in the same Holy Spirit and in the one Body of Christ, we pray as daughters and sons of God:
Congregation:
Our Father in heaven ...
Invitation to Holy Communion
Presider:
Let us receive the Body of the Lord and call upon his name.
Congregation:
Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say a word, and I shall be healed.
Distribution of Holy Communion
A passion hymn may be sung during the distribution.
Dismissal
After the distribution
Let us pray. Almighty, everliving God, you have given us the new life by the death and resurrection of your Son. Preserve in us what your compassion has accomplished, and, as we have received this sacrament, give us the strength to serve you. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Or, especially if holy communion has not been distributed:
Almighty God, you hear those who call upon you, and you know the prayers of those who remain silent. We thank you that, by the passion and death of your Son, you have called us from afar to your people. Increase our faith and forgive us our sins. Strengthen us through your Holy Spirit, keep us in the truth, teach what we do not know, fill in what we lack, and strengthen what we have recognised. At the end of our days, unite us with your saints through Christ, our crucified and risen Lord.
The Paschal Vigil
Introduction
The pattern of the liturgy
In its traditional form, the paschal vigil has the following parts:
The Service of Light
The Vigil with Readings
Holy Baptism or The Renewal of Baptismal Vows
The Celebration of Holy Eucharist
The traditional pattern A is well-known and widespread. Several attempts have been made in ecumenism as well as in our diocese to offer a different composition of the liturgy. The parts marked by an asterisk (*) in pattern A should not be left out of any composition.
Pattern A
The Service of Light
1.1 Prayer at the Fire
1.2 Explanation of the Candle
* 1.3 Entrance with the Light
* 1.4 Exsultet
Readings of the Vigil
* 2.1a Reading (Creation or Noah)
* 2.2a Responsorial Psalm or Hymn
2.3a Prayer
* 2.1b Reading (Exodus)
* 2.2b Responsorial Psalm or Hymn
2.3b Prayer
* 2.1c Reading (Eschatological Outlook)
* 2.2c Responsorial Psalm or Hymn
2.3c Prayer
The Celebration of the Eucharist, first part
3. Gloria
4. Collect
* 5. New Testament Reading
* 6. Alleluia
* 7.1 Gospel
* 7.2 Sermon
* 8. Intercessions
Holy Baptism or The Renewal of Baptismal Vows
* 9.1 Thanksgiving over the Water
* 9.2 Renewal of Baptismal Vows or Holy Baptism
The Celebration of the Eucharist, second part
with the following changing parts:
10.0 Prayer over the Gifts
* 10.1 Preface and (remainder of) the Eucharistic Prayer
Our Father, Anthem at the Breaking, The Peace
* 10.2 Prayer after Communion
* 10.3 Solemn Blessing
Pattern B
2 - 1 (- 3 - 4) - 5 - 6 - 7 - 9 - 8 - 10
The readings of the Vigil are advanced, at some places even read at a different place. The entrance with the light takes place after the readings of the Vigil and figures as the beginning of the proclamation of the resurrection. In this pattern, the collect and Gloria double as hymnic elements to the Exsultet. They may therefore be left out. The Gloria (not a paraphrase) may be sung as a response to the gospel of the resurrection.
Pattern C
1 - 2 - 9 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 10
In this pattern, the renewal of baptismal vows is taken after the readings of the Vigil, for these readings share references to baptism. The Gloria (not a paraphrase) then figures as the hymn of praise for the salvation given in baptism, rooted in the resurrection (New Testament readings) and celebrated in the eucharist.
Pattern D
1 - 2 - 5 - 6 - 7.1 + 3 - 7.2 - 9 - 8 - 10
In this pattern, the readings of the Vigil and the New Testament readings constitute a continuous liturgy of the word. The entire liturgy begins with the service of the light, the readings follow in the light of the paschal candle. The festive Alleluia figures as the beginning of the proclamation of the Easter gospel. The Gloria (not a paraphrase) constitutes the song of thanksgiving of the congregation for the proclamation of the resurrection.
General Notes
The meaning of the celebration requires that it begins in the dark, late in the evening or early in the morning. Modern songs or hymns may be chosen, compatible with the readings and the liturgy, for instance, Taizé chants or modern anthems.
Technical directions should be given before the celebration.
The entrance with the burning paschal candle and the Exsultet are the centre of the service of light. The blessing of the fire and the marking of the paschal candle may be left out. At places there has been the tradition of kindling the paschal the fire with the light of the paschal candle at the end of the entire liturgy only.
Two texts are given for the Exsultet. The second text is suitable if there is no one able to sing.
The Old Testament readings of the Vigil are part of the celebration like the water is part of baptism. The Exodus reading must nowhere be left out. At least one more reading from the Prophets should follow. A short introduction (praefamen), a responsorial psalm and a collect are offered for each reading.
The praefamen puts each reading in the total context of the Paschal Vigil and thereby facilitates listening and joining in the celebration. These praefamina should be short and to the point and should not anticipate the sermon. In the Paschal Vigil in particular, the responsorial psalms should have precedence of hymns or chants. If the collects after the readings of the Vigil and the responsorial psalms are left out, the collect of the eucharist should not be left out in patterns A and C.
It is part of the celebration of the Paschal Vigil that the Alleluia which has not been heard since Ash Wednesday, should be intoned in a festive way. According to the pattern followed, this is done either at the fire or, traditionally, before the gospel. Care should be taken when choosing the hymns and responsorial chants that it should not be anticipated there. This is also true for the acclamation of the congregation to the recited Exsultet.
The Service of Light
The fire is kindled outside the building. The priest greets the congregation with the liturgical greeting.
Blessing of the Fire
Let us pray.
O God, you wrap yourself with light as with a cloak. Through Christ you have given the light of glory to all who believe in you. Bless + this new fire that gives light to the night and inflame in us the longing for you, the unending light, that we may with pure hearts be brought to the eternal Easter. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Or:
Eternal God, Creator and ruler of the universe, in many ways you have destined your creature, the light, to point to you, to your truth and glory, your love and goodness. You have ordered the darkness, and there was light. As a sign of light of your covenant with Noah you put the rainbow in the clouds; in the burning bush you promised to Moses the road to liberty. In the pillar of fire you went ahead of your people, through darkness and desert. We ask you to bless this new fire at which we kindle the paschal candle. Or, as an alternative ending: We praise you for this new fire, the sign of your closeness, at which we now kindle the paschal candle.
Marking the Paschal Candle
Christ yesterday and today (the vertical arm of the cross)
the beginning and the end (the horizontal arm)
Alpha (above the cross)
and Omega (below the cross)
All time belongs to him (first numeral)
and all the ages (second numeral)
to him belongs glory and power (third numeral)
through every age for ever. Amen (fourth numeral).
Five grains are inserted.
By his holy wounds (1)
shining in glory (2)
may Christ the Lord (3)
guard us (4)
and keep us (5).
The paschal candle is lighted.
Christ is risen from the dead.
May his light dispel the darkness of our hearts and the world.
Entrance with the Paschal Candle
One of the assistants (deacon or reader) carries the paschal candle into the church, incense and cross, acolytes, carrying candles that are not yet lighted, preceding, and the other assistants following.
At the entrance, the priest or deacon sings for the first time:
Christ is the light.
All: Thanks be to God.
The priest now lights his candle from the paschal candle.
At the second acclamation, when the procession has reached the center of the church, the assistants light their candles; after the third acclamation, in front of the altar, the light is distributed to all; all lights in the church are lighted.
The Exsultet
There are two versions of the text.
The traditional Exsultet is sung by the deacon. If there is no deacon, it may be sung by a cantor.
The recited Exsultet is used if there is no one to sing the traditional Exsultet. The text is recited by the priest and livened up by an acclamation of the congregation.
Rejoice now, heavenly hosts and choirs of angels,
and let your trumpets should Salvation
for the victory of our mighty King.
Rejoice and sing now, all the round earth,
bright with a glorious splendour,
for darkness has been vanquished by our eternal King.
Rejoice and be glad now, Mother Church,
and let your holy courts, in radiant light,
resound with the praises of your people.
(The Lord be with you.
And also with you.)
Lift up your hearts.
We lift them to the Lord.
Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
It is right to give him thanks and praise.
It is truly right and good, always and everywhere, with all whole heart and might and voice, to praise you, the invisible, almighty, and eternal God, and your only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. To you, eternal Father, he paid for us the debt of Adam's sin, and by his blood, shed for love, delivered your faithful people.
This is the Passover feast in which the true Lamb was slain, whose blood consecrates the homes of all believers and preserves the people from death and destruction.
This is the night when you brought our fathers and all the children of Israel out of bondage in Egypt and led them through the Red Sea on dry land.
This is the night when the pillar of fire dispelled the darkness of sin.
This is the night when throughout all the earth all who believe in Christ are separated from the sin of the world, freed from all defilement, restored to the kingdom of grace and inserted in the fellowship of your Church.
This is the blessèd night when Christ broke the chains of death and rose victorious from the grave.
Truly, we would have been born in vain unless the Saviour had redeemed us.
How incomprehensible is your love, O Father: to ransom the slave you gave the Son.
O truly saving sin of Adam, you became a blessing for us as Christ's death has destroyed you.
O happy guilt, how great a redeemer did you find.
O truly blessèd night when Christ rose from the dead. This is the night of which it is written, "The night is as bright as the day, the night will surround me as shining light."
The splendour of this night dispels all evil, washes guilt away, grants forgiveness to sinners, brings mourners joy. It casts out pride and hatred and brings peace and concord.
In this blessèd night, holy Father, receive our songs of praise and accept this candle as our solemn offering. Even if its light has been distributed, it did not loose the power of its splendour.
The flame is nourished by the wax which the busy bees prepared for this candle.
O truly blessèd night when heaven is wedded to earth and God and people are joined.
Therefore we ask you, O Lord: the candle, sanctified to the praise of your name, may shine continually to dispel the darkness in this night. May it shine until the morning star appears, that true Morning Star who for ever knows no setting, your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ who rose from the dead, who shines in his Easter light to all peoples, and who lives and reigns with you for ever and ever.
Congregation: Amen.
The recited Exsultet, with an acclamation of the congregation to be sung, is a paraphrase of the sung Exsultet. [Therefore it is not reproduced here.]
When this Exsultet is used, the Alleluia is to be announced in a festive way beforehand.
The acclamation of the congregation reads as follows:
Christ is alive. He is risen from the dead, alleluia.
It is repeated at several places in this text.
The Readings of the Paschal Vigil
1. Creation
Approaching the First Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Why do we hear what we have known for already, and why do we go back to the beginning?
That we might not forget whence we come and where we go. That we might praise the Creator, the source of all life, and see, recognise and believe that we are humans.
Reading: Gen 1.1 - 2.4a or Gen 2.4b-24
From Psalm 104
O Lord, how manifold are your works! *
in wisdom you have made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures.
All of them look to you *
to give them their food in due season.
You give it to them, they gather it; *
you open your hand, and they are filled with good things.
You hide your face, and they are terrified; *
you take away their breath,
and they die and return to their dust.
You send forth your Spirit, and they are created; *
and so you renew the face of the earth.
May the glory of the Lord endure for ever; *
may the Lord rejoice in all his works. (BCP)
Collect
God, Creator of the universe, you have entrusted your creation to us, full of your great goodness. We praise you and thank you for the light breaking upon us in this night, Jesus Christ, your Son, whom you have raised from the death to new life in this time and in your eternity.
2. Noah
Approaching the Second Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Why do we hear from the evil spreading through all humanity?
That we might not forget that the evil is still alive, but also that we receive God's compassion, his mercy and his faithfulness, the reconciliation of heaven and earth.
Reading: Gen 6.13 - 7.12,18 - 8.12; 9.13,15,16
From Psalm 118
I called to the Lord in my distress; *
the Lord answered by setting me free.
The Lord is at my side, therefore I will not fear; *
what can anyone do to me?
The Lord is at my side to help me; *
I will triumph over those who hate me.
It is better to rely on the Lord *
than to put any trust in flesh. (BCP)
Collect
God of the covenant, you saved Noah and his family from the floods of destruction. Help us to resist the temptations of the evil in the power of your Spirit, that the peace of your covenant may remain alive for us and this earth. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
3. The Sacrifice of Isaac
Approaching the Third Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Why do we go back to the beginnings of the people of Israel?
That we might not forget that God promised salvation to Abraham and his children, but also to us. That we might thank God because he spared Abraham's son, but gave his own beloved Son for the life of the world.
Reading: Gen 22.1-18
From Psalm 16
O Lord, you are my portion and my cup; *
it is you who uphold my lot.
I have set the Lord always before me; *
because he is at my right hand I shall not fall.
My heart, therefore, is glad, and my spirit rejoices; *
my body also shall rest in hope.
For you will not abandon me to the grave, *
nor let you holy one see the Pit. (BCP)
Collect
God, friend of life, you abhor that humans kill each other in your name. Let us live together in concord and peace with all people who call Abraham their father. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
4. The Exodus through the Red Sea
Approaching the Fourth Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Every night we go our own ways, but in this night we have been assembled at this one place.
Because we were slaves but called to freedom, because we were saved that we might belong together, because we are being called to freedom in this night.
Reading: Ex 14.15 - 15.1
From Exodus 15
I will sing to the Lord, for he is lofty and uplifted; *
the horse and its rider has he hurled into the sea.
The Lord is my strength and my refuge *
and has become my Saviour.
This is my God and I will praise him; *
the God of my people and I will exalt him.
Your right hand, O Lord, is glorious in might; *
your right hand, O Lord, has overthrown the enemy.
With your constant love you lead the people you redeemed; *
with your might you brought them in safety to your holy dwelling.
The Lord shall reign *
for ever and ever. (BCP *)
Collect
God, your wonderful deeds of old shine forth even to our own day. What your mighty arm once did for one people, you now do for all peoples. You once delivered Israel from the slavery under Pharaoh and led them through the floods of the Red Sea; but now you lead us to freedom through the water of baptism. Grant that all the peoples may become children of Abraham and attain to the dignity of your people Israel. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
5. The Springs of Salvation
Approaching the First Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights?
We experience meaning and calling: our life is held, loved and redeemed. Whoever listens to the word of God will find life. Meaning is found by the person who is good soil for the word from the mouth of God.
Reading: Is 55.1-11
From Isaiah 12
Surely, it is God who saves me; *
I will trust and not be afraid.
The Lord is my stronghold and my sure defence *
and will be my Saviour.
Therefore you shall draw water with rejoicing *
from the springs of salvation.
And on that day you shall say, *
Give thanks to the Lord and call upon his name;
make his deeds known among the peoples.
Sing the praises of the Lord who has done great things, *
and this is known in all the world.
Cry aloud, inhabitants of Zion, ring out your joy, *
for the great one in the midst of you is the Holy One of Israel. (BCP* )
Collect
God, you are rich for all you seek you. You have spoken to us through the word of the prophets, and you have sent your Son, your eternal Word. Make us listen to him and thereby bring fruit for eternal life through him, Christ, our Lord.
6. The New Heart and the New Spirit
Approaching the Sixth Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights? Why do we hear from people forgetting God and being abandoned by God?
We experience joy and redemption: God will give us a new heart, a heart of flesh and not of stone. He will give us a new spirit, his Spirit who is both gift and task.
Reading: Ez 36.16-17a,18-28
From Psalm 42
As the deer longs for the water-brooks, *
so longs my soul for you, O God.
My soul is athirst for God, athirst for the living God; *
when shall I come to appear before the presence of God?
My tears have been my food day and night, *
while all day long they say to me,
"Where now is your God?" (BCP)
Collect
God, full of compassion, smile upon all whom in baptism you have given a new heart and a new spirit. Make them witnesses to your salvation: that things that had grown old are being made new, things that had become dark are being given light, things that had been dead are being raised to life, and that all things are being made whole in him who is the author of all, in Jesus Christ, our Lord.
7. The Dry Bones
Approaching the Seventh Reading
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights?
As humans we are often lost and without hope. But today we sense something of God's life-giving Spirit. In the darkness of death and from the pit of our sins, it is God who saves us. We experience life and home, shelter and protection. Easter is breaking upon us, life that knows no setting.
Reading: Ez 37.1-14
From Psalm 18
I love you, O Lord, my strength, *
O Lord my stronghold, my crag, and my haven.
My God, my rock in whom I put my trust *
my shield, the horn of my salvation, and my refuge;
you are worthy of praise.
The breakers of death rolled over me, *
and the torrents of oblivion made me afraid.
I called upon the Lord in my distress *
and cried out to my God for help.
He brought me out into an open place; *
he rescued me because he delighted in me.
You, O Lord, are my lamp; *
my God, you make my darkness bright.
You lengthen my stride beneath me, *
and my ankles do not give way.
Therefore will I extol you among the nations, O Lord, *
and sing praises to your name. (BCP)
Collect
Be with us, living God, and raise us from the graves of our hopelessness. Pour out your Spirit who gives life and makes us messengers of your incorruptible life. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
First Part of the Celebration of the Eucharist
Collect
God of life and Father of light, you make this night bright through raising your Son. The world sees and knows in him what has been your will throughout the ages: that things that had grown old are being made new, things that had become dark are being given light, things that had been dead are being raised to life, and that all things are being made whole in him who is the author of all, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who lives and gives life with you, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
The Epistle: United with Christ in His Death and Resurrection
Approaching the Epistle
Why is this night so totally different from all the other nights?
At other times we are persons who are often burdened and weary. But today, light is falling into our dark, lost life. Being baptised into Christ, we have been united with him in his death. The self of sin is dying. But the Lord lives. That is why we, too, live through him to God for ever and ever.
Romans 6.3-11
Approaching the festive Easter Alleluia
Since Ash Wednesday we have done without the Alleluia. Filled with joy, we now sing this shout of exultation to our risen Lord.
The Easter Gospel
Year A: Mt 28.1-10
Year B: Mk 16.1-8
Year C: Lk 24.1-12
Holy Baptism
If there is a baptism, a meaningful and sensible selection should be made from the Order of Holy Baptism, and the following Thanksgiving over the Water should be used.
P: We give you thanks, God, almighty Father. Through the gift of water you feed and keep every living creature.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: We give you thanks, for through the waters of the Red See you led your people from the slavery to freedom, into the land of promise.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: We give you thanks, that you sent Jesus, your Son. He was baptised by John in the Jordan and anointed by the Holy Spirit as the Christ.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: Going to the darkness of death and being raised to the light of new life for us, he set us free from the bondage of death and sin and opened for us the gate to eternal joy and freedom.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: We give you thanks, that you called N.N. to this new life. May your Spirit sanctify this water so that, through baptism, N.N. be united with Christ in his death and his resurrection and keep free from sin.
A: Blessed are you for ever.
P: Anoint N.N. with your Holy Spirit and bring him/her to a new birth in the fellowship of your Church, so that he/she may share in your promise.
A: We praise and magnify you through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, now and for ever. Amen.
The Renewal of Baptismal Vows
If there is no baptism, the following text is used.
P: Almighty, everlasting God, we bless and praise you. Your invisible power works the salvation of all peoples through visible signs. You wonderfully created and yet more wonderfully restored us.
A: We bless and praise you.
P: In the beginning you created water that it may render the earth fruitful, quench our thirst and refreshen us. You set your people free from the slavery in Egypt, you led them through the Red See and strengthened the thirsting people with water from the rock.
A: We bless and praise you.
P: The prophets and saints saw in the streams of living water the saving power of your creation. Jesus Christ, our Saviour, descended into the water of the Jordan to become in all like us.
A: We bless and praise you.
P: May through him descend into this water the power of the Holy Spirit, so that all who have been buried with Christ through baptism into his death, may also rise to eternal life with him through baptism. Holy, everlasting God, we bless and praise you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord and brother, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
P: Will you overcome the evil by the good, in the power of the risen Christ?
A: We will.
P: Will you resist the power of the evil and care for peace, justice and the integrity of creation?
A: We will.
P: Will you live in the liberty of the children of God?
A: We will.
P: Will you Will you join the way of the community and respect and assist each other in love?
A: We will.
The questions of belief follow.
P: Do you believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth?
A: We believe.
P: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, who was born of the Virgin Mary, who suffered and was buried, rose from the dead and is seated at the right hand of the Father?
A: We believe.
P: Do you believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the dead and the life everlasting?
A: We believe.
Instead of these questions, the Apostles' Creed (recited or sung) may be used. At the end the priest says,
P: The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ has given us new life by water and the Holy Spirit and has forgiven us all sins. He keep us through his grace in Christ Jesus, our Lord, to life eternal.
A: Amen.
If (in Southern Germany in particular) food (eggs, meat, bread) are to be blessed, they are brought to the altar at the preparation of the gifts.
Second Part of the Celebration of the Eucharist
Prayer over the Gifts
God of life, we bring you our gifts in the joy of this paschal vigil. Grant that this joy becomes visible in our lives as well through him, our risen Lord.
Preface of Easter I
Eucharistic Prayer XIX
Prayer after Communion
God, shepherd of your people, we thank you that you have fed us in this holy meal with the true paschal lamb, Jesus Christ. Let us, in the power of this food, live as risen ones in him, Christ, our Lord.
Dismissal
The solemn blessing may be used.
The Easter dismissal, with "Alleluia" added, is suitable also after the regular blessing.
The Fifty Days of Easter
Easter Sunday - The Day
Collect
God of life, your Son has overcome the death and opened the door to eternal life. Rejoicing in the feast of his resurrection we ask you: Renew us by your Spirit that we too may rise to new life through him, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, accept the gifts and prayers which, in the joy of Easter, we bring to the altar as signs that we are yours. Give us your blessing and strength through the death and the resurrection of your Son, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter I
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all good gifts, we thank you for food and drink at the table of your Son. Fill us with the spirit of love and unite us in the faith, that we may live as witnesses to the resurrection and proclaim your praise in all the world through Christ, our Lord.
Easter Monday
Collect
Living God, in the celebration of the resurrection of your Son you give us new life and unending joy. Be always close to us in your Son that we may walk free on the way to your glory and praise and bless you in the Holy Spirit now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God,
accept the gifts and prayers of your congregations. Let us find joy and true life in you through Christ, our risen Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all life, in the breaking of the bread we have known Christ, the Risen One. Nourish us always with this food, and enable us to proclaim your goodness and love to the world. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
During Easter Week 1 (Holy Baptism)
Collect
Living God, by water and the Holy Spirit you have born us anew to paschal life. Keep this life in us through your risen Son, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good Father, we bring bread and wine for the Easter meal with Jesus. Keep us in the joy of your baptized through him, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
Faithful God, in our baptism and in the celebration of the Easter meal you have given us a pledge of our future glory. Keep us in the communion with you until you bring us to completion in your eternity.
During Easter Week 2 (The Children of God)
Collect
Living God, through the resurrection of your Son you have given your salvation to the world. Make us heirs of your incorruptible life through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our salvation, accept the gifts which we offer in the joy of Easter. Let them be signs of our thankfulness and devotion to you through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God, friend of life, you saved Jesus from the death and called him to your glory. He is present among us as often as we celebrate this meal in remembrance of him. For this we thank you through him, Christ, our Lord.
During Easter Week 3
Collect
God, creator of all things, each year you raise nature to new life. We have become a new creation through the death and resurrection of your Son. Let us also live as renewed people through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us now and for ever.
Or:
God, we did not see your Son Jesus Christ with our own eyes, and our hands did not touch his body, and yet we dare to believe in him. Make us certain of his presence. Let us believe, though we do not see. To you be glory for ever.
Or:
God, author of all life, we believe and proclaim that our Lord Jesus Christ died and rose for us. Raise us also to new life through the power of the Holy Spirit. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, like the communities of the Apostles we want to contribute to joint works of love in different ways. What we offer to you today let be a sign of our love through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God of life, you destined us yourself to be branches at the vine of Jesus Christ. You give us life when we abide in him. We thank and ask you: Let us bear fruits through him, Christ, our Lord.
Or:
God of faithfulness, you never abandon humanity. In this paschal meal we have remembered the passion of your Son and celebrated his resurrection. You called him from death to life as the first-fruits of those who have fallen asleep. Be with your eternal love with our lives, until we have been completed in you through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Second Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
Everliving God, you have strengthened the apostle Thomas in the faith in the resurrection of your Son. Carry us when we doubt, and lead us on the way of Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Living God, accept what we offer today. In our community and in the poor and tormented, let us experience the presence of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God of truth, you gave your Son in our hands in the signs of bread and wine. May your Spirit take us that we may be strengthened in faith and grow in love to you and to each other, through him, Christ, your risen Son, our brother and Lord.
Third Sunday in Eastertide -- Sunday of the Good Shepherd
Collect
God, Shepherd of your people, you did not abandon Jesus, your Son, in death but raised him to life incorruptible. He calls us all by our names and into your liberty. Make us listen to his voice and follow him on the ways of our lives. We praise you through him in the Holy Spirit now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of tender love, you spread the table of life before us and fill us the cup of salvation. Grant us comfort in the fellowship of our saviour and good shepherd, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Lord and Saviour, good shepherd, you lead us to the waters of life. Let us reach your eternal kingdom in the power of this food, where there will be one shepherd and one flock. To you be praise and glory now and for ever.
Weekdays before Ascension Day I
Collect
God, origin and goal of every human being, you raised Jesus from the dead and made him Lord over heaven and earth. His kingdom is present where your word is proclaimed and his bread is broken. Let our hearts be aware of his presence and live in it until he comes in glory, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and gives life with you now and for ever.
Or:
God,
friend of life and of humans, you raised your Son Jesus from the shadow of death and also called us into a communion which death cannot destroy. Let us live from the confidence that you will fulfil in us what you have begun in Jesus, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
Holy God, you received our brother Jesus, your beloved Son, into your eternal glory. It is your will that we will also live with him for ever. Guide us to this great goal through the word of your truth and the Spirit whom you have given us through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
Good God, you entrusted your creation to us and will set it free from its bondage to decay, like us. Make us live in your creation and preserve it as those you have redeemed. We ask this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your risen Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, creating and completing this world, in bread and wine we bring your creation before you and ask: Heal its wounds through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, our salvation, through this paschal food Christ lives in us and we live in him. Let us abide in him and witness to him in word and deed, to Christ, our Lord.
Fourth Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
God, the light of your wisdom illumines those who err that they may find back to you. Help us so to live that we are not only called Christians but in truth are. We ask you this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord and brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, accept the gifts which your church offers you in the joy of Easter. As you have given it reason for such rejoicing, keep the joy until all has been fulfilled through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all good things, we thank you for the bread of life and the wine of gladness which we received from your hand. Guided by you, let us always be grateful in word and deed through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Fifth Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
God, our Father, you have redeemed us through your Son and accepted us as your beloved children. Look on all who believe in Christ. Clinging to you make them find the true liberty through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, creator of the universe, in this paschal celebration you give us a share in your divine life. Grant that we may recognise the traces of your love in this world and direct our lives on you, through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
God, rich for all who call upon you, we thank you that we were guests at the table of your Son whom you saved from death into your incorruptible life. Let us live as people of Easter and always praise your goodness through Christ, our Lord.
Weekdays before Ascension Day II
Collect
Living God, you did not abandon Jesus in death but proclaimed him living before his disciples. Let us perceive in faith that he is now in our midst, speaks to us and breaks us the bread, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
God of loving-kindness, you are with us in Jesus Christ, your risen Son. We ask you: Set us free from the power of death, and let us in self-sacrificing love witness to the life which you always give us through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Or:
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, by raising your Son you have given hope to the world and rescued your faithful from eternal death. Give us always a joyful heart and a firm faith in him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father, our gifts are signs of our openness and our trust. Accept them and all the world with its well and woe, through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father, we thank you for Jesus, the bread for the life of the world. Strengthen us through him on our way through this time to the goal of your eternity.
Sixth Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
God of all life, in great gladness we praise the resurrection of your Son. Let the paschal mystery which we celebrate in these fifty days shape and transform all our lives. We ask you this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, Father of all people, your Son promised to be in our midst when we gather together in his name. May he himself fill our prayer to your glory, who live and give life now and for ever.
Preface of Easter (I or II)
Prayer after Communion
Good God, you have given us new life in the resurrection of your Son. We thank you for this paschal meal and praise you with all the church through Jesus Christ in the Holy Spirit today and for ever.
Ascension Day
Collect
Eternal God, in the ascension of your Son you have exalted humanity and revealed its dignity. Give us the firm trust that we too have been called to that glory into which Christ has gone before us, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, accept the gifts and prayers of your congregation. Set us free from all that separates us from you, and let us love you above all else through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Our Father in heaven, you have given us who still live on earth a share in the heavenly banquet of eternal life. Direct our minds and hearts more and more to Christ who lives and works with you now and for ever.
Weekdays between Ascension Day and Pentecost
Collect
Good Father, your Son Jesus promised us to be with us all the days to the end of the age. Send us your Spirit that his promise might find its fulfilment in us. We ask you this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Or:
God, friend of life, you have given us Jesus that he may walk with us and guide us on our way to you. We thank you and ask: Strengthen us with your Holy Spirit, and keep in us the joy of Easter through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works now and for ever.
Or:
Great God, your Son has promised us the Holy Spirit. We ask you: Let us grow in this Spirit in recognising your will, in your truth and your love. We ask you this, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our salvation, accept the gifts which we offer, and through your Holy Spirit make us a gift which is yours for ever through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface (between Ascension Day and Pentecost)
Prayer after Communion
God, source of life, you raised Jesus from the dead. He breaks the bread with us and always renews his presence among us. Fill us with your Holy Spirit, that what we speak and do may bear witness to your mighty acts through Christ, our Lord.
Seventh Sunday in Eastertide
Collect
God, wonderful in your light, by glorifying your Son you opened the limits of our and your world, of heaven and earth, of time and eternity. Make us scale walls with him and live from his spirit. This we ask through him, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, may our prayers come to you and accept the gifts which we offer in the joy of this Eastertide. Keep us in the joy until everything has been accomplished through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface (between Ascension Day and Pentecost)
Prayer after Communion
God, source of all life, you created us anew through the resurrection of your Son. In your loving-kindness turn towards us and abide with your compassion always with us until we rise to life incorruptible and may gaze at you as you are. This we ask through Christ, our Lord.
Pentecost (Masses of the Holy Spirit)
Collect
Great God, you sanctify your Church among all peoples and nations by pouring the Spirit on this day. Fill all the world with the gifts of your Holy Spirit. What your love worked in the beginning of creation, work today in the hearts of all who believe in you and seek you. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you call your people from among all peoples and gather it together in the Holy Spirit. Grant that your Church remains faithful to its mission, that it may be leaven for humanity which you want to renew and transform into one family in Christ. This we ask through him who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you now and for ever.
Or:
Great God, you entice us in the signs of storm and fire. Send your Spirit into our lives and break the narrow confines of our thoughts by the fire of your wisdom. This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now, always and for ever.
Or:
God, you created the world and do not abandon it. Pour out your Spirit and renew the face of the earth. Stir us up that we work for justice and peace and the integrity of your good creation. This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or:
God, you filled (on this day) the hearts of your faithful with the fire of the Holy Spirit. May we, in this Spirit, know what is right and always perceive his comfort and help. This we ask through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life now, always and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we bring these gifts before you. Sanctify us by the fire of your Spirit who once came down on the community waiting and set their hearts on fire through Christ, our Lord.
Or:
Creator of all life, accept what we bring before you today. Let the Spirit whom you gave to your Church be felt in the world through all who believe in you. This we ask through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, we thank you that you have united us, at the table of your Son, to a fellowship of love. Keep your Church in your word, renew it in Christ, and unite it in your Spirit through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Or:
God, creator of heaven and earth, you have nourished us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Fill our hearts with the joy of the Holy Spirit. Grant that what we have received in this celebration will once be ours as the gift that remains through Christ, our Lord.
Or:
God, creator of life, the inextinguishable fire of your Holy Spirit always reaches when we celebrate the Eucharist. We thank you for this gift and ask: Let us always perceive the reflection of your future through Christ, your Son, our risen brother and Lord.
The Order of the Holy Eucharist
The Eucharist may be preceded by the celebration of reconciliation.
Opening
Opening Song
Either: Psalm with antiphon
At the end of the psalm, the Gloria Patri is sung.
Or: Opening hymn from the hymnal
Or: Kyrie litany or Kyrie hymn
Greeting
P[resider]: In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
A[ll]: Amen.
P: The Lord be with you.
Or: Grace and peace to you from the One who is and who was and who is to come.
Or: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you.
A: And also with you.
Kyrie
The Kyrie is not sung or said if they have been used as the opening song in the Kyrie litany or the Kyrie hymn .
C[antor]: Lord, have mercy (upon us).
A: Lord, have mercy (upon us).
C: Christ, have mercy (upon us).
A: Christ, have mercy (upon us).
C: Lord, have mercy (upon us).
A: Lord, have mercy (upon us).
Gloria
The Gloria is not sung on weekdays, on Sundays in Advent and in Lent.
[The German version of the Gloria is here printed, alternating between C and A; it is not reprinted here.]
Collect
P: Let us pray.
Silence
Prayer
A: Amen.
The Word of God
The biblical readings before the gospel are read by members of the parish (readers).
First Reading
After the reading:
R[eader]: Here ends the reading.
A: Thanks be to God.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm with antiphon (or psalm hymn)
Second Reading
After the reading:
R: Here ends the reading.
A: Thanks be to God.
Alleluia
with biblical verse
During Lent, an appropriate antiphon
Gospel
The gospel is read by the deacon. If there is no deacon, one of the celebrants reads the gospel. If there is no deacon or second priest, the presider him/herself will read the gospel. In this case, the liturgical greeting before the gospel is not repeated.
D[eacon]: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
D(P): The Holy Gospel according to N.
A: Glory to you, O Lord.
At the end of the gospel
D(P): These are the words of the Holy Gospel, they are words of eternal life.
A: Praise to you, O Christ.
Sermon
or other means of proclamation
The Confession of Faith
The creed is not said on weekdays.
Either: The Apostles' Creed
Or: The Nicene Creed
(The German versions are here printed, the Nicene Creed alternating between C and A. The texts are not reprinted here. The Nicene Creed is said without the filioque clause.]
Intercessions
The intercessions are introduced by the presider, the individual petitions being read by members of the parish. A short silence is held after each petition. A response by all follows.
The Peace
The Peace will be exchanged either here or after the Eucharistic Prayer and introduced with one of the following verses:
Either: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (Rom 15. 13)
Or: Agree with one another, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. (2 Cor 13. 11b)
Or: Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which you were called in the one body. And be thankful. (Col 3. 15)
Or: May the God of peace sanctify you entirely, and may your spirit and soul and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thess 5. 23)
Then the presider sings or says:
P: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
A: Peace be with all of us.
The deacon or presider says:
Give each other a sign of peace and reconciliation.
The Supper of the Lord
Preparation of the Gifts
A psalm or hymn are sung at the preparation. There may also be silence or instrumental music.
Prayer
P: Pray, brothers and sisters, that our gifts be acceptable to God, the almighty Father.
A: To his glory and the salvation of the world.
Or.
P: All things come from you.
A: Of your own do we give you our gifts.
Or:
P: Let us pray.
Silence
Prayer
A: Amen.
The Eucharistic Prayer
The Eucharistic Prayer is selected from the texts printed in this book.
The versions III, IV, VII and XX have a proper Preface. For the other versions, the Preface of the day is taken or an appropriate Preface is selected from this book.
The Dialogue at the beginning
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: Lift up your hearts.
A: We lift them to the Lord.
P: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
A: It is right to give our thanks and praise.
Now follows the first part of the Eucharistic Prayer, the Preface.
Sanctus
[The German version of the Sanctus is here printed, alternating between C and A; it is not reprinted here.]
Anamnetic Acclamation
In versions IV, VIII, XI, XII, XIII, XVII, XIX, XXI and XXIII, the Anamnetic Acclamation is introduced in the following way:
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
In versions VI and XX, the Anamnetic Acclamation is introduced in the following way:
(Deacon / presider:)
Great is the mystery of faith.
In versions VII, IX, X, XIV, XV and XVI (as well as in I and II), the Anamnetic Acclamation is introduced in the following way:
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
In all versions, the Acclamation is the same:
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
Great Doxology
The Great Doxology at the end of the Eucharistic Prayer is sung by all participants together with the presider, if provided by the respective version.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
The Lord's Prayer
Introduction
Either: Admonished and taught by our Lord's instruction, we are bold to say:
Or: Let us pray as the Lord taught us to pray:
Or: We are called children of God and indeed we are. Therefore we pray in confidence:
Or: We have received the Spirit who makes us children of God. Therefore we are bold to say:
[The German version of the Lord's Prayer is here printed; it is not reprinted here.]
The Peace
Unless exchanged at the end of the ministry of the Word of God, the Peace is exchanged here.
P: The peace of the Lord be always with you.
A: Peace be with all of us.
The deacon or presider says:
Give each other a sign of peace and reconciliation.
The Breaking of the Bread
The Agnus Dei
[The German version of the Agnus Dei is here printed, alternating between C and A; it is not reprinted here.]
Or:
The Lamb that was slain and has reconciled us to God by his blood, is worthy to receive power and riches and wisdom and strength and honour and glory and praise.
Or:
C: Jesus, Lamb of God,
A: have mercy on us.
C: Jesus, bearer of our sins,
A: have mercy on us.
C: Jesus, redeemer of the world,
A: have mercy on us.
The following sequence is also possible:
The Breaking of the Bread, The Peace, The Lord's Prayer.
Invitation
for example:
P: Now let us receive the body and blood of the Lord and call upon his name.
A: Lord, I am not worthy that you enter under my roof. Only say a word and my soul will be healed.
Or:
P: This is the bread of life (and the cup of salvation).
A: We, being many, are one body, for we all share in the one bread (and in the one cup).
Distribution of the Holy Meal
A psalm with antiphon or a hymn many be sung during or after the Distribution.
Prayer after Communion
A period of silence is held before the Prayer after Communion.
P: Let us pray.
Prayer
A: Amen.
Blessing and Dismissal
Before the Blessing
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
Before the Blessing by the Bishop
B: Blessed be the name of the Lord.
A: From this time forth for evermore.
B: Our help is in the name of the Lord.
A: The maker of heaven and earth.
Blessing
P: The almighty God bless you: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
If desired, the Solemn Blessing may be used [text printed hereafter].
Dismissal
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
During Eastertide:
D: Go in peace, alleluia, alleluia.
A: Thanks be to God, alleluia, alleluia.
The liturgy may be closed with a hymn.
The Solemn Blessing
The solemn blessing is not appropriate during Lent and Advent.
If used -- at higher feasts --, care is to be taken that the character of the dialogue be kept; the responses by the congregation are indispensable. It is introduced by the simple liturgical greeting, the congregation giving the usual answer.
The final sentence reads, "May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit", the congregation answering, "Amen". The dismissal is then sung or said with the usual response by the congregation.
1. The Aaronitic Blessing
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you. The Lord look upon you with favour and grant you peace.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
2. From Philippians 4
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The peace of God which passes all understanding keep your hearts and minds in the fellowship with Christ Jesus.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
3. On Christmas / In Christmastide
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The merciful God has dispelled the darkness by the birth of his Son and illumined this night / this day / this time with the splendour of his light; may he shine in your hearts with the light of his grace.
A: Amen.
P: To the shepherds he had the angel proclaim great joy; may he fill all your life with this joy.
A: Amen.
P. In Christ God has linked heaven and earth; may he give his peace to all people of good will.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
4. On Epiphany / Presentation of the Lord
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: God our Father has called us from darkness into his wonderful light; may he bless and strengthen you in faith, hope and love.
A: Amen.
On Epiphany
P: The magi followed the star and found Christ; may God lead you too on the way of your pilgrimage on earth to the vision of his glory.
A: Amen.
On the Presentation of the Lord
P. Hanna and Simeon met Christ and knew him as the saviour of the peoples. May his light be radiant in your hearts and illumine your ways.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
5. At the Paschal Vigil
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: Through his life and suffering Christ has led us to the joy of Easter; may he be with you all the days of your life until that Easter joy that has no end.
A: Amen.
P: In this night that has become bright by the resurrection of our saviour, may God in his loving-kindness bless you and lead you to the sun that will never set.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace, alleluia, alleluia.
A: Thanks be to God, alleluia, alleluia.
6. In Eastertide
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The almighty God has set us free from sin and death by the resurrection of his Son; may he bless you and give you his joy.
A: Amen.
P: In baptism he has accepted us as children of his grace; may he give you the promised heritage.
A: Amen.
P. May Christ with whom we have been raised by faith keep in you the gift of redemption.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace, alleluia, alleluia.
A: Thanks be to God, alleluia, alleluia.
7. On Pentecost / For the Holy Spirit
P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
P: The merciful God has (on this day) illumined the disciples by the infusion of the Holy Spirit; may he bless you and give you the riches of his gifts.
A: Amen.
P: May the Holy Spirit who has united the many languages in the confession of faith strengthen you in the truth and guide you from believing to seeing.
A: Amen.
P. May that fire which descended upon the disciples in many tongues cleanse your hearts and kindle in you God's love.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace (alleluia, alleluia).
A: Thanks be to God (alleluia, alleluia).
8. At Confirmation
B/P: The Lord be with you.
A: And also with you.
B: Blessed be the name of the Lord.
A: From this time forth for evermore.
B: Our help is in the name of the Lord.
A: The maker of heaven and earth.
B/P: You have become daughters and sons of God by the new birth from water and the Holy Spirit; may he keep you in his mercy and love.
A: Amen.
B/P: You have been fed with the bread of life and have drunk from the cup of salvation; may God strengthen you on all the ways of your life.
A: Amen.
P. The good news has been proclaimed to you, and you have been anointed with the chrism of gladness; may God keep you in the fellowship of his people and lead you to never-ending joy.
A: Amen.
P: May God, Three in One, grant you this, the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.
A: Amen.
D: Go in peace.
A: Thanks be to God.
Prefaces
Preface of Advent I
We thank you, Father in heaven, and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
You promised him as Saviour to lost humanity. His truth shines for those who seek, his power strengthens the weak, his mercy brings forgiveness to sinners. For he is the Saviour of the world whom you sent because of your faithfulness.
Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with the cherubim and seraphim and all the choirs of angels, and sing the glory of your name:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Advent II
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise your mercy.
The day of redemption is shining, and the time of our salvation is at hand, as the saviour comes, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Through him we praise the work of your love, joining the choirs of angels, to proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Christmas I
It is right to give you thanks, and a good and joyful thing to praise you, holy Father, through your only Son Jesus Christ.
For he, your eternal Word, became human. You, O God, have come to us in visible form in him, and you kindle in us the love for what no eye has ever seen.
Therefore we praise you with all the choirs of angels and join all Christians to proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Christmas II
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
For the mystery of his birth is great: Today he, the invisible God, appeared in visible form as a human. Born of you before all ages, he subjected himself to the laws of time. Everything has been recreated in him. He heals the wounds of all creation, lifts up what had fallen, and calls us into the kingdom of your peace.
Therefore heaven and earth, angels and humans praise you and proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of The Epiphany
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God.
For today you unveil the mystery of our salvation, today you reveal the light to the nations, Jesus Christ, your Son. He has appeared on earth as a mortal and has created us anew in the splendour of his divine life.
Therefore we join all angels and saints in proclaiming the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Baptism of Jesus
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise your greatness.
For at the baptism in the Jordan you reveal the mystery of your Son by wonderful signs: the voice from heaven proclaims him your beloved Son who has appeared on earth as your eternal Word living among humans. The Spirit alights on him and testifies him to be your servant whom you have anointed to bring the good news of joy to the poor.
Therefore we join the angels and archangels, the thrones and powers and all the throngs of heaven in praising your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Wedding at Cana
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, all-merciful Father, and to praise you with all creation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He did the first of his signs at the wedding at Cana; in the water become wine he shows us your power to save. He gives us a foretaste of the heavenly banquet and reveals himself to be the messiah whom you have sent.
Therefore we praise you full of joy and join heaven and earth proclaiming your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Lent I
We thank you, holy Father, for in these forty days of penitence you call us anew to follow your Son, that with him we might resist the evil and fulfil his commandment of love.
You strengthen our trust in your closeness, you set us free from the powers of everyday life, you open our hand for the needs of the poor. In this way you lead us with pure hearts to the joy of Easter and prepare us to meet your risen Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Through him we praise your mercy and join the throngs of angels and all those redeemed in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Lent II
We praise you, all-merciful, eternal God, in this time of the forty days, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He calls us to turn around and to believe the gospel. He himself is your word, his death is our life.
Through him we praise your mercy and join the throngs of angels and those who live with you in joyfully singing:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Passion of the Lord I
We thank you, Father in heaven, and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He has loved us and given himself to death for us. He has died for all that we might not perish but have eternal life.
Through him all those you redeemed magnify you and join the choirs of angels to sing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Passion of the Lord II also on Palm Sunday and on the Feast of the Holy Cross
It is right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, all-merciful Father, and to praise you with all creation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He was lifted up from the earth to the cross to draw all people to himself. Through his passion and his death he became the author of salvation for the entire creation.
Therefore we praise you with all angels and saints and proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Maundy Thursday also on Corpus Christi Day
It is indeed right to joyfully thank you, great God.
For our Lord Jesus Christ has instituted this celebration as the memorial of his love, his death and his incorruptible life. He has given us a sign of the new and everlasting covenant and promised that it would find its fulfilment in the coming kingdom.
Therefore we praise you with your angels and saints and proclaim your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Easter I
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to give thanks to you, Father, always and everywhere, but chiefly to celebrate this night (this day) as our paschal lamb has been sacrificed, Jesus Christ.
For he is the true lamb who has taken away the sin of the world. By his death he destroyed death, and by his resurrection he created life anew.
Therefore in this night (today) all the world rejoices in paschal joy, therefore the company of heaven and the choirs of angels magnify you, singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Easter II
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to give thanks to you, Father, as our paschal lamb has been sacrificed, Jesus Christ.
The old is passed, the fallen world redeemed, life in Christ renewed.
Therefore we praise you in the joy of Easter and join the choirs of angels, singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of the Good Shepherd also on Sundays throughout the year
We thank you, holy Father, and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
In him you have shown yourself to be the Father of all peoples and accepted us as your beloved children. In his resurrection you have overcome the power of death and also called us to life eternal. Your Son, the Good Shepherd, nourishes us through the meal of his love and fills us with his Spirit that we might attain the goal of our lives.
Therefore we praise you with all your creation, singing in the joy of Easter:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Preface of Ascension
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
After his resurrection he appeared to his disciples. You raised him to your right hand before their eyes that he may raise us to be your children and heirs of your glory.
Therefore all the world rejoices (today) in paschal joy, and we join the praise of the angels and the company of heaven, singing with one voice:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Between Ascension and Pentecost also at confirmation services in Eastertide
We praise you, God, our Father, and magnify you through your Son Jesus Christ.
Risen from the dead, he sent the Holy Spirit to his disciples, his life in abundance, his salvation and his peace. Through him you give us the breath of life of your Spirit in whom we call you, "Abba, Father".
Therefore we praise you in paschal joy and join the praise of heaven and all Christians on earth:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Pentecost
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, holy Father, always and everywhere, and to celebrate this day in festal joy.
For today you completed the paschal mystery, today you sent the Holy Spirit to all whom you raised with Christ and called to be your children. On Pentecost you fill your Church with life: your Spirit gives to all peoples the knowledge of the one living God and unites the many tongues in confessing the one faith.
Therefore all peoples on earth praise you in paschal joy, and we join the praise of heaven and magnify your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
The Holy Spirit
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you, eternal God and Father, always and everywhere through our Lord Jesus Christ.
You have called the Church from among all peoples and have kept it by your Holy Spirit up to the day of today. You do not cease to call all of us to the unity of the Spirit.
Therefore we praise your mercy now and for ever, joining the choirs of angels in praising your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Holy Trinity
It is indeed right, holy God, to thank you, it is good to praise you, the source of all life.
You have created, redeemed and sanctified us. We adore you in your divine greatness and bow before the unsearchable mystery of your trinity.
We praise you with all your creatures, joining the praise of your angels and saints singing without end:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Day of Thanksgiving for the Eucharist also on Maundy Thursday
We thank you, holy Father, and praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He is the bread coming from heaven to satisfy our hunger for life. He testified to your love and gave his life for us, like a piece of bread that is broken. You made him the head of a new humanity. We are members of his body and share in his indestructible life. He gave us the heritage of his love, we break the bread and share the cup.
In this way we honour you by celebrating his memorial, singing with all creation the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Last Sundays of the Liturgical Year
It is right to praise you, God, our Father, through Jesus Christ, your Son.
You exalted him as Lord of creation that he might present to you a kingdom, eternal and universal: the kingdom of truth and life, the kingdom of holiness and grace, the kingdom of justice, love and peace. Then every knee will bow at the name of Jesus, and heaven and earth will proclaim your glory.
Therefore we join all the angels and saints, singing in joy:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, I
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise you with all creation.
For in you we live, we move and we have our existence. Each day anew we know the works of your loving-kindness. In this life you already give us the Holy Spirit as pledge of eternal glory. Through him you raised Jesus from the dead and gave us the sure hope that the paschal mystery will be fulfilled in us.
Therefore we join the praise of heaven, singing with all your creatures the hymn of joy:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, II
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise you with all creation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He suffered the darkness of this world and of death, but you raised him to new life. Therefore in him we are a new creation, overcome fear and prepare the way for his coming.
Through him we bless your mercy now and for ever, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, III
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise you with all creation through our Lord Jesus Christ.
In living faith we remember his death, proclaim his resurrection and, full of hope and confidence, await his coming in glory.
We praise you with all those made perfect, joining the hymn of your angels:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, IV
We thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
For he is the One who suffered death for all of us so that we may not perish in death. He is the One who died for all of us so that we may live with you forever.
Through him those whom you redeemed bless you, joining the choirs of angels in singing the praise of your glory: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, V God leads his church
We thank you, God our Father, for you called us to life.
You do not abandon us on our way and hear us when we cry to you. You once led your people Israel through the wilderness. Today you accompany the church in the power of your Spirit. You Son prepares us the road through this time to the joy of eternal life.
Therefore we join all the angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, VI Jesus, our way
We thank you, holy and strong God. You direct the destiny of this world and care for each person. You gather us to be a fellowship that we listen to your word and follow your Son in faith. He is the way, on this way we come to you; he is the truth, it alone sets us free; he is the life and fills us with joy.
Therefore we bless your mercy now and for ever, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Ordinary Preface, VII Jesus, the brother of all
We thank you, faithful God and Father, for your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord and saviour. He had compassion for the poor and sick, the outcasts and sinners. He was a brother to those in need and despair. His life and message show us that you care for us humans like a good father and a loving mother.
Therefore we bless your loving-kindness and faithfulness, joining all the angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Presentation of the Lord 2 February
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you always and everywhere, Lord, holy Father, almighty and everlasting God.
For today Mary brought your eternal Son to the temple; Simeon, illumined by the Spirit, praised him as the glory of your people Israel; Hanna, the prophet, proclaimed him as the saviour and blessed your name.
We join Simeon and Hanna in meeting our saviour in joy, and the angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Annunciation of the Lord 25 March
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to glorify your love.
For the angel (today) brought tidings to Mary, and she accepted your word with faith in her heart. She conceived your eternal Word through the power of the Holy Spirit; it took flesh in her womb to living among us mortals. You fulfilled your promise to Israel and sent whom the peoples await, your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Through him we bless your mercy, joining the choirs of angels in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
John the Baptist 24 June
We thank you, Father in heaven, and glorify you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
John the Baptist prepared his way and proclaimed that this is the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world.
Therefore we raise our voices, joining the choirs of angels and the cloud of witnesses in praising your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
The Transfiguration of the Lord 6 August
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, through your beloved Son Jesus Christ.
In him you have shone upon us to give the light of the knowledge of your glory in his face.
Therefore we magnify you, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Michael and All Angels 29 September
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to bless and thank you, God our Father.
You send your heavenly messengers to repel the powers of darkness; you preserve your church through the ministry of your angels.
We join our voices with theirs, confessing without end:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
All Saints 1 November also at special memorials of saints
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, all-merciful Father, and to glorify you with all creation.
For today we see your holy city, our home, the heavenly Jerusalem, where our sisters and brothers brought to perfection praise you forever. To it we are on our way in faith and walk to the end of your promise with confidence.
Therefore we magnify you in the fellowship of your saints, joining the choirs of angels in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
At the Anniversary of the Dedication of a Church
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, holy God, whom heaven and earth cannot contain.
For your glory this house was built in which you gather your pilgrim church to show it an image of your presence and to give the grace of your communion. You build a temple for yourself from living stones. From all places you call us as your people and join us to the body of your Son. Here you direct our eyes to the heavenly Jerusalem and give us the hope to behold your everlasting peace.
Therefore we praise you in your church, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Mary, the Mother of God
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank you, Father in heaven, and to praise the work of your mercy.
You chose Mary from among all humans and blessed her before all women. The dawn of salvation shines in her. She bore Christ, the sun of righteousness.
Through him we bless your mercy now and forever, joining the choirs of angels and saints in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Apostles
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank and praise you, holy Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
After his resurrection he sent his apostles to proclaim the good news and to teach all peoples. He promised to be present all the days until the end of time.
Therefore we magnify your holy name, joining the angels and saints and all Christians in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Witnesses of Faith
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to thank and praise you, holy Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
He built his church through the ministry of prophets and apostles, of martyrs and evangelists. They glorified his name by the witness of their lives.
Therefore bless you, joining the choirs in heaven and all Christians on earth in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Unity of Christians
We bless you, Father in heaven, and thank you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
In him you led us to the knowledge of truth and made us members of his body through one faith and one baptism. Through him you poured out your Holy Spirit on all the peoples that he might do great things with his gifts. He lives in the hearts of the faithful, he permeates and guides the whole church and works its unity in Christ.
Therefore we bless your mercy now and forever, joining the choirs of angels in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Thanksgiving for the Harvest
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you, almighty Father, and to bless you with your manifold creation.
We thank you for the fruits of our labour and for the harvest of this year. We thank you for keeping our lives in your loving-kindness.
We join the choirs of angels and saints in singing with great joy the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
The Turn of the Year, Anniversaries and Jubilees
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you always and everywhere, God our Father.
We thank you that in your loving-kindness, you have led us through the years and receive us anew into the communion of your love through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Therefore we bless you with all your creation and sing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Marriage
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you, our Father, and to magnify the work of your creation.
For you created us humans in your image and gave us the gift of love. You join man and woman in matrimony to a holy fellowship in Christ and promise your blessing to their covenant.
Therefore we bless you, joining the choirs of heaven and all Christians on earth in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Of the Departed I
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, to praise you, Father in heaven, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
In him shines the hope that we will rise in glory. Even burdened by the fate of sure death, we are comforted by the promise of future immortality. For your faithful, O God, life will be changed, not taken. And when the tent of our pilgrimage on earth decays, an eternal home is prepared for us in heaven.
Therefore we join the angels and those made perfect in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Of the Departed II
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to thank you, the living God, through our Lord Jesus Christ.
For he is the salvation of the world, the life of the mortals, the resurrection of the dead.
Through him heaven and earth, angels and humans bless you, joining their voices in singing the praise of your glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
Eucharistic Prayer
Eucharistic Prayer I
After the Sanctus
We give you thanks, O God, our Father, through your beloved Son Jesus, the Christ. You sent him in the fullness of time to be our saviour and redeemer, as the angel of your holy will. He is your eternal Word, inseparable from you. Through him you created everything, and you saw that it was good. He became human by the power of the Holy Spirit and was born of the Virgin Mary. You revealed him as your Son. To accomplish your will and to gather a holy people for you, he stretched out his hands in suffering, to bring release to those who place their hope in you. He gave himself freely to death to break the power of death, to shatter the chains of evil, to banish the darkness and to reveal the resurrection.
On the night he was handed over, he took bread and gave you thanks, broke the bread and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you. After supper he like wise took the cup, and when he had given thanks to you, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, drink, this is the cup of the new and eternal covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial for me.
Remembering, therefore, the death and resurrection of your Son, we bring you this bread and this cup and celebrate the mystery of our faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
We thank you that you have made us worthy to stand before you and to serve you.
We ask you: Send your Holy Spirit upon these gifts and upon the celebration of your Church. Gather it to unity at your Table. Strengthen it by your Spirit in its faith in you and keep it in the truth, that we may praise you and give you glory through your Son Jesus, the Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer II
After the Sanctus
All-merciful Father, accept our praise, our thanks and our gifts. We humbly implore you and pray you to bless us and all who are united to the meal of love to proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes. The whole Church on earth joins us in this celebration. Listen to our prayer and grant us unity and peace and your Spirit. Look on all who seek you and believe in you. Strengthen our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Bless all peoples and all who are responsible for peach and justice. Remember also all for whom we ask you. (Silence) Like us, they are all yours. You look into our hearts, you know our faith but also our fears. Make us open for you and lead us to salvation, uniting us in one holy fellowship. We praise you with Mary, the mother of our redeemer, and with all the apostles, martyrs and confessors of faith. May their word, example and prayer bear fruit among all of us and for all of us. Send us your Holy Spirit, the giver of all life and all sanctification that with these gifts of the earth, the commandment of your Son be fulfilled. Give us in the bread that we break a sharing in the body of the Lord, and in the cup which we bless a sharing in the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.
On the day before he suffered, he took the bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you. After supper he like wise took the cup, and when he had again given thanks to you, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, drink, this is the cup of the new and eternal covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial for me.
We and all your Church therefore remember the saving death of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, his resurrection from the dead and his exaltation to your right hand. He gives himself for us as a pure and holy sacrifice, giving himself to us as the holy bread of eternal life and in the cup of everlasting salvation.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Father, you have called us to communion around this Table. Fill us through this body and blood of your Son with all the blessing and all grace of heaven. We ask you to remember all who have gone before us in the sign of faith and rest in peace. (Silence) May we and all for whom your Son has died share in his resurrection. Accept us sinners too who trust in the fullness of your love into the fellowship of your salvation, with all whose life has come to completion with you, not because we would merit it but because you are granting your mercy through our Lord Jesus Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
(according to the first order of Mass by Adolf Thürlings [1885])
Eucharistic Prayer III
Preface
We give you thanks, God our Father, for from you comes our life. You created us and you do not abandon us from your hands. You are always close to us. You once led your people through the desert. Today you go with your Church in the power of your Spirit. Your Son himself is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore we praise you with all the angels and saints, joyfully singing:
After the Sanctus
Blessed are you, God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Father of all mercy and God of all consolation. You loved the world so much that you gave your only Son so that all who believe in him might not perish but have eternal life.
He instituted a lasting memorial of his saving deeds. On the night he was handed over, he took bread and gave you thanks, broke the bread and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you. After supper he like wise took the cup, and when he had again given thanks to you, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, drink, this is the cup of the new and eternal covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial for me.
We therefore remember before you, O Father, the incarnation of your Son, his words and signs, his humiliation, his obedience to death on the cross and his resurrection in glory. You exalted him above all and gave him the name that is above every name so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend in heaven, on earth and under the earth and every tongue should confess:
(All:)
Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.
(Presider:)
With praise and thanksgiving we bring these signs of his sacrifice before you and pray: Send your Holy Spirit and fill these gifts with his life-giving power so that they may become for us the body and blood of your beloved Son. May the bread which we break be a sharing in the body of the Lord, and the cup which we bless be a communion with the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ.
(Presider or All:)
Make us all one body, for we all partake of the one bread.
(Presider:)
In the fellowship with Mary the Mother of God, the apostles and martyrs, with Saint Willibrord and all the saints, with our Bishop N. and Archbishop N., with the fellowship of bishops, with all women and men in the apostolic ministry and with all your Church, we praise you and look with joy for the coming of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
(Eucharistic Prayer of the Union of Utrecht 1982)
Eucharistic Prayer IV
Preface
It is indeed right and a good thing that we give you thanks, holy Father, through our Lord Jesus Christ. You made the visible and the invisible. You created us in your own image and made a covenant with us. You revealed your promises through the words of your prophets. Therefore with all the angels and saints we proclaim your glory and sing together:
After the Sanctus
You are holy indeed, God our Father. So loved the world so much that you sent your Son. He took flesh from Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit.
May the power of this Spirit today sanctify our eucharist that he may fulfil the word of your beloved Son who wishes to give us his body and his blood.
On the night before he was handed over, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until your Son comes again, we do as he commanded us by celebrating the memorial of the passion, resurrection and ascension of your Christ. He always lives before you as our high priest, interceding for us and bringing his only and perfect sacrifice before you on our behalf.
Sanctify your Church as you did on Pentecost; your Holy Spirit may guide it into all truth. He may strengthen it for its mission to the ends of the earth. He may prepare your eternal kingdom so that we may have a share in the inheritance of your saints in light; with Mary, the prophets, apostles and martyrs, (with Saint N.) we look for the coming of your beloved Son.
(Deacon:)
Come, Lord Jesus.
(All:)
Maranatha, our Lord comes.
(Presider:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever.
(All:)
Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer V
After the Sanctus
We praise you, holy Father, for you are always with us on our way, especially when Jesus, your Son, gathers us for the meal of love; like the disciples at Emmaus, he interprets the Scriptures and breaks the bread for us.
Therefore we ask you, holy God: send your Spirit upon bread and wine, so that Jesus Christ be present in our midst with his body and blood.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread at the supper and gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore we celebrate the memorial of our reconciliation and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Your Son has passed through suffering and death to new life and is risen to your glory. Look upon your Christ who sacrifices himself with body and blood and, in his sacrifice, opens the way to you, our Father.
Merciful God, grant us the spirit of love, the Spirit of your Son. Strengthen us by his body and blood and renew us in his image. Guide our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Make all members of the Church understand the signs of the time and grow in faithfulness to your gospel. Make us open for the people around us, so that we share their mourning and fear, their hopes and joys and show them the way to salvation. Have mercy on our brothers and sisters who have gone in the peace of Christ and on all the departed whose faith no one knows as you do, and lead them to the resurrection. When our own way reaches its end, receive us into your kingdom where we may expect the fullness of life and of glory for ever. In the fellowship of Mary, the blessed Virgin and Mother of God, of the apostles and martyrs, (of Saint N.) and of all your saints, we praise and glorify you through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer VI
After the Sanctus
We praise you, God, holy Father, and glorify you in your holy, life-giving Spirit who in the beginning hovered over the waters, who spoke through the prophets, who gave light and strength to your chosen people. When the fullness of time had come, Jesus, your Son, took flesh from Mary by the Holy Spirit. In the power of the Spirit he proclaimed the good news of salvation to the poor, freedom to those in prison and joy to those who mourn. So that we might live no longer for ourselves but for him who was crucified and raised, you also gave your Spirit to us that he might continue and complete the saving deeds of your Son.
Send this Spirit upon our eucharist that he may fulfil the word of your Son who on the night before he suffered took bread at the supper and praised you for your great deeds, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, praised your mercy and loving-kindness, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore we celebrate the memorial of your Son and proclaim his death and resurrection, his exaltation to your right hand, and look for the day in which he will make all things new.
(Deacon:)
Great is the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we come before you with these signs of his sacrifice and pray that you Spirit may fill all who share in the body and blood of your Son with his power and his life. May he bring your Church together to unity. Strengthen through him all whom you have called to your service: our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops, all women and men in the apostolic ministry and all your people wherever they may be. We praise you in fellowship with Mary the mother of your Son, with your apostles and martyrs and with all your saints through Jesus, your Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer VII
Preface
It is indeed right and a good thing to thank you always and everywhere, holy Father, creator of heaven and earth. You made everything through your word and saw that it was good. You created us in your image that we may share in your life and your glory may shine through us. When the fullness of time had come, you gave us Jesus, your Christ, the way, the truth and the life. You testified to him as your beloved Son whose mission it was to proclaim the good news to the poor. He left us the eucharist that we may remember his death and resurrection and receive him as our food. Therefore, with all the angels and saints, we proclaim your glory:
After the Sanctus
You are holy indeed, and all creation proclaims your praise.
Fill our eucharist with your life-giving Spirit (who spoke through Moses and the prophets, who overshadowed the Virgin Mary with his grace, who, at the Jordan, descended upon Jesus and, on Pentecost, upon the apostles) that this bread and this wine may become for us the body and blood of Christ.
On the night before he was handed over, he took bread at the supper and gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
We therefore celebrate today the memorial of our redemption: the birth and life of your Son among us, his baptism by John, his last supper with the apostles, his death and descent to those held by death. We proclaim his resurrection and exaltation to you where, as our high priest, he intercedes for us and for all. We look for his coming in glory and through him bring this bread and this cup before you. Remember the sacrifice of your Son and, through him, set all people and all your creation free. Strengthen the covenant which you made with us.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
When we receive the body and blood of Christ fill us with your Holy Spirit that we may become one body and one spirit in Christ, one living sacrifice to the praise of your glory.
(All:)
Come, creator Spirit.
(Presider:)
Remember, Lord, your one holy catholic and apostolic Church, redeemed by the blood of your Son. Grant it unity, deepen its faith and keep it in peace. Strengthen our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Remember especially ... Remember also our departed sisters and brothers whose faith is known to you alone. Accompany them to the banquet in your presence which has been prepared for all people, together with Mary, with the patriarchs and prophets, the apostles and martyrs, ... , and with all the saints who live from your friendship. With all of them we praise and bless you and look for the coming of your kingdom in which, together with all creation redeemed from sin and death, we glorify you through Christ, our Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer VIII
After the Sanctus
We praise you, O God, and glorify you. You did not abandon to sin and death what you, almighty God, created. Through Jesus Christ, your Word, you call us all to life. He took our sins upon himself, making peace between you and mortals.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread at the supper and gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
We thank you, Father in heaven, remembering the life and passion of your Son and his sacrifice on the cross and praising his resurrection, the victory over sin and death.
Give us, Father, your Holy Spirit and renew our life through him. Bless these gifts to be the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Unite all who share in the body and blood of Christ in the unity of faith, in the fellowship of love and in the hope in your glory.
(All:)
Maranatha. Our Lord comes.
(Presider:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever.
(All:)
Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer IX
After the Sanctus
We thank you, O God, for the bread, for everything we need like bread: for the air we breathe, for the people who share our life, for the peace, for your closeness in words and signs. We thank you, O God, for the wine, for everything that makes us glad like the wine: for the son and the stars in the skies, for the love given us, for the hope in your kingdom. We thank you for Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother and friend.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread at the supper and gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Before you, O Father, we do what your Son, our brother, has commanded us to do. We listen to his word. We celebrate his memorial. We see him suffer and die for us. United at his Table we feel that he is among us as the Living one.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
We ask you in his name: Fill these gifts with your Spirit that they may become for us the body and blood of your Son. Fill us and all the world with your Spirit. Change us, help us to become as you have willed us to be. In this bread which we break may we know that we are united in Jesus as his community, for joint service to the people, despite all that separates us. In this cup which we drink may we feel that Jesus is our joy, in life and in death, despite all that frightens and burdens us.
(Deacon/Presider:)
Our Lord comes.
(All:)
Yes, come, Lord Jesus.
(Presider:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever.
(All:)
Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer X
After the Sanctus
Good Father, we stand before you empty-handed, showing our needs. Whatever is ours does not suffice if we do not have you. You are the meaning, the true goal and the depth of our existence. You are not a God who would not reach out. You have taken pity on our poverty and weakness and have given into our outstretched hands your singular gift, your Son. He is the way, the truth and the life.
We therefore ask you: Your Spirit may raise from these earthly gifts, the bread and the wine, your immortal gift to us, the fulfilment of all hope, the refuge of the guilty, the salvation of the sick, the resurrection of the dead: our Lord Jesus Christ.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, Father, we celebrate the memorial of your Son. We remember that you gave him to us out of love. We remember his life, the words through which he spoke into our lives, the signs with which he gives us the hope in the fulfilment of the world. We remember his passion and death by human hands. But we are filled with your Easter certainty: He lives. He is risen. He reigns in your unbounded majesty and has established the kingdom of his love among us.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Look on all people, O God, who are in special need of your and our love and care: on those tormented, disrespected and exploited, on all whose illnesses no one heals. Remember also the lonely, those without hope, those mourning and all who crave in their hearts for love. Encourage all who proclaim your word: strengthen our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Grant to our departed your closeness and perfect them in your immeasurable loving-kindness. Together with all your saints give us a share in the victory over death and over all that frightens and oppresses us. We ask you this through our Lord Jesus Christ, the author of our salvation.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XI
After the Sanctus
God, our Father, we thank you with all our heart, for you have called us to life and wish our happiness in Jesus, your Son. He is the revelation of your loving-kindness and your will to save us. He is the redeeming word for us, your helping hand. We can no longer forget how he became one with us in suffering and death, he who was totally one with you, as he came to fulfil your will. He bore our burdens -- and called us to follow his love. All our life we owe you our thanks for him.
It was before the passover. As he loved his own who were in world, he gave them a love unsurpassed by any. He knew that he had come from you and would return to you. Therefore he took the bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until your Son comes again, we do what he commanded us to do. Faithful to his word, we celebrate the memorial of his obedience and sacrifice in suffering and death, the victory of his resurrection and his glorification with you. In trust we look for the day of his coming.
Send now, Father, the comforter and helper into our midst, your Holy Spirit. Accept through him these gifts and fill them with your life. Kindle in us the fire of your love and give us trust that we may come closer to each other and understand each other better.
We also ask you, Father, for your Church: Protect and guide it, give it peace and unity all over the world. Give wisdom and strength to our Bishop N., the fellowship of bishops and all men and women in the apostolic ministry. Remember in your loving-kindness also the people who are particularly dear to us, and remain faithful to those whom death has taken from this life. With all your people, with Mary, the mother of our Lord, with the apostles and martyrs and with all your saints, with all people on earth who put their trust in you we ask you for your mercy, worship your greatness and give you thanks through Jesus, your Son.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XII
After the Sanctus
Indeed, we stand before you in wonder and gratitude, Creator of the universe. You called our livable planet into existence, our earth. In its fruitfulness and in the manifold creatures we sense your motherly care, long before our restlessness and ambition could take hold of it. You became particularly close to us in Jesus, your Son. He did not see you as a god of vengeance and despotism, but as the Loving One who addresses us, to whom we may respond with affection and trust.
It is in this trust that we ask you: Your Holy Spirit come upon our gifts, upon bread and wine, so that in these peaceful gifts Jesus Christ may become present among us.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we celebrate the memorial of your Son, O God. He called us all his sisters and brothers. In his sensitivity for the weak and in his standing up for the outcasts, the old roles of man and woman merged into the one uniting power: that of love. He responded to injustice with forgiveness, to illness with healing, to despair with hope, to disdain with dignity.
Fill us all with his Spirit: all the Church, the people in all their distinctiveness, those in authority and all who are in special need of the spirit of reconciliation. This meal strengthens us. It unites us to all who witnessed to the coming of your kingdom, to Mary, his mother, to Mary Magdalen, the loving one, to all women and men who knew to be sent, to be apostles (to Elizabeth, the princess of the poor, to Hildegard, the healing one, to Teresa, the light of inwardness). All martyrs live before you and all who were the victims of madness and greed for power. Let us live to see the future of your kingdom, not because we could buy it through our achievements, but because you are long-suffering and abounding in mercy. We ask you this through Christ, the author of our salvation.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XIII
After the Sanctus
Our Father, God of power and might, fill our praise with your glory. Bless this gift, complete it, accept it as rendering present the one sacrifice of our Lord.
Send your Holy Spirit upon us and our eucharist, sanctify this bread to be the body of Christ and this cup to be the blood of Christ that the Holy Spirit, the creator, fill the word of your beloved Son.
On the night in which he was handed over, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we celebrate the memorial of the incarnation and the passion of your Son, his resurrection from the dead, his ascension into the glory of the heavens where he always intercedes for us. We look and pray for the day of his coming. Remembering his saving deeds and his gifts we bring before you the signs of the eternal sacrifice of Christ, as our thanksgiving and intercession: the bread of life coming from heaven, and the cup of the banquet in your kingdom. Accept our praise, our gifts and prayers in Christ, as you have been pleased to accept the gifts of your servant Abel, the just one, the sacrifice of our father Abraham and of your high priest Melchizedek. We humbly ask you that this prayer may be lifted by the hands of your angel to your altar before you. May we be filled by the Holy Spirit in sharing in this Table when we receive the body and blood of your Son, and may we be gifted with all the graces and blessings of heaven through Christ, our Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XIV
After the Sanctus
Good God, we gather in houses from stone to pray to you. But you created us for a greater dignity: you live in the depths of our hearts. You sent us Jesus, your Christ, that your divinity may shine forth from our speaking and doing. He became the foundation, the cornerstone of your Church into which we may be inserted as living stones. Accompanied and strengthened by him and in our weakness, we proclaim your kingdom, the kingdom of love and peace, the new and unfading city, the temple of your Spirit in which everything that lives praises you.
Therefore we ask you: Your Holy Spirit come upon these gifts of the earth, upon bread and wine, that your Son Jesus Christ may be living among us in these signs, as our hope and our salvation.
On the night in which he was betrayed, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup, again gave you thanks, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, Father, we celebrate the memorial of your Son. People put him to death but you did not abandon him in death. He is alive. He reigns in your incomparable glory.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Christ, the stone whom the builders rejected, became the foundation of a new future not abandoned to decay. He lives among us in his word. He lives among us in the signs of his salvation. He lives among us in the closeness of each human being in need of our love and affection.
Father, look upon your whole Church. Make it more similar to Christ, sign of your care for us, sign of your feast with us, sign of the everlasting covenant in which your saints live with you. We ask you this through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom you have given us all good things.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XV
After the Sanctus
All-merciful Father, we praise you and thank you: you told Moses your name and revealed yourself as God-with-humans. You led your people Israel through the desert, day and night, in the pillar of cloud and the pillar of fire. When the fullness of time had come, you sent your Son, the Emmanuel, in whom you are with us in bodily form, all the days until the end of this age. He made known to us your mercy, gave us healing and freedom.
On the night before he gave himself freely to death, he took bread, sang the praise of your great deeds, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup with wine, praised your mercy, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore we celebrate the memorial of your Son and do according to his commandment, bringing bread and wine before you and proclaiming his death and his resurrection. When he comes in glory he will wipe every tear from our eyes, death will be no more, sorrow and crying and pain will be no more; all things will be made new.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
We ask you, Father, send your holy, life-giving Spirit upon these gifts. In the bread which we eat and in the wine which we drink, make us one with him, your Son, our brother and Lord. Unite us in him to the fellowship with the patriarchs and prophets, with Miriam, Deborah, and Ruth, with John the Baptist, with Mary, the mother of your Son, with your apostles, with Mary of Magdala and with the whole cloud of witnesses.
We praise and magnify you and sing of your mercy together with our Bishop N., with the fellowship of bishops, with all women and men in the apostolic ministry and with all your people on earth through Jesus, your Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XVI (Christmas)
After the Sanctus
Truly, you are holy, God, our Father. We praise you through your beloved Son, our Lord and brother Jesus, the Christ. For in this night / on this day we may perceive that the fullness of time has come. Behold, he comes to do your will. Therefore we celebrate the meal which he commanded us as a memorial to him, so that, by giving thanks for your love, we may experience your presence.
On the night before he suffered, he took bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup with wine, again gave you thanks, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, Father, we remember before you his incarnation and birth, his life among us, his humility to the death on the cross, his resurrection and exaltation to your glory, and, filled with hope, we await the day when he will come again and make all things new.
(Deacon / presider:)
Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Father, we bring before you bread and wine, the tokens of the offering of your Son, and we ask you to sanctify these gifts by your life-giving Spirit. Unite us with your Son and with each other when we eat this bread and drink from this cup, proclaiming his death until he comes.
Strengthen our Bishop N., the fellowship of the bishops and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. Give to our departed the joy of your eternal light. At the end of our pilgrimage receive us into your glory, together with them, where, with Mary and Joseph, with the shepherds and wise men, with Simeon and Hanna, with the angels and with all who have found your salvation we will behold, praise and magnify you through your word become flesh, Jesus, our saviour, brother and Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XVII (Reconciliation)
After the Sanctus
Blessèd are you, Lord of all power and might, in your Son Jesus, the Christ, who came in your name. He is your saving word for humanity. He is the hand which you extend to sinners. He is the way in which your peace reaches us. God, our Father, because we had turned away from you, you drew us back by your Son, the good Shepherd. He was obedient for us unto death so that we might get back to you and to each other. That is why we celebrate the reconciliation which has been granted to us in your Son.
On the night, before he gave himself for us on the cross, he took the bread, praised you for your mighty acts, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup with wine, praised your compassion, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we celebrate the memorial of our reconciliation and proclaim the gift of your love, your Son who entered death for us, whom you set free from death and raised to your right hand.
We ask you: look on the signs of our devotion, on this bread and on this cup. Send your Holy Spirit on these gifts and sanctify them to be the body and blood of your Son. Accept us also in your Son and in this meal grant us the Spirit whom he has promised, the Spirit of unity who takes away what separates us, who brings us together in Christ and who makes us instruments of your peace.
Strengthen our bishop N., the fellowship of bishops, and all women and men in the apostolic ministry. As you have gathered us here at the table of your Son, in communion with Mary, his mother, (with Saint N.) and with all your saints, so gather the peoples of all nations and languages, of all classes and groups to the banquet of the eternal reconciliation and of the lasting peace through him, our brother and Lord, Jesus, your Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XVIII (Maundy Thursday)
After the Sanctus
You are holy indeed, God, our Father, and holy is your dear Son, your eternal Word. He has revealed your name to us and given us a sign of his love as he sacrificed himself for us.
On the night in which he was betrayed and, out his own free will, subjected himself to suffering, this is today, he took bread, praised you for your mighty acts, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. In the same way after supper he took the cup with wine, praised your compassion, gave the cup to his disciples saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, in this hour, we celebrate his memorial, his obedience unto death, unto death on the cross. You have exalted him and given him the glory and power that he may give incorruptible life to those whom you have entrusted to him, that we may know you, the only true God, and whom you have sent, Jesus, your Christ. So we come before you, with bread and wine, as he has commanded us, and celebrate the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again. (Presider:)
Father, we ask you: Look upon the signs of our devotion, and sanctify these gifts through your Spirit. Give us in this bread and in this wine the Body and Blood of your Son, his life and the fellowship in him. Let us remain in him and keep us in the unity with our Bishop N., with the fellowship of the bishops, with all women and men in the apostolic ministry and with all your people on earth.
Lead us with Mary, the mother of your Son, with the disciples, with all who have already reached the end of their way, and with all who are still looking for you, to the joyful banquet of your eternal glory through Jesus, your Son, our Lord and brother.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XIX (Easter and Eastertide I)
After the Sanctus
We praise you, Father in heaven, in this night of joy (on this day / in this Eastertide). To rescue us from the power of darkness you did not abandon your Son in death. In him we have received freedom, the forgiveness of sins, the abundance of new life.
On the night before he suffered, he took the bread, spoke the blessing, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. After supper he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
In this way we celebrate Easter, the suffering and death of your Son, the new life which you have given him. He, the firstborn from the dead, exalted to your right hand, intercedes for us. He will come again in glory to give us the fullness of life. We bring bread and wine before you, the signs to which he himself has given the promise of his presence.
Send your Holy, life-giving Spirit upon us and upon these gifts that in them we might share in the fulness of life of your beloved Son. Make us witnesses to your love in the fellowship of your table.
Raise your Church to new life and rescue it from all powers of death of fear, of intolerance, of lack of freedom and of injustice. Raise our dead to your incorruptible life. When our own way comes to a close, give us the glory to which your Son has gone before us.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XX (Easter and Eastertide II)
Preface
It is indeed right, and a good and joyful thing, always and everywhere to praise you, the creator of all life, and to give thanks to you through our Lord Jesus Christ.
For you called him to new life from the grave and with him rescued our life from death.
Therefore in heaven the choirs of angels rejoice, and all creatures praise you. We unite our voices to theirs, as we join them to the everlasting praise of your goodness and glory:
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might. ...
After the Sanctus
You are indeed holy, God, source of all holiness. You bring light out of darkness, life out of death, word our of silence. We thank you for our earthly life and for the world which you have given us. We thank you for the new world to come and for your love which will penetrate all. We praise you for your grace which you have bestowed on Israel, your chosen people: for the salvation from Egypt, for the gift of the promised land, and for your faithfulness to the covenant which you made with them. We thank you for leading them back from the exile and for the words of the prophets, not lost to us. We praise you for the death and resurrection of your beloved Son who fulfilled and will still fulfil your promises.
On the night before he suffered, he took the bread, gave you thanks, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. After supper he took the cup with wine, thanked you again, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore, Father, with this bread and this cup we remember the incarnation of your Son and the covenant whom he has made with us: Born in our flesh, he shared the table with the outcast and the sinners. He gave his life. In particular, in joy and gratitude, we remember today his resurrection.
(Deacon / presider:)
Great is the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Send your Holy, life-giving Spirit upon us and upon these gifts. Unite us and all who receive the Body and Blood of Christ in his communion and fellowship. Let us enter the splendour of your heavenly kingdom and receive our heritage with all your saints in light. We long for our resurrection and for the completion of the world, when Christ will come again in beauty and power to celebrate his promised great banquet with us.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XXI (Eucharist with children and families I)
After the Sanctus
Good God, we thank you for Jesus who came in your name as friend of the poor and children. He showed us how we can live with you and with each other. He came to overcome the evil and to set us free from fear and need. He promised us that his Holy Spirit would always be with us and help us to live as your children.
On the night before he suffered, he sat at table with his disciples and took the bread, he thanked you, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Then he took the cup with wine, blessed you, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
God, our Father, we stand before you. We bless and praise you. We remember the death and resurrection of Jesus. He takes us with him on our way to you.
We ask you: Send your Spirit that these gifts of bread and wine may become the body and blood of Jesus who loved us to his death. Give all of us who share in this meal the spirit of love so that more and more we may become one heart and one soul. Look on all whom we love. Be close to those who suffer and are sad. May our departed be happy with you. Look on all people on our earth. Guide all of us to the great feast in your kingdom where, with Mary and all the saints, we are happy for ever and praise you through Jesus Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XXII (Eucharist with children and families II)
After the Sanctus
You are holy indeed, great God. You are good to all of us. We thank you. We thank you especially for Jesus Christ. He came to us because we had separated ourselves from you. He opened us the eyes and ears so that we know that you are our Father and all of us are brothers and sisters. He has now joined us together at his Table that we may do what he did.
On the night before his death Jesus was together with his disciples to keep the passover meal with them. He took the bread, thanked you, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Then he took the cup with wine, blessed you, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
Therefore we have been gathered here, Father, and remember joyfully all that Jesus did for us and still does for us now.
(Presider / deacon:)
In this meal which he entrusted to us we celebrate his death and resurrection, the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until he comes again, we celebrate the memorial of your Son. You accepted his sacrifice. We ask you: Accept us too with all that we bring to you. Jesus gave his life. You raised him. He lives among us. When he comes again in glory, there will be no more need, nobody will cry and be said any longer.
Through your Spirit make us a fellowship of sisters and brothers when we receive the body and blood of your Son, the one bread and the one cup. Through this holy meal give us the strength to live according to your will. May we deal with the gifts of the earth from which bread and wine for this holy meal have been taken in reverence and responsibility. Make us join in helping that justice and peace may grow among us. May we at the end forever be with you, together with all who believe in you, and sing your praise together with Mary and with all the angels and saints. This we ask through Jesus, your Christ.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer XXIII (when remembering the departed)
After the Sanctus
Holy, immortal God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ and our Father, we praise and thank you because your mercy is infinite. For love you created us mortals and breathed in us life from your immortal life. You will not suffer that grow cold forever the hands that were raised to you, the eyes that looked for your beauty, the hearts that longed for your rest. You will not suffer those to perish in death whom you have called to eternal fellowship and communion with you, you give a share in the mystery of the death and resurrection of your Son.
On the night before he suffered, he took the bread, praised your great deeds, broke the bread, gave it to his disciples, saying: Take, eat: this is my body which is given for you. Then he took the cup with wine, blessed your mercy, gave the cup to his disciples, saying, Take and drink this, all of you, this is the cup of the new and everlasting covenant, my blood which is shed for you and for all for the forgiveness of sins. Do this as a memorial to me.
(Deacon / presider:)
As often as we eat from this bread and drink from this cup, we taste and proclaim the mystery of faith.
(All:)
Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.
(Presider:)
Until your Son comes again, we do what he has commanded us to do. We proclaim his death, his resurrection and his imperishable life with you.
Therefore we ask you: Send your life-giving Spirit upon these gifts that they may become for us the bread of eternal life and the cup of everlasting salvation. May we, by sharing in this meal, become one with your Son and with each other. Raise us at the end of time when he comes and makes all new; grant us then, (together with N. and) with all who have gone before us, the never-ending life in your glory. With our Bishop N., with all women and men in the apostolic ministry and with all your Church we praise you, God of life. You are worthy to receive the blessing and the honour and the power, for your created all things and people. Through your will they are, and in your love they remain in Jesus, our living Lord.
(All:)
Through him and with him and in him, in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, all honour and glory is yours, God, almighty Father, now and for ever. Amen.
The Sundays in Ordinary Time
Trinity Sunday First Sunday after Pentecost
Collect
God, creator of heaven and earth, you are Lord of the universe. In Jesus Christ your Son, you shared our life and death. Your Spirit lives in us and keeps us alive. May your love, your loving-kindness and compassion find space in our lives. Your kingdom come. This we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Living God, accept our gifts and prayers. Help us to listen to your word and so share in your divine life through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Triune God, we thank you for celebrating and receiving this Eucharist. Let us be faithful in all we do and proclaim your power and glory in all the world. To you be honour and praise and worship, now and for ever.
Day of Thanksgiving for the Eucharist
Collect
God and creator of the world, it is your will that we live. We gather together as your community and celebrate the supper of your Son. Fill us with the gifts of his Spirit: with love as brothers and sisters, and with sure hope and confidence. We ask you this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives among us, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of life, we bring bread and wine before you. As this bread has been prepared from many grains, and this wine been pressed from many grapes, so gather the many peoples from among all nations into the kingdom of your peace which we expect through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, you invited us to share at your table, you nourished us with your word and your meal on our way through this era, through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (1 Cor 1. 10-13,17)
God, our Father, through the cross of your Son you give us your salvation and bind us together as your church. Help us to live from the gospel and to be of one mind to be credible witnesses to your Christ. We ask this through him, your Son, our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 1. 14-20)
Merciful God, through your Son you call us to turn around and to believe in the gospel. Strengthen us by your Spirit that we may follow this call decisively. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading (Neh 8. 2-4a,5-6,8-10)
God, our strength and our joy, take from us all faintheartedness and sorrow. May we hear your word and keep it on our way to the fullness of life through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Eternal God, direct our actions according to your will and grant that we recognise your beloved Son in our sisters and brothers, him, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, you yourself magnify your name among the peoples. Give us in this bread and wine the food of immortality through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Jesus Christ, you have strengthened us with the Word and the Bread of life. Keep us trusting that you are close that we may experience your presence and grow in faithfulness to your commandments, who live, now and for ever.
If The Epiphany is celebrated on the Sunday after 6 January, the Sunday of the Wedding at Cana takes precedence over the Third Sunday after Epiphany (Third Sunday in Ordinary Time).
Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, All Readings
All-merciful God, you accept us in our weakness, you are our refuge. Be our comfort and our strength that we may give your justice and peace to others. We ask this of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 1. 21-28)
God and Father of Jesus Christ, you give authority to your Son to proclaim words of life incorruptible. Open our ears and hearts that we receive his message and live from it through him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (1 Cor 12. 31 -- 13. 13)
God, source and origin of our life, from you come loving-kindness and patience. Free us from blind zeal, from egoism and wrath. May we advance in your knowledge until we see you face to face. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Great God, you created us in your image and likeness. Grant that we may turn to you with all our hearts and love our neighbours as your Son has done before, Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Gracious God, you created bread and wine that we may find food and joy from your gifts. May we find at this table the strength, the peace and the life which you promised through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, you have satisfied us with the food which you alone can give. May we live from it and rejoice in your loving-kindness and mercy, and may our joy bear fruit in good works. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 5. 13-16)
God, you are present when we call upon you. Make us the salt of the earth and the light of the world, that our fellow humans may recognise that you lead us and give us life. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 1. 29-39)
Mighty God, look on our helplessness. You know everything that holds us down and makes us sick. Restore us in the name of your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Is 6. 1-2a,3-8; Lk 5. 1-11)
Holy God, no one has the power to approach you, you meet us and call us to your service. Grant us to be ready to listen to your word and to praise your name before the people. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our Father, our names have been written in your palms. We put all our trust in you and your mercy. Stay with us in temptation and need, and protect us through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Merciful God, we come to you with gifts and prayers, trusting in your loving-kindness. Do not regard our sins and iniquities, but keep us in the fellowship with you in Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, in this celebration you have given us a share in your divine life. Let us never be separated from you but keep us in your love. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (1 Cor 2. 6-10)
God, hidden and incomprehensible, what no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, you have prepared for those who love you. Open our hearts for the great gift of your love. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit live and give life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 1. 40-45)
Father of all consolation, your Son has healed sick and given new meaning to their lives. Look with compassion on all the suffering people in our world, free them from loneliness and bitterness and give them your saving health. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading (Jer 17. 5-8)
Great God, source and hold of our lives, help us to trust in your word and your promise, for you alone are our hope and trust. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, lover of all you have created, it is your joy to be among the humans. Give us a ready and sincere heart open for you and your presence. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, as often as we celebrate the memorial of the sacrifice of Christ, our salvation is rendered present among us. Grant that we fulfil the commandment of your Son rightly through him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of life, you have strengthened us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. In the strength of this food we can live our everyday lives and endure in the hope for our future with you. Go with us on our way there through Christ, our Lord.
Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 5. 38-48)
Father in heaven, you make your sun rise on evil and good and send rain on righteous and unrighteous. Help us to accept each other as you accept us. We ask you this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, All Readings
Faithful God, your salvation you have not only promised but in your Holy Spirit given us already a share in your life. Free us from all that immobilises and prevents us from advancing in confidence to the abundance of life. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 6. 27-38)
Father of mercy and God of all consolation, preserve us from hard-heartedness and self-righteousness. Help us to forgive injustice and to accept each other in the spirit of reconciliation, as you accept us through your Son Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Merciful God, you have spoken to us through your Son. Make us meditate on your word and ponder it in our hearts that we may speak and act according to your law. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, we have gathered around the table of your Son. May we recognise in this holy meal what you will prepare for us at the end of time, and receive us into your eternal dwelling place through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we have shared in celebrating the meal of your Son and remembered his death and resurrection. Strengthen us through the power of this food that we may seek your glory and the well-being of our fellow humans, until we will have been made perfect in your love through Christ, our Lord.
Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Is 49. 14-15; Mt 6. 24-34)
God, you are for us Father and Mother, you know better than we do what we need. Take us out of the little worries of our everyday lives that we may be open for your kingdom and your righteousness. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (2 Cor 3. 1b-6)
God, you love us with inexpressible love. Through Christ we have great confidence in you. Work in us that we may serve you with sincere and joyful hearts, not according to the letter but from your life-giving Spirit. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading and Gospel (1 Cor 15. 54-58; Lk 6. 39-45)
God of life, you fill our hearts with your good news. Free us from self-righteousness, and make us credible in testifying to you and your word. This we ask through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, you created the world and do not abandon it from your hands. Look upon our perplexities in the necessities of our times. Pour out your Spirit on us and your world and renew the face of the earth. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, we offer you these gifts. Accept them as signs of our devotion and make them the sacrament of our redemption through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of life and holiness, in baptism you have made us new people. May we put away the habits of our former way of life and be renewed in holiness and righteousness. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 7. 21-27)
God, strength of the weak, help us that we will confess you not only with our lips but fulfil your will in our action and thereby build our lives on a secure ground. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (2 Cor 4. 6-11)
Great God, creator of life in the midst of all darkness, give us space when we are crushed, and show us ways when we are perplexed. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 8. 41-43; Lk 7. 1-10)
God, our Father, you do not regard origin or position, you are present for those who put their trust in you. Give us a wide heart, and may we together know the healing power of the gospel. This we ask through Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, you are for us like Father and Mother, our lives come from you and find their fulfilment in the light of your face. Keep from us what may harm us, and grant us what your salvation. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our creator, we offer bread and wine. In them we bring our lives before your face. Bless us and all your creation through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Holy God, you have renewed your covenant with us in the meal that we have celebrated. May we live as instruments of your peace. Help us to love where there is hatred; pardon where there is injury, reconcile where there is discord. Grant us the strength to understand our fellow humans, to love and to comfort through Christ, our Lord.
Tenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 9. 9-13)
All-merciful Father, you Son has come to call the sinners into his presence and to heal. Deliver us also from all self-righteousness and grant us your mercy. This we ask you through him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (2 Cor 4. 13 -- 5. 1)
God, our salvation, you burst the narrow confines of our small world. Grant that we may not become lost in the visible but look out to the invisible, to the habitations that remain, which your Son has prepared for us in your eternal home, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 17. 17-24; Lk 7. 11-17)
God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you are a God of the living, not of the dead. Fill us with your life-giving Spirit and help us to live in justice, peace and in accordance with your creation. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our creator, every good gift comes from you, the Father of lights. Fill us with your spirit that we know what is right, and, with your help, also do it. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, in the celebration of these mysteries we do what your Son has commanded us to do. Grant that we may praise and magnify you and, in doing so, receive your salvation through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we thank you for giving us divine life in the supper of your Son. May we always experience your love in this sacrament and live from its strength. We ask you this through Christ, our Lord.
Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Ex 19. 2-6a; Mt 9. 36 - 10. 8)
God, our creator, yours is the earth and all that is in it. Grant that we may be faithful workers in your vineyard, and send us to proclaim the liberating power of your gospel. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 4. 26-34)
God, our Father, every good gift and every growth come from you. You have promised us your kingdom. May we hope for its coming, even if we do not see how the seed of your word grows. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, All Readings
God of mercy, your Son has given his life for us. We may come to you with our guilt. Free us from the bonds of sin. Accept us in Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our hope and strength, without you we can do nothing. Help us that our thinking, speaking and doing may proceed from you and find their fulfilment in you. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, creator of the world, the grain from many ears and the grapes from many vines have been gathered for this bread and this wine. Gather in this way the peoples from all nations into the kingdom of your peace through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, you have strengthened us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. May your power work in us, and enable us to spend our lives following your Son who lives and gives life with you, now and for ever.
Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Jer 20. 10-13; Mt 10. 26-33)
God, source of all love, your unlimited trust has taken its habitation in us. Putting our trust in you may we proclaim your good news and witness to your faithfulness before all peoples. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 4. 35-41)
God, our salvation and strength, show us your saving help when fear and storms are threatening. You have proved it in Jesus whom you did not abandon in death. Save us through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, All Readings
Our Father, in Jesus, the crucified and risen One, you have given us the great sign of your love. All barriers have been broken down between us. Look on all who suffer from the burden of their crosses. Help us not only to look on ourselves but to join others in carrying their burden. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy God, grant that we have always reverence for your name and love you from all our hearts. Guide us by your hand and root us firmly in your love. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, your Son calls us to his table and gathers us to the fellowship of his supper. Grant us what these gifts of bread and wine signify, the life that never dies, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we thank you for having received the body and the blood of your Son. Guide us through your Spirit, that we adhere to you not only in words but may witness to your loving-kindness also by our actions through him, Christ, our Lord.
Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Rom 6. 3-4,8-11)
Loving God, in Jesus whom you raised from the dead we too share in your life. Free us from false security and anxiousness. Help us to walk the way of life in joy with Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading (Wisd 1. 13-15; 2. 23-24)
God, you are for us Father and Mother, whatever is and lives comes from you. You have created us according to your image and called us to life incorruptible. Help us to resist all powers of destruction, to preserve your creation and gratefully to be worthy of its gifts. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, All Readings
God, our Father, in Christ you have called us to the liberty of your children. Pull us out of all compulsions and addictions and lead us into the liberty and power of those who know themselves loved by you. This we ask you, the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God of our lives, in baptism you have made us children of light. Do not allow the darkness of unbelief to prevail over us. Keep us in the light of your faithfulness, and let the sun of your righteousness rise in this dark and unjust world. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, author of all good things, you yourself have given us the gifts which we offer you. Accept them as signs of our devotion, and give us the strength to live according to your will, that we may witness to your loving-kindness in our everyday lives through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, you are the physician of our souls and heal us by the strength of this food. Free us from the bonds of our faults and foolishness, and guide us into the way of peace through Christ, our Lord.
Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 11. 25-30)
God, you created heaven and earth. We praise you and thank you that you have become close to us in Jesus, your Son. Free us from whatever presses upon us, and give us the knowledge of your mercy and loving-kindness. This we ask you through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (2 Cor 12. 7-10)
God, your power helps us in our weakness, and in your grace is our strength. Grant that we do not despair in our limits and helplessness but, in all our cares and necessities, throw ourselves on you alone. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Is 66. 10-14c; Lk 10. 1-12,17-20)
All-merciful Father, in you we experience comfort and shelter as at the heart of a mother. You carry us on your arms and fill our hearts with peace. Give us the courage to pass on the experience of your love. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our creator, in your beloved Son you have shown us your image of humanity and begun the renewal of all creation. Fill us with joy in the redemption and lead us into your future. This we ask of you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Our god, we have prepared the table for celebrating the holy meal. You yourself enable us to do so worthily through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of mercy and love, we have celebrated the memorial of the passion and resurrection of Christ and received the holy sacrament. What your Son has given us in his infinite love may not become our judgement but our help to eternal salvation through him, Christ, our Lord.
Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Is 55. 10-11; Mt 13. 1-23)
Holy God, by your word was everything made. Open our ears and our hearts for you. May we trust in the power of your word that it might not return to us empty. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (Eph 1. 3-14)
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you have chosen us before the foundation of the world. In Jesus you have bestowed on us the redemption, the forgiveness of all our trespasses, from the riches of your grace. May our lives praise you and witness to your glory. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 10. 25-37)
Our God, your word is very near. We can live according to it and hold ourselves at your law. May we love you and each other with all our heart and all our soul, with all our mind and all our strength. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our life find its meaning and fulfilment in you. You show the light of truth to those seeking and give support and confidence to those doubting. Pour out the fullness of the Spirit upon all who confess your name that they may be a blessing for this world. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, author of all things, you grant food and drink for our daily life. Accept as tokens of our gratitude what you have put into our hands, through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God in our midst, you renew us through your sacraments. Grant us your help, and may the redemption which we have celebrated be efficient in our lives through Christ, our Lord.
Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Rom 8. 26-27)
Loving God, you know our toils and cares and help us in our weakness. Your Holy Spirit intercedes for us, bringing before you what is too deep for words. Give us confidence in all our needs. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (Jer 23. 1-6; Mk 6. 30-34)
God, shepherd of your people, you gather us when we are scattered. Take us back when we go astray, take from us all perplexity and fear and grant us always your mercy. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading and Gospel (Col 1. 24-28; Lk 10. 38-42)
God, our Father, in Jesus you come to us and give us hope in the abundance of life. May we not fail to hear his word in all the cares and occupations of every day. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Faithful God, you have called us into your service. Strengthen us in faith, in hope and in love. May we live with open eyes and hearts and keep on the way of your commandments. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we bring before you the products of the earth and of our labour. Be with us in the power of your Spirit when we celebrate the supper of your Son, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, rich in mercy and loving-kindness, you made us partakers in the supper of your Son. May we be one in him and become the light for the world. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Rom 8. 28-30)
Great God, Jesus has become our brother, and we may call you Father. May we comprehend this more and more with our hearts and minds and so find the abundance of life in Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (Eph 4. 1-6)
Good God, in faith and hope we are one body in Christ, your Son. May we bear and share with each other that we may we credible in proclaiming the message of life. This we ask you through him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 11. 1-13)
God, our Father in heaven, you give your good gifts to all living. Precede our petitions and give us your Holy Spirit that in him we may know to pray according to your will. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy God, the refuge of all who put their trust in you, without you nothing is righteous and nothing is holy. Guide us into the way of our life and help us so to use the passing goods that we may not loose the eternal ones. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Immortal God, you have given us bread and wine as food for our passing life. We bring these gifts before you; return them to us as the sacrament of immortality through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father, you have given us the bread of life and the cup of joy. Shape us in the image of your Son who has become our food in this sacrament, Christ, our Lord.
Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Is 55. 1-3; Mt 14. 13-21)
God, the source of all life, in your creation you give us your gifts in abundance. Open our eyes and hearts for each other, that we may begin to share and all may be satisfied. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (John 6. 24-35)
God, friend of humans, your Son nourishes the hungry with the word of truth and the bread of life. Renew our minds and make us live in newness of life, in holiness and righteousness before you through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (Col 3. 1-5,9-11)
God, day for day you care for us and know what we need. Make us free that we may not get lost in the cares and toils of our days. Set our minds on things that remain, that we may share in Christ's life in glory, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, you create and guide our life. May we know your love to be anew every day, until we see you as you are. We ask you this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we come with gifts before you, trusting in your loving-kindness. What we do in honour of you may become a blessing for all peoples through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we thank you for the meal of your Son. May our share in this holy celebration be known in our everyday lives. This we ask you through him, Christ, our Lord.
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 19. 9ab,11b-13a; Mt 14. 22-33)
God, you are with us even if we do not perceive you in mighty signs. Free us from our anxieties and support our little faith, that we may know your presence and praise you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 19. 4-8; John 6. 41-51)
God, our strength, we are often desperate and helpless, like your prophet Elijah; we see no way and feel no strength. Help us when we languish, and strengthen us with the bread of life, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading and Gospel (Hebr 11. 1-2,8-19; Lk 12. 32-48)
Holy and strong God, as to Abraham and Sarah, so to give to us the power of faith in your presence. In the face of our helplessness, may we not despair but, in the readiness of faith, go to meet your Son, our Lord and brother Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
All-merciful God, we may call you Father and Mother, for you have adopted us as your children and given us the Spirit of your Son. Grant that we may grow in this Spirit and, in the end, receive the promised heritage through Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, we prepare the table for the holy meal in your honour. May the power of this meal be visible in our actions through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, our salvation, as Jesus, your son, healed the sick and brought dead ones to life, so may we, in our meeting with him, gain new strength and become heralds of the salvation which he has proclaimed to us, today and all days of our lives.
Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Is 56. 1,6-7; Mt 15. 21-28)
Good God, you love all people and make no distinction. Keep us from disrespecting and rejecting fellow humans who, like us, are strangers and pilgrims on the roads of this world. We ask you this, this Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (John 6. 51-58)
Our Father in heaven, from you comes the living bread, Jesus Christ, your beloved Son. May we and all the world be filled with his strength which flows and works into the life eternal. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (Hebr 12. 1-4)
God and Father of all people, we look to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. Give us perseverance and decisiveness, and may we walk on the way of faith in confidence. We ask this through him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Merciful God, what no eye has seen nor ear heard you have prepared for those you love you. Give us the strength to love you in all and above all, and so to receive the riches of your promises which exceed everything what we can hope for. We ask you this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, you have fulfilled the many sacrifices of the first covenant in the one sacrifice of the new covenant. Bless our gifts and give to all people what we offer you in your honour through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father, we received the bread of life and the cup of joy. Shape us in the image of your Son who has become our food in this sacrament, Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Rom 11. 33-36)
God in all and above all, source of all wisdom and knowledge, everything has been created from you, through you and to you. We come from you, and our ways lead to you. Make us open for you, for you are greater than our hearts. We praise and glorify you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading Gospel (Is 24. 1-2a,15-17,18b; John 6. 60-69)
God, shepherd of your people, you led Israel through the desert by a pillar of light and a pillar of cloud. To us you sent your Son as the way, the truth and the life. Keep us from complaining and leaving the word of eternal life, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Is 66. 18-21; Lk 13. 22-30)
God, our salvation, you have brought us together from many nations that together we may walk on the way of peace and justice. Strengthen our weak hands and feeble knees, and may we gather from east and west, from north and south and see your salvation in our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our Father, you bind all who believe in you on their ways together. Grant that we may love your word and long for what you have promised, that in the changes of this life our hearts may be fixed where the lasting joys are. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Wonderful and merciful God, you have shown to the world your love in the passion and death of your Son. Open our eyes that in the sign of bread and wine, we may recognise the depth of his devotion. Make us follow him on the way of obedience and love, him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we have celebrated the memorial of your Son, have eaten the one bread and drunk from the one cup. May we, in the strength of this food, join in walking on the way of faith to meet Jesus Christ our Lord. To him be glory for ever.
Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First and Second Readings (Jer 20. 7-9; Rom 12. 1-2)
God, our Father, you renew our minds that we may know your will and be transformed. Let us not be conformed to this world but trust in your word and confess it boldly in the power of your Spirit. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 7. 1-8,14-15,21-23)
God of our life, stir us up from our habits and securities. Grant that we give you honour not only with our lips but serve you and each other from the bottom of our hearts, in simplicity and joy. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (Hebr 12. 18-19,22-24a)
Great God, in the name of your Son you have called us to one communion and fellowship greater than the congregation gathered here. With the righteous made perfect since creation, with all the faithful in all the world and with all the angels and saints we praise and magnify your loving-kindness, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, creator of the world, every good thing comes from you. Plant in our hearts the love for you and bind us more and more to you. Give growth to what is good and holy, and preserve what you have worked. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, we have nothing what you would not have given us; yet we come before you with gifts and prayers. Hear us through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you have done great things for us. We thank you for our fellowship. Grant that we may never lose what you have given us in your Son, and give us a share when you will make everything new in Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 18. 15-20)
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we have gathered in the name of your Son, he is in our midst. May we live from the joy of the gospel. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 7. 31-37)
Living God, open our ears and loosen our tongues that we may hear and proclaim the gospel of your Son, to your glory and for the salvation of the world. This we ask through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading (Wisd 9. 13-19)
Holy God, your greatness surpasses all our understanding. Free us from presumption, from selfishness and from the burden of our cares, that we may be free to know the inexhaustible riches of your wisdom through our Lord and Master Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy God, you have adopted us as your beloved children. Look on all who trust in you. Strengthen us in the faith and love and give us a share in your life. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, you have fed your people in the desert with manna and made water to stream from the rock. You will feed us as well at the table of your Son. Accept the gifts which we have prepared for this meal through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good and faithful God, in the supper of your Son you make us always share in the life of the world to come. We thank you and pray: the Spirit, whom we have received, keep the hope alive in us and guide us to works of love, until you will make your creation complete through Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading and Gospel (Rom 14. 7-9; Mt 18. 21-35)
God, you are for us like a Father and a Mother. We do not hold our lives in our hands. We are yours, whether we live or whether we die. May we, trusting in you, pass your love to others and forgive each other as you always forgive us. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 8. 27-35)
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son humbled himself and entered the bitter way of his passion. When we suffer, and the quest for the meaning receives no answer, give us patience and confidence through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading and Gospel (1 Tim 1. 12-17; Lk 15. 1-32)
God of loving-kindness and compassion, you sent Jesus into the world to seek what was lost, and to accept what had been excluded. Lead us from all the ways of our lives back to him, the source of life eternal. To you be glory and honour through Jesus, your Son, in the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, creator and ruler of all things, graciously look on us. Grant that we serve you with all our hearts and know the power of your love. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, we come before you with bread and wine to celebrate the memorial of your Son and to give you thanks. Be in our midst that our time may be illumined by the reflection of your glory through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, source of all life, you have called us to the table of your Son and known his presence. We thank you that you have us share in the love of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading (Is 55. 6-9)
God of wisdom and loving-kindness, your thoughts are not our thoughts, and our ways are not your ways. Guide us in your mercy that we may not stray from the way to you and not lose the goal, which you show us, out of sight. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading (Js 3. 16 -- 4. 3)
God of peace and love, take away from our hearts all evil thoughts and wishes. Make us instruments of your peace, that the seed of your righteousness rise and the world become new in Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (1 Tim 2. 1-8)
God, Father of us all, we include in our petitions all whose names no one recalls before you and whose dignity has been disrespected. May the Sun of your Righteousness rise on us and your kingdom come through Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy God, you have commanded your people Israel to love you and the neighbours. Your Son has given us an example of this love to the end. Grant to us too the power to be faithful to this commandment, until we reach the goal of our lives. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we prepare bread and wine for the supper of your Son. May all who gather around his table know the salvation which he has brought us, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, friend of life, we thank you for having strengthened us at the table of your Son with your word and the meal of life. You have given us a share in his life and his glory. Be with us with your Holy Spirit and strengthen our hope in our fulfilment in you through Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Phil 2. 1-11)
Father, you have exalted Jesus, the tortured and crucified One, above all and given us a share in his life. May we live like he did, respect and assist each other and praise you through him, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading (Num 11. 25-29)
God, powerful in your signs, put your Spirit on all your people. Wake us from sluggishness and superficiality, and make us your witnesses that the world may know you and believe in whom you sent, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (1 Tim 6. 11-16)
Holy, magnificent God, you alone are immortal, you dwell in unapproachable light. Yours is honour and eternal dominion. Help us to stand before you in sincerity and integrity and in this way to give witness before the world to Jesus Christ through whom you give us eternal life. He lives and works with you in the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Great God, you reveal your greatness and power chiefly in showing mercy and sparing. Accept us in your loving-kindness even if guilt is burdening us. Grant that we may walk on the way of our life in hope and trust and reach the joy of your glory. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Our God, the gifts which we have prepared are tokens of our devotion. As the bread and the cup will be sanctified in the power of your Spirit, shape us more and more in the image of our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, it is your will that we may have life in abundance. You strengthen us by your word and the supper of your Son. We ask you: your Spirit free us from anxieties. Christ, whom we have received, penetrate our thinking, feeling and acting that we may always be your witnesses through him, Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading (Phil 4. 6-9)
All-merciful Father, you are rich for all who call upon you. We thank you that in everything we may come to you and let our requests be known to you. Keep our hearts and minds in the fellowship with Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (Gen 2. 18-24; Mk 10. 2-18)
God, our creator, you have entrusted your creation to us, not for dominating and exploiting but for preserving it. Give us knowledge and wisdom and make us grateful for the riches of your gifts. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (2 Tim 1. 6-8,13-14)
Faithful God, we call upon you: give us perseverance and endurance, self-discipline and love. Increase our faith and strengthen our faithfulness, that, in the power of your Spirit, we may pass on the message that you have entrusted to us. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, source of our joy, in your loving-kindness you give us more than we deserve and greater things than we request. Take away what may burden our consciences, and give us that peace which only your mercy can give. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Great God, accept our gifts, and what each one offers to your glory, may be for the salvation of all through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of loving-kindness and friendliness, you grace us with your gifts. May we not walk from one day to the next as if we lacked a goal, but keep us in the hope which you rouse in us through the supper of your Son. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading (Is 25. 6-10a)
God of life, you will wipe away all tears and take away anxiety and death for ever. Help us to console each other and to put our hope in you. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, Second Reading and Gospel (Hebr 4. 12-13; Mk 10. 17-30)
God, our Father, our life is bare to you. Give us the Spirit of discernment and wisdom, that we may live according to your commandments and know the liberation which you give us through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 17. 11-19)
Father in heaven, it is your will that we always praise and thank you. Tear us away from all superficiality and fill our hearts with the knowledge of salvation, that we may give you thanks and magnify you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Great God, may your grace precede our thinking and acting and follow us, that we may keep your word in our hearts and be ready to do the good. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our salvation, you give us the peace and the strength to serve you with sincere hearts. May we honour you with these gifts and know the fellowship with your Son and with each other. We ask this through him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of mercy and loving-kindness, in this holy supper you already give us a share in the life of your Son. Preserve in us this grace, make us more and more the image of your Son, and make our fellowship with him complete when he comes, Christ, our Lord.
Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First and Second Readings (Is 45. 1,5-6; 1 Thess 1. 1-5b)
God, you alone are our Lord and there is no other. Take us by your hand, guide and strengthen us in the faith and in the hope which you give us through your Son, our brother Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, Gospel (Mk 10. 35-45)
Good God, your Son has become the servant of all and has given his life for us. Help us that we may not lord it over others but serve each other as he has served us, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 18. 1-8)
God, our Father, hear us when we call and have mercy on us. Help us to deal with each other in justice and kindness and thereby to be credible in witnessing to your mercy through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, ruler of the universe, as you have revealed yourself to Israel, make yourself known to us too. Make us ready to follow your law, and give us hearts that serve you in sincerity. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and creator of the world, we offer bread and wine and prepare the supper of your Son. As you now gather us around his table, so unite us with all your saints at the supper of your coming kingdom through him, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good and faithful God, you have gathered us in the supper of your Son which we have celebrated, that we may live with you and with each other in reconciled communion. May your Spirit work in us and keep in us the readiness to grant forgiveness and to make peace through Christ, our Lord.
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, First Reading and Gospel (Ex 22. 20-26; Mt 22. 34-40)
God of love and peace, fill us with your Spirit. Free us from thinking only about ourselves and disregarding our neighbours. Give us the strength to pass on your mercy and love, even beyond borders. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (Jer 31. 7-9; Mk 10. 46b-52)
God, Father of your people Israel and Father of all people, have mercy on us. Take away all blindness of mind and heart, and fill us with your consolation, that we may proclaim your praise and magnify you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, First and Second Readings (Sir 35. 15b-17,20-22a; 2 Tim 4. 6-8,16-18)
God of justice, you listen to the cry of the afflicted. Look on the misery and desolation in the world. Break the power of the evil and lead us into your kingdom through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Good god, increase in us the faith, the hope and the love. Help us to listen to your word, that we may attain what you have promised. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father, we offer you bread and wine and ask you: gather us at your table and strengthen us with your power through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of life, we thank you that you give us fellowship in the supper of your Son. We ask you: keep us alive in the Holy Spirit and lead us towards the fullness through Christ, our Lord.
Thirty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading and Gospel (1 Thess 2. 7b-9,13; Mt 23. 1-12)
God, our Father, you give us your word and your law. May it be at work among us and help us to do what we teach. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (Deut 6. 1-6; Mk 12. 28b-34)
Holy God, you have written your law in our hearts. Grant that we hear it and live accordingly in order not to be far from your kingdom. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Wisd 11. 22 -- 12. 2; Lk 19. 1-10)
God, you love the living, you look for us and invite us without reservation. May we meet your Son in this celebration who seeks out and saves the lost, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, shepherd of your people, it is your gift and your work if people serve you in sincerity. Take away from us what prevents us on our way to you, that we may go to find the joy which you have promised through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, accept us with these gifts, and through the celebration of our redemption give us a share in your salvation through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we have been guests at the table of your Son and shared the bread of life and the cup of salvation with each other. Preserve in us the new life which you have given us, that we may bring fruits of love for time and eternity.
Thirty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Second Reading and Gospel (1 Thess 4. 13-18; Mt 25. 1-13)
God, friend of life, you did not abandon Jesus, your Son, in death and wish to lead us to life too. Give us a heart that is awake that your Son may not find us asleep when he comes, Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year B, First Reading and Gospel (1 Kgs 17. 10-16; Mk 12. 38-44)
Merciful God, no one is little before you, you look on all who suffer need and affliction. Help us to share with each other and to accept the weak, that we may pass on the gift of your love through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Year C, Gospel (Lk 20. 27-38)
Mighty God, our ideas are often narrow and confined. Broaden our vision and open our hearts that we may see life with your eyes and praise you in joy eternal from face to face. This we ask you through your Son Jesus Christ, who lives and gives life with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, friend of humans, you have written us in your palms. Keep from us what may hurt us, and take away what may oppress us, that with joyful hearts we may praise and magnify you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, it is only small things which we offer. In your goodness grant us a share in the abundance of life. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the last Sundays in the liturgical year
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, we thank you for having nourished us with your word and the bread of life. Preserve us in your love and lead us on the way to you through Christ, our Lord.
Thirty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Reading Collects
Year A, Gospel (Mt 25. 14-30)
Immeasurably great God, it is from you that our talents come which we often hide because we are afraid. May we know that we win when we give ourselves away. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year B, All Readings
God, our creator, you do not abandon us and do not give us over to death. Your life-giving word will not pass away. May we, in confidence and joy, meet your Son when he comes in glory, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Year C, First Reading and Gospel (Mal 3. 19-20b; Lk 21. 3-19)
God, Sun of Righteousness, illumine us in all our darkness and trouble. Give us your word and wisdom that we may not be ashamed to confess you and gain salvation and life. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, the source of all good things, you alone are our Lord. Give us the knowledge that we will become free if we open our hearts to your will, and that we will find the perfect joy if we remain faithful in your service. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, look with kindness upon your people gathered for your praise. Accept what we offer, and increase through this celebration our love. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the last Sundays in the liturgical year
Prayer after Communion
Our Father in heaven, we live from your word and from the supper of your Son. Work through these great gifts that he remain in us and we in him, Christ, our Lord.
Sunday of Christ Coming Again
Reading Collects
Year A, All Readings
God of life, we believe and confess that your Son will come again to bring to perfection all that is. May we perceive to what great future we have been called together with all of creation. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Year B, All Readings
God, our Father, your Son, raised to your right hand, is the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. Keep all destructive powers away from us, rescue us from the darkness and guide us to the kingdom of justice, of love and of peace through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Year C, Second Reading (Col 1. 12-20)
Eternal God, we give you thanks that you have rescued us from the power of darkness and transferred into the kingdom of your beloved Son. In him we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. May we be with him when he comes again in glory, he, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
Holy and eternal God, you have set your Son free from death that we might have life through him. Open our hearts for the least of his sisters and brothers, that the world may know his justice, his peace and his love. Gather all people together in Jesus Christ, your Son, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father in heaven, we come before you with our gifts, tokens of our readiness to fulfil your will. We ask you: receive us into the table fellowship of your Son, today and for ever.
Preface of the last Sundays in the liturgical year
Prayer after Communion
God and faithful God, in the supper of your Son you always give us a share in the life of the world to come. We thank you for this and ask: The Spirit whom we have received keep the hope alive in us and guide us to works of love, until you will bring your creation to perfection through Christ, our Lord.
Feast Days and Holy Days
31 December / 1 January: New Year's Eve and New Year's Day
Collect
Eternal God, our times are in your hands. We thank you that, in your grace, you have led us to this day. Keep us all the days of our lives in your ways and help us to do your will. This we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
or:
Collect
God, you are without beginning and without end. Whatever exists comes from you. We begin this new year in the name of your Son and ask you: go with us on all our ways through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, who keep our times in your hands, we offer you our gifts and the year ahead of us. May we find shelter in your love all the days through Christ, our Lord.
Preface for New Year and Jubilees
Prayer after Communion
Father in heaven, in Jesus you have given us your love. We thank and ask you: Be close to us all the days of this year in him, Christ, our Lord.
25 January: The Conversion of Saint Paul
Collect
God, the salvation of all people, by the preaching of your apostle Paul you brought the light of the gospel into all the world. May we be grateful for your word and witness before the world to your truth through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father, we come to you with our gifts and ask: Illumine our hearts with the light of the faith and fill us, who celebrate your meal, with the same Spirit who urged the apostle Paul to proclaim your light among the people, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of grace, you chose Paul to be the apostle of the gentiles and to call to unity. May we, through the meal we have celebrated, grow in the faith and in unity through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
2 February: The Presentation of the Lord
The Presentation of the Lord is remembered by a procession with candles and the following celebration of the Eucharist.
The Gathering
Prayer over the Candles and the People Present
God, the source and origin of all light, (on this day) you have revealed to Simeon and Hanna the Christ as the light to illumine the nations. Bless + these candles which we carry in our hands (and light throughout the year). Illumine our hearts that all, who with burning lights enter your house today, may in the end see the inextinguishable light of your glory. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
The Procession
The priest or one of the priest's assistants, normally the deacon, now invites all to join the procession, by using the following or some similar words:
Let us go forth in peace.
All: In the name of Christ. Amen.
The cantor or the schola now begin the Canticle of Simeon. The Canticle of Simeon is part of the indispensable elements of this service.
Different sequence:
Blessing of the Candles - Canticle of Simeon - Invitation to Procession
If the distance is longer, other hymns, anthems or chants may be sung.
The Celebration of the Eucharist
Collect
God, Father of lights, Jesus, your Son, was today presented in the temple as yours and recognised by Simeon and Hanna as the true light that enlightens all the world. Holding burning candles in our hands, we ask you: Dispel all darkness from our hearts and make us witnesses to your light, until we praise you in the Holy Spirit through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or:
Eternal God, merciful Father, you gave Simeon to see your saviour, and gave Hanna words to praise the redeemer. We ask you: open our eyes, too, that we may behold the splendour of your love in your son Jesus Christ and confess him, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Great God, your Son sacrificed himself for the life of the world. Accept us and all the world in these gifts through Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God of your people Israel and Father of all humankind, we thank you for this celebration. You fulfilled the prayer of Simeon and Hanna and made them behold the salvation of the world, after many years of waiting. Give to us as well that we may live in hope and confidence, meet Christ and find fulfilment in him, who lives and works with you, now and for ever.
24 February: Saint Matthias, Apostle
Collect
God, you know the hearts of all humans. It was your will that Matthias be joined to the college of apostles. By the ministry of faithful shepherds and teachers, keep your church in your truth through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, accept our gifts and our praise and strengthen our weak faith through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, you give to your people a share in your life. Keep us who have received the bread of life and the cup of salvation faithful to Christ, our Lord.
19 March: Saint Joseph of Nazareth
Collect
God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, you chose Joseph from the family of David and entrusted to him the care for your Son. Help us to keep your word and to live before you in righteousness through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, origin of all things, you give food and drink for our daily lives. What you have given into our hands in our hands accept as signs of our gratitude through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Our Father in heaven, on the feast of Saint Joseph you have gathered us around the table of your Son. You have fed us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. May we increase through this meal in wisdom and grace through Christ, our Lord.
25 March: The Annunciation of our Lord Jesus Christ
Collect
God of your people, through the message of the angel you have announced the incarnation of your Son. Pour your grace into our hearts and lead us, through his passion and cross, to the glory of the resurrection through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father of light, accept all we offer before you today. May we share in your wisdom and love through Christ, your incarnate word.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Eternal God, we thank you for your word and for this supper with which you give us life. May we, like Mary, by being obedient to your will, be sisters and brothers of your Son, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
25 April: Saint Mark, Evangelist
Collect
God, shepherd of your people, you chose Mark to proclaim your salvation through the word of the gospel. May we listen to the message and believe it and faithfully follow our Lord Jesus Christ, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our salvation, accept our gifts and our praise and keep us faithful to your gospel through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Gracious God, we thank you for the gifts which we received at your table. Strengthen us by them in our faith in the salvation which you make known to us in the message proclaimed by Saint Mark the evangelist through Christ, our Lord.
1 May: Saint Philip and Saint James, Apostles
Collect
Mighty God, you gave grace and strength to the apostles Philip and James to bear witness for Jesus Christ. Grant us fellowship with your Son, that we may confess him fearlessly as our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, we magnify you, for your power has been made perfect in the weakness of your apostles. Accept us with our gifts and prayers through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
HOly God, in Jesus Christ we find the way to you. WE have listened to his word and have met him in his supper. Preserve us in your unending love through him, Christ, our Lord.
11 June: Saint Barnabas, Apostle
Collect
God of all consolation, you chose Barnabas, full of faith and of the Holy Spirit, to go to the gentiles as the messenger of reconciliation and consolation. Lead all people to the liberty of your children and keep us faithful to Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, accept what we offer today. Kindle in us the fire of that love through which your apostle Barnabas bore witness to the gospel, to Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of loving-kindness, we have heard your word and received the bread of life at the table of your Son. Strengthen our witness for your truth in the world, and lead all people to your kingdom of justice and peace through Christ, our Lord.
24 June: The Birth of Saint John the Baptist
Collect
Blessèd are you, God of Israel. You called John the Baptist to guide your people to meet Christ. Give us the joy in the Holy Spirit, and guide all who believe in you into the way of salvation and peace through Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our salvation, accept the gifts which we offer you today in festal joy. Make us free that we may serve you without fear, in holiness and righteousness all the days of our lives through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Saint John the Baptist
Prayer after Communion
We thank you, God and Father, for your word and your banquet. Your tender compassion has broken upon us as the dawn from on high. Grant us thoughts of righteousness, and guide our feet into ways of peace through Christ, our Lord.
29 June: Saint Peter and Saint Paul
Collect
God of your people, your apostles Peter and Paul glorified you in their life and in their death. Grant to your church, taught by their teaching and example and made one in unity by your Spirit, to stand firm on the one ground, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, glorified in your saints, accept the gifts which we bring on the feast day of your apostles. Support us in our weakness, that the power of Christ may be made perfect in us. To you be glory for ever.
Prayer after Communion
Our Father in heaven, renew the life of your church by the power of this sacrament. Grant that we may devote ourselves to the breaking of the bread and the teaching of the apostles and be united in your love in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.
2 July: The Visitation: The Visit of Mary to Elizabeth
Collect
God, unsearchable in your will, you chose Mary, the young woman from Nazareth, to be the mother of your Son. She listened to your word and followed it with a faithful heart. Grant that we may also open ourselves to your word and magnify your wonders through Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
or:
Collect
God, great in your mercy, you have looked with favour on your lowly servant Mary and chose her to be the mother of your Son. Give us a humble heart, that we may join her in praising your goodness and receiving your mercy. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of mercy, accept our gifts, as you have accepted the service of Mary, the mother of your Son Jesus Christ, who lives with you and in our midst, now and for ever.
Preface of Mary
Prayer after Communion
God of faithful love, we have been strengthened by your gifts which we received. Help us always to praise you for the great things you have done to us through Christ, our Lord.
22 July: Saint Mary of Magdala
Collect
God, our salvation, your Son chose Mary of Magdala to be the first to proclaim his resurrection to the disciples. Give us the courage to bear witness to him, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of life and salvation, accept our gifts, as your Son has accepted the gifts of the women on his way, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of mercy, we have celebrated the death and resurrection of your Son and shared in the wedding banquet of the Lamb. May we, by bringing the message of the resurrection of your Son to this world, full of suffering and death, become witnesses to the new life in Christ, our Lord.
25 July: Saint James the Greater, Apostle
Collect
God, glorified in your saints, James was the first apostle to seal the testimony to Christ with his blood. Grant to your church the courage to confess the faith, and may your kingdom come. This we ask through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, today we honour James, who was the first apostle to have drunk the cup of suffering. Accept our gifts as signs of our devotion, and preserve us in the faith in Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, friend of mortals, we have eaten the bread of life and drunk from the cup of salvation. Give us strength to serve the people, so that, in compassion and mercy, we may follow Jesus Christ, who lives and works with you, now and for ever.
6 August: The Transfiguration of the Lord
Collect
God, Father of all light, on the holy mountain you revealed, in your beloved Son and before chosen witnesses, our future glory. May in the darkness of this age shine your light to us, Jesus Christ, your image and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, accept our gifts and show us your glory, as it shone to the disciples in Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, in the symbol of the supper which we celebrated you grant us a share in your glory now already. Give us the strength to witness to your Son in word and deed, who lives with you and in our midst, now and for ever.
15 August: The Dormition of Mary
Collect
Eternal God, on the day when Mary, Mother of God, feel asleep, we thank you for the great things you have done for her. When our own way comes to an end, receive us into your kingdom, that, in fellowship with Mary, we may praise and magnify you through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Great God, we bring our gifts before you and praise your mercy. Show strength with your arm and fill the hungry with your gifts through Christ, our Lord.
Preface of Mary
Prayer after Communion
God, in your love you care for the weak and humble. We proclaim your holy name and praise the mother of our saviour. We thank you for the mercy which you bestow on us and all through Christ, our Lord.
24 August: Saint Bartholomew, Apostle
Collect
God of our forebears, the apostle Bartholomew believed and proclaimed your word. May your church persevere in the faith of the apostles and faithfully proclaim what they bore witness to unto death. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, accept our gifts and prayers. May we be faithful to Jesus Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of our salvation, you have nourished us at the table of your Son. Guide us on our way, and may your kingdom come in our time in Christ, our Lord.
8 September: The Birth of Mary
Collect
Lord Jesus Christ, you blessed those who hear the word of God and obey it. Strengthen our faith, that, like Mary, we may do your will. To you, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be praise and glory, now and for ever.
The Prayer over the Gifts and the Prayer after Communion are the same as on 15 August.
14 September: Feast of the Holy Cross
Collect
Compassionate God, you gave your Son to the trouble of the world, into the hard hands of the self-righteous. On the cross he brought salvation and life through his death. Give us open hearts for his love, that we may be borne by it and cling to you, whether we live or die. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Merciful God, we bring these gifts before you as the memorial of the passion of your Son. Through his death, the pillory of the cross has become the sign of hope. To you be glory and praise and honour, now and for ever.
Preface of the Passion of the Lord, II
Prayer after Communion
God, our hope, we thank you that you have given us a share in the supper of your Son. As he took our flesh and became like us, so may we follow him, Christ, our brother and Lord.
21 September: Saint Matthew, Apostle and Evangelist
Collect
Merciful God, your Son called Matthew to be an apostle and evangelist. He continues to call people today who proclaim his message. Open us for his call and free us from greed and egoism that we may follow him, Jesus Christ, Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, our Father, we come before you with our prayers and gifts. You founded and strengthened the faith of the church by the preaching of the apostles. Nourish us with the word of truth and strengthen us with the bread of life through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God of loving-kindness, in this celebration you grant us the same joy with which Matthew received the Lord into his house. May we be prevented from despising the invitation to the supper of your Son, who came to call all to salvation, Christ, the saviour of the world.
29 September: Saint Michael, the Archangel, and All Angels
Collect
God, greater than all powers and dominions, in a wonderful order you ordain the ministry of angels and mortals to finish your work. We ask you: Show your power in our lives, that, in good and bad times, we may know that you are close to and help. We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, the cherubim and seraphim praise you. Accept the signs of our thank. May our praise be joined to the song of angels surrounding your throne. To you be glory for ever.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Holy God, you have nourished us with the bread of heaven and the cup of life. May we, in the strength of this food, continue on the way of salvation and praise and glorify you through Christ, our Lord.
First Sunday in October: Harvest Thanksgiving
Collect
God, creator of the world, you entrusted the earth to us and bless our human efforts. May we gratefully and joyfully accept your loving-kindness, be worthy of your gifts and share with those who suffer. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, in gratitude we bring gifts from the fruit of the earth and of our labour before you. We bring bread and wine to celebrate the supper, which your Son has commanded us, and we pray: Accept us in these gifts and all the world with its weal and woe, through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, we thank you for our daily bread, for your word and for the food that remains unto life eternal. May we pass on your gifts and witness to the people about your love. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.
18 October: Saint Luke, Evangelist
Collect
Jesus Christ, your evangelist Luke made known your love to the poor and sick and reported of the faithfulness of the women who accompanied you on your way. May we see your face in the little and oppressed ones and give you glory, who, with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, are with us all the days and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, we glorify you, for your power has been made perfect in the weakness of your messengers. Accept us with our gifts and prayers through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, friend of life, we thank you for the medicine of immortality which you have given us in this meal. Send us to heal the sick and to proclaim the gospel to the poor through Christ, our Lord.
28 October: Saint Simon and Saint Jude Thaddeus, Apostles
Collect
God, at all times you call people to your service. We thank you that, by the message of the apostles, you have led us to know your Son. Send us messengers who proclaim your good message. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Faithful God, we glorify you, for your power has been made perfect in the weakness of your apostles. Accept us with our gifts and prayers through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Great God, you have strengthened us with the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Your Holy Spirit, who filled us and our gifts, keep us in the faithfulness and love to you through Christ, our Lord.
1 November: All Saints
Collect
Holy and eternal God, you accepted us into the communion of your saints who, at all times and in all places, glorified your name. May we know with gratitude that we have been joined to an endless choir of those who believe, bound together in the confession of you and in the joy that we will see you face to face. We ask this through him, Jesus Christ, your Son, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy and strong God, we give you thanks for your saints. Accept our gifts and help us to follow Christ, who lives with you for ever.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Holy, immortal God, we praise your glory reflected in the saints. Lead us in our pilgrimage to the wedding banquet of eternal life where you yourself will be the perfection of the saints and we may see you face to face. To you be glory and praise for ever.
2 November: All Souls
Collect
God of all life, we believe and confess that you raised your Son as the firstborn of the dead. Strengthen our hope that you will also raise our sisters and brothers to eternal life. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Gracious and righteous God, look with kindness on our gifts and hear our prayer. With all who have gone before us, lead us to the glory of your Son, who lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Preface for the Commemoration of the Dead, II
Prayer after Communion
God of love, we have celebrated the memorial of the death and resurrection of Christ. Direct our eyes beyond the graves; may we with confidence meet your future and gain the life in Christ, our Lord.
7 November: Saint Willibrord, First Archbishop of Utrecht
Collect
Good God, friend of mortals, you called Willibrord to be a messenger of your light. Illumine our hearts that in our times we may proclaim your mighty acts and gladly witness to your message, to Jesus Christ, your Son, our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our salvation, we bring our gifts on the feast day of Saint Willibrord and ask you: keep us in the faith through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Father in heaven, we thank you for the supper of your Son which we celebrated on the feast day of Saint Willibrord. Grant that this food and this drink increase in us the faith, hope and love. Send us out to the people that, in word and deed, we may be witnesses to your Son, Christ, our Lord.
30 November: Saint Andrew, Apostle
Collect
God, friend of mortals, Andrew followed the call of your Son without hesitation and brought his brother Simon Peter with him. Give us the strength to follow Jesus Christ unreservedly and to lead others to him. This we ask you through him, our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of our fathers and mothers, may the meal which we celebrate with these gifts strengthen us on our way to you, through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Good God, strengthen us by the food which we received at your table. May we, like the apostle Andrew, follow the Crucified One and be brought to the resurrection through him, Christ, our Lord.
21 December: Saint Thomas, Apostle
Collect
Eternal God, hidden and yet close, you led your apostle Thomas to faith in the resurrection of your Son. Preserve our faith when we doubt, that, like him, we may confess Christ as our Lord and God, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Living God, accept our gifts and keep in us the hope in the life of the world to come through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
God, giver of all good things, we have celebrated the supper with your risen Son and received the bread of life and the cup of salvation. Strengthen us, that we who do not see yet believe through Christ, our risen Lord.
26 December: Saint Stephen, Deacon, First Martyr
Collect
God of mercy and love, on this day we honour the first martyr of the church. Grant that, by loving our enemies, we may follow the example of Saint Stephen who, while dying, prayed for those who persecuted him. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God and Father of all, accept these gifts as signs of our readiness. May we, like Stephen, serve you and our fellow humans with singleness of heart through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Faithful God, we thank you for this holiday period. In the birth of your Son you grant us your salvation. In Stephen, the deacon, you show us the example of faithfulness unto death. Strengthen us, that in our lives we may give witness to your Son, Christ, our Lord.
27 December: Saint John, Apostle, Evangelist
Collect
Loving God, you called the evangelist John to proclaim the incarnation of your eternal Word. In great love he accompanied your Son until under the cross. We ask you: Fill us with your love. May Christ grow in us that we, with our minds illumined and our hearts filled with love, grasp what you have done to us. Through him we praise you in the Holy Spirit, now and all days and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father of light, accept all we bring before you today. May we share in your widom and love through your incarnate Word, Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Eternal God, John proclaimed your Son as the Word that took flesh among us. We heard his word, received him as the bread of life and drank from the cup of salvation. May we stay with you and behold your glory in him, Christ, our Lord.
28 December: The Children of Bethlehem, Martyrs
Collect
Father in heaven, with the children of Bethlehem receive all into the arms of your mercy who innocent are handed over to death. Frustrate the evil in this world, and establish among us the kingdom of your justice, your love and your peace through Jesus Christ, our Lord, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Righteous God, accept the gifts which we bring before you. Preserve us from cruelty and indifference to the suffering of innocent. May we be advocates of the weak and exploited through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Our Lord and brother Jesus Christ, comforter of the oppressed and saviour of the broken, you have nourished us at the table of hope and life. May we be peaceful and compassionate for the suffering. Have mercy on all children of this earth who have become victims of brutality, who, with the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit, are with us all the days and for ever.
At the Anniversary of the Dedication of a Church
Collect
God, creator of heaven and earth, year after year we celebrate (in joy) the blessing of this house, thanking you for the communion with all who have worshiped here and still do. Fill those who seek you here, with your joy and peace in the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Father in heaven, accept the prayers of your people, and grant that all who celebrate the eucharist may be built up as living stones of your church through Christ, our Lord.
Preface for the Anniversary of the Dedication of a Church
Prayer after Communion
God, whom no temple can contain, you have gathered us here and strengthened us with your word, with the bread of life and the cup of blessing. Gather us also at the day of your glory for the eternal wedding supper in your heavenly Jerusalem. We praise and worship you through Christ, our Lord.
Commemorations of Martyrs
Collect
Faithful God, you have given Saint N. the courage to confess Jesus Christ and to witness to this faith unto death. Make us ready, by giving an account for the hope which is in us, to follow your Son who in the unity of the Holy spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, great in your saints, you have strengthened Saint N. in faith and in trust in your might. Make us, too, grow in the confidence that in all the needs of our life you are with us and we may know your salvation in Jesus Christ, the Crucified and Risen One, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives and works with you, now and for ever.
Commemorations of Holy Men and Women
Collect
God, our Father, you alone are the Holy One, and no-one is good without your help. Grant that, like Saint N., we may live according to your will and reach the goal which you mean to give us. This we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, inscrutable wisdom, you have poured out your Spirit upon your daughters and sons and in visions made known to them your greatness and loving-kindness. We thank you at the feast of Saint N. that you have filled her/him with the spirit of counsel, of might and piety, and with love to you and her/his neighbours. We ask you that we, by also following your Son, may know the joy that lasts through him, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
At the Synod and for Other Meetings
Collect
God, source of all wisdom, be close to those who have gathered to consider the renewal and mission of your church. Teach us in all things first to seek your glory. May we know what is right, and give us the courage to do so. This we ask you through him, Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who in the unity of the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God and Father, your Son has promised to be in the midst of us when we gather together in his name. Pour out your Spirit over us; bless what we discuss and resolve; give us to consider what is necessary, and to do what serves your glory. This we ask you through our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and works, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our Father, you have called us into the universal fellowship of your church. Send us the Spirit of wisdom, truth, and peace. May we know what you expect of us, and make us ready to accomplish with one mind what we have recognised as your commission. This we ask you, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
For Peace
Collect
God of peace, it is your will to reconcile everything in heaven and on earth. May the plan of your great love dawn upon our acts of destruction and our pain, and give peace to your church, peace among the people, peace in our homes, and peace in our hearts through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, friend of life, we hunger for peace and thirst for love; we are afraid of injustice and hatred. May your Spirit work among us, that we may give love and peace to each other and are ready to share with each other. This we ask through Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, our creator, the antagonisms in the world accuse us: riches and need, hunger and abundance, carelessness and suffering face each other. Help us all that we stop aggravating the antagonisms, and begin being brothers and sisters to each other in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, who with you lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Mission and Expansion of the Faith
Collect
God of all peoples and periods, you have sent your Son into the world as a light for the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel. We ask you to glorify your name among the people, and lead all coming to the faith to your eternal kingdom of justice and love through him, Jesus Christ, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives in our midst, now and for ever.
Unity of Faith
Collect
God, shepherd of your people, you call men and women from all countries and peoples to follow your Son. We ask you to destroy the walls that separate us from each other, and make us be one in your love, that you may be known among the peoples: the Father of us all, with the Son, in the Holy Spirit, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ and our Father, before he suffered your Son prayed that all may be one. May we become one with him as he is one with you. Gather all under the one shepherd, Jesus, our brother and Lord, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God, giver of all good things, we bring bread and wine for the supper as your Son has commanded us. As this bread has been brought together from many grains, and the wine from many grapes, so gather your church from the ends of the earth to be one people through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
God of our life, we thank you that you have strengthened us through your word and the supper of your Son. Gather all, who have become one through the one baptism, around the one table of your Son, Christ, our Lord.
For Celebrating Confirmation
Collect
God of our life, anoint us with the oil of gladness and pour out your Spirit upon us. Strengthen us through him in faith, encourage us to follow Jesus, and gather us in the fellowship of your people through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son and our brother, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Holy God, hear our prayer and accept these gifts as tokens of our readiness to open ourselves for your Holy Spirit through Christ, our brother and Lord.
Preface of the Holy Spirit or of the liturgical season
Prayer after Communion
God, our Father, we thank you. You have anointed us with your Holy Spirit and strengthened us with the Body and Blood of your Son. Stay close to us and make us walk confidently on the way of our life in the power of your gifts, until everything is accomplished in your eternity.
For a Wedding
Collect
God of life, you have gathered us before your altar to celebrate this wedding. Preserve the couple N. and N. and all of us from expecting happiness only from ourselves. Grant that in the midst of this world, we may look to Jesus who is our way and our end and who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
God of love, we ask you to accept our thanks which we offer on the wedding day of the couple N. and N. May they always know to be a gift for each other through Christ, our Lord.
Proper Preface
Prayer after Communion
Faithful God, we have been united in this supper with you and with each other. Stay all the days with N. and N. who have promised each other love and faithfulness for their whole life. May their love grow and all dangers be kept from them through Christ, our Lord.
Wedding Anniversary
Collect
God of loving-kindness, your goodness knows no end. We thank you for all the help which you have given to this marriage. We ask you that N. and N. may continue to grow in love and together reach the goal of their lives, you, the eternal God, who with your Son and the Holy Spirit rules and governs all creation, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Good God, graciously accept these gifts as tokens of our gratitude. Bring our human desire for happiness on earth and in heaven to fulfilment through Christ, our Lord.
Prayer after Communion
Faithful God, we thank you for the joy of this celebration. We have eaten from the one bread and kept communion with you. Give N. and N. the strength even in the days to come to grow in this communion which they have begun before you. May they pass on their love which you have given them. Strengthen them to do so with your Spirit through Christ, our Lord.
At a Funeral
Collect
Father of mercy, you are our light and our life. Through the death and resurrection of your Son you have taken the hopelessness of death from us. Take N. up in your grace and raise her/him to fullness of life which your Son has promised us, Jesus Christ, our hope, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God and Father, you do not wish that one of your human creatures perish. Much more than us seeking you, you are always seeking us. Hear our prayer for N. Do not regard her/his sins but the good that she/he has done. This we ask you through Jesus Christ, our hope, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Or: Collect
God of all consolation, we are helpless in the face of the death of N. and do not understand. It is hard for us to see your justice and wisdom in it. We ask you to take N. up into your peace, and to give us strength and consolation in this hour of trial through Jesus Christ, the Crucified and Risen One, who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and gives life, now and for ever.
Prayer over the Gifts
Living God, you have given your Son as our bread and our life beyond death. May we find strength and consolation in this hour, as with this bread and wine we celebrate the memorial of his passion and confess his resurrection, until he comes in glory, Christ, our Lord.
Preface of the Departed I or II
Prayer after Communion
God, you are a God of the living, not of the dead. In the supper of your Son we may always know that he is with us on the ways of our life, that he remains our hope beyond death. We ask you to accept our sister / our brother N. into the communion of all those made perfect, and to give her/him a part in the banquet of that life which is imperishable through Christ, our risen Lord.

Lord have mercy
Christ, have mercy
Lord, have mercy

Glory to you who has shown us the light.
Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill to all people.
We praise you, we bless you, we worship you, we glorify you, we give thanks to you for your great glory.
Lord, King, heavenly God, Father, almighty; Lord, the only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit.
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father who take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us, you who take away the sins of the world.
Receive our prayer, you who sit at the right hand of the Father, and have mercy on us.
For you only are holy, only you are Lord
Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.
Each day we bless you, and we praise your name forever and to the ages of ages.

Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to people of good will.
We praise you,
we bless you,
we adore you,
we glorify you,
we give you thanks for your great glory,
Lord God, heavenly King,
O God, almighty Father.
Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son,
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us;
you take away the sins of the world, receive our prayer.
you are seated at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us.
For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High,
Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Book of Common Prayer (1662)[
Glory be to God on high
And in earth peace, goodwill towards men,
We praise thee, we bless thee,
we worship thee, we glorify thee,
we give thanks to thee, for thy great glory
O Lord God, heavenly King,
God the Father Almighty.
O Lord, the only-begotten Son, Jesu Christ;
O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
that takest away the sins of the world,
have mercy upon us.
Thou that takest away the sins of the world,
have mercy upon us.
Thou that takest away the sins of the world,
receive our prayer.
Thou that sittest at the right hand of God the Father,
have mercy upon us.
For thou only art holy;
thou only art the Lord;
thou only, O Christ,
with the Holy Ghost,
art most high
in the glory of God the Father.
Amen.

ecumenical version (1975)
Glory to God in the highest
and peace to his people on earth.
Lord God, heavenly King,
Almighty God and Father,
we worship you, we give you thanks,
we praise you for your glory.
Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father,
Lord God, Lamb of God,
you take away the sin of the world:
have mercy on us;
You are seated at the right hand of the Father:
receive our prayer.
For you alone are the Holy One,
you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High,
Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit,
in the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople New Rome, Archdiocese of Thyateira and Great Britain
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill among men.
We praise you, we bless you, we worship you, we glorify you, we give you thanks for your great glory.
Lord, King, God of heaven, Father almighty: Lord, only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ and Holy Spirit.
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, who take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us; you take away the sins of the world.
Receive our prayer, you who sit on the right hand of the Father, and have mercy on us.
For you alone are holy, you alone are Lord, Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Orthodox Church in America (late 20th century)
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will among men.
We praise Thee, we bless Thee, we worship Thee, we glorify Thee, we give thanks to Thee for Thy great glory.
O Lord, heavenly King, God the Father Almighty; O Lord, the only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ; and O Holy Spirit.
O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, that takest away the sin of the world; have mercy on us;
Thou that takest away the sins of the world, receive our prayer;
Thou that sittest at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us.
For Thou only art holy; Thou only art the Lord, O Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America (late 20th century)
Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace, goodwill to all people.
We praise you, we bless you, we worship you, we glorify you, we give thanks to you for your great glory.
Lord, King, heavenly God, Father, almighty; Lord, the only‑begotten Son, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit.
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father who take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us, you who take away the sins of the world.
Receive our prayer, you who sit at the right hand of the Father, and have mercy on us.
For you only are holy, only you are Lord
Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Antiochian Orthodox Christian Archdiocese of North America (late 20th century)
Glory be to God on high, and on earth peace, good will among men.
We hymn Thee, we bless Thee, we worship Thee, we glorify Thee, we give thanks to Thee for Thy great glory.
O Lord, King, heavenly God, Father Almighty; O Lord, only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ, and O Holy Spirit.
O Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father, that takest away the sins of the world.
Receive our prayer, Thou that sittest at the right hand of the Father, and have mercy on us.
For Thou only art holy, Thou only art the Lord, O Jesus Christ, to the glory of God the Father. Amen.

Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to people of good will.
We praise you,
we bless you,
we adore you,
we glorify you,
we give you thanks for your great glory,
Lord God, heavenly King,
O God, almighty Father.
Lord Jesus Christ, Only Begotten Son,
Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father,
you take away the sins of the world,
have mercy on us;
you take away the sins of the world,
receive our prayer.
you are seated at the right hand of the Father,
have mercy on us.
For you alone are the Holy One,
you alone are the Lord,
you alone are the Most High,
Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit,
in the glory of God the Father.
Amen.

I believe in one God, the Father Almighty
Maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible:
And in one Lord, Jesus Christ,
the only-begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages;
God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God;
begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father,
by Whom all things were made;
Who for us men and for our salvation came down from Heaven.
and was incarnate by the Holy Ghost out of the Virgin Mary, and was made man:
He was also crucified for us under Pontius Pilate; He suffered and was buried:
And on the third day rose again according to the Scripture:
And ascended into Heaven, and sits on the right hand of the Father:
And He shall come again, with glory, to judge the living and the dead:
Of His Kingdom there shall be no end;
And I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, and Giver of Life,
Who proceeds from the Father and the Son
Who, with the Father and the Son, is together adored and glorified,
Who has spoken through the Prophets.
And I believe in One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church,
I confess one Baptism for the remission of sins.
And I await the Resurrection of the Dead:
And the Life of the world to come. Amen.

Holy, holy, holy, Lorde God of Hostes:
heaven (& earth) are full of thy glory:
Hosanna, in the highest.
Blessed is he that commeth in the name of the Lorde:
Glory to thee, O lorde in the highest.
In the 1559 BCP it appears without the Benedictus:[9]
Holy, holy, holy, lord god of hostes,
heven and earth are ful of thy glory,
glory be to the, O Lord most hyghe.
English version of some Lutherans:[10]
Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Sabaoth;
heaven and earth are full of thy glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord
Hosanna in the highest.
In 1973 the International Consultation on English Texts (ICET) produced an ecumenical version that at that time was adopted by Catholics, Anglicans and others:[11][12]
Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,
heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
Since 2011 the Roman Missal in English has:[13]
Holy, Holy, Holy Lord God of hosts.
Heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
Lamb of God, you who take away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us.
Lamb of God, you who take away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us.
Lamb of God, you who take away the sins of the world, grant us peace.
The text used in the Roman Catholic and Episcopal Church is:
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world, grant us peace.[5]
The following three versions are all found in the Church of England's Common Worship liturgical resources.
Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, grant us peace.
O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, have mercy upon us.
O Lamb of God, that takest away the sins of the world, grant us thy peace.
Jesus, Lamb of God, have mercy on us.
Jesus, bearer of our sins, have mercy on us.
Jesus, redeemer of the world, grant us peace.
CHAPTER I
GENERAL PRINCIPLES FOR THE RESTORATION AND PROMOTION OF
THE SACRED LITURGY
1. The Nature of the Sacred Liturgy and Its Importance in the Church's Life
5. God who "wills that all men be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth" (1 Tim. 2:4), "who in many and various ways spoke in times past to the fathers by the prophets" (Heb. 1:1), when the fullness of time had come sent His Son, the Word made flesh, anointed by the Holy Spirit, to preach the the gospel to the poor, to heal the contrite of heart [8], to be a "bodily and spiritual medicine" [9], the Mediator between God and man [10]. For His humanity, united with the person of the Word, was the instrument of our salvation. Therefore in Christ "the perfect achievement of our reconciliation came forth, and the fullness of divine worship was given to us" [11].
The wonderful works of God among the people of the Old Testament were but a prelude to the work of Christ the Lord in redeeming mankind and giving perfect glory to God. He achieved His task principally by the paschal mystery of His blessed passion, resurrection from the dead, and the glorious ascension, whereby "dying, he destroyed our death and, rising, he restored our life" [12]. For it was from the side of Christ as He slept the sleep of death upon the cross that there came forth "the wondrous sacrament of the whole Church" [13].
6. Just as Christ was sent by the Father, so also He sent the apostles, filled with the Holy Spirit. This He did that, by preaching the gospel to every creature [14], they might proclaim that the Son of God, by His death and resurrection, had freed us from the power of Satan [15] and from death, and brought us into the kingdom of His Father. His purpose also was that they might accomplish the work of salvation which they had proclaimed, by means of sacrifice and sacraments, around which the entire liturgical life revolves. Thus by baptism men are plunged into the paschal mystery of Christ: they die with Him, are buried with Him, and rise with Him [16]; they receive the spirit of adoption as sons "in which we cry: Abba, Father" ( Rom. 8 :15), and thus become true adorers whom the Father seeks [17]. In like manner, as often as they eat the supper of the Lord they proclaim the death of the Lord until He comes [18]. For that reason, on the very day of Pentecost, when the Church appeared before the world, "those who received the word" of Peter "were baptized." And "they continued steadfastly in the teaching of the apostles and in the communion of the breaking of bread and in prayers . . . praising God and being in favor with all the people" (Acts 2:41-47). From that time onwards the Church has never failed to come together to celebrate the paschal mystery: reading those things "which were in all the scriptures concerning him" (Luke 24:27), celebrating the eucharist in which "the victory and triumph of his death are again made present" [19], and at the same time giving thanks "to God for his unspeakable gift" (2 Cor. 9:15) in Christ Jesus, "in praise of his glory" (Eph. 1:12), through the power of the Holy Spirit.
7. To accomplish so great a work, Christ is always present in His Church, especially in her liturgical celebrations. He is present in the sacrifice of the Mass, not only in the person of His minister, "the same now offering, through the ministry of priests, who formerly offered himself on the cross" [20], but especially under the Eucharistic species. By His power He is present in the sacraments, so that when a man baptizes it is really Christ Himself who baptizes [21]. He is present in His word, since it is He Himself who speaks when the holy scriptures are read in the Church. He is present, lastly, when the Church prays and sings, for He promised: "Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them" (Matt. 18:20) .
Christ indeed always associates the Church with Himself in this great work wherein God is perfectly glorified and men are sanctified. The Church is His beloved Bride who calls to her Lord, and through Him offers worship to the Eternal Father.
Rightly, then, the liturgy is considered as an exercise of the priestly office of Jesus Christ. In the liturgy the sanctification of the man is signified by signs perceptible to the senses, and is effected in a way which corresponds with each of these signs; in the liturgy the whole public worship is performed by the Mystical Body of Jesus Christ, that is, by the Head and His members.
From this it follows that every liturgical celebration, because it is an action of Christ the priest and of His Body which is the Church, is a sacred action surpassing all others; no other action of the Church can equal its efficacy by the same title and to the same degree.
8. In the earthly liturgy we take part in a foretaste of that heavenly liturgy which is celebrated in the holy city of Jerusalem toward which we journey as pilgrims, where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God, a minister of the holies and of the true tabernacle [22]; we sing a hymn to the Lord's glory with all the warriors of the heavenly army; venerating the memory of the saints, we hope for some part and fellowship with them; we eagerly await the Saviour, Our Lord Jesus Christ, until He, our life, shall appear and we too will appear with Him in glory [23].
9. The sacred liturgy does not exhaust the entire activity of the Church. Before men can come to the liturgy they must be called to faith and to conversion: "How then are they to call upon him in whom they have not yet believed? But how are they to believe him whom they have not heard? And how are they to hear if no one preaches? And how are men to preach unless they be sent?" (Rom. 10:14-15).
Therefore the Church announces the good tidings of salvation to those who do not believe, so that all men may know the true God and Jesus Christ whom He has sent, and may be converted from their ways, doing penance [24]. To believers also the Church must ever preach faith and penance, she must prepare them for the sacraments, teach them to observe all that Christ has commanded [25], and invite them to all the works of charity, piety, and the apostolate. For all these works make it clear that Christ's faithful, though not of this world, are to be the light of the world and to glorify the Father before men.
10. Nevertheless the liturgy is the summit toward which the activity of the Church is directed; at the same time it is the font from which all her power flows. For the aim and object of apostolic works is that all who are made sons of God by faith and baptism should come together to praise God in the midst of His Church, to take part in the sacrifice, and to eat the Lord's supper.
The liturgy in its turn moves the faithful, filled with "the paschal sacraments," to be "one in holiness" [26]; it prays that "they may hold fast in their lives to what they have grasped by their faith" [27]; the renewal in the Eucharist of the covenant between the Lord and man draws the faithful into the compelling love of Christ and sets them on fire. From the liturgy, therefore, and especially from the Eucharist, as from a font, grace is poured forth upon us; and the sanctification of men in Christ and the glorification of God, to which all other activities of the Church are directed as toward their end, is achieved in the most efficacious possible way.
11. But in order that the liturgy may be able to produce its full effects, it is necessary that the faithful come to it with proper dispositions, that their minds should be attuned to their voices, and that they should cooperate with divine grace lest they receive it in vain [28] . Pastors of souls must therefore realize that, when the liturgy is celebrated, something more is required than the mere observation of the laws governing valid and licit celebration; it is their duty also to ensure that the faithful take part fully aware of what they are doing, actively engaged in the rite, and enriched by its effects.
12. The spiritual life, however, is not limited solely to participation in the liturgy. The Christian is indeed called to pray with his brethren, but he must also enter into his chamber to pray to the Father, in secret [29]; yet more, according to the teaching of the Apostle, he should pray without ceasing [30]. We learn from the same Apostle that we must always bear about in our body the dying of Jesus, so that the life also of Jesus may be made manifest in our bodily frame [31]. This is why we ask the Lord in the sacrifice of the Mass that, "receiving the offering of the spiritual victim," he may fashion us for himself "as an eternal gift" [32].
13. Popular devotions of the Christian people are to be highly commended, provided they accord with the laws and norms of the Church, above all when they are ordered by the Apostolic See.
Devotions proper to individual Churches also have a special dignity if they are undertaken by mandate of the bishops according to customs or books lawfully approved.
But these devotions should be so drawn up that they harmonize with the liturgical seasons, accord with the sacred liturgy, are in some fashion derived from it, and lead the people to it, since, in fact, the liturgy by its very nature far surpasses any of them.
II. The Promotion of Liturgical Instruction and Active Participation
14. Mother Church earnestly desires that all the faithful should be led to that fully conscious, and active participation in liturgical celebrations which is demanded by the very nature of the liturgy. Such participation by the Christian people as "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a redeemed people (1 Pet. 2:9; cf. 2:4-5), is their right and duty by reason of their baptism.
In the restoration and promotion of the sacred liturgy, this full and active participation by all the people is the aim to be considered before all else; for it is the primary and indispensable source from which the faithful are to derive the true Christian spirit; and therefore pastors of souls must zealously strive to achieve it, by means of the necessary instruction, in all their pastoral work.
Yet it would be futile to entertain any hopes of realizing this unless the pastors themselves, in the first place, become thoroughly imbued with the spirit and power of the liturgy, and undertake to give instruction about it. A prime need, therefore, is that attention be directed, first of all, to the liturgical instruction of the clergy. Wherefore the sacred Council has decided to enact as follows:
15. Professors who are appointed to teach liturgy in seminaries, religious houses of study, and theological faculties must be properly trained for their work in institutes which specialize in this subject.
16. The study of sacred liturgy is to be ranked among the compulsory and major courses in seminaries and religious houses of studies; in theological faculties it is to rank among the principal courses. It is to be taught under its theological, historical, spiritual, pastoral, and juridical aspects. Moreover, other professors, while striving to expound the mystery of Christ and the history of salvation from the angle proper to each of their own subjects, must nevertheless do so in a way which will clearly bring out the connection between their subjects and the liturgy, as also the unity which underlies all priestly training. This consideration is especially important for professors of dogmatic, spiritual, and pastoral theology and for those of holy scripture.
17. In seminaries and houses of religious, clerics shall be given a liturgical formation in their spiritual life. For this they will need proper direction, so that they may be able to understand the sacred rites and take part in them wholeheartedly; and they will also need personally to celebrate the sacred mysteries, as well as popular devotions which are imbued with the spirit of the liturgy. In addition they must learn how to observe the liturgical laws, so that life in seminaries and houses of religious may be thoroughly influenced by the spirit of the liturgy.
18. Priests, both secular and religious, who are already working in the Lord's vineyard are to be helped by every suitable means to understand ever more fully what it is that they are doing when they perform sacred rites; they are to be aided to live the liturgical life and to share it with the faithful entrusted to their care.
19. With zeal and patience, pastors of souls must promote the liturgical instruction of the faithful, and also their active participation in the liturgy both internally and externally, taking into account their age and condition, their way of life, and standard of religious culture. By so doing, pastors will be fulfilling one of the chief duties of a faithful dispenser of the mysteries of God; and in this matter they must lead their flock not only in word but also by example.
20. Transmissions of the sacred rites by radio and television shall be done with discretion and dignity, under the leadership and direction of a suitable person appointed for this office by the bishops. This is especially important when the service to be broadcast is the Mass.
III. The Reform of the Sacred Liturgy
21. In order that the Christian people may more certainly derive an abundance of graces from the sacred liturgy, holy Mother Church desires to undertake with great care a general restoration of the liturgy itself. For the liturgy is made up of immutable elements divinely instituted, and of elements subject to change. These not only may but ought to be changed with the passage of time if they have suffered from the intrusion of anything out of harmony with the inner nature of the liturgy or have become unsuited to it.
In this restoration, both texts and rites should be drawn up so that they express more clearly the holy things which they signify; the Christian people, so far as possible, should be enabled to understand them with ease and to take part in them fully, actively, and as befits a community.
Wherefore the sacred Council establishes the following general norms:
A) General norms
22. 1. Regulation of the sacred liturgy depends solely on the authority of the Church, that is, on the Apostolic See and, as laws may determine, on the bishop.
2. In virtue of power conceded by the law, the regulation of the liturgy within certain defined limits belongs also to various kinds of competent territorial bodies of bishops legitimately established.
3. Therefore no other person, even if he be a priest, may add, remove, or change anything in the liturgy on his own authority.
23. That sound tradition may be retained, and yet the way remain open to legitimate progress careful investigation is always to be made into each part of the liturgy which is to be revised. This investigation should be theological, historical, and pastoral. Also the general laws governing the structure and meaning of the liturgy must be studied in conjunction with the experience derived from recent liturgical reforms and from the indults conceded to various places. Finally, there must be no innovations unless the good of the Church genuinely and certainly requires them; and care must be taken that any new forms adopted should in some way grow organically from forms already existing.
As far as possible, notable differences between the rites used in adjacent regions must be carefully avoided.
24. Sacred scripture is of the greatest importance in the celebration of the liturgy. For it is from scripture that lessons are read and explained in the homily, and psalms are sung; the prayers, collects, and liturgical songs are scriptural in their inspiration and their force, and it is from the scriptures that actions and signs derive their meaning. Thus to achieve the restoration, progress, and adaptation of the sacred liturgy, it is essential to promote that warm and living love for scripture to which the venerable tradition of both eastern and western rites gives testimony.
25. The liturgical books are to be revised as soon as possible; experts are to be employed on the task, and bishops are to be consulted, from various parts of the world.
B) Norms drawn from the hierarchic and communal nature of the Liturgy
26. Liturgical services are not private functions, but are celebrations of the Church, which is the "sacrament of unity," namely, the holy people united and ordered under their bishops [33]
Therefore liturgical services pertain to the whole body of the Church; they manifest it and have effects upon it; but they concern the individual members of the Church in different ways, according to their differing rank, office, and actual participation.
27. It is to be stressed that whenever rites, according to their specific nature, make provision for communal celebration involving the presence and active participation of the faithful, this way of celebrating them is to be preferred, so far as possible, to a celebration that is individual and quasi-private.
This applies with especial force to the celebration of Mass and the administration of the sacraments, even though every Mass has of itself a public and social nature.
28. In liturgical celebrations each person, minister or layman, who has an office to perform, should do all of, but only, those parts which pertain to his office by the nature of the rite and the principles of liturgy.
29. Servers, lectors commentators, and members of the choir also exercise a genuine liturgical function. They ought, therefore, to discharge their office with the sincere piety and decorum demanded by so exalted a ministry and rightly expected of them by God's people.
Consequently they must all be deeply imbued with the spirit of the liturgy, each in his own measure, and they must be trained to perform their functions in a correct and orderly manner.
30. To promote active participation, the people should be encouraged to take part by means of acclamations, responses, psalmody, antiphons, and songs, as well as by actions, gestures, and bodily attitudes. And at the proper times all should observe a reverent silence.
31. The revision of the liturgical books must carefully attend to the provision of rubrics also for the people's parts.
32. The liturgy makes distinctions between persons according to their liturgical function and sacred Orders, and there are liturgical laws providing for due honors to be given to civil authorities. Apart from these instances, no special honors are to be paid in the liturgy to any private persons or classes of persons, whether in the ceremonies or by external display.
C) Norms based upon the didactic and pastoral nature of the Liturgy
33. Although the sacred liturgy is above all things the worship of the divine Majesty, it likewise contains much instruction for the faithful [34]. For in the liturgy God speaks to His people and Christ is still proclaiming His gospel. And the people reply to God both by song and prayer.
Moreover, the prayers addressed to God by the priest who presides over the assembly in the person of Christ are said in the name of the entire holy people and of all present. And the visible signs used by the liturgy to signify invisible divine things have been chosen by Christ or the Church. Thus not only when things are read "which were written for our instruction" (Rom. 15:4), but also when the Church prays or sings or acts, the faith of those taking part is nourished and their minds are raised to God, so that they may offer Him their rational service and more abundantly receive His grace.
Wherefore, in the revision of the liturgy, the following general norms should be observed:
34. The rites should be distinguished by a noble simplicity; they should be short, clear, and unencumbered by useless repetitions; they should be within the people's powers of comprehension, and normally should not require much explanation.
35. That the intimate connection between words and rites may be apparent in the liturgy:
1) In sacred celebrations there is to be more reading from holy scripture, and it is to be more varied and suitable.
2) Because the sermon is part of the liturgical service, the best place for it is to be indicated even in the rubrics, as far as the nature of the rite will allow; the ministry of preaching is to be fulfilled with exactitude and fidelity. The sermon, moreover, should draw its content mainly from scriptural and liturgical sources, and its character should be that of a proclamation of God's wonderful works in the history of salvation, the mystery of Christ, ever made present and active within us, especially in the celebration of the liturgy.
3) Instruction which is more explicitly liturgical should also be given in a variety of ways; if necessary, short directives to be spoken by the priest or proper minister should be provided within the rites themselves. But they should occur only at the more suitable moments, and be in prescribed or similar words.
4) Bible services should be encouraged, especially on the vigils of the more solemn feasts, on some weekdays in Advent and Lent, and on Sundays and feast days. They are particularly to be commended in places where no priest is available; when this is so, a deacon or some other person authorized by the bishop should preside over the celebration.
36. 1. Particular law remaining in force, the use of the Latin language is to be preserved in the Latin rites.
2. But since the use of the mother tongue, whether in the Mass, the administration of the sacraments, or other parts of the liturgy, frequently may be of great advantage to the people, the limits of its employment may be extended. This will apply in the first place to the readings and directives, and to some of the prayers and chants, according to the regulations on this matter to be laid down separately in subsequent chapters.
3. These norms being observed, it is for the competent territorial ecclesiastical authority mentioned in Art. 22, 2, to decide whether, and to what extent, the vernacular language is to be used; their decrees are to be approved, that is, confirmed, by the Apostolic See. And, whenever it seems to be called for, this authority is to consult with bishops of neighboring regions which have the same language.
4. Translations from the Latin text into the mother tongue intended for use in the liturgy must be approved by the competent territorial ecclesiastical authority mentioned above.
D) Norms for adapting the Liturgy to the culture and traditions of peoples
37. Even in the liturgy, the Church has no wish to impose a rigid uniformity in matters which do not implicate the faith or the good of the whole community; rather does she respect and foster the genius and talents of the various races and peoples. Anything in these peoples' way of life which is not indissolubly bound up with superstition and error she studies with sympathy and, if possible, preserves intact. Sometimes in fact she admits such things into the liturgy itself, so long as they harmonize with its true and authentic spirit.
38. Provisions shall also be made, when revising the liturgical books, for legitimate variations and adaptations to different groups, regions, and peoples, especially in mission lands, provided that the substantial unity of the Roman rite is preserved; and this should be borne in mind when drawing up the rites and devising rubrics.
39. Within the limits set by the typical editions of the liturgical books, it shall be for the competent territorial ecclesiastical authority mentioned in Art. 22, 2, to specify adaptations, especially in the case of the administration of the sacraments, the sacramentals, processions, liturgical language, sacred music, and the arts, but according to the fundamental norms laid down in this Constitution.
40. In some places and circumstances, however, an even more radical adaptation of the liturgy is needed, and this entails greater difficulties. Wherefore:
1) The competent territorial ecclesiastical authority mentioned in Art. 22, 2, must, in this matter, carefully and prudently consider which elements from the traditions and culture of individual peoples might appropriately be admitted into divine worship. Adaptations which are judged to be useful or necessary should then be submitted to the Apostolic See, by whose consent they may be introduced.
2) To ensure that adaptations may be made with all the circumspection which they demand, the Apostolic See will grant power to this same territorial ecclesiastical authority to permit and to direct, as the case requires, the necessary preliminary experiments over a determined period of time among certain groups suited for the purpose.
3) Because liturgical laws often involve special difficulties with respect to adaptation, particularly in mission lands, men who are experts in these matters must be employed to formulate them.
E) Promotion of Liturgical Life in Diocese and Parish
41. The bishop is to be considered as the high priest of his flock, from whom the life in Christ of his faithful is in some way derived and dependent.
Therefore all should hold in great esteem the liturgical life of the diocese centered around the bishop, especially in his cathedral church; they must be convinced that the pre-eminent manifestation of the Church consists in the full active participation of all God's holy people in these liturgical celebrations, especially in the same eucharist, in a single prayer, at one altar, at which there presides the bishop surrounded by his college of priests and by his ministers [35].
42. But because it is impossible for the bishop always and everywhere to preside over the whole flock in his Church, he cannot do other than establish lesser groupings of the faithful. Among these the parishes, set up locally under a pastor who takes the place of the bishop, are the most important: for in some manner they represent the visible Church constituted throughout the world.
And therefore the liturgical life of the parish and its relationship to the bishop must be fostered theoretically and practically among the faithful and clergy; efforts also must be made to encourage a sense of community within the parish, above all in the common celebration of the Sunday Mass.
F) The Promotion of Pastoral-Liturgical Action
43. Zeal for the promotion and restoration of the liturgy is rightly held to be a sign of the providential dispositions of God in our time, as a movement of the Holy Spirit in His Church. It is today a distinguishing mark of the Church's life, indeed of the whole tenor of contemporary religious thought and action.
So that this pastoral-liturgical action may become even more vigorous in the Church, the sacred Council decrees:
44. It is desirable that the competent territorial ecclesiastical authority mentioned in Art. 22, 2, set up a liturgical commission, to be assisted by experts in liturgical science, sacred music, art and pastoral practice. So far as possible the commission should be aided by some kind of Institute for Pastoral Liturgy, consisting of persons who are eminent in these matters, and including laymen as circumstances suggest. Under the direction of the above-mentioned territorial ecclesiastical authority the commission is to regulate pastoral-liturgical action throughout the territory, and to promote studies and necessary experiments whenever there is question of adaptations to be proposed to the Apostolic See.
45. For the same reason every diocese is to have a commission on the sacred liturgy under the direction of the bishop, for promoting the liturgical apostolate.
Sometimes it may be expedient that several dioceses should form between them one single commission which will be able to promote the liturgy by common consultation.
46. Besides the commission on the sacred liturgy, every diocese, as far as possible, should have commissions for sacred music and sacred art.
These three commissions must work in closest collaboration; indeed it will often be best to fuse the three of them into one single commission.
CHAPTER II
THE MOST SACRED MYSTERY OF THE EUCHARIST
47. At the Last Supper, on the night when He was betrayed, our Saviour instituted the eucharistic sacrifice of His Body and Blood. He did this in order to perpetuate the sacrifice of the Cross throughout the centuries until He should come again, and so to entrust to His beloved spouse, the Church, a memorial of His death and resurrection: a sacrament of love, a sign of unity, a bond of charity [36], a paschal banquet in which Christ is eaten, the mind is filled with grace, and a pledge of future glory is given to us [37].
48. The Church, therefore, earnestly desires that Christ's faithful, when present at this mystery of faith, should not be there as strangers or silent spectators; on the contrary, through a good understanding of the rites and prayers they should take part in the sacred action conscious of what they are doing, with devotion and full collaboration. They should be instructed by God's word and be nourished at the table of the Lord's body; they should give thanks to God; by offering the Immaculate Victim, not only through the hands of the priest, but also with him, they should learn also to offer themselves; through Christ the Mediator [38], they should be drawn day by day into ever more perfect union with God and with each other, so that finally God may be all in all.
49. For this reason the sacred Council, having in mind those Masses which are celebrated with the assistance of the faithful, especially on Sundays and feasts of obligation, has made the following decrees in order that the sacrifice of the Mass, even in the ritual forms of its celebration, may become pastorally efficacious to the fullest degree.
50. The rite of the Mass is to be revised in such a way that the intrinsic nature and purpose of its several parts, as also the connection between them, may be more clearly manifested, and that devout and active participation by the faithful may be more easily achieved.
For this purpose the rites are to be simplified, due care being taken to preserve their substance; elements which, with the passage of time, came to be duplicated, or were added with but little advantage, are now to be discarded; other elements which have suffered injury through accidents of history are now to be restored to the vigor which they had in the days of the holy Fathers, as may seem useful or necessary.
51. The treasures of the bible are to be opened up more lavishly, so that richer fare may be provided for the faithful at the table of God's word. In this way a more representative portion of the holy scriptures will be read to the people in the course of a prescribed number of years.
52. By means of the homily the mysteries of the faith and the guiding principles of the Christian life are expounded from the sacred text, during the course of the liturgical year; the homily, therefore, is to be highly esteemed as part of the liturgy itself; in fact, at those Masses which are celebrated with the assistance of the people on Sundays and feasts of obligation, it should not be omitted except for a serious reason.
53. Especially on Sundays and feasts of obligation there is to be restored, after the Gospel and the homily, "the common prayer" or "the prayer of the faithful." By this prayer, in which the people are to take part, intercession will be made for holy Church, for the civil authorities, for those oppressed by various needs, for all mankind, and for the salvation of the entire world [39].
54. In Masses which are celebrated with the people, a suitable place may be allotted to their mother tongue. This is to apply in the first place to the readings and "the common prayer," but also, as local conditions may warrant, to those parts which pertain to the people, according to the norm laid down in Art. 36 of this Constitution.
Nevertheless steps should be taken so that the faithful may also be able to say or to sing together in Latin those parts of the Ordinary of the Mass which pertain to them.
And wherever a more extended use of the mother tongue within the Mass appears desirable, the regulation laid down in Art. 40 of this Constitution is to be observed.
55. That more perfect form of participation in the Mass whereby the faithful, after the priest's communion, receive the Lord's body from the same sacrifice, is strongly commended.
The dogmatic principles which were laid down by the Council of Trent remaining intact [40], communion under both kinds may be granted when the bishops think fit, not only to clerics and religious, but also to the laity, in cases to be determined by the Apostolic See, as, for instance, to the newly ordained in the Mass of their sacred ordination, to the newly professed in the Mass of their religious profession, and to the newly baptized in the Mass which follows their baptism.
56. The two parts which, in a certain sense, go to make up the Mass, namely, the liturgy of the word and the eucharistic liturgy, are so closely connected with each other that they form but one single act of worship. Accordingly this sacred Synod strongly urges pastors of souls that, when instructing the faithful, they insistently teach them to take their part in the entire Mass, especially on Sundays and feasts of obligation.
57. 1. Concelebration, whereby the unity of the priesthood is appropriately manifested, has remained in use to this day in the Church both in the east and in the west. For this reason it has seemed good to the Council to extend permission for concelebration to the following cases:
1.
a) on the Thursday of the Lord's Supper, not only at the Mass of the Chrism, but also at the evening Mass.
b) at Masses during councils, bishops' conferences, and synods;
c) at the Mass for the blessing of an abbot.
2. Also, with permission of the ordinary, to whom it belongs to decide whether concelebration is opportune:
a) at conventual Mass, and at the principle Mass in churches when the needs of the faithful do not require that all priests available should celebrate individually;
b) at Masses celebrated at any kind of priests' meetings, whether the priests be secular clergy or religious.
2.
1. The regulation, however, of the discipline of con-celebration in the diocese pertains to the bishop.
2. Nevertheless, each priest shall always retain his right to celebrate Mass individually, though not at the same time in the same church as a concelebrated Mass, nor on Thursday of the Lord's Supper.
58. A new rite for concelebration is to be drawn up and inserted into the Pontifical and into the Roman Missal.
CHAPTER III
THE OTHER SACRAMENTS AND THE SACRAMENTALS
59. The purpose of the sacraments is to sanctify men, to build up the body of Christ, and, finally, to give worship to God; because they are signs they also instruct. They not only presuppose faith, but by words and objects they also nourish, strengthen, and express it; that is why they are called "sacraments of faith." They do indeed impart grace, but, in addition, the very act of celebrating them most effectively disposes the faithful to receive this grace in a fruitful manner, to worship God duly, and to practice charity.
It is therefore of the highest importance that the faithful should easily understand the sacramental signs, and should frequent with great eagerness those sacraments which were instituted to nourish the Christian life.
60. Holy Mother Church has, moreover, instituted sacramentals. These are sacred signs which bear a resemblance to the sacraments: they signify effects, particularly of a spiritual kind, which are obtained through the Church's intercession. By them men are disposed to receive the chief effect of the sacraments, and various occasions in life are rendered holy.
61. Thus, for well-disposed members of the faithful, the liturgy of the sacraments and sacramentals sanctifies almost every event in their lives; they are given access to the stream of divine grace which flows from the paschal mystery of the passion, death, the resurrection of Christ, the font from which all sacraments and sacramentals draw their power. There is hardly any proper use of material things which cannot thus be directed toward the sanctification of men and the praise of God.
62. With the passage of time, however, there have crept into the rites of the sacraments and sacramentals certain features which have rendered their nature and purpose far from clear to the people of today; hence some changes have become necessary to adapt them to the needs of our own times. For this reason the sacred Council decrees as follows concerning their revision.
63. Because of the use of the mother tongue in the administration of the sacraments and sacramentals can often be of considerable help to the people, this use is to be extended according to the following norms:
a) The vernacular language may be used in administering the sacraments and sacramentals, according to the norm of Art. 36.
b) In harmony with the new edition of the Roman Ritual, particular rituals shall be prepared without delay by the competent territorial ecclesiastical authority mentioned in Art. 22, 2, of this Constitution. These rituals, which are to be adapted, also as regards the language employed, to the needs of the different regions, are to be reviewed by the Apostolic See and then introduced into the regions for which they have been prepared. But in drawing up these rituals or particular collections of rites, the instructions prefixed to the individual rites the Roman Ritual, whether they be pastoral and rubrical or whether they have special social import, shall not be omitted.
64. The catechumenate for adults, comprising several distinct steps, is to be restored and to be taken into use at the discretion of the local ordinary. By this, means the time of the catechumenate, which is intended as a period of suitable instruction, may be sanctified by sacred rites to be celebrated at successive intervals of time.
65. In mission lands it is found that some of the peoples already make use of initiation rites. Elements from these, when capable of being adapted to Christian ritual, may be admitted along with those already found in Christian tradition, according to the norm laid down in Art. 37-40, of this Constitution.
66. Both the rites for the baptism of adults are to be revised: not only the simpler rite, but also the more solemn one, which must take into account the restored catechumenate. A special Mass "for the conferring of baptism" is to be inserted into the Roman Missal.
67. The rite for the baptism of infants is to be revised, and it should be adapted to the circumstance that those to be baptized are, in fact, infants. The roles of parents and godparents, and also their duties, should be brought out more clearly in the rite itself.
68. The baptismal rite should contain variants, to be used at the discretion of the local ordinary, for occasions when a very large number are to be baptized together. Moreover, a shorter rite is to be drawn up, especially for mission lands, to be used by catechists, but also by the faithful in general when there is danger of death, and neither priest nor deacon is available.
69. In place of the rite called the "Order of supplying what was omitted in the baptism of an infant," a new rite is to be drawn up. This should manifest more fittingly and clearly that the infant, baptized by the short rite, has already been received into the Church.
And a new rite is to be drawn up for converts who have already been validly baptized; it should indicate that they are now admitted to communion with the Church.
70. Except during Eastertide, baptismal water may be blessed within the rite of baptism itself by an approved shorter formula.
71. The rite of confirmation is to be revised and the intimate connection which this sacrament has with the whole of Christian initiation is to be more clearly set forth; for this reason it is fitting for candidates to renew their baptismal promises just before they are confirmed.
Confirmation may be given within the Mass when convenient; when it is given outside the Mass, the rite that is used should be introduced by a formula to be drawn up for this purpose.
72. The rite and formulas for the sacrament of penance are to be revised so that they more clearly express both the nature and effect of the sacrament.
73. "Extreme unction," which may also and more fittingly be called "anointing of the sick," is not a sacrament for those only who are at the point of death. Hence, as soon as any one of the faithful begins to be in danger of death from sickness or old age, the fitting time for him to receive this sacrament has certainly already arrived.
74. In addition to the separate rites for anointing of the sick and for viaticum, a continuous rite shall be prepared according to which the sick man is anointed after he has made his confession and before he receives viaticum.
75. The number of the anointings is to be adapted to the occasion, and the prayers which belong to the rite of anointing are to be revised so as to correspond with the varying conditions of the sick who receive the sacrament.
76. Both the ceremonies and texts of the ordination rites are to be revised. The address given by the bishop at the beginning of each ordination or consecration may be in the mother tongue.
When a bishop is consecrated, the laying of hands may be done by all the bishops present.
77. The marriage rite now found in the Roman Ritual is to be revised and enriched in such a way that the grace of the sacrament is more clearly signified and the duties of the spouses are taught.
"If any regions are wont to use other praiseworthy customs and ceremonies when celebrating the sacrament of matrimony, the sacred Synod earnestly desires that these by all means be retained" [41].
Moreover the competent territorial ecclesiastical authority mentioned in Art. 22, 52, of this Constitution is free to draw up its own rite suited to the usages of place and people, according to the provision of Art. 63. But the rite must always conform to the law that the priest assisting at the marriage must ask for and obtain the consent of the contracting parties.
78. Matrimony is normally to be celebrated within the Mass, after the reading of the gospel and the homily, and before "the prayer of the faithful." The prayer for the bride, duly amended to remind both spouses of their equal obligation to remain faithful to each other, may be said in the mother tongue.
But if the sacrament of matrimony is celebrated apart from Mass, the epistle and gospel from the nuptial Mass are to be read at the beginning of the rite, and the blessing should always be given to the spouses.
79. The sacramentals are to undergo a revision which takes into account the primary principle of enabling the faithful to participate intelligently, actively, and easily; the circumstances of our own days must also be considered. When rituals are revised, as laid down in Art. 63, new sacramentals may also be added as the need for these becomes apparent.
Reserved blessings shall be very few; reservations shall be in favor of bishops or ordinaries.
Let provision be made that some sacramentals, at least in special circumstances and at the discretion of the ordinary, may be administered by qualified lay persons.
80. The rite for the consecration of virgins at present found in the Roman Pontifical is to be revised.
Moreover, a rite of religious profession and renewal of vows shall be drawn up in order to achieve greater unity, sobriety, and dignity. Apart from exceptions in particular law, this rite should be adopted by those who make their profession or renewal of vows within the Mass.
Religious profession should preferably be made within the Mass.
81. The rite for the burial of the dead should express more clearly the paschal character of Christian death, and should correspond more closely to the circumstances and traditions found in various regions. This holds good also for the liturgical color to be used.
82. The rite for the burial of infants is to be revised, and a special Mass for the occasion should be provided.
CHAPTER IV
THE DIVINE OFFICE
83. Christ Jesus, high priest of the new and eternal covenant, taking human nature, introduced into this earthly exile that hymn which is sung throughout all ages in the halls of heaven. He joins the entire community of mankind to Himself, associating it with His own singing of this canticle of divine praise.
For he continues His priestly work through the agency of His Church, which is ceaselessly engaged in praising the Lord and interceding for the salvation of the whole world. She does this, not only by celebrating the eucharist, but also in other ways, especially by praying the divine office.
84. By tradition going back to early Christian times, the divine office is devised so that the whole course of the day and night is made holy by the praises of God. Therefore, when this wonderful song of praise is rightly performed by priests and others who are deputed for this purpose by the Church's ordinance, or by the faithful praying together with the priest in the approved form, then it is truly the voice of the bride addressed to her bridegroom; It is the very prayer which Christ Himself, together with His body, addresses to the Father.
85. Hence all who render this service are not only fulfilling a duty of the Church, but also are sharing in the greatest honor of Christ's spouse, for by offering these praises to God they are standing before God's throne in the name of the Church their Mother.
86. Priests who are engaged in the sacred pastoral ministry will offer the praises of the hours with greater fervor the more vividly they realize that they must heed St. Paul's exhortation: "Pray without ceasing" (1 Thess. 5:11). For the work in which they labor will effect nothing and bring forth no fruit except by the power of the Lord who said: "Without me you can do nothing" (John 15: 5). That is why the apostles, instituting deacons, said: "We will devote ourselves to prayer and to the ministry of the word" (Acts 6:4).
81. In order that the divine office may be better and more perfectly prayed in existing circumstances, whether by priests or by other members of the Church, the sacred Council, carrying further the restoration already so happily begun by the Apostolic See, has seen fit to decree as follows concerning the office of the Roman rite.
88. Because the purpose of the office is to sanctify the day, the traditional sequence of the hours is to be restored so that once again they may be genuinely related to the time of the day when they are prayed, as far as this may be possible. Moreover, it will be necessary to take into account the modern conditions in which daily life has to be lived, especially by those who are called to labor in apostolic works.
89. Therefore, when the office is revised, these norms are to be observed:
a) By the venerable tradition of the universal Church, Lauds as morning prayer and Vespers as evening prayer are the two hinges on which the daily office turns; hence they are to be considered as the chief hours and are to be celebrated as such.
b) Compline is to be drawn up so that it will be a suitable prayer for the end of the day.
c) The hour known as Matins, although it should retain the character of nocturnal praise when celebrated in choir, shall be adapted so that it may be recited at any hour of the day; it shall be made up of fewer psalms and longer readings.
d) The hour of Prime is to be suppressed.
e) In choir the hours of Terce, Sext, and None are to be observed. But outside choir it will be lawful to select any one of these three, according to the respective time of the day.
90. The divine office, because it is the public prayer of the Church, is a source of piety, and nourishment for personal prayer. And therefore priests and all others who take part in the divine office are earnestly exhorted in the Lord to attune their minds to their voices when praying it. The better to achieve this, let them take steps to improve their understanding of the liturgy and of the bible, especially of the psalms.
In revising the Roman office, its ancient and venerable treasures are to be so adapted that all those to whom they are handed on may more extensively and easily draw profit from them.
91. So that it may really be possible in practice to observe the course of the hours proposed in Art. 89, the psalms are no longer to be distributed throughout one week, but through some longer period of time.
The work of revising the psalter, already happily begun, is to be finished as soon as possible, and is to take into account the style of Christian Latin, the liturgical use of psalms, also when sung, and the entire tradition of the Latin Church.
92. As regards the readings, the following shall be observed: a) Readings from sacred scripture shall be arranged so that the riches of God's word may be easily accessible in more abundant measure.
b) Readings excerpted from the works of the fathers, doctors, and ecclesiastical writers shall be better selected.
c) The accounts of martyrdom or the lives of the saints are to accord with the facts of history.
93. To whatever extent may seem desirable, the hymns are to be restored to their original form, and whatever smacks of mythology or ill accords with Christian piety is to be removed or changed. Also, as occasion may arise, let other selections from the treasury of hymns be incorporated.
94. That the day may be truly sanctified, and that the hours themselves may be recited with spiritual advantage, it is best that each of them be prayed at a time which most closely corresponds with its true canonical time.
95. Communities obliged to choral office are bound to celebrate the office in choir every day in addition to the conventual Mass. In particular:
a) Orders of canons, of monks and of nuns, and of other regulars bound by law or constitutions to choral office must celebrate the entire office.
b) Cathedral or collegiate chapters are bound to recite those parts of the office imposed on them by general or particular law.
c) All members of the above communities who are in major orders or who are solemnly professed, except for lay brothers, are bound to recite individually those canonical hours which they do not pray in choir.
96. Clerics not bound to office in choir, if they are in major orders, are bound to pray the entire office every day, either in common or individually, as laid down in Art. 89.
97. Appropriate instances are to be defined by the rubrics in which a liturgical service may be substituted for the divine office.
In particular cases, and for a just reason, ordinaries can dispense their subjects wholly or in part from the obligation of reciting the divine office, or may commute the obligation.
98. Members of any institute dedicated to acquiring perfection who, according to their constitutions, are to recite any parts of the divine office are thereby performing the public prayer of the Church.
They too perform the public prayer of the Church who, in virtue of their constitutions, recite any short office, provided this is drawn up after the pattern of the divine office and is duly approved.
99. Since the divine office is the voice of the Church, that is of the whole mystical body publicly praising God, those clerics who are not obliged to office in choir, especially priests who live together or who assemble for any purpose, are urged to pray at least some part of the divine office in common.
All who pray the divine office, whether in choir or in common, should fulfill the task entrusted to them as perfectly as possible: this refers not only to the internal devotion of their minds but also to their external manner of celebration.
It is, moreover, fitting that the office, both in choir and in common, be sung when possible.
100. Pastors of souls should see to it that the chief hours, especially Vespers, are celebrated in common in church on Sundays and the more solemn feasts. And the laity, too, are encouraged to recite the divine office, either with the priests, or among themselves, or even individually.
101. 1. In accordance with the centuries-old tradition of the Latin rite, the Latin language is to be retained by clerics in the divine office. But in individual cases the ordinary has the power of granting the use of a vernacular translation to those clerics for whom the use of Latin constitutes a grave obstacle to their praying the office properly. The vernacular version, however, must be one that is drawn up according to the provision of Art. 36.
2. The competent superior has the power to grant the use of the vernacular in the celebration of the divine office, even in choir, to nuns and to members of institutes dedicated to acquiring perfection, both men who are not clerics and women. The version, however, must be one that is approved.
3. Any cleric bound to the divine office fulfills his obligation if he prays the office in the vernacular together with a group of the faithful or with those mentioned in 52 above provided that the text of the translation is approved.
CHAPTER V
THE LITURGICAL YEAR
102. Holy Mother Church is conscious that she must celebrate the saving work of her divine Spouse by devoutly recalling it on certain days throughout the course of the year. Every week, on the day which she has called the Lord's day, she keeps the memory of the Lord's resurrection, which she also celebrates once in the year, together with His blessed passion, in the most solemn festival of Easter.
Within the cycle of a year, moreover, she unfolds the whole mystery of Christ, from the incarnation and birth until the ascension, the day of Pentecost, and the expectation of blessed hope and of the coming of the Lord.
Recalling thus the mysteries of redemption, the Church opens to the faithful the riches of her Lord's powers and merits, so that these are in some way made present for all time, and the faithful are enabled to lay hold upon them and become filled with saving grace.
103. In celebrating this annual cycle of Christ's mysteries, holy Church honors with especial love the Blessed Mary, Mother of God, who is joined by an inseparable bond to the saving work of her Son. In her the Church holds up and admires the most excellent fruit of the redemption, and joyfully contemplates, as in a faultless image, that which she herself desires and hopes wholly to be.
104. The Church has also included in the annual cycle days devoted to the memory of the martyrs and the other saints. Raised up to perfection by the manifold grace of God, and already in possession of eternal salvation, they sing God's perfect praise in heaven and offer prayers for us. By celebrating the passage of these saints from earth to heaven the Church proclaims the paschal mystery achieved in the saints who have suffered and been glorified with Christ; she proposes them to the faithful as examples drawing all to the Father through Christ, and through their merits she pleads for God's favors.
105. Finally, in the various seasons of the year and according to her traditional discipline, the Church completes the formation of the faithful by means of pious practices for soul and body, by instruction, prayer, and works of penance and of mercy.
Accordingly the sacred Council has seen fit to decree as follows.
106. By a tradition handed down from the apostles which took its origin from the very day of Christ's resurrection, the Church celebrates the paschal mystery every eighth day; with good reason this, then, bears the name of the Lord's day or Sunday. For on this day Christ's faithful are bound to come together into one place so that; by hearing the word of God and taking part in the eucharist, they may call to mind the passion, the resurrection and the glorification of the Lord Jesus, and may thank God who "has begotten them again, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, unto a living hope" (1 Pet. 1:3). Hence the Lord's day is the original feast day, and it should be proposed to the piety of the faithful and taught to them so that it may become in fact a day of joy and of freedom from work. Other celebrations, unless they be truly of greatest importance, shall not have precedence over the Sunday which is the foundation and kernel of the whole liturgical year.
107. The liturgical year is to be revised so that the traditional customs and discipline of the sacred seasons shall be preserved or restored to suit the conditions of modern times; their specific character is to be retained, so that they duly nourish the piety of the faithful who celebrate the mysteries of Christian redemption, and above all the paschal mystery. If certain adaptations are considered necessary on account of local conditions, they are to be made in accordance with the provisions of Art. 39 and 40.
108. The minds of the faithful must be directed primarily toward the feasts of the Lord whereby the mysteries of salvation are celebrated in the course of the year. Therefore, the proper of the time shall be given the preference which is its due over the feasts of the saints, so that the entire cycle of the mysteries of salvation may be suitably recalled.
109. The season of Lent has a twofold character: primarily by recalling or preparing for baptism and by penance, it disposes the faithful, who more diligently hear the word of God and devote themselves to prayer, to celebrate the paschal mystery. This twofold character is to be brought into greater prominence both in the liturgy and by liturgical catechesis. Hence:
a) More use is to be made of the baptismal features proper to the Lenten liturgy; some of them, which used to flourish in bygone days, are to be restored as may seem good.
b) The same is to apply to the penitential elements. As regards instruction it is important to impress on the minds of the faithful not only a social consequences of sin but also that essence of the virtue of penance which leads to the detestation of sin as an offence against God; the role of the Church in penitential practices is not to be passed over, and the people must be exhorted to pray for sinners.
110. During Lent penance should not be only internal and individual, but also external and social. The practice of penance should be fostered in ways that are possible in our own times and in different regions, and according to the circumstances of the faithful; it should be encouraged by the authorities mentioned in Art. 22.
Nevertheless, let the paschal fast be kept sacred. Let it be celebrated everywhere on Good Friday and, where possible, prolonged throughout Holy Saturday, so that the joys of the Sunday of the resurrection may be attained with uplifted and clear mind.
111. The saints have been traditionally honored in the Church and their authentic relics and images held in veneration. For the feasts of the saints proclaim the wonderful works of Christ in His servants, and display to the faithful fitting examples for their imitation.
Lest the feasts of the saints should take precedence over the feasts which commemorate the very mysteries of salvation, many of them should be left to be celebrated by a particular Church or nation or family of religious; only those should be extended to the universal Church which commemorate saints who are truly of universal importance.
CHAPTER
VI SACRED MUSIC
112. The musical tradition of the universal Church is a treasure of inestimable value, greater even than that of any other art. The main reason for this pre-eminence is that, as sacred song united to the words, it forms a necessary or integral part of the solemn liturgy.
Holy Scripture, indeed, has bestowed praise upon sacred song [42], and the same may be said of the fathers of the Church and of the Roman pontiffs who in recent times, led by St. Pius X, have explained more precisely the ministerial function supplied by sacred music in the service of the Lord.
Therefore sacred music is to be considered the more holy in proportion as it is more closely connected with the liturgical action, whether it adds delight to prayer, fosters unity of minds, or confers greater solemnity upon the sacred rites. But the Church approves of all forms of true art having the needed qualities, and admits them into divine worship.
Accordingly, the sacred Council, keeping to the norms and precepts of ecclesiastical tradition and discipline, and having regard to the purpose of sacred music, which is the glory of God and the sanctification of the faithful, decrees as follows.
113. Liturgical worship is given a more noble form when the divine offices are celebrated solemnly in song, with the assistance of sacred ministers and the active participation of the people.
As regards the language to be used, the provisions of Art. 36 are to be observed; for the Mass, Art. 54; for the sacraments, Art. 63; for the divine office. Art. 101.
114. The treasure of sacred music is to be preserved and fostered with great care. Choirs must be diligently promoted, especially in cathedral churches; but bishops and other pastors of souls must be at pains to ensure that, whenever the sacred action is to be celebrated with song, the whole body of the faithful may be able to contribute that active participation which is rightly theirs, as laid down in Art. 28 and 30.
115. Great importance is to be attached to the teaching and practice of music in seminaries, in the novitiates and houses of study of religious of both sexes, and also in other Catholic institutions and schools. To impart this instruction, teachers are to be carefully trained and put in charge of the teaching of sacred music.
It is desirable also to found higher institutes of sacred music whenever this can be done.
Composers and singers, especially boys, must also be given a genuine liturgical training.
116. The Church acknowledges Gregorian chant as specially suited to the Roman liturgy: therefore, other things being equal, it should be given pride of place in liturgical services.
But other kinds of sacred music, especially polyphony, are by no means excluded from liturgical celebrations, so long as they accord with the spirit of the liturgical action, as laid down in Art. 30.
117. The typical edition of the books of Gregorian chant is to be completed; and a more critical edition is to be prepared of those books already published since the restoration by St. Pius X.
It is desirable also that an edition be prepared containing simpler melodies, for use in small churches.
118. Religious singing by the people is to be intelligently fostered so that in devotions and sacred exercises, as also during liturgical services, the voices of the faithful may ring out according to the norms and requirements of the rubrics.
119. In certain parts of the world, especially mission lands, there are peoples who have their own musical traditions, and these play a great part in their religious and social life. For this reason due importance is to be attached to their music, and a suitable place is to be given to it, not only in forming their attitude toward religion, but also in adapting worship to their native genius, as indicated in Art. 39 and 40.
Therefore, when missionaries are being given training in music, every effort should be made to see that they become competent in promoting the traditional music of these peoples, both in schools and in sacred services, as far as may be practicable.
120. In the Latin Church the pipe organ is to be held in high esteem, for it is the traditional musical instrument which adds a wonderful splendor to the Church's ceremonies and powerfully lifts up man's mind to God and to higher things.
But other instruments also may be admitted for use in divine worship, with the knowledge and consent of the competent territorial authority, as laid down in Art. 22, 52, 37, and 40. This may be done, however, only on condition that the instruments are suitable, or can be made suitable, for sacred use, accord with the dignity of the temple, and truly contribute to the edification of the faithful.
121. Composers, filled with the Christian spirit, should feel that their vocation is to cultivate sacred music and increase its store of treasures.
Let them produce compositions which have the qualities proper to genuine sacred music, not confining themselves to works which can be sung only by large choirs, but providing also for the needs of small choirs and for the active participation of the entire assembly of the faithful.
The texts intended to be sung must always be in conformity with Catholic doctrine; indeed they should be drawn chiefly from holy scripture and from liturgical sources.
CHAPTER VII
SACRED ART AND SACRED FURNISHINGS
122. Very rightly the fine arts are considered to rank among the noblest activities of man's genius, and this applies especially to religious art and to its highest achievement, which is sacred art. These arts, by their very nature, are oriented toward the infinite beauty of God which they attempt in some way to portray by the work of human hands; they achieve their purpose of redounding to God's praise and glory in proportion as they are directed the more exclusively to the single aim of turning men's minds devoutly toward God.
Holy Mother Church has therefore always been the friend of the fine arts and has ever sought their noble help, with the special aim that all things set apart for use in divine worship should be truly worthy, becoming, and beautiful, signs and symbols of the supernatural world, and for this purpose she has trained artists. In fact, the Church has, with good reason, always reserved to herself the right to pass judgment upon the arts, deciding which of the works of artists are in accordance with faith, piety, and cherished traditional laws, and thereby fitted for sacred use.
The Church has been particularly careful to see that sacred furnishings should worthily and beautifully serve the dignity of worship, and has admitted changes in materials, style, or ornamentation prompted by the progress of the technical arts with the passage of time.
Wherefore it has pleased the Fathers to issue the following decrees on these matters.
123. The Church has not adopted any particular style of art as her very own; she has admitted styles from every period according to the natural talents and circumstances of peoples, and the needs of the various rites. Thus, in the course of the centuries, she has brought into being a treasury of art which must be very carefully preserved. The art of our own days, coming from every race and region, shall also be given free scope in the Church, provided that it adorns the sacred buildings and holy rites with due reverence and honor; thereby it is enabled to contribute its own voice to that wonderful chorus of praise in honor of the Catholic faith sung by great men in times gone by.
124. Ordinaries, by the encouragement and favor they show to art which is truly sacred, should strive after noble beauty rather than mere sumptuous display. This principle is to apply also in the matter of sacred vestments and ornaments.
Let bishops carefully remove from the house of God and from other sacred places those works of artists which are repugnant to faith, morals, and Christian piety, and which offend true religious sense either by depraved forms or by lack of artistic worth, mediocrity and pretense.
And when churches are to be built, let great care be taken that they be suitable for the celebration of liturgical services and for the active participation of the faithful.
125. The practice of placing sacred images in churches so that they may be venerated by the faithful is to be maintained. Nevertheless their number should be moderate and their relative positions should reflect right order. For otherwise they may create confusion among the Christian people and foster devotion of doubtful orthodoxy.
126. When passing judgment on works of art, local ordinaries shall give a hearing to the diocesan commission on sacred art and, if needed, also to others who are especially expert, and to the commissions referred to in Art. 44, 45, and 46.
Ordinaries must be very careful to see that sacred furnishings and works of value are not disposed of or dispersed; for they are the ornaments of the house of God.
127. Bishops should have a special concern for artists, so as to imbue them with the spirit of sacred art and of the sacred liturgy. This they may do in person or through suitable priests who are gifted with a knowledge and love of art.
It is also desirable that schools or academies of sacred art should be founded in those parts of the world where they would be useful, so that artists may be trained.
All artists who, prompted by their talents, desire to serve God's glory in holy Church, should ever bear in mind that they are engaged in a kind of sacred imitation of God the Creator, and are concerned with works destined to be used in Catholic worship, to edify the faithful, and to foster their piety and their religious formation.
128. Along with the revision of the liturgical books, as laid down in Art. 25, there is to be an early revision of the canons and ecclesiastical statutes which govern the provision of material things involved in sacred worship. These laws refer especially to the worthy and well planned construction of sacred buildings, the shape and construction of altars, the nobility, placing, and safety of the eucharistic tabernacle, the dignity and suitability of the baptistery, the proper ordering of sacred images, embellishments, and vestments. Laws which seem less suited to the reformed liturgy are to be brought into harmony with it, or else abolished; and any which are helpful are to be retained if already in use, or introduced where they are lacking.
According to the norm of Art. 22 of this Constitution, the territorial bodies of bishops are empowered to adapt such things to the needs and customs of their different regions; this applies especially to the materials and form of sacred furnishings and vestments.
129. During their philosophical and theological studies, clerics are to be taught about the history and development of sacred art, and about the sound principles governing the production of its works. In consequence they will be able to appreciate and preserve the Church's venerable monuments, and be in a position to aid, by good advice, artists who are engaged in producing works of art.
130. It is fitting that the use of pontificals be reserved to those ecclesiastical persons who have episcopal rank or some particular jurisdiction.

APPENDIX
A DECLARATION OF THE SECOND ECUMENICAL COUNCIL OF THE VATICAN ON REVISION OF THE CALENDAR
The Second Ecumenical Sacred Council of the Vatican, recognizing the importance of the wishes expressed by many concerning the assignment of the feast of Easter to a fixed Sunday and concerning an unchanging calendar, having carefully considered the effects which could result from the introduction of a new calendar, declares as follows:
The Sacred Council would not object if the feast of Easter were assigned to a particular Sunday of the Gregorian Calendar, provided that those whom it may concern, especially the brethren who are not in communion with the Apostolic See, give their assent.
The sacred Council likewise declares that it does not oppose efforts designed to introduce a perpetual calendar into civil society.
But among the various systems which are being suggested to stabilize a perpetual calendar and to introduce it into civil life, the Church has no objection only in the case of those systems which retain and safeguard a seven-day week with Sunday, without the introduction of any days outside the week, so that the succession of weeks may be left intact, unless there is question of the most serious reasons. Concerning these the Apostolic See shall judge.
INTRODUCTORY RITES
[stand]
Entrance Procession:
[After the people have assembled, an opening song or entrance antiphon is sung or recited as the priest and the ministers enter the church and process to the altar; after reverencing the altar (sometimes also using incense), they go to their chairs.]
Greeting:
Priest: In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. [All together make the sign of the cross.]
All: Amen.

Option A:
Priest: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
All: And also with you. Option B:
Priest: The grace and peace of God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
All: Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
or
All: And also with you.  Option C:
Priest: The Lord be with you.
[or Bishop: Peace be with you.]
All: And also with you. 
[The priest or another minister may then briefly introduce the Mass of the day, saying something about the readings, the feast, and/or the special occasion being celebrated.]
Rite of Blessing and Sprinkling Holy Water:
Priest: Dear friends, this water will be used to remind us of our baptism. Let us ask God to bless it, and to keep us faithful to the Spirit he has given us. [or similar words of introduction]

Option A:
Priest: God our Father, your gift of water brings life and freshness to the earth; it washes away our sins and brings us eternal life.
We ask you now to bless this water, and to give us your protection on this day which you have made your own. Renew the living spring of your life within us and protect us in spirit and body, that we may be free from sin and come into your presence to receive your gift of salvation.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen. Option B:
Priest: Lord God almighty, creator of all life, of body and soul, we ask you to bless this water: as we use it in faith forgive our sins and save us from all illness and the power of evil.
Lord, in your mercy give us living water, always springing up as a fountain of salvation: free us, body and soul, from every danger, and admit us to your presence in purity of heart.
Grant this through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen. Option C (during the Easter Season):
Priest: Lord God almighty, hear the prayers of your people: we celebrate our creation and redemption. Hear our prayers and bless this water which give fruitfulness to the fields, and refreshment and cleansing to man. You chose water to show your goodness when you led your people to freedom through the Red Sea and satisfied their thirst in the desert with water from the rock. Water was the symbol used by the prophets to foretell your new covenant with us. You made the water of baptism holy by Christ's baptism in the Jordan: by it you give us a new birth and renew us in holiness. May this water remind us of our baptism, and let us share the joy of all who have been baptized at Easter.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
All: Amen. 
[After blessing the water, the priest moves through the church sprinkling all of the people while an antiphon or other song is sung. When the sprinkling and the song is finished, the priest concludes this rite as follows:]
Priest: May almighty God cleanse us of our sins, and through the eucharist we celebrate make us worthy to sit at his table in his heavenly kingdom.
All: Amen.
[This rite is commonly celebrated during the Easter Season, but may also be used at other times. When it is used, the Penitential Rite is omitted, and the Mass continues with the Gloria (on most Sundays and solemnities) or with the Opening Prayer (during Advent and Lent, and on weekdays).]
or Penitential Rite:
Priest: As we prepare to celebrate the mystery of Christ's love, let us acknowledge our failures and ask the Lord for pardon and strength.
or Coming together as God's family, with confidence let us ask the Father's forgiveness, for he is full of gentleness and compassion.
or My brothers and sisters, to prepare ourselves to celebrate the sacred mysteries, let us call to mind our sins.
[or similar words of introduction, followed by a period of silent reflection.]

Option A:
All: I confess to almighty God,
and to you, my brothers and sisters,
that I have sinned through my own fault,
in my thoughts and in my words,
in what I have done,
and in what I have failed to do;
and I ask blessed Mary, ever virgin,
all the angels and saints,
and you, my brothers and sisters,
to pray for me to the Lord, our God.
Priest: May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.
All: Amen. Option B:
Priest: Lord, we have sinned against you:
Lord, have mercy.
All: Lord, have mercy.
Priest: Lord, show us your mercy and love.
All: And grant us your salvation.
Priest: May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.
All: Amen.  Option C: [The following or other invocations may be spoken by the priest or another minister, but the priest always gives the final blessing.]
Minister: You raise the dead to life in the Spirit: Lord, have mercy.
All: Lord, have mercy.
Minister: You bring pardon and peace to the sinner: Christ, have mercy.
All: Christ, have mercy.
Minister: You bring light to those in darkness: Lord, have mercy.
All: Lord, have mercy.
Priest: May almighty God have mercy on us, forgive us our sins, and bring us to everlasting life.
All: Amen. 
Kyrie:
[The following acclamations are sung or recited, either in English or Greek, unless they have already been used, as in option C above.]

Priest: Lord, have mercy. All: Lord, have mercy.
Priest: Christ, have mercy. All: Christ, have mercy.
Priest: Lord, have mercy. All: Lord, have mercy.  or  Priest: Kyrie, eleison. All: Kyrie, eleison.
Priest: Christe, eleison. All: Christe, eleison.
Priest: Kyrie, eleison. All: Kyrie, eleison. 
Gloria:
[This ancient hymn of praise is used on all Sundays outside of Advent and Lent, on solemnities and major feasts, and in solemn local celebrations. It is preferably sung by the whole congregation, but may also be sung by the choir or recited by all. The priest may begin with a brief sung or spoken invitation for the people to praise God.]
All: Glory to God in the highest,
and peace to his people on earth.
Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father,
we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.
Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father,
Lord God, Lamb of God,
you take away the sin of the world: have mercy on us;
you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer.
For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord,
You alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ,
with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
Opening Prayer:
Priest: Let us pray.
[After a time of silent prayer, the priest sings or says the Opening Prayer, which is different for each Mass.
At the end, the people proclaim their consent.]
All: Amen.
[sit]

LITURGY OF THE WORD
First Reading:
Lector: A reading from the Book (or Letter, or Acts) of ...
[Different readings are prescribed for each day.
At the end of the reading, the lector proclaims, and the people respond:]
Lector: The Word of the Lord.
All: Thanks be to God!
Responsorial Psalm:
[The choir and/or cantor sing or recite the psalm; the people join in the repeated response.]
Second Reading:
[A second reading is prescribed for all Sundays and major feasts, but not for most weekdays or minor feasts.
The lector's introduction and conclusion and the people's response are the same as in the First Reading, above.]
[stand]
Alleluia or Gospel Acclamation:
Choir or Cantor: Alleluia! All repeat: Alleluia!
Choir or Cantor: [verse] All repeat: Alleluia!
[The "Alleluia" may be repeated two or more times, especially during the Easter Season. If it is not sung, it should be omitted.]
[During the Season of Lent, a different "Gospel Acclamation" is used, such as "Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ, King of endless glory!" or "Praise and honor to you, Lord Jesus Christ!" or "Glory and praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ!" or something similar.]
Gospel:
Before the Gospel Proclamation:
Deacon (or Priest): The Lord be with you. All: And also with you.
Deacon (or Priest): A reading from the Holy Gospel according to... [Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John]
All: Glory to you, Lord!

After the Gospel Proclamation:
Deacon (or Priest): The Gospel of the Lord.
All: Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ!
[sit]
Homily:
[The bishop, priest, or deacon then speaks to the people, usually focusing on that day's scriptures and/or on the feast or special occasion being celebrated at that Mass; but the homily may also be based on any liturgical text from the Mass.]
[stand]
Profession of Faith:
[On Sundays and solemnities, the Nicene Creed is normally recited by everyone after the homily. The Apostles' Creed may be used instead, esp. in celebrations of Masses with children.]

NICENE CREED:
We believe in one God, the Father, the Almighty,
maker of heaven and earth, of all that is seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father,
God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God,
begotten, not made, one in Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven:
[bow during the next two lines:]
by the power of the Holy Spirit
he was born of the Virgin Mary, and became man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
he suffered, died, and was buried.
On the third day he rose again in fulfillment of the Scriptures;
he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,
and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son.
With the Father and the Son he is worshipped and glorified.
He has spoken through the Prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead,
and the life of the world to come. Amen.  APOSTLES' CREED:
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again.
He ascended into heaven,
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.
Amen.  
General Intercessions / Prayer of the Faithful:
Lector: …let us pray to the Lord.
All: Lord, hear our prayer. [or a similar response, repeated after each petition]
[sit]

LITURGY OF THE EUCHARIST
Presentation of the Gifts / Preparation of the Altar:
Priest: Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation. Through your goodness we have this bread to offer, which earth has given and human hands have made. It will become for us the bread of life.
All: Blessed be God for ever.
Priest: Blessed are you, Lord, God of all creation. Through your goodness we have this wine to offer, fruit of the vine and work of human hands. It will become our spiritual drink.
All: Blessed be God for ever.
[If there is no singing during the presentation of the gifts, the priest may say the preceding prayers aloud, and the people may respond. But if a presentation song is being sung, the priest recites these prayers inaudibly, and the people's response is omitted. Then, after the priest has washed his hands and the music is finished, he invites the people to join in prayer:]
[stand]
Priest: Pray, my brothers and sisters, that our sacrifice
may be acceptable to God, the almighty Father.
All: May the Lord accept the sacrifice at your hands,
for the praise and glory of his name,
for our good, and the good of all his Church.
Prayer over the Gifts:
[The priest sings or says this prayer, which is different for each Mass. At the end, the people respond:]
All: Amen.
Eucharistic Prayer:
[The priest may choose from among four regular Eucharistic Prayers, or two other Eucharistic Prayers for Masses of Reconciliation. On appropriate occasions, the priest may also choose from among three Eucharistic Prayers for Masses with Children, or four recently approved Eucharistic Prayers for Various Needs and Occasions. Each prayer has a similar structure, including some responses and acclamations by all the people. There are also many choices for the "Preface," depending on the liturgical season, the feast of the day, and the ritual or occasion being celebrated at that Mass. Click here for the full texts of the various Eucharistic Prayers.]
[The posture of the people during the Eucharistic Prayer is different in various countries and regions; in the United States, the people normally stand until the "Holy, Holy", and then kneel until after the "Great Amen."]
Preface Dialogue:
Priest: The Lord be with you. All: And also with you.
Priest: Lift up your hearts. All: We lift them up to the Lord.
Priest: Let us give thanks to the Lord, our God. All: It is right to give him thanks and praise.

Holy, Holy (Sanctus):
All: Holy, holy, holy Lord, God of power and might,
Heaven and earth are full of your glory.
Hosanna in the highest.
Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.
Hosanna in the highest.
[kneel]
Memorial Acclamation:
Priest: Let us proclaim the mystery of faith:
All: A - Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again.
or B - Dying you destroyed our death, rising you restored our life. Lord Jesus, come in glory.
or C - When we eat this bread and drink this cup, we proclaim your death, Lord Jesus, until you come in glory.
or D - Lord, by your cross and resurrection, you have set us free. You are the Savior of the World.
Doxology and Great Amen:
Priest: Through him, with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours, almighty Father, for ever and ever.
All: Amen! [may be sung more than once]
[stand]

COMMUNION RITE
Lord's Prayer:
Priest: Let us pray with confidence to the Father in the words our Savior gave us.
or Jesus taught us to call God our Father, and so we have the courage to say:
or Let us ask our Father to forgive our sins and to bring us to forgive those who sin against us.
or Let us pray for the coming of the kingdom as Jesus taught us.
All: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name;
thy kingdom come; thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread;
and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us;
and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Priest: Deliver us, Lord, from every evil, and grant us peace in our day. In your mercy keep us free from sin and protect us from all anxiety as we wait in joyful hope for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
All: For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever.
Sign of Peace:
Priest: Lord Jesus Christ, you said to your apostles: I leave you peace, my peace I give you. Look not on our sins, but on the faith of your Church, and grant us the peace and unity of your kingdom where you live for ever and ever.
All: Amen.
Priest: The Peace of the Lord be with you always.
All: And also with you.
Deacon or Priest: Let us offer each other a sign of peace.
[The ministers and all the people exchange an embrace, handshake, or other appropriate gesture of peace with those near them, according to local custom.]
Breaking of the Bread:
All: Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, you take away the sins of the world: grant us peace.
[kneel]
[This text may be sung or recited, and may be repeated several more times until the breaking of bread and the preparation of the communion vessels is finished; but the last phrase is always "Grant us peace."]
Communion:
Priest: This is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. Happy are those who are called to his supper.
All: Lord, I am not worthy to receive you, but only say the word and I shall be healed.
[The manner of receiving communion differs significantly between various countries, dioceses, and even individual parishes. In the United States, the people normally process to the front in lines, receive communion standing, and then return to their places in the congregation. In some cases, the ministers may go to other locations within the church to distribute communion, or may even approach individuals at their places (esp. the elderly or infirm). Communion is now usually offered "under both species", i.e., both the consecrated bread and the consecrated wine. It may be distributed by priests, deacons, or designated lay persons, called "Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist." Communicants are encouraged to receive the consecrated bread in their hands, but may also receive communion on the tongue. After returning to their places, the people are encouraged to remain standing until everyone has received communion, but in many parishes the people immediately sit down or kneel for silent prayer.]
Communion Minister: The body of Christ. Communicant: Amen.
Communion Minister: The blood of Christ. Communicant: Amen.
Communion Song:
[During the reception of Communion, an appropriate song is sung, or at least a short "Communion Antiphon" is recited.]
[sit]
Period of Silence or Song of Praise:
[When the distribution of Communion is completed, there may be a period of silence for individual prayer, or a psalm or song of praise may be sung. The people either stand, sit, or kneel during this time, although the posture of the congregation should be unified.]
[stand]
Prayer after Communion:
Priest: Let us pray.
[All pray in silence for a while, unless a period of silence has already been observed. Then the priest sings or says the Prayer after Communion, which is different for each Mass. At the end, the people proclaim their consent.]
All: Amen.
[Announcements, etc.]:
[If there are any announcements, acknowledgements, reflections, eulogies, or similar actions, these are best included here, after the Prayer after Communion and before the Concluding Rite.
The people may remain standing, or may be invited to sit, depending on the length of the announcements or activity.]

CONCLUDING RITE
[stand]
Greeting:
Priest: The Lord be with you.
All: And also with you.
Blessing:

Option A: Simple Form
Priest: May almighty God bless you,
the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
All: Amen.  Option B: Solemn Blessing
Deacon or Priest: Bow your heads and pray for God's blessing.
[One or more invocations may be spoken, and the people usually respond "Amen" to each one. The following conclusion is always used.]
Priest: May almighty God bless you,
the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
All: Amen.  Option C: Prayer over the People
Deacon or Priest: Bow your heads and pray for God's blessing.
[The priest may choose from several options, depending on the occasion or special need. The following conclusion is always used.]
Priest: May almighty God bless you,
the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
All: Amen.  
Dismissal:
Deacon or Priest: Go in the peace of Christ.
or The Mass is ended, go in peace.
or Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.
All: Thanks be to God!

BEFORE HIGH MASS
The Asperges
 Stand

While the priest sprinkles holy water before solemn Mass on Sundays, the following is sung:
 Thou shalt sprinkle me, O Lord, with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed; Thou shalt wash me, and I shall become whiter than snow.
 Have mercy on me, O God, according to Thy great mercy.
 P.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
 S.As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
 Thou shalt sprinkle me, O Lord, with hyssop, and I shall be cleansed; Thou shalt wash me, and I shall become whiter than snow.
At the foot of the altar the priest says:
 Show us, O Lord, Thy mercy.
 S.And grant us Thy salvation.
 P.O Lord, hear my prayer.
 S.And let my cry come unto Thee.
 P.The Lord be with you.
 S.And with thy spirit.
 P. Let us pray.
 Hear us, O holy Lord, almighty
Father, everlasting God, and vouchsafe to send Thy holy Angel from heaven, to guard, cherish, protect, visit and defend all that are assembled in this place: Through Christ our Lord.
 S.Amen.
From Easter to Pentecost the Vidi Aquam replaces the Aspérges me.
 I saw water flowing from the right side of the temple, alleluia; and all they to whom that water came were saved, and they shall say, alleluia, alleluia.
 Praise the Lord, for He is good; for His mercy endureth forever.
Osténde nobis. . .as above, with Alleluia.
 Show us. . .as above, with Alleluia.
Sit while the priest vests for Mass.
The Order of the Mass (Ordo Missae)
MASS OF THE CATECHUMENS
Kneel
The priest, bowing down at the foot of the altar, makes the Sign of the Cross and says:
In nómine Patris, et Fílii, + et Spíritus Sancti. Amen.
 In the Name of the Father, + and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen.
Then joining his hands before his breast, he begins the Anthem:
 I will go in unto the Altar of God.
S.To God, Who giveth joy to my youth.
In Masses for the Dead and from Passion Sunday till Holy Saturday, the following psalm is omitted.
Joining his hands, he says
 Judge me, O God, and distinguish my cause from the nation that is not holy: deliver me from the unjust and deceitful man.
 S.For Thou, O God, art my strength: why hast Thou cast me off? and why do I go sorrowful whilst the enemy afflicteth me?
 P.Send forth Thy light and Thy truth: they have led me and brought me unto Thy holy hill, and into Thy tabernacles.
 S.And I will go in unto the Altar of God: unto God, Who giveth joy to my youth.
 P.I will praise Thee upon the harp, O God, my God: why art thou sad, O my soul? and why dost thou disquiet me?
 S.Hope thou in God, for I will yet praise Him: Who is the salvation of my countenance, and my God.
 P.Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost.
 S.As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
 P.I will go in unto the Altar of God.
 S.Unto God, Who giveth joy to my youth.
The priest, signing himself with the Sign of the Cross, says:
Adjutórium nostrum + in nómine Dómini.
 Our help + is in the Name of the Lord.
 S.Who hath made heaven and earth.
Confiteor
Then, joining his hands, and humbly bowing down, he says the Confiteor:
 I confess to Almighty God, to blessed Mary ever Virgin, to blessed Michael the Archangel, to blessed John the Baptist, to the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, to all the Saints, and to you Father, that I have sinned exceedingly, in thought, word and deed: He strikes his breast three times through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault. Therefore I beseech blessed Mary ever Virgin, blessed John the Baptist, the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, all the Saints, and you Father, to pray to the Lord our God for me.
P.Amen.
 S. May Almighty God have mercy upon you, forgive you your sins, and bring you to life everlasting.
P. Amen.
The server says the Confiteor:
 I confess to Almighty God, etc.as above
 May Almighty God have mercy upon you, forgive you your sins, and bring you to life everlasting.
 S.Amen.
 P.May the Almighty and merciful God grant us pardon, + absolution, and remission of our sins.
S.Amen.
He bows his head and proceeds:
 Thou wilt turn, O God, and bring us to life.
 S.And Thy people shall rejoice in Thee.
 P.Show us, O Lord, Thy mercy.
 S.And grant us Thy salvation.
 P.O Lord, hear my prayer.
 S.And let my cry come unto Thee.
 P.The Lord be with you.
 S.And with thy spirit.
The priest extends and then joins his hands
 P.Let us pray.
The priest ascends the altar and says silently:
 Take away from us our iniquities, we entreat Thee, O Lord, that with pure minds we may worthily enter into the Holy of Holies. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
 We beseech Thee, O Lord, by the merits of Thy Saints, whose relics are here,
He kisses the Altar in the middle where a saints relics are enclosed
 and of all the Saints, that Thou wilt deign to pardon me all my sins. Amen.
At a high Mass the priest will incense the altar. While blessing the incense the priest says:
 Be blessed + by Him in whose honour thou art burnt. Amen.
The Introit (proper)
Moving to the right side of the altar the priest makes the sign of the cross and reads the Introit.
The priest returns to the middle of the altar and joins his hands.
 P.Lord, have mercy.
S.Lord, have mercy.
P.Lord, have mercy.
S.Christ, have mercy.
P.Christ, have mercy.
S.Christ, have mercy.
P.Lord, have mercy.
S.Lord, have mercy.
P.Lord, have mercy.
The Gloria
The Glória is not said during Lent, Advent, Septuagesima and Masses for the Dead.
Stand at a high Mass
The priest extends his hands and then rejoining them begins the Gloria. The people may join after the first phrase.
 Glory be to God on high. And on earth peace to men of good will. We praise Thee. We bless Thee We adore Thee. We glorify Thee. We give Thee thanks for Thy great glory. Lord God, heavenly King, God the Father Almighty. Lord Jesus Christ, Only-begotten Son, Lord God, Lamb of God, Son of the Father. Thou Who takest away the sins of the world, receive our prayer. Thou Who sittest at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us. For Thou alone art holy. Thou alone, O Jesus Christ, art most high. With the Holy Ghost, + in the glory of God the Father. Amen.
He kisses the Altar and turning to the people says:
 The Lord be with you.
 S.And with thy spirit.
The Collect (proper)
The priest turns back to the altar and says:
Orémus.
 Let us pray.
At the end of the Collect the server answers:
Amen.
Sit
The Epistle (proper)
At the end of the Epistle the server answers:
 Thanks be to God.
The Gradual (proper)
After the gradual the missal is moved to the left side of the altar while the priest, bowing at the middle of the altar, says:
 Cleanse my heart and my lips, O Almighty God, Who didst cleanse the lips of the prophet Isaias with a burning coal; through Thy gracious mercy so purify me that I may worthily proclaim Thy holy Gospel. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. The following prayer is omitted in Requiem Masses. Grant, O Lord, Thy blessing. May the Lord be in my heart and on my lips that I may worthily and fittingly proclaim His Gospel. Amen.
The Gospel (proper)
Stand
Turning halfway to the people the priest says:
 The Lord be with you.
 S.And with thy spirit.
While saying:
 The continuation of the Holy Gospel according to N.+,
The priest signs the Book, and himself on the forehead, mouth and breast. The server says:
 Glory be to Thee, O Lord.
The Gospel is read. At the end of the Gospel the server says:
 Praise be to Thee, O Christ.
The priest kisses the book and says:
 By the words of the Gospel may our sins be blotted out.
Sit
Sermon
The Creed
Stand
The priest returns to the middle of the altar and begins the Credo. The people may join after the first phrase:
 I believe in one God, the Father Almighty Maker of heaven and earth, and of all things visible and invisible. and in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only-begotten Son of God. Born of the Father before all ages. God of God, Light of Light, true God of true God. Begotten, not made: consubstantial with the Father; by Whom all things were made. Who for us men, and for our salvation, came down from heaven.
Kneel
 And was incarnate by the Holy Ghost of the Virgin Mary: and was made man.
Stand
 He was crucified also for us, suffered under Pontius Pilate, and was buried. And on the third day He rose again according to the Scriptures. And He ascended into heaven, and sitteth at the right hand of the Father. And He shall come again with glory to judge the living and the dead: of Whose kingdom there shall be no end. And in the Holy Ghost, the Lord and Giver of Life: Who proceedeth from the Father and the Son. Who together with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified: Who spoke through the Prophets. And in One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the remission of sins. And I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life + of the world to come. Amen.
 The priest kisses the Altar, turns to the people and says:
 P. The Lord be with you.
 S. And with your spirit.
 P. Let us pray.
Sit
MASS OF THE FAITHFUL
Offertory (proper)
At the middle of the altar the priest reads the Offertory verse.
The bells are rung once.
At Solemn Mass, the Celebrant receives the paten with the host from the Deacon.
The priest now uncovers the chalice, takes the paten with the host and raises it saying:
 Accept, O Holy father, Almighty and Eternal God, this spotless host, which I, Your unworthy servant, offer to You, my living and true God, to atone for my numberless sins, offences, and negligences; on behalf of all here present and likewise for all faithful Christians living and dead, that it may profit me and them as a means of salvation to life everlasting. Amen.
The Priest makes the Sign of the Cross with the paten and host, and places the host upon the corporal while saying the following prayer. He pours wine and water into the chalice, blessing the water before it is poured, except in Requiem Masses.
At Solemn Mass, the Deacon pours wine into the chalice and the Subdeacon pours the water which the Celebrant has blessed, except in Requiem Masses.
 O God, + Who in creating man didst exalt his nature very wonderfully and yet more wonderfully didst establish it anew;; by the Mystery signified in the mingling of this water and wine, grant us to have part in the Godhead of Him Who hath deigned to become a partaker of our humanity, Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord; Who liveth and reigneth with Thee, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God. World without end. Amen.
Going to the middle of the Altar, the priest takes the chalice and offers it to God.
 We offer unto Thee, O Lord, the chalice of salvation, entreating Thy mercy that our offering may ascend with a sweet fragrance in the sight of Thy divine Majesty, for our own salvation, and for that of the whole world. Amen.
Then making the Sign of the Cross with the chalice, and placing it on the corporal, he covers it with the pall.
At Solemn Mass, the Subdeacon receives the paten from the Deacon and covering it with the ends of the veil worn over his shoulders, he holds it before his eyes and takes his place at the foot of the Altar until the conclusion of the Our Father. (Omitted in Requiem Masses.)
Bowing down, the Priest says:
 Humbled in spirit and contrite of heart, may we find favor with Thee, O Lord: and may our sacrifice be so offered this day in Thy sight as to be pleasing to Thee, O Lord God.
Raising his eyes and extending his hands, he says:
 Come Thou, the Sanctifier, Almighty and Everlasting God, and bless + this sacrifice which is prepared for the glory of Thy holy Name.
When the offerings of bread and wine are to be incensed, as well as the Altar and all who are present, the Celebrant blesses the incense, saying:
 Through the intercession of Blessed Michael the Archangel, standing at the right hand of the altar of incense, and of all His elect may the Lord vouchsafe to bless + this incense and to receive it in the odor of sweetness. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
Receiving the thurible, he incenses the bread and wine, saying:
 May this incense blessed by You, arise before You, O Lord, and may Your mercy come down upon us.
Incensing the Altar, he says Psalm 140:
Let my prayer, O Lord, like incense before You; the lifting up of my hands, like the evening sacrifice. O Lord, set a watch before my mouth, a guard at the door of my lips. Let not my heart incline to the evil of engaging in deeds of wickedness.
Giving the thurible to the Deacon (or Server), he says:
 May the Lord enkindle in us the fire of His love and the flame of everlasting charity. Amen.
The Celebrant is incensed, and (except in Requiem Masses) after him, the Clergy, and then the whole congregation.
The priest then goes to the right side of the Altar and washes his fingers while saying the following verses of Psalm 25:
 I will wash my hands among the innocent, and I will encompass Thine Altar, O Lord. That I may hear the voice of praise, and tell of all Thy wondrous works. I have loved, O Lord, the beauty of Thy house, and the place where Thy glory dwelleth. Take not away my soul, O God, with the wicked, nor my life with men of blood. In whose hands are iniquities, their right hand is filled with gifts.
 But as for me, I have walked in my innocence; redeem me, and have mercy on me. My foot hath stood in the right way; in the churches I will bless Thee, O Lord.
In Masses for the Dead, and in Masses during the Season of Passion Time, the "Glory be" is omitted.
 Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Bowing down at the middle of the Altar with hands joined, the priest says:
 Receive, O Holy Trinity, this oblation which we make to Thee in memory of the Passion, Resurrection and Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ; and in honor of Blessed Mary ever Virgin, of blessed John the Baptist, the holy Apostles Peter and Paul, of these and of all the Saints. To them let it bring honor, and to us salvation, and may they whom we are commemorating here on earth deign to plead for us in heaven. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
Orate Fratres
The priest kisses the Altar, and turning to the people says the first two words audibly , then turns back to the Altar to finish the prayer.
 Pray, brethren, that my Sacrifice and yours may be acceptable to God the Father Almighty.
 S. May the Lord accept the Sacrifice from thy hands, to the praise and glory of His Name, for our benefit and for that of all His holy Church.
P. Amen.
The Secret (proper)
The priest extends his hands and says the Secret silently.
He ends audibly:
 World without end.
S. Amen.
Stand
 P. The Lord be with you.
 S. And with thy spirit.
 P. Lift up your hearts.
 S. We have lifted them up to the Lord.
 P. Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.
 S. It is right and just.
Preface (proper)
The following Preface of the Most Holy Trinity is said on all Sundays except on Feasts that have a proper Preface, and during Lent, Paschaltime and Ascension Time.
 It is truly meet and just, right for our salvation, that we should at all times and in all places, give thanks unto Thee, O holy Lord, Father almighty, everlasting God; Who, together with Thine only-begotten Son, and the Holy Ghost, art one God, one Lord: not in the oneness of a single Person, but in the Trinity of one substance. For what we believe by Thy revelation of Thy glory, the same do we believe of Thy Son, the same of the Holy Ghost, without difference or separation. So that in confessing the true and everlasting Godhead, distinction in persons, unity in essence, and equality in majesty may be adored. Which the Angels and Archangels, the Cherubim also and the Seraphim do praise: who cease not daily to cry out, with one voice saying:
The bells are rung three times
Kneel
 Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Hosts. Heaven and earth are full of Thy Glory. Hosanna in the highest. + Blessed is He Who cometh in the Name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.
THE CANON
Prayers Before Consecration
The priest bows over the Altar and says silently:
 For the Church
Te ígitur, clementíssime Pater, per Jesum
Christum Fílium tuum, Dóminum nostrum, súpplices rogámus, ac pétimus, uti accépta hábeas, et benedícas, hæc + dona, hæc + múnera, hæc + sancta sacrifícia illibáta, in primis, quæ tibi offérimus pro Ecclésia tua sancta cathólica: quam pacificáre, custodíre, adunáre, et régere dignéris toto orbe terrárum: una cum fámulo tuo Papa nostro N . . . et Antístite nostro N . . . et ómnibus orthodóxis, atque cathólicæ et apostólicæ fídei cultóribus.

 Most merciful Father, we humbly pray and beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ Thy Son, Our Lord, to accept and to bless these + gifts, these + presents, these + holy unspotted Sacrifices, which we offer up to Thee, in the first place, for Thy Holy Catholic Church, that it may please Thee to grant her peace, to preserve, unite, and govern her throughout the world; as also for Thy servant N . . . our Pope, and N . . . our Bishop, and for all orthodox believers and all who profess the Catholic and Apostolic faith.
 For the Living
 Be mindful, O Lord, of Thy servants and handmaids N . . . and N . . . and of all here present, whose faith and devotion are known to Thee, for whom we offer, or who offer up to Thee this Sacrifice of praise for themselves and all those dear to them, for the redemption of their souls and the hope of their safety and salvation: who now pay their vows to Thee, the everlasting, living and true God.
Communicantes
 Invocation of the Saints
 In communion with, and honoring the memory in the first place of the glorious ever Virgin Mary Mother of our God and Lord Jesus Christ; also of blessed Joseph, her Spouse; and likewise of Thy blessed Apostles and Martyrs, Peter and Paul, Andrew, James, John, Thomas, James, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Simon and Thaddeus, Linus, Cletus, Clement, Sixtus, Cornelius, Cyprian, Lawrence, Chrysogonus, John and Paul, Cosmas and Damian, and of all Thy Saints. Grant for the sake of their merits and prayers that in all things we may be guarded and helped by Thy protection. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
Prayers at Consecration
Oblation of the Victim to God
The bells are rung once.
The priest spreads his hands over the offering and says:
 O Lord, we beseech Thee, graciously to accept this oblation of our service and that of Thy whole household. Order our days in Thy peace, and command that we be rescued from eternal damnation and numbered in the flock of Thine elect. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
 Humbly we pray The, O God, be pleased to make this same offering wholly blessed +, to consecrate + it and approve + it, making it reasonable and acceptable, so that it may become for us the Body + and Blood + of Thy dearly beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ.
Consecration of the Host
The priest takes the host in his hands and says:
 Who, the day before He suffered , took bread into His Holy and venerable hands, and having lifted up His eyes to heaven, to Thee, God, His Almighty Father, giving thanks to Thee, blessed it +, broke it, and gave it to His disciples, saying: Take and eat ye all of this:
The priest bows low and says:
 For this is My Body.
The priest genuflects while the bells are rung once. Then he rises, elevates the Host and the bells are rung three times. Putting the Host on the corporal he genuflects again while the bells are rung once. He then uncovers the chalice and says:
 In like manner, after He had supped,
The priest takes the chalice in both hands and continues:
 Taking also into His holy and venerable hands this goodly chalice, again giving thanks to Thee, He blessed it +, and gave it to His disciples, saying: Take and drink ye all of this:
The priest bends over the chalice and says:
 For this is the Chalice of My Blood, of the new and eternal testament: the Mystery of Faith: which shall be shed for you and for many unto the remission of sins.
 As often as ye shall do these things, ye shall do them in remembrance of me.
The priest genuflects while the bells are rung once. Then he rises, elevates the chalice and the bells are rung three times. After putting the chalice on the corporal and covering it, he genuflects again while the bells are rung once.
Prayers after Consecration
 To Offer the Victim
With hands extended the priest continues silently
 And now, O Lord, we, Thy servants, and with us all Thy holy people, calling to mind the blessed Passion of this same Christ, Thy Son, our Lord, likewise His Resurrection from the grave, and also His glorious Ascension into heaven, do offer unto Thy most sovereign Majesty out of the gifts Thou hast bestowed upon us,
Bringing his hands together, the priest makes the Sign of the Cross five times.
  a Victim + which is pure, a Victim + which is holy, a Victim + which is spotless, the holy Bread + of life eternal, and the Chalice + of everlasting Salvation.
 To Ask God to Accept Our Offering
The priest extends his hands and continues:
 Deign to look upon them with a favorable and gracious countenance, and to accept them as Thou didst accept the offerings of Thy just servant Abel, and the sacrifice of our Patriarch Abraham, and that which Thy high priest Melchisedech offered up to Thee, a holy Sacrifice, an immaculate Victim.
 For Blessings
The priest bows over the Altar and joins his hands saying:
 Humbly we beseech Thee, almighty God, to command that these our offerings be carried by the hands of Thy holy Angel to Thine Altar on high, in the sight of Thy divine Majesty, so that those of us who shall receive the most sacred Body + and Blood + of Thy Son by partaking thereof from this Altar may be filled with every grace and heavenly blessing: Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
 For the Dead
 Be mindful, also, O Lord, of Thy servants and handmaids N . . . and N . . . who are gone before us with the sign of faith and who sleep the sleep of peace. To these, O Lord, and to all who rest in Christ, grant, we beseech Thee, a place of refreshment, light and peace. Through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.
 For Eternal Happiness
The priest strikes his breast, says the first three words aloud, and then continues silently:
 To us also Thy sinful servants, who put our trust in the multitude of Thy mercies, vouchsafe to grant some part and fellowship with Thy holy Apostles and Martyrs: with John, Stephen, Matthias, Barnabas, Ignatius, Alexander, Marcellinus, Peter, Felicitas, Perpetua, Agatha, Lucy, Agnes, Cecilia, Anastasia, and all Thy Saints. Into their company we beseech Thee admit us, not considering our merits, but freely pardoning our offenses. Through Christ our Lord.
Final Doxology & Minor Elevation
 By whom, O Lord, Thou dost always create, sanctify +, quicken +, bless +, and bestow upon us all these good things.
The priest uncovers the chalice and genuflects. Holding the Host in his right hand and the chalice in his left, he makes the Sign of the Cross five times over the chalice, saying:
 Through Him +, and with Him +, and in Him +, is unto Thee, God the Father + Almighty, in the unity of the Holy + Ghost, all honor and glory.
He puts the Host down, covers the chalice, genuflects, and then says aloud:
 World without end.
S. Amen.
Holy Communion
Our Father
Stand at a high Mass.
The priest joins his hands and says:
 Let us pray.
 Admonished by Thy saving precepts and following Thy divine instruction, we make bold to say:
He extends his hands and looking at the Sacrament, says aloud:
 Our Father, Who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy Name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation.
 S. But deliver us from evil.
P. Amen.
The priest takes the paten between his first and second fingers, saying:
 Deliver us, we beseech Thee, O Lord, from all evils, past, present and to come, and by the intercession of the Blessed and glorious ever Virgin Mary, Mother of God, together with Thy blessed apostles Peter and Paul, and Andrew, and all the Saints, + mercifully grant peace in our days, that through the bounteous help of Thy mercy we may be always free from sin, and safe from all disquiet.
He uncovers the chalice, genuflects, takes the Host and breaking it down the middle over the chalice says:
 Through the same Jesus Christ, Thy Son our Lord,
He breaks off a Particle from the Host.
 Who is God living and reigning with Thee in the unity of the Holy Ghost,
 P. World without end.
 S. Amen.
He makes the Sign of the Cross over the chalice, saying:
 P. May the peace + of the Lord be +always +with you.
 S. And with thy spirit.
He places the Particle in the chalice and says quietly:
Hæc commíxtio et consecrátio Córprois et Sánguinis Dómini nostri Jesu Christi, fiat accipiéntibus nobis in vitam ætérnam. Amen May this mingling and hallowing of the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ be for us who receive it a source of eternal life. Amen.
The priest covers the chalice, genuflects, and then bowing strikes his breast three times, saying aloud:
 Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.
Lamb of God, Who takest away the sins of the world, grant us peace.
Prayers for Holy Communion
Prayer for Peace and Fidelity
He continues silently:
 O Lord, Jesus Christ, Who didst say to Thine Apostles: Peace I leave you, My peace I give to you: look not upon my sins, but upon the faith of Thy Church; and deign to give her that peace and unity which is agreeable to Thy will: God Who livest and reignest world without end. Amen.
Prayer for Holiness
 O Lord Jesus Christ, Son of the living God, Who, by the will of the Father and the co-operation of the Holy Ghost, hast by Thy death given life to the world: deliver me by this, Thy most sacred Body and Blood, from all my iniquities and from every evil; make me cling always to Thy commandments, and permit me never to be separated from Thee. Who with the same God, the Father and the Holy Ghost, livest and reignest God, world without end. Amen.
Prayer for Grace
Let not the partaking of Thy Body, O Lord Jesus Christ, which I, though unworthy, presume to receive, turn to my judgment and condemnation; but through Thy mercy may it be unto me a safeguard and a healing remedy both of soul and body. Who livest and reignest with God the Father, in the unity of the Holy Ghost, God, world without end. Amen.
Communion of the Priest
He genuflects and taking the Host says:
 I will take the Bread of Heaven, and will call upon the name of the Lord.
Striking his breast he says the following three times with the first words audible:
The bells are rung three times.
 Lord, I am not worthy that Thou shouldst enter under my roof; but only say the word, and my soul shall be healed.
He makes the Sign of the Cross with the Host over the paten, saying silently:
 May the Body of Our Lord Jesus Christ preserve my soul unto life everlasting. Amen.
He consumes the Host, uncovers the chalice, genuflects and continues silently:
 What return shall I make to the Lord for all the things that He hath given unto me? I will take the chalice of salvation, and call upon the Name of the Lord. I will call upon the Lord and give praise: and I shall be saved from mine enemies.
He makes the Sign of the Cross with the chalice and says:
 May the Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ preserve my soul unto life everlasting. Amen.
He drinks the Precious Blood.
The server says the Confiteor and then the priest turns to the people and says:
 P. May Almighty God have mercy on you, forgive you your sins, and bring you to life everlasting.
S. Amen.
 S. Amen.
 P. May the Almighty and Merciful Lord grant you pardon, + absolution, and remission of your sins.
S. Amen.
 S. Amen.
The priest genuflects, elevates the Host and turning towards the people says:
 P. Behold the Lamb of God, behold Him Who taketh away the sins of the world.
The bells are rung three times.
 S. (repeated three times) Lord, I am not worthy that Thou shouldst enter under my roof; but only say the word, and my soul shall be healed.
The priest distributes Communion at the Altar rail saying to each person:
 May the Body of Our Lord Jesus Christ preserve your soul unto life everlasting. Amen.
Prayers After Communion
Ablutions
After Communion the priest puts any extra Hosts into the tabernacle and taking the chalice, has a server pour in wine. He drinks it and says quietly:
 Grant, O Lord, that what we have taken with our mouth, we may receive with a pure mind; and that from a temporal gift it may become for us an everlasting remedy.
Wine and water are poured into the chalice over the priest's fingers. As he dries them he says quietly:
Corpus tuum, Dómine, quod sumpsi, et Sanguis, quem potávi, adhæreat viscéribus meis: et præsta; ut in me non remáneat scélerum mácula, quem pura et sancta refecérunt sacraménta: Qui vivis et regnas in sæcula sæculorum. Amen.
 May Thy Body, O Lord, which I have received and Thy Blood which I have drunk, cleave to my inmost parts, and grant that no stain of sin remain in me; whom these pure and holy Sacraments have refreshed. Who livest and reignest world without end. Amen.
He drinks the wine and water, cleans the chalice and veils it.
The Communion Antiphon proper
The priest goes to the right side of the Altar and reads the Communion verse.
Stand at a high Mass.
Moving to the middle of the Altar the priest says:
 P. The Lord be with you.
S. And with thy spirit
P. Let us pray.
The Postcommunions proper
The priest returns to the right side of the Altar and reads the Postcommunion proper.
S. Amen. S. Amen.
Returning to the middle of the Altar, he kisses it and turns to the people, saying:
 P. The Lord be with you.
S. And with thy spirit
The Dismissal
 P. Go, the Mass is ended.
 S. Thanks be to God.
The Last Blessing
 Kneel
Bowing before the Altar the priest says silently:
 May the tribute of my homage be pleasing to Thee, O most holy Trinity. Grant that the Sacrifice which I, unworthy as I am, have offered in the presence of Thy Majesty, may be acceptable to Thee. Through Thy mercy may it bring forgiveness to me and to all for whom I have offered it. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
He kisses the Altar, turns to the people and blessing them says:
 May Almighty God bless you: the Father, + the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
S. Amen.
 S. Amen.
The Last Gospel
Stand
The priest goes to the right side of the Altar and says:
 P. The Lord be with you.
 S. And with thy spirit.
 P. + The beginning of the holy Gospel according to Saint John.
 S. Glory be to Thee, O Lord.
 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by Him, and without Him was made nothing that was made. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men: and the Light shineth in darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.
 There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through Him might believe. He was not the Light, but was to bear witness of the Light.
 That was the true Light, which enlighteneth every man that cometh into this world. He was in the world, and the world was made by Him, and the world knew Him not. He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them He gave power to become the sons of God; to them that believe in His name: who are born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. Genuflect AND THE WORD WAS MADE FLESH, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, the glory as of the Only-begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.
S. Deo grátias.
 S. Thanks be to God.