O God, whose Son Jesus is the good shepherd of your people: Grant that when we hear his voice we may know him who calls us each by name, and follow where he leads; who, with you and the Holy Spirit, lives and reigns, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
New Testament
Acts 13:26-39
Officiant: The Word of the Lord. The People: Thanks be to God.
Psalm
Psalm
23
The True Shepherd of Israel, is also the Lamb of God
3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.
The True Shepherd of Israel, is also the Lamb of God
5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.
The True Shepherd of Israel, is also the Lamb of God
*At the end of the Psalms this is sung or said Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: * as it was in the beginning, is now, and will be for ever. Amen.
New Testament
Revelation 7:9-14
Officiant: The Word of the Lord. The People: Thanks be to God.
Gospel
John 10:22-30
Deacon:The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you. Or And with your spirit
Deacon: May the Lord be on our minds, on our lips, and on our hearts as we hear His Holy Gospel. The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to Saint John.
People: Glory to You, Lord Christ.
Deacon: We are reading from John's Gospel chapter 10, beginning at verse 22.
22 Now it was the Feast of Dedication in Jerusalem, and it was winter. 23 And Jesus walked in the temple, in Solomon's porch. 24 Then the Jews surrounded Him and said to Him, 'How long do You keep us in doubt? If You are the Christ, tell us plainly.' 25 Jesus answered them, 'I told you, and you do not believe. The works that I do in My Father's name, they bear witness of Me. 26 But you do not believe, because you are not of My sheep, as I said to you. 27 My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. 28 And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father's hand. 30 I and My Father are one.'
After the Gospel reading, the deacon elevates the book and says:
Deacon: The Gospel of the Lord.
People: Praise to You, Lord Christ.
Prayers of the People
Brothers and sisters, Jesus is risen and has given us access to the Father, therefore, let us bring our needs before Him.
That the Church will boldly proclaim that peace with God and eternal life flows from Christ alone.
Lord in Your mercy, Hear our prayer.
That all Bishops, Priest, and Deacons, like the Good Shepherd, will feed, equip and intercede for their flock.
Lord in Your mercy, Hear our prayer.
That governments will root out corruption and administer righteous laws without prejudice.
Lord in Your mercy, Hear our prayer.
That women who are expecting an unwanted child will consider adoption over abortion.
Lord in Your mercy, Hear our prayer.
That young men and women will respond to the call of God to serve Him and His people in future generations.
Lord in Your mercy, Hear our prayer.
That artists, authors, songwriters and film producers will use their talents to glorify God and influence people to righteous living.
Lord in Your mercy, Hear our prayer.
That we will listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd and do what He says.
Lord in Your mercy, Hear our prayer.
Most Merciful God, You sent Your Son that we may be justified with You through Him. Hear our prayer and give us the grace to be living examples of such a great Salvation. We ask this through Christ our Lord. AMEN