Extracts from A Prayer Book for Australia
Sundays and Seasonal Holy Days
Almighty God,
give us grace that we may cast away the works of darkness
and put on the armour of light,
now in the time of this mortal life
in which your Son Jesus Christ came among us
in great humility,
that on the last day,
when he shall come again in his glorious majesty
to judge the living and the dead,
we may rise to the life immortal;
through him who lives and reigns with you
and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths.
Isaiah 2.3a
Faithful God,
whose promises stand unshaken through all generations:
renew us in hope,
that we may be awake and alert
watching for the glorious return of Jesus Christ,
our Judge and Saviour,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Isaiah 2.1–5 Psalm 122
Romans 13.9–14 Matthew 24.36–44
Isaiah 2.10–19; 4.2–6 Psalm 11 Matthew 24.45–51
Year B
‘Heaven and earth will pass away,’ says the Lord, ‘but my words will not pass away.’
Mark 13.31
Eternal God,
through long generations you prepared a way
for the coming of your Son,
and by your Spirit you still bring light to illumine our paths:
renew us in faith and hope
that we may welcome Christ to rule our thoughts
and claim our love;
to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 64.1–9 Psalm 80.1–7, 17–19
1 Corinthians 1.1–9 Mark 13.24–37
Isaiah 1.1–9 Psalm 12 Luke 12.35–48
Year C
Stand up and raise your heads; your redemption is drawing near.
Luke 21.28
Eternal God,
you have taught us that the night is far spent
and the day is at hand:
keep us awake and alert, watching for your kingdom, and make us strong in faith,
so that when Christ comes in glory to judge the earth, we may go out joyfully to greet him;
and, with all your saints, may worship you for ever;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Jeremiah 33.14–16 Psalm 25.1–10
1 Thessalonians 3.9–13 Luke 21.25–38
Jeremiah 33.23–26 Psalm 25.11–22 Luke 20.45–21.6, 20–24
Merciful God,
who sent your messenger John the Baptist
to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation:
give us grace to heed his warning and forsake our sins,
that we may greet with joy the coming of our Redeemer,
Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
or
O Lord Jesus Christ,
who at your first coming
sent your messenger to prepare your way before you:
grant that the ministers and stewards of your mysteries
may likewise so prepare and make ready your way
by turning the hearts of the disobedient
to the wisdom of the righteous,
that at your second coming to judge the world
we may be found an acceptable people in your sight;
for you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near;
repent, and believe in the good news.
Mark 1.15
God of all peoples,
whose servant John came baptising
and calling for repentance:
help us to hear his voice of judgement,
that we may also rejoice in his word of promise,
and be found pure and blameless in that glorious Day
when Christ comes to rule the earth as Prince of Peace;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 11.1–10 Psalm 72.1–7, 18–21
Romans 15.4–13 Matthew 3.1–12
Isaiah 51.21–52.6 Psalm 72.8–17 Luke 1.57–68 (69–79) 80
Year B
Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. For the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all people shall see it together.
Luke 3.4; Isaiah 40.5a
Merciful God,
you sent your messengers the prophets
to preach repentance and prepare the way for our salvation: give us grace to heed their warnings and forsake our sins, that we may greet with joy
the coming of Jesus Christ our Redeemer,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 40.1–11 Psalm 85.1–2, 8–13
2 Peter 3.8–15a Mark 1.1–8
Malachi 3.1–10 Psalm 87 Luke 1.5–25
Year C
By the tender mercy of our God, the dawn from on high will break upon us, to give light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
Luke 1.78–79
God of our salvation,
you straighten the winding ways of our hearts
and smooth the paths made rough by sin:
keep our hearts watchful in holiness,
and bring to perfection the good you have begun in us. We ask this through him whose coming is certain, whose Day draws near,
your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Malachi 3.1–14 Luke 1.68–79 (page 10) Philippians 1.1–11 Luke 3.1–6
Isaiah 63.15–64.4 Psalm 129 2 Peter 3.1–9
Almighty God,
you have made us and all things to serve you:
come quickly to save us,
so that wars and violence shall end
and your children may live in peace,
honouring one another with justice and love;
through Jesus Christ, your Son our Lord,
who lives with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are of a fearful heart, ‘Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God.’
Isaiah 35.3–4
or
Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist, yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
Matthew 11.11
Sustain us, O God, with the power of your love on our journey to meet the One who is coming: strengthen our weak hands,
make firm our feeble knees,
and open blind eyes to the dawning of your kingdom, so that our hearts may rejoice
as we behold the majesty of our God.
We ask this through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Isaiah 35.1–10 Luke 1.47–55 (page 9) or Psalm 146
James 5.7–10 Matthew 11.2–11
Isaiah 40.1–11 Psalm 79.1–9 Matthew 11.11–24
Year B
Bind up the broken-hearted, proclaim liberty to the captives and release to the prisoners, proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour, the day of vengeance of our God.
Isaiah 61.1–2
Eternal God,
you sent John the Baptist
to prepare the way for the coming of your Son:
grant us wisdom to see your purpose
and openness to hear your will,
that we too may prepare the way for Christ
who is coming in power and glory
to establish his rule of peace and justice;
through Jesus Christ our Judge and our Redeemer,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Isaiah 61.1–4, 8–11 Psalm 126 or Luke 1.47–55 (page 9)
1 Thessalonians 5.12–28 John 1.6–8, 19–28
Isaiah 60.15–22 Psalm 18.1–6, 48–50 Luke 7.18–28
Year C
Do not fear. The Lord, your God, is in your midst, a warrior who gives victory; he will rejoice over you with gladness, he will renew you in his love.
Zephaniah 3.16–17
Almighty God,
you sent your Son into a world
where the wheat must be winnowed from the chaff and evil clings even to what is good:
let the fire of your Spirit purge us of all corruption, so that, purified, we may wait eagerly for him whose coming is certain, whose Day draws near, your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Zephaniah 3.14–20 Isaiah 12.2–6 (page 391) Philippians 4.4–7 Luke 3.7–18
Isaiah 51.9–16 Psalm 18.18–26 John 3.22–36
O Lord,
raise up your power and come among us,
and with great might succour us,
that, whereas through our sins and wickedness
we are sore let and hindered
in running the race that is set before us,
your bountiful grace and mercy
may speedily help and deliver us;
through your Son our Lord,
to whom with you and the Holy Spirit
be honour and glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Almighty God,
you make us glad with the yearly expectation
of the birth of your Son Jesus Christ:
grant that, as we joyfully receive him for our Redeemer,
so we may with sure confidence behold him
when he shall come to be our Judge;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
A virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and his name shall be called Emmanuel: God with us.
Matthew 1.23
Gracious God,
you chose the virgin Mary, by your grace,
to be the mother of our Lord and Saviour:
so fill us with your grace,
that with her we may rejoice in your salvation,
and in all things embrace your will;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 7.10–16 Psalm 80.1–7, 17–19
Romans 1.1–7 Matthew 1.18–25
Ruth 4.9–21 Psalm 80.7–19 Matthew 1.1–6 (7–16) 17
Year B
This child will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High. He will reign over the house of Jacob for ever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.
Luke 1.32–33
Gracious God,
whose eternal Word took flesh among us
when Mary placed her life at the service of your will:
prepare our hearts for his coming again
and keep us steadfast in hope,
that we may be ready for the coming of his kingdom;
for his sake, who lives and reigns with you
and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
2 Samuel 7.1–11, 16 Luke 1.47–55 (page 9) or Psalm 89.1–4, 19–27
Romans 16.25–27 Luke 1.26–38
2 Samuel 7.18–29 Psalm 89.26–38 Mark 12.35–37
Year C
Blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfilment of what was spoken to her by the Lord.
Luke 1.45
Gracious God,
you have visited your people and redeemed us in your Son:
as we prepare to celebrate his birth,
make our hearts leap for joy at the sound of your word,
and move us by your Spirit to bless your wonderful works.
We ask this through him whose coming is certain,
whose Day draws near,
your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Micah 5.2–5a Luke 1.47–55 (page 9) or Psalm 80.1–7
Hebrews 10.5–10 Luke 1.39–45 (46–55)
Isaiah 66.18–23 Psalm 18.27–38 Revelation 20.11–21.5
The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;
for to us a child is born, to us a son is given.
Isaiah 9.2, 6
Eternal God,
who made this most holy night
to shine with the brightness of your one true light:
bring us,
who have known the revelation of that light on earth, to see the radiance of your heavenly glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
or
Good and gracious God, who gave us your Son,
the Lord of the universe, wrapped in swaddling clothes, the Saviour of all, lying in a manger:
on this holy night draw us into the mystery of your love. Join our voices with the heavenly host
that we may sing your glory on high. Give us a place among the shepherds
that we may find the one for whom we have waited, Jesus Christ, the Messiah and Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
or
Give us, O God, such love and wonder
that, with shepherds and pilgrims unknown,
we may come to adore the holy Child, the promised King,
and with our gifts worship him,
our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 9.2–7 Psalm 96
Titus 2.11–14 Luke 2.1–14 (15–20)
I bring you good news of great joy for all people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, Christ the Lord.
Luke 2.10–11
Almighty God,
who gave your only-begotten Son
to take our nature upon him
and as at this time to be born of the virgin Mary:
grant that we being born again
and made your children by adoption and grace, may daily be renewed by your Holy Spirit; through the same our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you and the same Spirit, ever one God, now and for ever. Amen.
or
All glory to you, gracious God, for the gift of your Son,
whom you sent to save us.
With the angels, let us praise your name,
and tell the earth his story,
that all may believe, rejoice, and proclaim your love;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 62.6–12 Psalm 97
Titus 3.4–8a Luke 2.(1–7) 8–20
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
And the Word became flesh and lived among us, full of grace and truth.
John 1.1, 14
God Most High,
whose eternal Word chose a dwelling among us,
that we might live in your presence:
grant us a spirit of wisdom
to know how rich is the glory you have given us,
and how great is the hope to which we are called
in the Word made flesh;
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen.
Isaiah 52.7–10 Psalm 98
Hebrews 1.1–4 (5–12) John 1.1–14
Micah 4.1–8 Psalm 132.10–18 1 John 4.7–21
Almighty God,
you have shed upon us
the light of your incarnate Word:
may this light, kindled in our hearts,
shine forth in our lives;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
Because Jesus himself was tested by what he suffered, he is able to help those who are being tested.
Hebrews 2.18
Almighty God,
who wonderfully created,
and yet more wonderfully restored,
the dignity of human nature:
in your mercy,
bring us to share the divine life of Jesus Christ,
who came to share our human life,
and who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 63.7–9 Psalm 148
Hebrews 2.10–18 Matthew 2.13–23
Year B
My eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the presence of all peoples, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.
Luke 2.30–32
Saving God,
whose Son Jesus was presented in the temple
and was acclaimed the glory of Israel
and the light of the nations:
grant that in him we may be presented to you
and in the world may reflect his glory;
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 61.10–62.3 Psalm 148
Galatians 4.4–7 Luke 2.22–40
1 Samuel 1.1–2, 7b–20, 24–28 1 Samuel 2.1–8 (page 429) Luke 2.41–52
Year C
Clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, and be thankful.
Colossians 3.14–15
God of community,
whose call is more insistent than ties of family or blood:
may we so respect and love those whose lives are linked
with ours
1 Samuel 2.18–20, 26 Psalm 148
Colossians 3.12–17 Luke 2.41–52
Exodus 1.8–10, 15–21 Psalm 110 Galatians 4.22–28
Almighty God,
by whom the world has been filled
with the light of your incarnate Word:
grant, we pray,
that as he kindles the flame of faith and love in our hearts
so his light may shine forth in our lives;
who now lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
God has destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, to the praise of his glorious grace that he freely bestowed on us in the Beloved.
Ephesians 1.15–16
or
‘I will turn your mourning into joy,’ says the Lord. ‘I will comfort you, and give you gladness for sorrow.’
Jeremiah 31.13
Almighty God,
you have filled us with the light of the Word,
who became flesh and lived among us:
let the light of faith shine in all that we do;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
or
Eternal God,
in whose sight a thousand years are like a watch in the night:
guide us now and always, as you have led us in times past,
that our hearts may learn to choose your will;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Jeremiah 31.7–14 | or | Sirach 24.1–12 |
Psalm 147.12–20 | or | Wisdom of Solomon 10.15–21 |
Ephesians 1.3–14 | John 1.(1–9) 10–18 |
Isaiah 44.1–8, 21–23 Psalm 104.11–25 2 John
O God,
by the leading of a star
you manifested your only-begotten Son to the Gentiles:
mercifully grant, that we, who know you now by faith,
may after this life be led to the vision
of your glorious Godhead;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.
Isaiah 60.1
or
They saw the child with Mary his mother; and they knelt down and worshipped him.
Matthew 2.11
Lord God of the nations,
we have seen the star of your glory rising in splendour:
may the brightness of your incarnate Word
pierce the night that covers the earth,
signal the dawn of justice and peace,
and beckon all nations to walk as one in your light.
We ask this through Jesus Christ, your Word made flesh,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
in the splendour of eternal light,
God for ever and ever. Amen.
or
Eternal God,
who by a star led Magi to the worship of your Son:
guide the nations of the earth by your light,
that the whole world may see your glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
or
Everlasting God,
who brought the nations to your light
and kings to the brightness of your rising:
fill the world with your glory,
and show yourself to all the nations;
through him who is the true light and the bright morning star,
Jesus Christ your Son, our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 60.1–6 Psalm 72.1–7, 10–14
Ephesians 3.1–12 Matthew 2.1–12
Numbers 24.12–17a Psalm 87 Matthew 12.14–23
The readings and prayers for the Sundays after Epiphany are found after those for Trinity Sunday. See page 526.
Almighty and everlasting God,
you hate nothing that you have made,
and you forgive the sins of all who are penitent:
create and make in us new and contrite hearts,
that we, worthily lamenting our sins,
and acknowledging our wretchedness,
may obtain of you, the God of all mercy,
perfect remission and forgiveness;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Return to the Lord your God, who is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.
Joel 2.13
or
When you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may be seen not by others but your Father who is in secret.
Matthew 6.17–18
Gracious God,
out of your love and mercy
you breathed into dust the breath of life,
creating us to serve you and one another:
call forth our penitence and acts of love,
and strengthen us to face our mortality,
so that we may look with confidence for your salvation;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
or the prayer of the season, above
Joel 2.1–2, 12–17 or Isaiah 58.1–12 Psalm 51.1–17
2 Corinthians 5.20b–6.10 Matthew 6.1–6 (7–15) 16–21
Daniel 9.3–6, 15–19 or Isaiah 58.1–12
Psalm 38.1–4, 18–21 1 Timothy 6.6–19
O Lord, who for our sake fasted forty days and forty nights:
give us grace to use such abstinence,
that, our flesh being subdued to the spirit,
we may ever obey your godly will
in righteousness and true holiness;
to your honour and glory,
who live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit,
one God, world without end. Amen.
Year A
We do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.
Matthew 4.4
Almighty God,
whose Son fasted forty days in the wilderness,
and was tempted as we are, yet did not sin:
give us grace to direct our lives in obedience to your will, that, as you know our weakness,
so we may know your power to save;
through Jesus Christ our Redeemer,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Genesis 2.15–17; 3.1–7 Psalm 32
Romans 5.12–21 Matthew 4.1–11
Exodus 24.1–11 Psalm 51.1–17 Matthew 26.1–35
Year B
The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God has come near;
repent, and believe in the good news.
Mark 1.15
God of the new and eternal covenant, as the forty days of the great flood
swept away the world’s corruption
and watered new beginnings of righteousness and life:
grant to us, who are washed clean and born again
in the saving flood of baptism, the wellspring of your grace,
that your gift of new life may flourish once again;
through Jesus Christ our Redeemer,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Genesis 9.8–17 Psalm 25.1–10
1 Peter 3.18–22 Mark 1.9–15
Jeremiah 2.1–13 Psalm 26 Mark 14.1–25
Year C
Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him.
Luke 4.8
O saving God,
who led your people through the wilderness
and brought them to the promised land:
so guide us that, following our Saviour,
we may walk through the wilderness of this world
and be brought to the glory of the world which is to come;
through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Deuteronomy 26.1–11 Psalm 91.1–2, 9–16
Romans 10.4–13 Luke 4.1–15
Genesis 37.12–28 Psalm 119.105–112 Luke 22.1–38
Remember, O Lord,
what you have wrought in us
and not what we deserve,
and, as you have called us to your service,
make us worthy of our calling;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.
John 3.16
God of mercy,
you are full of tenderness and compassion,
slow to anger, rich in mercy,
and always ready to forgive:
grant us grace to renounce all evil and to cling to Christ, that in every way we may prove to be your loving children; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Genesis 12.1–4a Psalm 121
Romans 4.1–5 (6–12) 13–17 John 3.1–17 or Matthew 17.1–9
Exodus 2.23–3.8a Psalm 119.9–24 Matthew 26.36–56
Year B
If you want to become a disciple of Jesus, deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow him.
Mark 8.34
God of all times and places,
in Jesus Christ, who was lifted up on the cross,
you opened for us the path to eternal life:
grant that we, being born again of water and the Spirit, may joyfully serve you in newness of life
and faithfully walk in your holy ways;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Genesis 17.1–7, 15–16 Psalm 22.24–32
Romans 4.13–25 Mark 8.31–38 or Mark 9.2–9
Jeremiah 11.9–20 Psalm 119.49–56 Mark 14.27–52
Year C
Our citizenship is in heaven, and it is from there that we are expecting a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 3.20
God of our ancestors,
whose chosen servant Abraham
was given faith to obey your call
and go out into the unknown:
endow your Church with such faith
that we may follow you with courage;
for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Genesis 15.1–12, 17–18 Psalm 27
Philippians 3.17–4.1 Luke 13.31–35 or Luke 9.28–36
Exodus 11.1–10 Psalm 119.121–128, 129–136 Luke 22.39–53
Lord God, our Redeemer,
who heard the cry of your people
and sent your servant Moses to lead them out of slavery:
free us from the tyranny of sin and death
and, by the leading of your Spirit,
bring us to our promised land;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners
Christ died for us.
Romans 5.8
or
‘The water that I will give,’ says the Lord, ‘will become in you a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’
John 4.14
O God, the fountain of life,
to a humanity parched with thirst
you offer the living water that springs from the Rock, our Saviour Jesus Christ:
stir up within your people the gift of your Spirit, that we may profess our faith with freshness
and announce with joy the wonder of your love. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Exodus 17.1–7 Psalm 95
Romans 5.1–11 John 4.5–42
Exodus 3.9–17a Psalm 119.(33–40) 41–48 Matthew 26.57–75
Year B
God spoke these words and said, ‘I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery; you shall have no other gods before me.’
Exodus 20.1
Lord our God,
by your Holy Spirit
write your commandments upon our hearts
and grant us the wisdom and power of the cross,
so that, cleansed from greed and selfishness,
we may become a living temple of your love;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Exodus 20.1–17 Psalm 19
1 Corinthians 1.18–25 John 2.13–22
Jeremiah 26.1–15 Psalm 119.57–64 Mark 14.53–72
Year C
‘As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts,’ says the Lord.
Isaiah 55.9
or
Seek the Lord while he may be found, call upon him while he is near.
Isaiah 55.6
As for year A, above
Isaiah 55.1–9 Psalm 63.1–9
1 Corinthians 10.1–13 Luke 13.1–9
Leviticus 16.15–22 Psalm 123 Luke 22.54–71
Almighty God,
in Christ you make all things new:
transform the poverty of our nature
by the riches of your grace,
and in the renewal of our lives
make known your heavenly glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
‘I am the light of the world,’ says the Lord; ‘those who follow me will have the light of life.’
John 8.12
Gracious God,
in order that we children of earth
might discern good from evil
you sent your Son to be the light of the world:
as the light of Christ shines upon us,
may we learn what pleases you,
and live in truth and goodness;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
1 Samuel 16.1–13 Psalm 23
Ephesians 5.8–14 John 9.1–41
Exodus 5.1–9, 19–6.1 Psalm 69.20–28 Matthew 27.1–31
Year B
The Son of Man must be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.
John 3.14–15
Everlasting God
in whom we live and move and have our being,
you have made us for yourself,
and our hearts are restless until they find their rest in you:
give us purity of heart and strength of purpose,
that no selfish passion may hinder us
from knowing your will,
no weakness prevent us from doing it;
that in your light we may see light,
and in your service find perfect freedom;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Numbers 21.4–9 Psalm 107.1–3, 17–22
Ephesians 2.1–10 John 3.14–21
Jeremiah 31.27–37 Psalm 119.73–80 Mark 15.1–20
Year C
God has reconciled us to himself through Christ, and given us the ministry of reconciliation.
2 Corinthians 5.18
or
While he was still far off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran and put his arms around him and kissed him.
Luke 15.21
God of compassion,
you are slow to anger, and full of mercy,
welcoming sinners who return to you with penitent hearts: receive in your loving embrace all who come home to you, and seat them at your bountiful table,
that, with all your children,
they may feast with delight on all that satisfies
the hungry heart.
We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Saviour,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Joshua 5.2–12 Psalm 32
2 Corinthians 5.16–21 Luke 15.11–32
Genesis 22.1–14 Psalm 125 Luke 23.1–25
We thank you, heavenly Father,
that you have delivered us from the power of darkness
and brought us into the kingdom of your Son:
we pray that
as by his death he has recalled us to life,
so by his presence abiding in us he may raise us
to joys eternal;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
‘I am the resurrection and the life,’ says the Lord; ‘whoever lives and believes in me shall never die.’
John 11.25–26
Life-giving God,
your Son came into the world
to free us all from sin and death:
breathe upon us with the power of your Spirit,
that we may be raised to new life in Christ,
and serve you in holiness and righteousness all our days;
through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Ezekiel 37.1–14 Psalm 130
Romans 8.6–11 John 11.1–45
Exodus 6.2–13 Psalm 131 Matthew 27.32–56
Year B
‘This is the covenant I will make with them,’ says the Lord God: ‘I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts; and I will be their God and they shall be my people.’
Jeremiah 31.33
O God, our Redeemer,
in our weakness we have failed
to be your messengers of forgiveness and hope:
renew us by your Holy Spirit,
that we may follow your commands
and proclaim your reign of love;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Jeremiah 31.31–34 Psalm 119.9–16
Hebrews 5.5–14 John 12.20–33
Numbers 21.4–9 Psalm 39 Mark 15.21–41
Year C
Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves.
Psalm 126.6
O God,
the Redeemer of all who trust in you:
heed the cry of your people,
and deliver us from the bondage of sin,
that we may serve you in perfect freedom
and rejoice in your unfailing love;
through Jesus Christ our Saviour,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
or
Christ,
whose feet were caressed
with perfume and a woman’s hair,
you humbly took a basin and towel
and washed the feet of your friends:
wash us also in your tenderness,
that, embracing your service freely,
we may accept no other bondage
in your name. Amen.
Isaiah 43.16–21 Psalm 126
Philippians 3.3–14 John 12.1–8
Isaiah 52.13–53.12 Psalm 130 Luke 23.26–49
Almighty and everlasting God, of your tender love towards us
you sent your Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ, to take upon him our flesh,
and to suffer death upon the cross,
that all should follow the example of his great humility:
mercifully grant
that we may both follow the example of his patience,
and also be made partakers of his resurrection;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Merciful God,
as we enter this holy week
and gather at your house of prayer,
turn our hearts again to Jerusalem,
to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ,
that, united with Christ and all the faithful,
we may one day enter in triumph
the city not made with hands,
the new Jerusalem, eternal in the heavens,
where, with you and the Holy Spirit,
Christ lives in glory for ever. Amen.
Liturgy of the Palms
Whenever possible, the whole passion narrative should be read at the main service of the day. The readings for the Liturgy of the Palms may be read at the second service, if they have not been used at the main service.
Matthew 21.1–11 Psalm 118.1–2, 19–29
Mark 11.1–11 or John 12.12–16 Psalm 118.1–2, 19–29
Luke 19.28–40 Psalm 118.1–2, 19–29
Liturgy of the Passion
At the name of Jesus, every knee shall bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2.10–11
Everlasting God,
in your tender love for the human race
you sent your Son to take our nature,
and to suffer death upon the cross:
in your mercy
enable us to share in his obedience to your will
and in the glorious victory of his resurrection;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
or
God of all,
you gave your only-begotten Son
to take the form of a servant,
and to be obedient even to death on a cross: give us the same mind that was in Christ Jesus that, sharing in his humility,
we may come to be with him in his glory,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 50.4–9a Psalm 31.9–18
Philippians 2.5–11 Matthew 26.14–27.66 or Matthew 27.11–54
Isaiah 50.4–9a Psalm 31.9–18
Philippians 2.5–11 Mark 14.1–15.27 or Mark 15.1–39 (40–47)
Isaiah 50.4–9a Psalm 31.9–18
Philippians 2.5–11 Luke 22.14–23.56 or Luke 23.1–49
Exodus 13.1–3, 7–9 Psalm 118.1–16 John 12.20–32
‘Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights,’ says the Lord; ‘I have put my spirit upon him; he will bring forth justice to the nations.’
Isaiah 42.1
See page 494.
Isaiah 42.1–9 Psalm 36.5–11
Hebrews 9.11–15 John 12.1–11
Lamentations 1.1–12; 2.8–19 Psalms 21, 25
Galatians 6.11–18 John 14
Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.
John 12.24
See page 494.
Isaiah 49.1–7 Psalm 71.1–14
1 Corinthians 1.18–31 John 12.20–36
Lamentations 3.1–18 (19–30), 40–51 Psalms 27; 69.1–21
Romans 5.6–11 John 15
Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us.
Hebrews 12.1
or
‘By this will everyone know that you are my disciples,’ says the Lord: ‘if you love one another.’
See page 494.
Isaiah 50.4–9a Psalm 70
Hebrews 12.1–3 John 13.21–32
John 13.35
Jeremiah 11.18–20; Isaiah 63.1–9 Psalms 31, 88 John 16
‘I give you a new commandment,’ says the Lord, ‘that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another.’
John 13.34
or
Jesus said, ‘If I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another ’s feet.’
John 13.14
Grant, Lord,
that we who receive the holy sacrament
of the body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ,
may be the means
by which the work of his incarnation shall go forward:
take, consecrate, break and distribute us,
to be for others a means of your grace,
and vehicles of your eternal love;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
or
Holy God, source of all love, on the night of his betrayal
Jesus gave his disciples a new commandment, to love one another as he loved them:
write this commandment in our hearts, and give us the will to serve others
as he was the servant of all, who gave his life and died for us,
yet is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
or
O God,
your love was embodied in Jesus Christ,
who washed the disciples’ feet
on the night of his betrayal:
wash us from the stain of sin,
so that, in hours of danger, we may not fail,
but follow your Son through every trial,
and praise him always as Lord and Christ,
to whom be glory, now and for ever. Amen.
Exodus 12.1–4 (5–10) 11–14 Psalm 116.1–2, 11–18
1 Corinthians 11.23–26 John 13.1–17, 31b–35
Exodus 24.1–11 or Leviticus 16.2–24 Psalm 55
Ephesians 2.11–18 John 17
Christ became obedient unto death, even death on a cross. Therefore God has highly exalted him and has given him the name that is above every name.
Philippians 2.8–9
or
All we like sheep have gone astray; we have all turned to our own way, and the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all.
Isaiah 53.12
Almighty God,
look with mercy on this your family,
for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed
and to be given into the hands of sinners
and to suffer death upon the cross;
who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God for ever and ever. Amen.
Almighty and everlasting God,
by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church is
governed and sanctified:
receive our prayers and supplications,
which we offer before you for all people in your holy Church, that all its members,
in their vocation and ministry, may truly and godly serve you;
through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
O merciful God,
you have made all people
and you hate nothing that you have made,
nor desire the death of sinners,
but rather that they should turn and live:
have mercy on all who have not known you,
or who deny the faith of Christ crucified;
take from them all ignorance, hardness of heart,
and contempt of your word;
and so fetch them home, blessed Lord, to your fold,
that we may be made one flock under one shepherd,
Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, world without end. Amen.
Lord God,
whose blessed Son our Saviour gave his back to the smiters
and did not hide his face from shame:
give us grace to accept the sufferings of this present time
with sure confidence in the glory that shall be revealed;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
or
Merciful God,
who gave your Son to suffer the shame of the cross:
save us from hardness of heart,
that, seeing him who died for us,
we may repent, confess our sin,
and receive your overflowing love,
in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
or
The first prayer, or all three prayers, based on the Book of Common
Prayer, above.
Isaiah 52.13–53.12 Psalm 22
1 Corinthians 1.18–31 or Hebrews 10.16–25 John 18.1–19.42
Genesis 22.1–18 Psalms 40, 142
Colossians 1.18–23 Mark 15.21–41
Those who enter God’s rest also cease from their labours as God did from his. Let us therefore make every effort to enter that rest.
Hebrews 4.10–11
Grant, Lord,
that as we have been baptised into the death
of your dear Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ,
so by continually putting to death our sinful desires we may die to sin and be buried with him,
and that through the grave and gate of death we may pass to our joyful resurrection;
for his sake who died, and was buried, and rose again for us,
your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
or
O God, creator of heaven and earth:
mercifully grant that as the crucified body of your dear Son
was laid in the tomb and rested on this holy Sabbath
so we may await with him the dawning of the third day,
and rise with him to newness of life;
who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
The following readings are for use at services other than the Easter Vigil.
Job 14.1–14 Psalm 31.1–8
1 Peter 4.1–11 Matthew 27.57–66
Micah 7.14–20 Psalm 30 1 John 5.5–12
Eternal giver of life and light,
this holy night shines with the radiance of the risen Christ:
renew your Church with the Spirit given to us in baptism,
that we may worship you in sincerity and truth,
and shine as a light in the world;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
The following readings and psalms are provided for use at the Easter
Vigil. The reading from Exodus 14 should always be used.
Genesis 1.1–2.4a Psalm 136.1–9, 23–26
Genesis 7.1–5, 11–18; 8.6–18; 9.8–13 Psalm 46
Genesis 22.1–18 Psalm 16
Exodus 14.10–31; 15.20–21 Exodus 15.1b–13, 17–18
Isaiah 54.9–14 Psalm 30
Isaiah 55.1–11 Isaiah 12.2–6
Proverbs 8.1–8, 19–21; 9.4b–6
or Baruch 3.9–15, 32–4.4 Psalm 19
Ezekiel 36.24–28 Psalms 42, 43
Zephaniah 3.14–20 Psalm 98
Romans 6.3–11 Psalm 114
Matthew 28.1–10
Lord of all life and power,
who, through the mighty resurrection of your Son,
overcame the old order of sin and death
to make all things new in him:
grant that we, being dead to sin and alive to you
in Jesus Christ,
may reign with him in glory;
to whom with you and the Holy Spirit
be praise, honour and thanksgiving, now and for all eternity.
or
Almighty God,
you have conquered death
through your dearly beloved Son Jesus Christ
and opened to us the gate of everlasting life:
grant us by your grace to set our mind on things above,
so that by your continual help
our whole life may be transformed;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit
in everlasting glory. Amen.
Christ our Passover has been sacrificed for us; therefore let us keep the feast.
The Lord is risen indeed, alleluia!
1 Corinthians 5.7–8
or
This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.
Luke 24.34; Psalm 118.24
Year A
Glorious Lord of life,
by the mighty resurrection of your Son
you overcame the old order of sin and death
to make all things new in him:
grant that we, who celebrate with joy
Christ’s rising from the dead
may be raised from the death of sin
to the life of righteousness;
through him who lives and reigns with you
and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 10.34–43 | or | Jeremiah 31.1–6 |
Psalm 118.1–2, 14–24 | or | Hymn to the Risen Christ (page 6) |
Colossians 3.1–4 | Matthew 28.1–10 |
Year B
Brightness of God’s glory,
whom death could not conquer nor the tomb imprison:
as you have shared our frailty in human flesh,
help us to share your immortality in the Spirit;
let no shadow of the grave terrify us,
and no fear of darkness turn our hearts from you.
Reveal yourself to us this day and all our days,
as the First and the Last,
the Living One,
our immortal Saviour and Lord. Amen.
Acts 10.34–43 | or | Isaiah 25.6–9 |
Psalm 118.1–2, 14–24 | or | Hymn to the Risen Christ (page 6) |
1 Corinthians 15.1–11 | or | Acts 10.34–43 |
John 20.1–18 | or | Mark 16.1–8 |
Year C
God of glory,
fill your Church with the power
that flows from Christ’s resurrection,
that, in the midst of this sinful world,
it may signal the beginning of a renewed humanity,
raised to new life with Christ;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Acts 10.34–43 | or | Isaiah 65.17–25 |
Psalm 118.1–2, 14–24 | or | Hymn to the Risen Christ (page 6) |
1 Corinthians 15.19–26 | or | Acts 10.34–43 |
John 20.1–18 | or | Luke 24.1–12 |
Holy God,
whose risen Son opened the disciples’ hearts
to understand the Scriptures
that told of his death and resurrection:
grant us the peace of the living Lord,
that our eyes may be opened
to recognise him in the breaking of the bread,
and to follow him wherever he leads;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
or
O God,
whose presence is veiled from our eyes:
grant that when we do not recognise you
our hearts may burn within us,
and when feeling is lost
we may cling in faith to your word
and to the breaking of the bread;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
O God,
who made this day for joy and gladness:
may the risen Lord abide with us this evening,
opening the Scriptures to us and breaking bread in our midst.
Set our hearts aflame,
and open our eyes,
that we may see in his sufferings all that the prophets foretold,
and recognise him at this table as the Christ,
who has now entered into his glory,
and who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Isaiah 25.6–9 Psalm 114 or Hymn to the Risen Christ (page 6)
1 Corinthians 5.6b–8 Luke 24.13–49
Exodus 12.1–14 Psalm 113 Romans 6.3–14
Almighty God,
whose Son Jesus Christ is the resurrection and the life
of all who put their trust in him:
raise us, we pray, from the death of sin
to the life of righteousness;
that we may ever seek the things which are above,
where he reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! By
his great mercy he has given us a new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.
1 Peter 1.3
Almighty and eternal God,
the strength of those who believe
and the hope of those who doubt:
may we, who have not seen, have faith
and receive the fullness of Christ’s blessing;
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 2.14a, 22–32 | Psalm 16 | |
1 Peter 1.1–12 | John 20.19–31 |
Supplementary readings
2 Samuel 22.1–7, 47–51
Exodus 15.1b–13
Mark 16.1–8
Year B
‘Peace be with you,’ says the Lord. ‘As the Father has sent me, so I send you.’
John 20.21
Risen Christ,
whose absence leaves us in despair
but whose presence is overwhelming:
breathe on us with your abundant life,
that where we cannot see
we may have courage to believe
that we may be raised with you. Amen.
Acts 4.32–37 Psalm 133
1 John 1.1–2.2 John 20.19–31
Ezekiel 37.1–14 Psalm 115 Luke 24.1–12
Year C
Jesus said to Thomas, ‘Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.’
John 20.27
Living God,
for whom no door is closed,
no heart is locked:
draw us beyond our doubts,
till we see your Christ
and touch his wounds where they bleed in others.
This we ask through Christ our Saviour,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 5.27–32 Psalm 118.14–29
Revelation 1.4–8 John 20.19–31
Revelation 1.9–20 Psalm 150 Matthew 28.1–15
Gracious Father,
who in your great mercy made glad the disciples
with the sight of the risen Lord:
give us such awareness of his presence with us
that we may be strengthened and sustained by his risen life,
and serve you continually in righteousness and truth;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Repent, and be baptised every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 2.38–39
O God,
your Son made himself known to his disciples
in the breaking of bread:
open the eyes of our faith,
that we may see him in his redeeming work;
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 2.14a, 36–41 Psalm 116.1–4, 11–18
1 Peter 1.13–25 Luke 24.13–35 or Matthew 28.8–15a
Isaiah 42.6–16 Psalm 3 Revelation 5
Year B
Turn to God so that your sins may be wiped out, so that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord.
Acts 3.19–20
Lord of life,
by submitting to death, you conquered the grave;
by being lifted upon the cross, you draw all peoples to you;
by being raised from the dead,
you restore to humanity all that was lost through sin:
be with us in your risen power,
that in word and deed we may proclaim
the marvellous mystery of death and resurrection.
For all praise is yours, now and throughout eternity. Amen.
Acts 3.12–20 Psalm 4
1 John 2.15–17; 3.1–6 Luke 24.36b–48
Ezekiel 37.15–28 Revelation 4.11; 5.9b–10 (page 417) Revelation 19.4–10
Year C
To the one seated on the throne and to the Lamb
be blessing and honour and glory and might for ever and
ever.
Revelation 5.13
Almighty God,
through your only Son you overcame death
and opened to us the gate of everlasting life:
grant that we who celebrate our Lord’s resurrection, may, through the renewing power of your Spirit,
rise from the death of sin to the life of righteousness;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
or
Christ our friend,
you ask for our love in spite of our betrayal:
give us courage to embrace forgiveness,
to know you again,
and to trust ourselves in you. Amen.
Acts 9.1–6 (7–20) Psalm 30
Revelation 5.6–14 John 21.1–19
Revelation 2.1–11 Psalms 116.11–18; 117 Acts 9.22–31
God of peace,
who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus,
the great shepherd of the sheep,
through the blood of the everlasting covenant:
make us perfect in every good work to do your will,
and work in us that which is well-pleasing in your sight;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
or
O God,
whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people:
help us when we hear his voice
to know him who calls us each by name,
and to follow where he leads;
who with you and the Holy Spirit
lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Year A
‘I am the good shepherd,’ says the Lord. ‘The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.’
John 10.11
God of all power,
you called from death our Lord Jesus,
the great shepherd of the sheep:
send us as shepherds to rescue the lost,
to heal the injured,
and to feed one another with understanding;
through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 2.42–47 Psalm 23
1 Peter 2.1–10 John 10.1–10
Jeremiah 23.1–8 Psalm 98 Revelation 7.9–17
Year B
‘I am the good shepherd,’ says the Lord. ‘I know my own and my own know me.’
John 10.14
Jesus, good shepherd of the sheep, by whom the lost are sought
and guided into the fold:
feed us and we shall be satisfied,
heal us and we shall be whole,
and lead us that we may be with you,
where you live and reign with the Father and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 4.5–12 | Psalm 23 | |
1 John 3.16–24 | John 10.11–18 |
Supplementary readings
Ezekiel 34.1–10, 25–31
Psalm 100
Hebrews 13.7–19
Year C
The Lamb in the midst of the throne will be their shepherd, and will guide them to springs of the water of life, and God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.
Revelation 7.17
Gracious God,
you sent Jesus, the good shepherd,
to gather us together:
may we not wander from his flock,
but follow wherever he leads us,
listening for his voice and staying near him,
until we are safely in your fold,
to live with you for ever;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 9.36–43 Psalm 23
Revelation 7.9–17 John 10.22–30
Revelation 2.12–19 (20–24) 25–29 Psalm 113 Acts 10.1–7, 23–28
Saving God,
who called your Church to witness
that you were in Christ reconciling the world to yourself:
help us so to proclaim the good news of your love,
that all who hear it may be reconciled to you;
through him who died for us and rose again
and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life,’ says the Lord. ‘No one comes to the Father except through me.’
John 14.6
or
Jesus himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, being dead to sin, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed.
1 Peter 2.24
Everliving God,
whose Son Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life:
give us grace to love one another,
to follow in the way of his commandments,
and to share his risen life;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 7.55–60 Psalm 31.1–5, 17–18
1 Peter 2.11–25 John 14.1–14
Acts 8.1b–13 Psalm 135.1–4, 13–21 Revelation 10
Year B
In this is love, not that we loved God but that God loved us. Beloved, since God loved us so much, we also ought to love one another.
1 John 4.10–11
O God,
form the minds of your faithful people,
that we may love what you command
and desire what you promise,
so that, amid the many changes of this world,
our hearts may there be fixed where true joys are to be found;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 8.26-40 Psalm 22.26–32
1 John 4.7–21 John 15.1–8
Acts 13.16a, 26-43 Psalm 98 1 John 4.1-8
Year C
God is love, and those who abide in love abide in God, and
God abides in them.
1 John 4.16b
or
‘I give you a new commandment,’ says the Lord, ‘that you love one another. As I have loved you, you also should love one another.’
John 13.34
We behold your glory, O God, in the love shown by your Son,
lifted up on the cross and exalted on high:
be glorified anew in the love we have for one another as disciples of the risen Lord Jesus,
who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Acts 11.1–18 Psalm 148
Revelation 21.1–16 John 13.31–35
Revelation 3.1–13 Psalm 107.1–3, 10–16 Acts 12.1–17a
Eternal God,
whose Son Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life:
grant that we may walk in his way,
rejoice in his truth,
and share his risen life;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
‘Those who love me will keep my word,’ Jesus promises, ‘and my Father will love them, and we will come to them and make our home with them.’
John 14.23
O God,
you have prepared for those who love you
joys beyond our understanding:
pour into our hearts such love for you,
that, loving you above all else,
we may obtain your promises
that exceed all we can desire;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Acts 17.22–31 Psalm 66.7–19
1 Peter 3.8–22 John 14.15–21
Acts 8.14–25 Psalm 66.1–8 Revelation 11.15–19
Year B
Jesus said, ‘You did not choose me, but I chose you. And I
appointed you to go and bear fruit.’
John 15.16
Loving God,
your Son has chosen us
and called us to be his friends:
give us grace to keep his commandments,
to love one another,
and to bear fruit which will abide;
through him who is the true vine, the source of all our life,
Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
or, based on John 16.12–24
O God, for whom we long as a woman in labour
longs for her delivery: give us courage to wait, strength to push,
and discernment to know the right time, that we may bring into the world
your joyful peace;
through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Acts 10.44–48 Psalm 98
1 John 5.1–12 John 15.9–17 or John 16.16–24
Acts 13.44–14.8 Psalm 99 John 15.17–27
Year C
‘Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you,’ says the Lord.
‘Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be
afraid.’
John 14.27
Great and loving God,
your will for us in your Son Jesus
is the peace which the world cannot give,
your abiding gift, the Advocate he promised.
Calm all troubled hearts,
dispel every fear,
and keep us steadfast in love and faithful to your word. Grant this through Jesus Christ, the firstborn from the dead, who lives with you now and always
in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.
Acts 16.9–15 Psalm 67
Revelation 21.10–14, 22–22.5 John 14.23–29 or John 5.1–9
Acts 12.20–13.5 Psalm 2 Revelation 3.14–22
Grant, we pray, almighty God,
that as we believe your only Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
to have ascended into the heavens,
so we may also in heart and mind thither ascend,
and with him continually dwell;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
or
Almighty God,
your Son Jesus Christ ascended to the throne of heaven
that he might rule over all things as Lord:
keep the Church in the unity of the Spirit
and in the bond of peace;
and bring all creation to worship at his feet,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
God of majesty,
you led the Messiah through suffering into risen life,
and took him up into the glory of heaven:
clothe us with the power promised from on high,
and send us forth to the ends of the earth
as heralds of repentance and witnesses of Jesus Christ,
the firstborn from the dead,
who lives with you now and always
in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.
or
Eternal God,
by raising Jesus from the dead
you proclaimed his victory,
and by his ascension,
you declared him Lord of all:
lift up our hearts to heaven,
where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
or, either of the prayers for the week
Year A
‘Go and make disciples of all nations,’ Jesus commands; ‘I am with you always, to the close of the age.’
Matthew 28.19–20
Acts 1.1–11 Psalm 47
Ephesians 1.15–23 Matthew 28.16–20
Revelation 5.1–10 Psalm 110 John 14.12–29
Year B
‘Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation,’ says the Lord.
Mark 16.15
Acts 1.1–11 Psalm 93
Ephesians 1.15–23 Mark 16.15–20
Revelation 5.1–10 Psalm 47 John 14.12–29
Year C
God has raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named.
Ephesians 1.20–21
Acts 1.1–11 Psalm 110
Ephesians 1.15–23 Luke 24.44–53
Revelation 5.1–10 Psalm 93 John 14.12–29
O God, the King of glory,
you have exalted your only Son Jesus Christ
with great triumph to your kingdom in heaven:
we pray you, leave us not comfortless,
but send your Holy Spirit to strengthen us,
and exalt us to the same place where our Saviour Christ
has gone before;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
or
O God,
you withdraw from our sight
that you may be known by our love:
help us to enter the cloud where you are hidden,
and to surrender all our certainty
to the darkness of faith
in Jesus Christ. Amen.
Year A
This is eternal life, that we may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.
John 17.3
O God,
whose Son, Jesus, prayed for his disciples,
and sent them into the world
to proclaim the coming of your kingdom:
by your Holy Spirit,
hold the Church in unity,
and keep it faithful to your word,
so that, breaking bread together,
we may be one with Christ in faith and love and service, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 1.6–14 Psalm 68.1–10, 32–35
1 Peter 5 John 17.1–11
Acts 1.15–26 Psalm 68.11–20 Revelation 14.1–7; 15.2–4
Year B
Jesus prayed, ‘Holy Father, protect them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one, as we are one.’
John 17.11
Almighty God,
your blessed Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ,
ascended far above all heavens that he might fill all things:
mercifully give us faith to trust
that, as he promised,
he abides with us on earth until the end of time;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 1.15–17, 21–26 Psalm 1
1 John 5.9–13 John 17.6–19
Genesis 14.14–20 Psalm 24 John 16.16–24
Year C
Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved.
Acts 16.31
Almighty God,
whose blessed Son before his passion prayed for his disciples
that they might be one, as you and he are one:
grant that your Church,
being bound together in love and obedience to you,
may be united in one body by the one Spirit,
that the world may believe in him whom you have sent,
your Son Jesus Christ our Lord;
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 16.16–34 Psalm 97
Revelation 22.12–22 John 17.20–26
Acts 15.35–16.6 Psalm 93 Revelation 4.1–11
See the prayer for the appropriate Sunday after Epiphany or after
Pentecost
O God, who taught the hearts of your faithful people by sending to them the light of your Holy Spirit: grant us by the same Spirit
to have a right judgement in all things,
and evermore to rejoice in his holy comfort;
through the merits of Christ Jesus our Saviour,
who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the same Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
‘Let anyone who is thirsty come to me,’ says the Lord; ‘and let the one who believes in me drink. For out of your heart shall flow rivers of living water.’
John 7.38
Almighty God,
at the feast of Pentecost
you sent your Holy Spirit to the disciples,
filling them with joy and boldness to preach the gospel:
empower us with that same Spirit
to witness to your redeeming love
and draw all people to you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 2.1–21 | or | Numbers 11.24–30 | Psalm 104.26–36 |
1 Corinthians 12.1–13 | or | Acts 2.1–21 | |
John 20.19–23 | or | John 7.37–52 |
Joel 2.28–32 Psalm 103.13–22 Galatians 5.13–26
Year B
‘A new heart I will give you, and a new spirit I will put within you,’ says the Lord God; ‘I will put my spirit within you and you shall live.’
Ezekiel 36.26; 37.14
Almighty God,
you sent your Holy Spirit
to be the life and light of your Church:
open our hearts to the riches of your grace,
that we may bring forth the fruit of the Spirit
in love, joy, and peace;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 2.1–21 or Ezekiel 37.1–14 Psalm 104.26–36
Romans 8.22–27 or Acts 2.1–21 John 15.26–27; 16.4b–15
Ezekiel 36.22–28 Psalm 103.13–22 1 Corinthians 12.1–13
Year C
God’s love has been poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.
Romans 5.5
O God,
who in smoke and fire upon Mount Sinai
gave the law to Moses,
and who revealed the new covenant in the fire of the Spirit:
grant, we pray,
that, kindled by that same Spirit
which you poured forth upon your apostles,
we may fulfil with joy your commandment of love.
We ask this through Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Acts 2.1–21 or Genesis 11.1–9 Psalm 104.26–36
Romans 8.14–17 or Acts 2.1–21 John 14.8–17, (25–27)
Numbers 11.24–30 Psalm 103.13–22 Romans 8.18–27
See the prayer for the appropriate Sunday after Epiphany or after
Pentecost
Year A
Proclaim the Name: ‘The Lord, the Lord, a God who is merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.’
Exodus 34.6
Almighty and everlasting God,
you have given to us your servants
grace by the confession of a true faith
to acknowledge the glory of the eternal Trinity,
and in the power of the divine majesty
to worship the Unity:
keep us steadfast in this faith,
and evermore defend us from all adversities,
for you live and reign, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Exodus 34.1–8 Song of the Three 29–34 (page 399)
2 Corinthians 13.11–13 Matthew 28.16–20
Genesis 1.1–2.4a Psalm 20 Ephesians 4.1–6, 17–32
Year B
Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory.
Isaiah 6.3
or
Christ Jesus came and preached peace to you all; through him we have access in the one Spirit to the Father.
Ephesians 2.17–18
O blessed Trinity,
in whom we know the Maker of all things, seen and unseen, the Saviour of all, both near and far:
by your Spirit enable us so to worship your divine majesty, that with all the company of heaven
we may magnify your glorious name, saying,
Holy, holy, holy. Glory to you, O Lord most high. Amen.
Isaiah 6.1–8 | Psalm 29 | |
Romans 8.12–17 | John 3.1–17 |
Supplementary readings
Ezekiel 1.1–14, 22–28b
Psalm 148
1 Timothy 1.12–17
Year C
Does not wisdom call, and does not understanding raise her voice? ‘The Lord created me at the beginning of his work, the first of his acts of long ago.’
Proverbs 8.1, 22
or
God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying,
‘Abba! Father!’
Galatians 4.6
Father, we praise you,
that through your Word and Holy Spirit
you created all things;
you reveal your salvation in all the world
through Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh;
through your Holy Spirit you give us a share
in your life and love:
fill us with the vision of your glory,
that we may always serve and praise you,
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Proverbs 8.1–4, 22–31 Psalm 8
Romans 5.1–5 John 16.12–15
Proverbs 8.32–9.10 Psalm 33.1–9 Ephesians 3.14–21
Sunday between 7 and 13 January
Almighty God,
who anointed Jesus at his baptism with the Holy Spirit
and revealed him as your beloved Son:
inspire us, your children,
who are born again of water and the Spirit,
to surrender our lives to your service,
that we may rejoice to be called your children;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Eternal God,
at the baptism of Jesus in the river Jordan
you proclaimed him your beloved Son,
and anointed him with the Holy Spirit:
grant that all who are baptised into his name
may keep the covenant they have made,
and boldly confess him as Lord and Saviour;
who with you and the Holy Spirit lives and reigns,
one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
or
Loving God, your Son came to seek the lost, and was baptised with sinners:
grant that we, who have been baptised in his name, may reach out in love to those in need
with the mercy of Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you, for ever and ever. Amen.
or
Spirit of energy and change,
in whose power Jesus was anointed
to be the hope of the nations:
be poured out also upon us
without reserve or distinction,
that we may have confidence and strength
to implant your justice on the earth;
through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Year A
A voice came from heaven, saying, ‘This is my Son, the
Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.’
Matthew 3.17
Isaiah 42.1–9 Psalm 29
Acts 10.34–43 Matthew 3.13–17
Isaiah 42.10–16 Psalm 2 John 1.19–34
Year B
God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; and he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.
Acts 10.38
Genesis 1.1–5 Psalm 29
Acts 19.1–7 Mark 1.4–11
Ezekiel 47.1–12 Psalm 2 John 1.19–34
Year C
The Holy Spirit descended on Jesus in bodily form like a dove, and a voice came from heaven, ‘You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.’
Luke 3.22
Isaiah 43.1–7 Psalm 29
Acts 8.14–17 Luke 3.15–22
Isaiah 43.15–21 Psalm 2 John 1.19–24
Sunday between 14 and 20 January
Almighty God,
by whose grace alone we are accepted
and called to your service:
strengthen us by your Holy Spirit and make us worthy of our calling; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
God is faithful; by him you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
1 Corinthians 1.9
Almighty God,
whose Son, our Saviour Jesus Christ, is the light of the world: may your people, illumined by your word and sacraments, shine with the radiance of his glory,
that he may be known, worshipped, and obeyed to the ends of the earth;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 49.1–7 Psalm 40.1–14
1 Corinthians 1.1–9 John 1.29–42
Habakkuk 2.1–5, 12–14 Psalm 37.5–12 Romans 1.8–17
Year B
We have found the Messiah: Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the king of Israel!
John 1.41, 49
Eternal God,
whose Son, Jesus Christ, is now exalted as Lord of all, and pours out his gifts upon the Church:
grant it that unity which only your Spirit can give, keep us in the bond of peace,
and bring all creation to worship before your throne;
through Jesus Christ our Redeemer,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
1 Samuel 3.1–10 (11–20) Psalm 139.1–5, 12–18
1 Corinthians 6.12–20 John 1.43–51
Deuteronomy 10.12–11.1 Psalm 47 1 John 2.3–11
Year C
Jesus revealed his glory, and his disciples believed in him.
John 2.11
Bountiful God,
whose Son revealed his glory at Cana of Galilee:
help us to believe and obey,
so that, as our Saviour promised,
we may be filled with the wine of new life
and show forth his joy and love;
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 62.1–5 Psalm 36.5–10
1 Corinthians 12.1–11 John 2.1–11
1 Samuel 20.1–7, 24–42 Psalm 47 Galatians 2.1–10
Sunday between 21 and 27 January
O God,
the strength of all those who put their trust in you:
mercifully accept our prayers,
and because through the weakness of our mortal nature
we can do nothing good without you,
grant us the help of your grace,
that in keeping your commandments
we may please you both in will and deed;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people.
Matthew 4.23
Loving God,
the light of the minds that know you,
the life of the souls that love you,
and the strength of the hearts that serve you:
help us so to know you
that we may truly love you,
and so to love you
that we may faithfully serve you,
whose service is perfect freedom;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Isaiah 9.1–4 Psalm 27.1–10
1 Corinthians 1.10–18 Matthew 4.12–25
Habakkuk 2.15–20 Psalm 27.9–17 Romans 1.16–25
Year B
The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand;
repent, and believe in the gospel.
Mark 1.15
Bountiful God,
through your Son you have called us to repent of our sin,
to believe the good news,
and to celebrate the coming of your kingdom:
teach us, like Christ’s first apostles,
to hear the call to discipleship,
and, forsaking old ways,
to proclaim the gospel of new life to a broken world;
through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Jonah 3.1–10 | Psalm 62.5–12 | |
1 Corinthians 7.29–31 | Mark 1.14–20 |
Supplementary readings
Leviticus 19.1–4, 9–18
Psalm 33.1–12
1 John 2.12–17
Year C
Jesus read from the prophet Isaiah: ‘The Spirit of the Lord has anointed me to bring good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the captives.’
Luke 4.18
Life-giving God,
who sent your Son Jesus to proclaim your kingdom
and to teach with authority:
anoint us with your Spirit,
that we too may bring good news to the poor,
bind up the broken-hearted,
and proclaim liberty to the captive;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Nehemiah 8.1–3, 5–6, 8–10 Psalm 19
1 Corinthians 12.12–31 Luke 4.14–21
Genesis 9.7–19 Psalm 119.165–176 Galatians 2.11–21
Sunday between 28 January and 3 February
O Lord,
you have taught us
that all our doings without love are worth nothing:
send your Holy Spirit,
and pour into our hearts that most excellent gift of love,
the true bond of peace and of all virtues,
without which whoever lives is counted dead before you;
Grant this for your only Son Jesus Christ’s sake. Amen.
Year A
What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
Micah 6.8
Righteous God,
you confound the world’s wisdom
by giving your blessing to the lowly and pure in heart:
give us such a hunger and thirst for justice
and perseverance in striving for peace,
that in our words and deeds
the world may see the promise of your kingdom,
which has been revealed in Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Micah 6.1–8 Psalm 15
1 Corinthians 1.18–31 Matthew 5.1–12
Micah 7.14–20 Psalm 28 Romans 2.1–16
Year B
Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom, and curing every disease and every sickness.
Matthew 9.35
God of compassion,
you have shown us in Christ
that your love is never ending:
enable us both to love you with all our heart
and to love one another as Christ loved us.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Deuteronomy 18.15–20 | Psalm 111 | |
1 Corinthians 8.1–13 Mark 1.21–28 |
Supplementary readings
Deuteronomy 11.18–21
Psalm 112
1 John 2.18–29
Year C
Now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known.
1 Corinthians 13.14
Living God,
in Christ you make all things new:
transform the poverty of our nature by the riches of your grace,
and in the renewal of our lives make known your glory; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Jeremiah 1.4–10 Psalm 71.1–6
1 Corinthians 13.1–13 Luke 4.21–30
Jeremiah 1.11–19 Psalm 71.17–24 Galatians 3.1–14
Sunday between 4 and 10 February
Father of all,
who gave your only-begotten Son
to take upon himself the form of a servant
and to be obedient even to death on a cross:
give us the same mind that was in Christ Jesus,
that, sharing in his humility,
we may come to be with him in his glory;
where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
‘Is not this the fast that I choose,’ says the Lord: ‘to loose the bonds of injustice, and to let the oppressed go free?’
Isaiah 58.6
or
Let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.
Matthew 5.16
Faithful God,
you have appointed us your witnesses,
to be a light that shines in the world:
let us not hide the bright hope you have given us,
but tell everyone your love,
revealed in Jesus Christ the Lord,
who lives and reigns with you
in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God,
for ever and ever. Amen.
Isaiah 58.1–9a (9b–12) Psalm 112
1 Corinthians 2.1–13 (14–16) Matthew 5.13–20
Isaiah 58.9b–14 Psalm 106.42–50 Romans 2.28–3.11
Year B
Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles.
Isaiah 40.31
Saving God,
whose Son, Jesus Christ, healed the sick
and brought them wholeness of body and mind:
inspire us, his disciples,
so that we may constantly proclaim his gospel
by our words
and by the dedication and integrity of our lives;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 40.21–31 Psalm 147.1–11
1 Corinthians 9.16–23 Mark 1.29–39
Genesis 4.1–16 Psalm 147.12–20 1 John 3.7–14
Year C
Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, and was buried, and was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, and appeared to many.
1 Corinthians 15.3–4
Most holy God,
in whose presence angels serve in awe,
and whose glory fills all heaven and earth:
cleanse our unclean lips
and transform us by your grace
so that your word spoken through us
may bring many to your salvation;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.
Isaiah 6.1–8 (9–13) Psalm 138
1 Corinthians 15.1–11 Luke 5.1–11
Genesis 13.14–18 Psalm 119.145–152 Galatians 3.15–22
On the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday, the readings for
Transfiguration (Last Sunday after the Epiphany) may be used.
Sunday between 11 and 17 February or between 8 and 14 May (except when this Sunday is the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday and the readings for the Transfiguration are used).
Let your merciful ears, O Lord,
be open to the prayers of your humble servants;
and that they may obtain their petitions
make them to ask such things as shall please you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord.
Psalm 119.1
Almighty God,
you gave the law to guide our lives:
grant that we may never shrink from your commandments, but, as we are taught by your Spirit,
may fulfil your law in perfect love;
through Christ our Lord and Master,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God now and for ever. Amen.
Deuteronomy 10.12–22 or | Sirach 15.15–20 | Psalm 119.1–8 |
1 Corinthians 3.1–9 | Matthew 5.21–37 |
Supplementary readings
Isaiah 59.1–9
Psalm 53
Romans 3.12–22a
Year B
A great prophet has arisen among us! God has visited his people!
Luke 7.16
or
Sing praises to the Lord, O you his faithful ones! Give thanks to God’s holy name!
Psalm 30.4
Everliving God,
your Son, Jesus Christ, healed the lepers
and brought good news to the despised and outcast:
grant us your gifts of compassion and self-control,
that in serving others in their need
we may strive for the imperishable wreath
that you bestow on all who truly love you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
2 Kings 5.1–14 Psalm 30
1 Corinthians 9.24–27 Mark 1.40–45
2 Kings 5.15–16, 20–27 Psalm 29 1 John 3.15–24
Year C
Blessed are you when people hate you on account of the Son of man. Rejoice and leap for joy, for behold, your reward is great in heaven.
Luke 6.23
Righteous God,
you challenge the powers that rule this world
and you show favour to the oppressed:
instil in us a true sense of justice,
that we may discern the signs of your kingdom
and strive for right to prevail;
for the sake of Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Jeremiah 17.5–10 Psalm 1
1 Corinthians 15.12–20 Luke 6.17–26
Isaiah 44.1–8 Psalm 40.11–22 Galatians 4.1–11
Sunday between 18 and 24 February or between 15 and 21 May (except when this Sunday is the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday and the readings for the Transfiguration are used).
Almighty God,
you have taught us through your Son
that love is the fulfilling of the law:
grant that we may love you with our whole heart,
and our neighbours as ourselves;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Your Father in heaven makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.
Matthew 5.45, Luke 6.36
or
You shall be holy, for the Lord your God is holy. You shall love your neighbour as yourself.
Leviticus 19.2, 18
Hidden God,
whose wisdom compels our love
and unsettles all our values:
fill us with desire to search for her truth,
that we may transform the world,
becoming fools for her sake,
through Jesus Christ,
your Word and Wisdom made flesh,
to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
or the prayer of the week, above.
Leviticus 19.1–2, 9–18 Psalm 119.33–40
1 Corinthians 3.10–17 Matthew 5.38–48
Isaiah 59.14–21 Psalm 5 Romans 3.22b–31
Year B
In the Son of God, Jesus Christ, every one of God’s promises finds its ‘yes’.
2 Corinthians 1.19–20
Almighty God,
in signs and wonders
your Son revealed the greatness of your saving love:
renew your people with your grace,
and sustain us by your power,
for we can do nothing good without you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Isaiah 43.18–25 | Psalm 41 | |
2 Corinthians 1.16–22 | Mark 2.1–12 |
Supplementary readings
Deuteronomy 12.28–13.4
Psalm 63
1 John 4.1–12
Year C
Love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. You will be children of the Most High; for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked.
Luke 6.35
God of compassion,
keep before us the love you have revealed in your Son,
who prayed even for his enemies. In our words and deeds
help us to be like him, through whom we pray, Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. Amen.
Genesis 45.3–11, 15 Psalm 37.1–11, 40–41
1 Corinthians 15.35–50 Luke 6.27–38
Genesis 45.16–26 Psalm 37.23–35 Galatians 4.12–20
Sunday between 25 and 29 February (except when this Sunday is the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday and the readings for the Transfiguration are used) or
Second Sunday after Pentecost between 24 and 28 May
Grant, O Lord,
that the course of this world
may be so peaceably ordered by your governance,
that your Church may joyfully serve you
in all godly quietness;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
‘Can a woman forget her nursing child, or show no compassion for the child of her womb? Even these may forget, yet I will not forget you,’ says the Lord.
Isaiah 49.15
or
Do not worry, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we wear?’ Strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
Matthew 6.31, 33
O God,
before whose face we are not made righteous
even by being right:
free us from the need to justify ourselves
by our own anxious striving,
that we may be abandoned to faith in you alone;
through Jesus Christ. Amen.
or the prayer for year B may be used.
Isaiah 49.8–16a Psalm 131
1 Corinthians 3.18–4.5 Matthew 6.22–34
Genesis 15.1–11, 17–18 Psalm 32 Romans 4.4–13
Year B
Thanks be to God, who through us spreads in every place the fragrance that comes from knowing Christ.
2 Corinthians 2.14
Almighty God,
renew us through the gift of your Spirit,
that we may always do and think
what is righteous in your sight,
that we, who can do nothing good without you, may live according to your holy will;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Hosea 2.14–20 Psalm 103.1–13
2 Corinthians 2.14–3.6 Mark 2.13–22
Hosea 11.1–9 Psalm 103.13–22 1 John 5.13–21
Year C
‘My word shall not return to me empty,’ says the Lord, ‘but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and succeed in the thing for which I sent it.’
Isaiah 55.11
Almighty God,
you have sent the Spirit of your Son into our hearts and freed us from bondage to sin:
give us grace to dedicate our freedom to your service, that we and all people may be brought
to the glorious liberty of the children of God;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Isaiah 55.10–13 or Sirach 27.4–7 Psalm 92.1–4, 12–15
1 Corinthians 15.51–58 Luke 6.39–49
Genesis 17.9–22 Psalm 124 Galatians 5.1–14
The following prayers and readings may be used on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday when it is desired to commemorate the Transfiguration as the culmination of the Epiphany season. Otherwise, the prayers and readings for the appropriate Sunday after Epiphany may be used. In this case, the following prayers and readings may be used on the second Sunday in Lent instead of those printed there.
Almighty God,
you have given your only Son
to be for us both a sacrifice for sin,
and also an example of godly life:
give us grace that we may always thankfully receive the benefits of his sacrifice,
and also daily endeavour to follow
the blessed steps of his most holy life;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
Suddenly a bright cloud overshadowed them, and from the cloud a voice said, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him!’
Matthew 17.5
O God,
in the transfiguration of your Son
you confirmed the mysteries of the faith
by the witness of Moses and Elijah,
and in the voice from the cloud
you foreshadowed our adoption as your children:
make us, with Christ, heirs of your glory,
and bring us to enjoy its fullness;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy
Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Exodus 24.12–18 Psalm 2
2 Peter 1.16–21 Matthew 17.1–9
Habakkuk 3.3–19 Psalm 99 2 Corinthians 3.12–4.2
Year B
It is the God who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
2 Corinthians 4.6
Almighty God,
whose Son was revealed in majesty
before he suffered death upon the cross:
give us faith to perceive his glory,
that being strengthened by his grace
we may be changed into his likeness, from glory to glory;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
2 Kings 2.1–12 Psalm 50.1–6
2 Corinthians 4.3–12 Mark 9.2–9
Daniel 7.9–14 Psalm 97 2 Peter 1.12–19
Year C
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, the glory as of a father ’s only son, full of grace and truth.
John 1.14
O God, glorious and faithful,
you reveal the beauty of your face
to those who seek you with a sincere heart:
strengthen us in faith
to embrace the mystery of the cross,
and open our hearts to its transforming power,
so that, clinging in love to your will for us, we may walk as followers of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Exodus 34.29–35 Psalm 99
2 Corinthians 3.12–4.2 Luke 9.28–36 (37–43)
Deuteronomy 34.1–12 Psalm 2 John 12.27–41
other than Trinity Sunday
Almighty and everliving God, increase in us your gift of faith,
so that, forsaking what lies behind
and reaching out to that which is before us,
we may run the way of your commandments
and win the crown of everlasting joy;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith.
Romans 1.16
or
Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord.
Psalm 31.24
God of justice and mercy,
from whose glory all have fallen short,
and by whose free gift all may be saved through faith in your Son:
help us to hear his voice and to know your will, that our lives may be built securely
upon the only sure foundation, Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
or, based on Deuteronomy 11.26–28
God of crisis,
you lay before us either blessing or curse:
in our confusion give us clarity,
and in our hesitation the courage to choose boldly
the way that leads to you;
through Jesus Christ. Amen.
[Deuteronomy 11.18–21, 26–28 Psalm 31.1–5, 21–27] Genesis 6.9–22; 7.24 Psalm 46
Romans 1.16–17; 3.21–28 (29–31) Matthew 7.15–29; 8.14–19
Genesis 9.8–17 Psalm 31.1–5, 21–27 Matthew 7.1–14
Year B
It is the God who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness,’ who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
2 Corinthians 4.6
Lord God of the nations,
you have revealed your will to all people
and promised us your saving help:
help us to hear and do what you command,
that the darkness may be overcome by the power of your light;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Deuteronomy 5.12–15 Psalm 81.1–10]
1 Samuel 3.1–10 (11–20) Psalm 139.1–7, 15–19
2 Corinthians 4.5–12 Mark 2.23–3.6
1 Samuel 7.3–12 Psalm 84.1–10 Mark 3.7–19
Year C
Thus says the one whose name is Holy: ‘I dwell in a high and holy place, but I also live with those who are broken and humble in spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, to restore the courage of the broken.’
Isaiah 57.15
Almighty God,
who alone can bring order to our unruly wills and affections:
give us grace to love what you command
and desire what you promise,
that, in all the changes and chances of this uncertain world,
our hearts may surely there be fixed
where true joys are to be found;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[1 Kings 8.22–23, 41–43 Psalm 96.1–9]
1 Kings 18.20–21 (22–29) 30–39 Psalm 96
Galatians 1.1–12 Luke 7.1–10
2 Chronicles 15.1–12 Psalm 97 Luke 8.4–15
O Lord, from whom alone all good things come:
grant that by your holy inspiration
we may think those things that are good,
and by your merciful guiding
may perform them;
through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
Year A
Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. For I have come to call not the righteous but sinners.
Matthew 9.12–13
O God,
you have assured the human family of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Saviour:
deliver us from the death of sin and raise us to new life in him,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Hosea 5.15–6.6 Psalm 50.7–15] Genesis 12.1–9 Psalm 33.1–12
Romans 4.13–25 Matthew 9.9–13, 18–26
Genesis 13 Psalm 50.7–15 Matthew 9.14–17, 27–33
Year B
[Here are my mother and my brothers!] Whoever does the will of God is my brother and my sister and my mother.
Mark 3.34–35
Almighty God,
give us such a vision of your purpose,
and such an assurance of your love and power,
that we may ever hold fast the hope
which is in Jesus Christ our Lord;
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Genesis 3.8–15 Psalm 130]
1 Samuel 8.4–11 (12–15) 16–20 Psalm 138
2 Corinthians 4.13–5.1 (2–5) Mark 3.20–35
1 Samuel 12.1–15, 19–25 Psalm 130 Mark 4.1–12
Year C
A great prophet has arisen among us! God has visited his people!
Luke 7.16
O God, the consoler of the afflicted,
you illumine the mystery of suffering and death
by the light that shines from the face of Christ:
grant that, in all the trials of our earthly pilgrimage,
we may remain united to your Son in his passion,
so that there may be revealed in us
the power of his resurrection;
for he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[1 Kings 17.17–24 Psalm 30]
1 Kings 17.8–16 (17–24) Psalm 146
Galatians 1.11–24 Luke 7.11–17
Ecclesiastes 1.12–2.2, 9–11 Psalm 30 Luke 8.16–21
Lord,
we beseech you to keep your family, the Church,
in continual godliness,
that through your protection
it may be free from all adversities,
and devoutly given to serve you in good works,
to the glory of your name;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand.
Romans 5.1–2
or
The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; ask therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.
Matthew 9.37–38
All-powerful God,
in Jesus Christ you turned death into life,
and defeat into victory:
increase our faith and trust in him,
that we may triumph over evil,
in the strength of the same Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Exodus 19.2–8a Psalm 100]
Genesis 18.1–15; (21.1–7) Psalm 116.1–2, 11–18
Romans 5.1–11 Matthew 9.35–10.8 (9–23)
Genesis 20 Psalm 100 Romans 5.10–17
Year B
In Christ, God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting the message of reconciliation to us.
2 Corinthians 5.19
Almighty God,
without you we are unable to please you:
mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit
may in all things direct and rule our hearts;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
[Ezekiel 17.22–24 Psalm 92.1–4, 12–15]
1 Samuel 15.34–16.13 Psalm 20
2 Corinthians 5.6–10 (11–13) 14–17 Mark 4.26–34
1 Samuel 16.14–23 Psalm 92.1–4, 12–15 Mark 4.13–23
Year C
It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I live now in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.
Galatians 2.20
Christ Jesus,
whose glory was poured out like perfume,
and who chose for our sake
to take the form of a slave:
may we also pour out our love
with holy extravagance,
that our lives may be fragrant with you. Amen.
[2 Samuel 11.26–12.10, 13–15 Psalm 32]
1 Kings 21.1–10 (11–14) 15–21a Psalm 5.1–7
Galatians 2.15–21 Luke 7.36–8.3
Ecclesiastes 2.12–26 Psalm 32 Luke 8.22–25
Almighty and everlasting God,
you are always more ready to hear than we to pray,
and give more than either we desire or deserve:
pour down upon us the abundance of your mercy,
forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid,
and giving us those good things
which we are not worthy to ask,
save through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ,
your Son our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for Jesus’ sake will find it.
Matthew 10.39
Gracious God,
we who were baptised into Christ Jesus
were baptised into his death:
we pray that, as you raised him from death,
so by the power of the Holy Spirit
we may live the new life to your glory,
knowing ourselves to be dead in sin
but alive for you in Jesus Christ;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Jeremiah 20.7–13 Psalm 69.7–10 (11–15) 16–19] Genesis 21.8–21 Psalm 86.1–10, 16–17
Romans 6.1–11 Matthew 10.24–39
Genesis 21.22–33 Psalm 69.7–19 Matthew 10.9–23
Year B
Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?
Mark 4.41
O God our defender,
storms rage about us and cause us to be afraid:
rescue your people from despair,
deliver your sons and daughters from fear,
and preserve us all from unbelief;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Job 38.1–11 Psalm 107.1–3, 23–32]
1 Samuel 17.(1a, 4–11, 19–23) 32–49 Psalm 9.9–20
or 1 Samuel 17.57–18.5, 10–16 Psalm 133
2 Corinthians 6.1–13 Mark 4.35–41
1 Samuel 17.57–18.5, 10–16 Psalm 133 Mark 5.1–20
or 1 Samuel 17.(1a, 4–11, 19–23), 32–49 Psalm 9.9–20
Year C
God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power; and he went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.
Acts 10.38
Pour out upon us, O God,
the power and wisdom of your Spirit,
so that we, who have been baptised into Christ
and made your children through faith,
may know your Son’s power to heal,
and, being made one in him,
may overcome all barriers that divide us;
through our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 65.1–9 Psalm 22.20–29]
1 Kings 19.1–4 (5–7) 8–15a Psalm 42, 43
Galatians 3.10–14, 23–29 Luke 8.26–39
Ecclesiastes 3.1–8 Psalm 22.20–29 Luke 8.40–56
O God,
who for our redemption gave your only-begotten Son
to suffer death upon a cross,
and by his glorious resurrection
delivered us from the power of the enemy:
grant us so to die daily to sin
that we may evermore live with him
in the joy of his resurrection;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
The wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 6.23
O God,
your Son has taught us
that those who give a cup of water in his name
will not lose their reward:
open our hearts to the needs of your children,
and in all things make us obedient to your will,
so that in faith we may receive your gracious gift,
eternal life in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
[Jeremiah 28.5–9 Psalm 89.1–4, 15–18] Genesis 22.1–14 Psalm 13
Romans 6.12–23 Matthew 10.40–42
Genesis 22.15–19; 23.1–4 (5–15) Psalm 89.1–4, 15–18 Romans 7.1–6
Year B
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Lamentations 3.22–23
O Christ for whom we search, our help when help has failed:
give us courage to expose our need and ask to be made whole,
that, being touched by you, we may be raised to new life
in the power of your name. Amen.
[Lamentations 3.22–33 Psalm 30]
2 Samuel 1.1, 17–27 Psalm 130
2 Corinthians 8.(1–6) 7–15 Mark 5.21–43
2 Samuel 2.1–7; 3.1 Psalm 30 2 Corinthians 7.2–16
Year C
Those who find their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for Jesus’ sake will find it.
Matthew 10.39
O God,
the light of the minds that know you,
the life of the souls that love you,
the strength of the thoughts that seek you:
help us so to know you that we may truly love you, and so to love you that we may fully serve you, whose service is perfect freedom;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
[1 Kings 19.15–16, 19–21 Psalm 16]
2 Kings 2.1–2, 6–14 Psalm 77.1–2, 11–20
Galatians 5.1, 13–25 Luke 9.51–62
Ecclesiastes 3.9–22 Psalm 16 Luke 9.1–11
O God,
you have prepared for those who love you
such good things as pass our understanding:
pour into our hearts such love toward you,
that, loving you above all things,
we may obtain your promises
which exceed all that we can desire;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
‘Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest,’ says the Lord. ‘Take my
yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart.’
Matthew 11.28–29
Almighty God,
your Son Jesus Christ has taught us
that what we do for the least of his brothers and sisters we do also for him:
give us the will to serve others as he was the servant of all,
who gave up his life and died for us;
yet lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Zechariah 9.9–12 Psalm 145.8–14] Genesis 24.34–38, 42–49, 58–67 Psalm 45.10–17
Romans 7.14–25 Matthew 11.15–19 (20–24) 25–30
Song of Solomon 2.8–13 Psalm 145.8–14 Romans 9.1–15
Year B
Of Jesus many said, ‘What is this wisdom that has been given to him? What deeds of power are being done by his hands!’
Mark 6.2
O Lord our God,
you are always more ready to bestow
your good gifts upon us
than we are to seek them;
and more willing to give than we desire or deserve:
in our every need,
grant us the first and best of all your gifts,
the Spirit who makes us your children.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God for ever and ever. Amen.
[Ezekiel 2.1–15 Psalm 123]
2 Samuel 5.1–5, 9–10 Psalm 48
2 Corinthians 12.2–10 Mark 6.1–13
2 Samuel 5.11–13, 17–25 Psalm 123 2 Corinthians 13.4–13
Year C
The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few; ask therefore the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into his harvest.
Luke 10.2
God of the covenant,
in our baptism you called us
to proclaim the coming of your kingdom:
give us courage, as you gave it to the apostles,
that we may faithfully witness to your love and peace in every circumstance of life;
in the name of Jesus Christ our Redeemer,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 66.10–14 Psalm 66.1–8]
2 Kings 5.1–14 Psalm 30
Galatians 6.(1–6) 7–18 Luke 10.1–12 (13–16) 17–24
Ecclesiastes 7.1–14 Psalm 66.1–8 Luke 9.12–24
O Lord, we beseech you
mercifully to receive the prayers of your people
who call upon you,
and grant that they may both perceive and know
what things they ought to do,
and also may have grace and power
faithfully to fulfil them;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
The words you have spoken are spirit and life, O Lord; you have the words of eternal life.
John 6.63, 68
Bountiful God,
we thank you for planting in us the seed of your word:
by your Holy Spirit, help us to receive it with joy,
and to live according to it,
that we may grow in faith and hope and love;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 55.10–13 Psalm 65.(1–7) 8–13] Genesis 25.19–34 Psalm 119.105–112
Romans 8.1–11 Matthew 13.1–9 (10–17) 18–23
Genesis 26.1–6, 23–25 or Genesis 27.1–40
Psalm 65 Romans 9.15–26
Year B
Who shall stand in the Lord’s holy place? Those who have clean hands and pure hearts, who do not lift up their hands to what is false.
Psalm 24.3–4
Eternal God,
open our eyes to see your hand at work
in the splendour of creation
and in the beauty of human life.
Help us to cherish the gifts that surround us,
to share our blessings with our sisters and brothers, and to experience the joy of life in your presence; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Amos 7.7–14 Psalm 85.8–13]
2 Samuel 6.1–5, 12b–19 Psalm 24
Ephesians 1.1–14 Mark 6.14–29
2 Samuel 6.20–23 Psalm 85 Ephesians 1.15–23
Year C
Do to others as you would have them do to you. Love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.
Luke 6.31, 35
Eternal God,
you have taught us through Christ
that love is the fulfilment of the law:
help us to love you with all our heart, with all our soul,
with all our mind, and with all our strength,
and our neighbour as ourself;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Deuteronomy 30.9–14 Psalm 25.1–10] Amos 7.7–17 Psalm 82
Colossians 1.1–14 Luke 10.25–37
Amos 5.14–24 Psalm 25.1–10 Luke 9.37–50
O God,
you alone can order our unruly wills and affections:
teach us to love what you command,
and to desire what you promise,
that, among the changes and chances of this world,
our hearts may surely there be fixed
where true joys are to be found;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
You, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.
Psalm 86.15
Saving God,
in Jesus Christ you opened for us
a new and living way into your presence:
give us pure hearts and constant wills
to worship you in spirit and in truth;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 44.6–8 Psalm 86.11–17] Genesis 28.10–19a Psalm 139.1–11, 23–24
Romans 8.12–25 Matthew 13.24–30 (31–33), 36–43
Genesis 29.1–14 Psalm 86.4–13 Romans 9.30–10.4
Year B
As he went ashore, Jesus saw a great crowd; and he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.
Mark 6.34
or
‘My sheep hear my voice,’ says the Lord. ‘I know them and they follow me; and I give them eternal life.’
John 10.27, 28
Eternal God,
author of our life and end of our pilgrimage:
guide us by your word and Spirit
amid all perils and temptations,
that we may not wander from your way,
but may run our course in safety
until we come to our eternal rest in you;
through the grace of Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Jeremiah 23.1–16 Psalm 23]
2 Samuel 7.1–14a Psalm 89.21–38
Ephesians 2.11–22 Mark 6.30–34, 53–56
2 Samuel 7.18–29 Psalm 23 Ephesians 2.1–10
Year C
In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and trust shall be your strength.
Isaiah 30.16
Eternal God,
you draw near to us in Christ
and make yourself our guest:
amid the cares of our daily lives,
make us attentive to your voice and alert to your presence, that we may treasure your word above all else.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God for ever and ever. Amen.
[Genesis 18.1–10a Psalm 15] Amos 8.1–12 Psalm 52
Colossians 1.15–29 Luke 10.38–42
Amos 9.5–15 Psalm 15 Luke 10.17–24
O God, the protector of all that trust in you, without whom nothing is strong, nothing is holy: increase and multiply upon us your mercy,
that, with you as our ruler and guide,
we may so pass through things temporal
that we finally lose not the things eternal.
Grant this, O heavenly Father,
for the sake of Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Romans 8.38–39
O God, the fount of wisdom,
you have revealed to us in Christ
the hidden treasure and the pearl of great price:
grant us your Spirit’s gift of discernment,
that, in the midst of the things of this world,
we may learn to value the priceless worth of your kingdom,
and be ready to renounce all else
for the sake of the precious gift you offer.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[1 Kings 3.5–12 Psalm 119.129–136]
Genesis 29.15–28 Psalm 105.1–11 or Psalm 128
Romans 8.26–39 Matthew 13.44–58
Genesis 29.31–30.22 Psalm 119.129–136 Romans 10.5–15
Year B
‘I am the living bread that came down from heaven,’ says the Lord. ‘Whoever eats of this bread will live for ever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.’
John 6.51
Gracious God,
you have placed within the hearts of all your children
a longing for your word and a hunger for your truth: grant that, believing in the one whom you have sent, we may know him to be the true bread of heaven
and the food of eternal life, Jesus Christ our Lord,
to whom with you and the Holy Spirit be glory and honour for ever and ever. Amen.
[2 Kings 4.42–44 Psalm 145.10–18]
2 Samuel 11.1–15 Psalm 14
Ephesians 3.14–21 John 6.1–21
2 Samuel 11.16–27 Psalm 145.10–18 Ephesians 3.1–12
Year C
Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you.
Luke 11.9
Provident Father,
with the prayer your Son taught us always on our lips, we ask, we seek, we knock at your door:
help us so to seek that we may truly find, so to ask that we may joyfully receive, and so to knock that the door of mercy
may be opened for us;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
[Genesis 18.20–32 Psalm 138] Hosea 1.2–10 Psalm 85
Colossians 2.6–15 (16–19) Luke 11.1–13
Hosea 2.16–23 Psalm 138 Luke 11.14–28
Almighty God,
whose beloved Son for our sake
willingly endured the agony and shame of the cross:
give us courage and patience
to take up our cross daily and follow him;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
The Lord is near to all who call on him in truth. He fulfils the desire of all that fear him, hears their cry, and saves them.
Psalm 145.18–19
O God, giver of life and health, whose Son Jesus Christ has called us to hunger and thirst for justice: refresh us with your grace,
that we may not be weary in well-doing,
for the sake of him who meets all our needs,
Jesus Christ our Saviour;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
or, based on Genesis 32.22–31
O God,
with whom we wrestle until the break of day:
make us long to seek your face
beyond the limits of our strength,
that in our wounds we may remember you,
and in your blessing we may find ourselves;
through Jesus Christ. Amen.
[Isaiah 55.1–5 Psalm 145.8–9, 14–21] Genesis 32.22–31 Psalm 17.1–7, 16
Romans 9.1–8 (9–16) Matthew 14.13–21
Genesis 31.43a, 44–32.2 Psalm 145.14–21 Romans 10.17–11.6
Year B
Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labour for that which does not satisfy? Eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food.
Isaiah 55.2
Living God,
whose Son Jesus fed the hungry
with the bread of his life
and the word of his kingdom:
renew your people with your heavenly grace,
and in all our weakness
sustain us with your true and living bread,
Jesus Christ our Lord;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Exodus 16.2–4, 9–15 Psalm 78.22–28]
2 Samuel 11.26–12.13a Psalm 51.1–12
Ephesians 4.1–16 John 6.24–35
2 Samuel 12.13–24 Psalm 78.15–30 Ephesians 4.17–24
Year C
If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Colossians 3.1
Living God, Judge of us all,
you have placed in our hands the wealth we call our own:
through your Spirit give us wisdom,
that our possessions may not be a curse, but a means of blessing in our lives. Grant this through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Ecclesiastes 1.2, 12–14; 2.18–23 Psalm 49.1–12] Hosea 11.1–11 Psalm 107.1–9, 43
Colossians 3.1–11 Luke 12.13–21
Hosea 12.2–6 Psalm 49.1–12 Luke 12.22–31
Grant to us, Lord, we beseech you,
the spirit to think and do always such things as are right,
that we, who cannot do anything that is good without you,
may by you be enabled to live according to your will;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
They cried out in fear, but Jesus spoke to them and said, ‘Take heart, it is I; do not be afraid.’
Matthew 14.26–27
Mighty God and ruler of all creation, give new strength to our faith,
that we may recognise your presence even when all hope seems lost.
Help us to face all trials with serenity
as we walk with Christ through the stormy seas of life and come at the last to your eternal peace.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[1 Kings 19.9–18 Psalm 85.8–13] Genesis 37.1–4, 12–28 Psalm 105.1–6, 16–22
Romans 10.4–15 Matthew 14.22–36
Genesis 35 Psalm 85.1–7 Romans 11.7–16
Year B
Be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as
Christ loved us and gave himself up for us.
Ephesians 5.1–2
Grant, O Lord,
that we may see in you the fulfilment of all our need, and may turn from every false satisfaction
to feed on the true and living bread that you have given us in Jesus Christ;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[1 Kings 19.4–8 Psalm 34.1–8]
2 Samuel 18.5–9, 14, 31–33 Psalm 130
Ephesians 4.(17–24) 25–5.2 John 6.35, 41–51
2 Samuel 19.1–15 Psalm 34.1–10 Ephesians 5.1–14
Year C
Watch and be ready, for you do not know on what day your
Lord is coming.
Matthew 24.42, 44
Kindle in our hearts, Father,
the same faith that impelled Abraham
to set out from his home
and to live as a pilgrim in a foreign land.
As we, like him, look for the city
that none but you can design and build,
keep us watchful for your Son’s coming,
that we may be found faithful stewards
of all that you have entrusted to us.
We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
[Genesis 15. 1–6 Psalm 33.13–21] Isaiah 1.1, 10–20 Psalm 50.1–8, 23–24
Hebrews 11.1–3, 8–16 (17–28) Luke 12.32–40
Isaiah 2.10–17 Psalm 33.13–21
Luke 12.41–48 or Hebrews 11.17–28
Almighty God,
you have given your only Son
to be for us both a sacrifice for sin
and also an example of godly life:
give us grace that we may always thankfully receive
the benefits of his sacrifice,
and also daily endeavour
to follow the blessed steps of his most holy life;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Thus says the Lord, ‘Maintain justice, and do what is right, for soon my salvation will come, and my deliverance be revealed.’
Isaiah 56.1
God of freedom,
you have broken the tyranny of sin
and sent the Spirit of your Son into our hearts:
give us grace to dedicate our freedom to your service,
that all people may know the glorious liberty
of the children of God;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 56.1, 6–8 Psalm 67] Genesis 45.1–15 Psalm 133
Romans 11.13–32 (33–36) Matthew 15.(10–20) 21–28
Genesis 48.8–20 Psalm 67 Romans 11.17–28
Year B
Jesus said, ‘Those who eat my flesh and drink my blood abide in me, and I in them.’
John 6.56
Everliving God,
your Son, Jesus Christ, gave himself as living bread
for the life of the world:
give us such a knowledge of his presence
that we may be strengthened and sustained by his risen life to serve you continually;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in unity with the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Proverbs 9.1–6 Psalm 34.9–14]
1 Kings 2.10–12; 3.3–14 Psalm 111
Ephesians 5.11–21 (22–31) John 6.51–58
1 Kings 3.15–28 Psalm 34.9–18 Ephesians 6.1–9
Year C
‘Is not my word like fire,’ says the Lord, ‘and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?’
Jeremiah 23.29
Everliving God,
increase in us your gift of faith,
that, forsaking sin and all that hinders us,
we may run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Jeremiah 23.23–29 Psalm 82]
Isaiah 5.1–7 Psalm 80.1–2, 8–19
Hebrews 11.29–12.2 Luke 12.49–59
Isaiah 5.16–24 Psalm 82 Luke 13.1–9 or Hebrews 12.1–13
Creator God,
you have made us for yourself,
and our hearts are restless
until they find their rest in you:
teach us to offer ourselves to your service,
that here we may have your peace,
and in the world to come may see you face to face;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Martha said, ‘Yes, Lord, I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one coming into the world.’
John 11.27
or
Jesus said to them, ‘Who do you say that I am?’ Simon Peter answered, ‘You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.’
Matthew 16.15–16
O God, fount of all wisdom,
in the humble witness of the apostle Peter
you have shown the foundation of our faith:
give us the light of your Spirit,
that, recognising in Jesus of Nazareth
the Son of the living God,
we may be living stones
for the building up of your holy Church;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 51.1–6 Psalm 138] Exodus 1.8–2.10 Psalm 124
Romans 12.1–8 Matthew 16.13–20
Genesis 50.15–Exodus 1.7 Psalm 138 Romans 11.28–36
Year B
Jesus said, ‘It is the spirit that gives life; the flesh is useless. The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and life.’
John 6.63
Everliving God,
by whose Spirit the whole body of the Church
is governed and sanctified:
hear the prayers we offer for all your faithful people,
that in the ministry to which you have called them
each may serve you in holiness and truth;
through our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Joshua 24.1–2a, 14–18 Psalm 34.15–22]
1 Kings 8.(1, 6, 10–11), 22–30, 41–43 Psalm 84
Ephesians 6.10–20 John 6.56–69
1 Kings 10.1–13 Psalm 34.15–22 Ephesians 6.18–24
Year C
You, O Lord, are my hope, my trust from my youth. Upon you have I leaned since my birth.
Psalm 71.5–6
O God, the Judge of all,
through the saving blood of your Son
you have brought us to the heavenly Jerusalem
and given us a kingdom which cannot be shaken:
fill us with reverence and awe in your presence,
that in thanksgiving we and all your Church
may offer you acceptable worship;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives to intercede for us, now and for ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 58.9b–14 Psalm 103.1–8] Jeremiah 1.4–10 Psalm 71.1–6
Hebrews 12.18–29 Luke 13.10–17
Jeremiah 1.11–19 Psalm 103.1–8 Luke 13.18–30
Lord of all power and might,
the author and giver of all good things:
graft in our hearts the love of your name, increase in us true religion,
nourish us with all goodness,
and of your great mercy keep us in the same;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
If you want to become a disciple of Jesus, deny yourself, take up your cross and follow him.
Matthew 16.24–25
O God,
whose Son has shown the way of the cross
to be the way of life:
transform and renew our minds
that we may not be conformed to this world
but may offer ourselves wholly to you as a living sacrifice through Jesus Christ our Saviour;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Jeremiah 15.15–21 Psalm 26.1–8]
Exodus 3.1–15 Psalm 105.1–6, 23–26
Romans 12.9–21 Matthew 16.21–28
Exodus 11 Psalm 63 Romans 12.1–8
Year B
Every generous act of giving, with every perfect gift, is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.
James 1.17
Cleanse our consciences, O Lord,
and enlighten our hearts
through the daily presence of your Son Jesus Christ,
that when he comes in glory to be our judge
we may be found undefiled and acceptable in his sight;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Deuteronomy 4.1–2, 6–9 Psalm 15]
Song of Solomon 2.8–13 Psalm 45.1–2, 6–9
James 1.17–27 Mark 7.1–8, 14–23
Song of Solomon 4.7–15 Psalm 15 James 1.1–13
Year C
All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.
Luke 14.11
or
Let us continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that confess his name.
Hebrews 13.15
O God,
you invite the humble and the sinful to take their place in the festive assembly of the new covenant:
teach your Church always to honour the presence of the Lord in the poor and the outcast,
so that we may learn to recognise each other
as brothers and sisters gathered together around your table.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Proverbs 25.6–7 Psalm 112] Jeremiah 2.4–13 Psalm 81.1, 10–16
Hebrews 13.1–8, 15–16 Luke 14.1 (2–6) 7–14
Jeremiah 5.20–31 Psalm 68.1–8 Luke 14.15–24
O God,
you know us to be set in the midst
of so many and so great dangers
that by reason of the frailty of our nature
we cannot always stand upright:
grant to us such strength and protection
as may support us in all dangers
and carry us through all temptations;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
‘Where two or three are gathered in my name,’ says the Lord,
‘I am there among them.’
Matthew 18.20
or
Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for whoever loves another has fulfilled the law.
Romans 13.8
Go before us, O Lord,
and further us with your continual help,
that in all our works,
begun, continued, and ended in you,
we may glorify your holy name,
and finally, by your mercy, obtain everlasting life;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Ezekiel 33.7–11 Psalm 119.33–40] Exodus 12.1–14 Psalm 149
Romans 13.1–10 Matthew 18.10–20
Exodus 13.11–22 Psalm 95 Romans 13.11–14
Year B
So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty.
James 2.13
Almighty and everlasting God, increase our faith, hope, and love,
and, that we may receive all you promise, make us love what you command; through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
or
O God,
whose word is life,
and whose delight is to answer our cry:
give us faith like that of the woman
who refused to remain an outsider,
so that we too may have the wit to argue
and demand that our children be made whole,
through Jesus Christ. Amen.
[Isaiah 35.4–7a | Psalm 146] | |
Proverbs 22.1–2, 8–9, 22–23 | Psalm 125 | |
James 2.1–10 (11–13) 14–17 | Mark 7.24–37 |
Supplementary readings
Esther 2.1–11, 15–17
Psalm 146
Mark 8.1–22
Year C
Whoever does not carry the cross and follow Jesus cannot be his disciple.
Luke 14.27
God of the ages,
you call the Church to keep watch in the world
and to discern the signs of the times:
grant us the wisdom that your Spirit bestows,
so that with courage we may proclaim your prophetic word, and complete the work you have set before us;
through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Deuteronomy 30.15–20 Psalm 1]
Jeremiah 18.1–11 Psalm 139.1–5, 12–18
Philemon 1–25 Luke 14.25–35
Jeremiah 15.15–21 Psalm 1 Colossians 3.22–4.9
O God,
without you we are not able to please you:
mercifully grant that your Holy Spirit
may in all things direct and rule our hearts;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
If you, O Lord, should note what we do wrong, Lord, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with you, so that you may be revered.
Psalm 130.3–4
O God,
you call your Church to witness
that in Christ we are reconciled to you:
help us so to proclaim the good news of your love,
that all who hear it may turn to you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Genesis 50.15–21 Psalm 103.(1–7) 8–13]
Exodus 14.19–31 Psalm 114 or Exodus 15.1–13, 17–18
Romans 14.1–14 Matthew 18.21–35
Exodus 15.19–26 Psalm 103.8–13 Romans 14.13–15.6
Year B
Those who want to save their life will lose it, and those who lose their life for the sake of the gospel will save it.
Mark 8.35
God of mercy,
help us to forgive as you have forgiven us,
to trust you, even when hope is failing,
and to take up our cross daily
and follow you in your redeeming work;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 50.4–9a Psalm 116.1–9] Proverbs 1.20–33 or Wisdom of Solomon 7.26–8.1 Psalm 19
James 2.18–26 Mark 8.27–38
Esther 2.18–3.6 Psalm 116 Mark 9.2–13
Year C
I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.
Luke 15.10
Undaunted you seek the lost, O God, exultant you bring home the found: touch our hearts with grateful wonder
at the tenderness of your forbearing love;
grant us delight in the mercy that has found us;
and bring all to rejoice at the feast of forgiven sinners. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.
[Exodus 32.7–14 Psalm 51.1–10] Jeremiah 4.11–12, 22–28 Psalm 14
1 Timothy 1.1–2, 12–19a or 1 Timothy 1 Luke 15.1–10
Jeremiah 19.1–2, 10–15 Psalm 51.10–19 Colossians 3.12–21
Loving Father,
whose Son Jesus Christ has taught us
that what we do for the least of our brothers and sisters
we do also for him:
give us the will to be the servant of others
as he was the servant of all,
who gave up his life and died for us,
and yet lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
By grace you have been saved through faith, and this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God.
Ephesians 2.8–9
Loving and righteous God,
your boundless generosity exceeds
all that we can desire or deserve,
and you give to the last worker all you promised to the first:
liberate us from all jealousy and greed,
that we may be free to love and serve others,
and in your service may find our true reward;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
[Jonah 3.10–4.11 Psalm 145.1–8] Exodus 16.2–15 Psalm 105.1–6, 37–45
Philippians 1 or 1.21–30 Matthew 20.1–16
Exodus 16.14–31 Psalm 145.14–21 Romans 15.7–13
Year B
Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.
Mark 9.35
God and Father of all,
you have taught us through your Son
that the last shall be first,
and have made a little child the measure of your kingdom:
give us the wisdom from above,
so that we may understand that in your sight
the one who serves is the greatest of all.
We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Jeremiah 11.18–20 Psalm 54] Proverbs 31.10–31 Psalm 1
James 3.1–12 Mark 9.30–37
Esther 3.8–11, 15–4.5, 12–14 Psalm 54 Mark 9.14–29
Year C
You know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich.
2 Corinthians 8.9
O God,
you are rich in love for your people:
show us the treasure that endures
and, when we are tempted by greed,
call us back into your service
and make us worthy to be
entrusted with the wealth that never fails.
We ask this through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Amos 8.4–7 Psalm 113] Jeremiah 8.18–9.1 Psalm 79.1–9
1 Timothy 2.1–10 or 1 Timothy 3.14–4.6 Luke 16.1–13
Jeremiah 9.12–16, 23–24 Psalm 113 1 Timothy 3.1–13
O God,
you declare your almighty power
chiefly in showing mercy and pity:
mercifully grant us such a measure of your grace
that, running in the way of your commandments,
we may obtain your gracious promises,
and be made partakers of your heavenly treasure;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Come, let us return to the Lord, that we may live before him.
Hosea 6.1a, 2b
Grant, O merciful God,
that your people may have that mind that was in Christ Jesus,
who emptied himself, and took the form of a servant,
and in humility became obedient even to death.
For you have highly exalted him
and bestowed on him the name
that is above every name, Jesus Christ, the Lord;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, in everlasting glory. Amen.
[Ezekiel 18.1–4, 25–32 Psalm 25.1–9] Exodus 17.1–7 Psalm 78.1–4, 11–16
Philippians 2 or 2.1–13 Matthew 21.23–32
Exodus 18.5–24 Psalm 25.1–9 Romans 15.14–22 (23–29) 30–33
Year B
Salt is good; but if salt has lost its saltiness, how can it be seasoned? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another.
Mark 9.50
O God,
your Son has taught us
that those who give a cup of water in his name
will not lose their reward:
open our eyes to see those who are in need,
and teach us to set no store by riches and earthly rewards, so that, in surrendering ourselves to serve you
in your children,
we may labour for the treasure that endures;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
[Numbers 11.4–6, 10–16, 24–29 Psalm 19.7–14] Esther 7.1–6, 9–10; 9.20–22 Psalm 124
James 5.12–20 Mark 9.38–50
Esther 9.23–32 Psalm 19.7–14 James 3.13–4.7a
Year C
Confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective.
James 5.16
O God,
from whom light rises in darkness for those who seek you:
grant us, in all our doubts and uncertainties,
the grace to ask what you would have us do,
that in your light we may see light,
and in your narrow path may not stumble;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Amos 6.1a, 4–7 Psalm 146]
Jeremiah 32.1–3a, 6–15 Psalm 91.1–6, 14–16
1 Timothy 6.6–19 or 1 Timothy 4.12–5.8 Luke 16.19–31
Jeremiah 36.1–4, 14b–24, 32 Psalm 146 1 Timothy 4
Generous God, whose hand is open
to fill all things living with plenteousness: make us ever thankful for your goodness, and grant that we, remembering the account
that we must one day give,
may be faithful stewards of your bounty;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, let us press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3.13b–14
or
The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone; this was the Lord’s doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes.
Matthew 21.42
Almighty God,
your Son Jesus was the stone rejected by the builders,
and, by your doing, he has been made the chief cornerstone:
grant that, by the power of his Spirit working in us,
we may become living stones
built up into your dwelling place,
a temple holy and acceptable to you;
through Jesus Christ, our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 5.1–7 Psalm 80.7–15] Exodus 20.1–4, 7–9, 12–20 Psalm 19
Philippians 3 or 3.4b–14 Matthew 21.33–46
Exodus 22.21–22.9 Psalm 80.7–15 Romans 16.1–16
Year B
Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.
Mark 10.15
Loving God,
you have made us in your own image,
creating us male and female,
and you have consecrated the covenant of marriage
so that in it is signified the spiritual marriage between Christ
and his Church:
pour your grace upon all who are called to this holy state,
that, keeping their promise of faithfulness to each other,
they may reflect in their lives your love for us all;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
or
O God,
your Son has taught us
that we must receive your sovereign rule like a little child:
help us to turn to you in faith and simplicity of heart,
so that we may receive your blessing
and enter the kingdom your Son has promised;
through the same Jesus Christ, your Son, our Lord. Amen.
[Genesis 2.18–24 Psalm 8] Job 1.1; 2.1–10 Psalm 26
Hebrews 1.1–4; 2.5–12 Mark 10.2–16
Job 3 or Job 19.1–10, 17–27 Psalm 8 Hebrews 2.4, 14–3.6
Year C
‘Who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? But I am among you,’ says the Lord, ‘as one who serves.’
Luke 22.27
Faithful God,
have mercy on us your unworthy servants,
and increase our faith,
that, trusting in your Spirit’s power to work in us
and through us,
we may never be ashamed to witness to our Lord
but may obediently serve him all our days;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Habakkuk 1.1–4; 2.1–4 Psalm 37.1–9]
Lamentations 1.1–6 Lamentations 3.19–26 or Psalm 137
2 Timothy 1.1–14 Luke 17. (1–4) 5–10
Jeremiah 35 Psalm 37.1–9 2 Timothy 1.15–2.7
Almighty God,
in your wisdom you have so ordered our earthly life
that we must walk by faith and not by sight:
give us such trust in your fatherly care
that in the face of all perplexities
we may give proof of our faith by the courage of our lives;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
This is our God for whom we have waited; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.
Isaiah 25.9
Saving and healing God, you have promised
that those who have died with Christ shall live with him:
grant us grace to be continually thankful
for all you have done for us,
and in that thankfulness to be eager to serve
and live for others,
so that we and all your children may rejoice in your salvation;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 25.1–9 Psalm 23]
Exodus 32.1–14 Psalm 106.1–6, 20–24
Philippians 4 or 4.1–9 Matthew 22.1–14
Exodus 32.15–20; 33.7–11a Psalm 23 Romans 16.17–27
Year B
There is no one who has left house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields, for Jesus’ sake, who will not receive a hundredfold now in this age, with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life.
Mark 10.29–30
Merciful God,
in your Son you call not the righteous
but sinners to repentance:
draw us away from the easy road that leads to destruction, and guide us into paths that lead to life abundant,
that in seeking your truth, and obeying your will,
we may know the joy of being a disciple of Jesus our Saviour;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Amos 5.6–7, 10–15 Psalm 90.12–17] Job 23.1–9, 16–17 Psalm 22.1–15
Hebrews 4.12–16 Mark 10.17–31
Job 28.12–28 Psalm 90.12–17 Hebrews 4.1–11
Year C
What shall I return to the Lord for all his bounty to me? I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord, I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.
Psalm 116.12–14
O God,
you have made heaven and earth
and all that is good:
help us to delight in simple things
and to rejoice always in the richness of your bounty;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[2 Kings 5.1–3, 7–15c Psalm 111] Jeremiah 29.1, 4–7 Psalm 66.1–11
2 Timothy 2.(1–7) 8–15 Luke 17.11–19
Jeremiah 30.1–9 Psalm 111 2 Timothy 2.19–26
Almighty God,
your Son has opened for us
a new and living way into your presence:
give us pure hearts and steadfast wills
to worship you in spirit and in truth;
through the same Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
Give to Caesar the things that are Caesar ’s, and to God the things that are God’s.
Matthew 22.21
Almighty and everlasting God,
in Christ you have revealed your glory among the nations:
grant that your Church throughout the world
may persevere with steadfast faith
in proclaiming the cross to be the way that leads to life eternal;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
or
O God,
whose beauty is beyond our imagining
and whose power we cannot comprehend:
show us your glory,
as far as we can grasp it,
and shield us from knowing more than we can bear,
until we may look upon you without fear,
through Jesus Christ. Amen.
[Isaiah 45.1–7 Psalm 96.1–9 (10–13)] Exodus 33.12–23 Psalm 99
1 Thessalonians 1.1–10 Matthew 22.15–33
Exodus 34.1–8 Psalm 96 Philippians 4.10–20
Year B
The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
Mark 10.45
God of unchangeable power,
when the heaven and earth were made,
the morning stars sang together
and the host of heaven shouted for joy:
open our eyes to the wonders of creation
and teach us to use all things for good,
to the honour of your glorious name;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 53.4–12 Psalm 91.9–16]
Job 38.1–7, (34–41) Psalm 104.1–10, 26
Hebrews 5.1–10 Mark 10.(32–34) 35–45
Job 40.1–14 Psalm 91.9–16 Hebrews 6.19–7.3
Year C
Will not God grant justice to those who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them?
Luke 18.7–8
Lord, tireless guardian of your people,
teach us to rely, day and night, on your care.
Drive us to seek your justice and your help,
and support our prayer lest we grow weary,
for in you alone is our strength.
We make our prayer through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Genesis 32.22–31 Psalm 121] Jeremiah 31.27–34 Psalm 119.97–104
2 Timothy 3.10–4.5 Luke18.1–14
Jeremiah 38.1–13 Psalm 121 Luke 17.20–37
Almighty and everlasting God,
give to us the increase of faith, hope and love;
and, that we may obtain what you promise,
make us to love what you command;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great
and first commandment. And a second is like it: you shall love your neighbour as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.
Matthew 22.37–40
O God,
whose Son has taught us that love is the fulfilment of your law:
stir up within us the fire of your Holy Spirit,
and pour into our hearts your greatest gift of love,
so that we may love you with our whole being,
and our neighbours as ourselves;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Leviticus 19.1–2, 15–18 Psalm 1] Deuteronomy 34.1–12 Psalm 90.1–6, 13–17
1 Thessalonians 2.1–13 Matthew 22.34–46
Joshua 1.1–9 Psalm 1 Matthew 24.1–14
Year B
The redeemed of the Lord shall return and come to Zion with singing; and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads.
Isaiah 51.11
O God,
you give light to the blind and comfort to the sorrowing,
and in your Son you have given us
a High Priest who has offered the true sacrifice for us
and yet can sympathise with us in our weakness:
hear the cry of your people
and lead us home to our true country,
where with your Son and the Holy Spirit
you live and reign, one God, in glory everlasting. Amen.
[Jeremiah 31.7–9 Psalm 126]
Job 42.1–6, 10–17 Psalm 34.1–8, (19–22) Hebrews 7.21–28 Mark 10.46–52
Job 42.7–9 Psalm 126 Hebrews 8.1–6
Year C
Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of
God like a child shall not enter it.
Luke 18.17
or
Sell all that you own, and distribute the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow Jesus.
Luke 18.22
O God,
who alone can probe the depths of the heart,
you hear the prayer of the humble
and justify the repentant sinner:
grant us the gift of humility,
that, seeing our own faults clearly,
we may refrain from judging our neighbour
but rely solely upon your saving grace.
We make our prayer through your Son, our Saviour,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Jeremiah 14.7–10, 19–22 Psalm 84.1–7] Joel 2.23–32 Psalm 65
2 Timothy 4.6–8, 16–18 Luke 18.15–30
Jeremiah 14.7–10, 19–22 Psalm 84 Luke 18.31–43
God our Father,
whose will it is to bring all things
to order and unity in our Lord Jesus Christ:
may all the peoples of the world,
now divided and torn apart by sin,
be brought together under his sovereign rule of love;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
The greatest among you will be your servant. All who exalt themselves will be humbled, and all who humble themselves will be exalted.
Matthew 23.11–12
Creator God,
you have filled the world with beauty:
open our eyes to behold your gracious hand in all your works, that, rejoicing in your whole creation,
we may learn to serve you with gladness,
for the sake of him through whom all things were made,
your Son Jesus Christ our Lord;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Micah 3.5–12 Psalm 43]
Joshua 3.7–17 Psalm 107.1–7, 33–37
1 Thessalonians 3.5–13 or 4.1–8 Matthew 23.1–12, (37–39)
Joshua 4.1–19 Psalm 43 Matthew 23.13–26
Year B
Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one; you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength, and you shall love your neighbour as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.
Mark 10.29–31
God of peace,
you taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, in quietness and confidence shall be our strength:
by the power of your Spirit lift us to your presence,
where we may be still and know that you are God;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
or
O God,
whom to follow is to risk our whole lives:
as Ruth and Naomi loved and held to one another,
abandoning the ways of the past,
so may we also not be divided,
but travel together into that strange land
where you will lead us,
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
[Deuteronomy 6.1–9 Psalm 119.1–8] Ruth 1.1–18 Psalm 146
Hebrews 9.11–15 Mark 12.13–17, 28–34
Ruth 1.(19–21) 22–2.13 Psalm 119.1–8 Hebrews 9.15–24
Year C
Today salvation has come to this house, for the Son of Man came to seek out and to save the lost.
Luke 19.10
Merciful God, righteous Judge of all,
who sent Jesus among us to seek and to save those who are lost:
grant that we may eagerly seek the Saviour,
and joyfully welcome him into our homes and lives. We ask this through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Isaiah 1.10–18 Psalm 32.1–8] Habakkuk 1.1–4; 2.1–4 Psalm 119.137–144
2 Thessalonians 1.1–4, 11–12 Luke 19.1–10
Habakkuk 2.18–20; 3.16–19 Psalm 32.1–8 Luke 19.11–26
Blessed Lord,
you have caused all holy Scriptures to be written
for our learning:
grant that we may so hear them,
read, mark, learn and inwardly digest them,
that, by patience and the comfort of your holy word,
we may embrace and ever hold fast
the blessed hope of everlasting life,
which you have given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.
Year A
Watch and be ready, for you do not know on what day your
Lord is coming.
Matthew 24.42, 44
Eternal God,
you have taught us that the night is far spent
and the day is at hand:
keep us awake and alert, watching for your kingdom, so that when Christ, the bridegroom, comes
we may go out joyfully to meet him,
and with him enter into the marriage feast
that you have prepared for all who truly love you;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Amos 5.18–24 Psalm 70] Joshua 24.1–3a, 14–25 Psalm 78.1–7
1 Thessalonians 4.9–18 Matthew 25.1–13
Judges 2.7–19 Psalm 63 Matthew 24.21–35
Year B
Give and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap; for the measure you give will be the measure you get back.
Luke 6.38
O God,
whose blessed Son came into the world
that he might destroy the works of evil
and make us your children and heirs of eternal life:
grant that, having this hope,
we may purify ourselves as he is pure;
that, when he comes again with power and great glory,
we may be made like him in his eternal
and glorious kingdom;
where he lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[1 Kings 17.8–16 Psalm 146] Ruth 3.1–5; 4.13–17 Psalm 127
Hebrews 9.(19–22) 23–28 Mark 12.38–44
Ruth 4.7–12, 18–22 Psalm 146 Hebrews 10.1–10
Year C
‘I am the resurrection and the life,’ says the Lord. ‘Those who believe in me, even though they die, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.’
John 11.25–26
God of all the living,
in the resurrection of Christ Jesus
you have given us the promise of life
which death itself cannot destroy:
in the strength of this unshakeable promise,
give us a new heart to live, even now, as your new creation. We ask this through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Job 19.23–27a Psalm 17.1–9]
Haggai 1.15b–2.9 Psalm 145.1–5, 17–21 or Psalm 98
2 Thessalonians 2.1–5, 13–17 Luke 20.27–40
Zechariah 10.6–12 Psalm 17.1–9 Luke 20.41–21.4
Almighty God,
whose sovereign purpose none can make void:
give us faith to be steadfast amid the tumults of this world,
knowing that your kingdom shall come
and your will be done,
to your eternal glory;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
Year A
God has destined us not for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore encourage one another and build up each other.
1 Thessalonians 5.9, 11
Everliving God,
before the earth was formed,
and even after it shall cease to be, you are God. Break into our short span of life
and show us those things that are eternal,
that we may serve your purpose in all we do;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in unity with the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
[Zephaniah 1.7, 12–18 Psalm 90.1–8 (9–11) 12] Judges 4.1–10 Psalm 123
1 Thessalonians 5.1–11 Matthew 25.14–30
Judges 5.1–12 Psalm 90.1–12 Matthew 24.36–51
Year B
The Lord will judge the ends of the earth; he will give strength to his king, and exalt the power of his anointed.
1 Samuel 2.10
O God,
welcoming refuge for the outcast,
and upholder of justice for the oppressed:
maintain the hope of the poor,
so that the time may soon come
when no one need want for food and shelter,
and all will learn to share freely
following the example of your Son, who gave his very self; who now lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Daniel 12.1–3 Psalm 16]
1 Samuel 1.4–20 1 Samuel 2.1–8 (page 429) Hebrews 10.11–14 (15–18) 19–25 Mark 13.1–11
1 Samuel 1.21–28; 2.11 Psalm 16 Hebrews 10.31–39
Year C
May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways.
2 Thessalonians 3.16
Lord God of all the ages,
the One who is, who was, and who is to come: stir up within us a longing for your kingdom, keep our hearts steady in times of trial,
and grant us patient endurance until the Sun of justice dawns. We make our prayer through your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
[Malachi 4.1–2a Psalm 98]
Isaiah 65.17–25 Isaiah 12.2–6 (page 391)
2 Thessalonians 3.6–13 Luke 21.5–19
Zephaniah 3.14–20 Psalm 98 Luke 21.29–36
Stir up, we pray you, O Lord,
the wills of your faithful people,
that they, plenteously bringing forth the fruit of good works,
may by you be plenteously rewarded;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Year A
O shout to the Lord in triumph all the earth. Serve the Lord with gladness and come before his face with songs of joy.
Psalm 100.1
God of power and love,
who raised your Son Jesus from death to life,
resplendent in glory to rule over all creation:
free the world to rejoice in his peace,
to glory in his justice, and to live in his love.
Unite the human race in Jesus Christ your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Ezekiel 34.11–16, 20–24 Psalm 100 or Psalm 95.1–7
Ephesians 1.15–23 Matthew 25.31–46
1 Samuel 16.2–13 Psalm 93 Matthew 21.1–11
Year B
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power and wealth and wisdom and might and honour and glory and blessing.
Revelation 5.12
Everlasting God,
whose will is to restore all things in your well-beloved Son, our Lord and King:
grant that the people of earth,
now divided and enslaved by sin,
may be freed and brought together under his gentle
and loving rule;
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
2 Samuel 23.1–7 Psalm 132.1–12 (13–18)
or Daniel 7.9–10, 13–14 Psalm 93
Revelation 1.4b–8 John 18.33–37
Daniel 7.9–10, 13–14 Psalm 95.1–7 John 12.20–33
Year C
Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey.
Zechariah 9.9
Eternal God,
you exalted Jesus Christ to rule over all things,
and have made us instruments of his kingdom:
by your Spirit empower us to love the unloved, and to minister to all in need,
then at the last bring us to your eternal realm
where we may be welcomed into your everlasting joy
and may worship and adore you for ever;
through Jesus Christ our Lord,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Jeremiah 23.1–6 Luke 1.68–79 (page 10) or Psalm 46
Colossians 1.11–20 Luke 23.33–43
Deuteronomy 17.14–20 Psalm 46 1 Corinthians 15.19–28