Better Gatherings

Category: Services of the Word Resources

  • Prayers in preparation for the ministry of God’s Word

    Since listening to the reading of Scripture and its exposition in preaching is such an important part of our gathering, we need to pray for God to give us attention, understanding, and the ability to obey. The following prayers could provide a helpful introduction to this part of the service. The prayer at 7.5 could also be used as a prayer of dedication at the end of a service or after the ministry of the word.

    7.1 Gracious Lord, you have caused all holy scriptures to be written for our learning: help us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them, that, encouraged and supported by your holy Word, we may embrace and always hold fast the joyful hope of everlasting life, which you have given us in our Saviour Jesus Christ. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book (modified)

    7.2

    Thank you Father for making yourself known to us, showing us the way of salvation through faith in your Son. We ask you now to teach us through your word, so that we may be ready to serve you, for the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

    Sunday Services
    7.3 We thank you heavenly Father, for inspiring all Scripture by the Holy Spirit. Help us by your Spirit so to hear your holy word that we may be equipped for every good work, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Sunday Services (modified)
    7.4 Heavenly Father, give us faith to receive your word, understanding to know what it means, and the will to put it into practice; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book

    7.5

    Almighty God, we thank you for the gift of your holy word. May it be a lantern to our feet, a light to our paths, and strength to our lives. Take us and use us to love and serve all people in the power of the Holy Spirit and in the name of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book
    7.6 Lord make your word our rule, your Spirit our teacher, and your glory our supreme concern, for the sake of our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

     

     

  • Concluding prayers and blessings

    A church service needs to have a definite conclusion, perhaps highlighting the implications of what has been taught and experienced, and praying for faithfulness in the week that lies ahead. Many New Testament letters end with some form of praise to God and commendation of believers to the care and guidance of God. These and other forms of blessing can provide a satisfying indication that the gathering has ended, even though the fellowship and ministry of believers continues informally in various ways.

    12.1

    Loving God, we thank you for hearing our prayers,
    feeding us with your word,
    and encouraging us in our meeting together.
    Take us and use us
    to love and serve you, and all people,
    in the power of your Spirit
    and in the name of your Son,
    Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    A Prayer Book for Australia

    12.2

    Eternal God and Father,
    by whose power we are created and by whose love we are redeemed:
    guide and strengthen us by your Spirit,
    that we may give ourselves to your service,
    and live this day in love to one another and to you;
    through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book

    12.3

    Lord Jesus Christ,
    send us out with confidence in your word,
    to tell the world of your saving acts,
    and bring glory to your name. Amen.

    A Prayer Book for Australia

    12.4

    Almighty God,
    you have given us grace to bring our prayers to you,
    and you promise that when two or three agree together in your name
    you will grant their requests.
    Fulfil now, Lord, our desires and prayers,
    as may be best for us.
    Grant us in this world knowledge of your truth,
    and in the world to come life everlasting. Amen.

    Chrysostom’s Prayer (modified), based on Matthew 18:19-20

    12.5

    Lord God,
    we rejoice in your greatness and power,
    your gentleness and love,
    your mercy and justice.
    Enable us by your Spirit
    to honour you in our thoughts,
    and words and actions,
    and to serve you in every aspect of our lives;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Sunday Services (modified)

    12.6

    For your goodness and generosity
    in giving us all we need,
    help us to praise you O God.
    In every circumstance of life,
    in good times and bad,
    help us to trust you, O God.
    In love and faithfulness,
    with all that we have and all that we are,
    help us to serve you, O God.
    As we speak or write or listen
    to those nearby or far away,
    help us to share your love, O God.
    In our plans and work
    for ourselves and for others,
    help us to glorify you, O God.
    In every thought and word and deed,
    by the power of your Holy Spirit,
    this week, may we live for you, O God.

    Sunday Services (modified)

    12.7

    To God the Father, who loved us,
    and made us accepted in the Beloved:
    to God the Son who loved us,
    and loosed us from our sins by his own blood:
    to God the Holy Spirit,
    who spreads the love of God abroad in our hearts:
    to the one true God be all love and all glory
    for time and for eternity. Amen.

    Cf. Ephesians 1:3-10; Romans 5:5

    12.8

    The Lord bless you and keep you;
    the Lord make his face shine on you,
    and be gracious to you;
    the Lord turn his face towards you
    and give you peace;
    and the blessing of God almighty,
    the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
    be among you and remain with you always. Amen.

    Cf. Numbers 6:24-26

    12.9

    The love of the Lord Jesus
    draw you to himself;
    the power of the Lord Jesus
    strengthen you in his service;
    the joy of the Lord Jesus fill your hearts;
    and the blessing of God almighty,
    the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
    be among you and remain with you always. Amen.

    12.10

    Go forth into the world in peace;
    be of good courage;
    hold fast that which is good;
    render to no one evil for evil;
    strengthen the fainthearted;
    support the weak;
    help the afflicted;
    honour everyone;
    love and serve the Lord,
    rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit;
    and the blessing of God almighty,
    the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
    be among you and remain with you always. Amen.

    Cf. 1 Thessalonians 5:13-22

    12.11

    Now to the King eternal,
    immortal, invisible,
    the only God,
    be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

    1 Timothy 1:17

    12.12

    To him who loves us
    and has freed us from our sins by his blood,
    and has made us to be a kingdom
    and priests to serve his God and Father,
    to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.

    Cf. Revelation 1:5b-6
    12.13 Other suitable biblical texts to use as concluding forms of praise or prayers for God’s blessing include: 

    Rom 15 13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

    2Cor 13 14 May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

    Gal 6 18 The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers. Amen.

    Eph 3 20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, 21 to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

    Eph 6 24 Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.

    Phil 4 20 To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

    1Thess 5 23 May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 24 The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it.

    2Thess 3 16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

    2Tim 4 22 The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you.

    Heb 13 20 May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, 21 equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

    2Pet 3 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen.
    2.14 Go in peace to love and serve the Lord,
    in the name of Christ. Amen.

  • Thanksgivings

    We often forget to give thanks to God, either for specific answers to prayer, or for his mercies in creation, family and social life, or for the progress of the gospel. As with petition, we have much to learn from the Bible and the example of other Christians. Thanksgivings 11.1, 11.2 and 11.3 can be said together or by the leader alone; 11.4 is best said by the leader alone; 11.5 is in a responsive form.

    11.1

    Almighty God and merciful Father,
    we give you humble and hearty thanks
    for all your goodness and loving kindness
    to us and to all people.
    We praise you for creating and sustaining us
    and for all the blessings of this life;
    but above all for your amazing love
    in redeeming the world by our Lord Jesus Christ,
    giving us grace and the hope of glory.
    Give us such a sense of all your goodness,
    that we may be truly thankful, and may praise you
    not only with our lips, but in our lives,
    by serving you in holy and righteous ways;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord,
    to whom with you and the Holy Spirit,
    be all honour and glory, now and for ever. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book (modified)

    11.2

    Gracious God, our heavenly Father,
    we humbly thank you
    for all your gifts so freely given:
    for life and health and safety,
    for work and rest and friendship,
    and for the wonder of creation.
    We thank you for preserving throughout history
    a people for yourself.
    Above all, we praise you for our Saviour Jesus Christ,
    for his death and resurrection,
    for your life-giving Spirit,
    and the hope of sharing in your glory.
    Fill our hearts with all joy and peace in believing;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book (modified)

    11.3

    Almighty God, creator and redeemer,
    we praise you for the beauty of the world around us,
    and for every gift we enjoy.
    Thank you for creating us
    to know you, to love you and to obey you.
    Most of all we praise you
    for your amazing love
    in sending your Son,
    to restore your world,
    by dying for us
    and rising to give us new life.
    Accept our praise and thanksgiving,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Sunday Services (modified)

    11.4

    Lord, you made all things,
    and you made us in your image
    to enjoy and govern them.
    We thank you
    for your work of creation,
    for the beauty we enjoy,
    for human skill and artistry.
    We thank you
    for community, friendship and love,
    for family and marriage,
    for the privilege of parenthood.
    Above all we thank you
    for Jesus, your Son,
    through whom you created all things,
    and by whom you sustain them.
    We thank you
    that he became one of us and died
    to reconcile all creation to you,
    in heaven and on earth,
    and to call us into peace with you. Amen.

    Sunday Services

    11.5

    Gracious and generous God,
    thank you for providing all our needs.
    Make us truly grateful, Lord.
    For families and friends,
    we give you thanks.
    For enjoyment of all that is good,
    we give you thanks.
    For the love of Jesus our Saviour,
    we give you thanks.
    For his life poured out in sacrifice for us,
    we give you thanks.

    Other thanksgivings may be added here.

    Lord, keep us mindful of those in need,
    that as we pray for them,
    we may be generous to them,
    as you are to us.
    We ask this in the name of Jesus,
    who alone gives us life eternal. Amen.

    Sunday Services

     

  • Intercessory prayers

    The Bible suggests many topics for intercessory prayer, some of which are rarely heard in our churches. Scripture and Christian experience also suggest that different patterns of prayer can be helpful for involving people and edifying the church. In addition to those listed here, other patterns for intercession may be found in An Australian Prayer Book, pp. 91-102, A Prayer Book for Australia, pp. 184-87, and New Patterns for Worship, pp. 185-218. It is easier to concentrate on prayers that are not too long and invite a congregational response on a regular basis. Spontaneous or extempore prayer can be broken up by responses such as these, signalling a change of topic:

    Lord in your mercy,
    hear our prayer.

    or

    Lord hear us.
    Lord, graciously hear us.

    or

    Father, hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    or

    God of grace,
    hear our prayer.

    10.1

    Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ has promised that you will hear us when we ask in faith: receive the prayers we offer.

    We give thanks for… We pray for…
    Christians in other countries, especially where there is suffering, danger and persecution; those sent out as missionaries (especially…); Christians in our country; the Anglican Church of Australia; this diocese; N our archbishop and N our regional bishop; this parish; N our minister(s)…

    Strengthen your people for their witness and work in the world. Fill your ministers with your Spirit, that they may faithfully preach the gospel and administer your holy sacraments. Unite in the truth all who confess your name, that we may live together in love and proclaim your glory in all the world.
    Father, hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    We give thanks for… We pray for…
    the peoples of the world and their leaders; countries in crisis; the Queen of Australia, leaders of Federal, State and local government; the police and those who administer our laws; all who have responsibility; all men and women in their daily work.

    Give wisdom to those in authority in every land, and give to all peoples a desire for righteousness and peace, with the will to work together in trust, to seek the common good and to share with justice the resources of the earth,.
    Father, hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    We give thanks for… We pray for…our community:
    one another; our local community; those caring for people in need; those who teach Scripture in our schools; people known to us (especially…)…

    We commend to your keeping, Father, ourselves and each other, our families, our neighbours, and our friends. Enable us by your Spirit to live in love for you and for one another.
    Father, hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    We give thanks for… We pray for… those in need:
    those who suffer; the sick; the poor; the distressed; the lonely; the unloved; the persecuted; the unemployed; those who grieve; and those who care for them…

    Comfort and heal, merciful Lord, all who are in sorrow, need, sickness, or any other trouble. Give them a firm trust in your goodness; help those who minister to them; and bring us all into the joy of your salvation.
    Father, hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    We give thanks for the life and witness of…
    We praise you, Lord God, for your faithful servants in every age, and ask that we may share with them Christ’s resurrection glory, through his death and rising again for our salvation.

    Hear us, Father, through Jesus Christ our Lord,
    who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
    one God, now and forever. Amen.
    or
    Accept our prayers through Jesus Christ our Lord, who taught us to pray
    Our Father…

    An Australian Prayer Book, as modified in Sunday Services

    10.2

    Gracious Father,
    your Son Jesus Christ has promised that you will hear us when we ask in faith:
    receive the prayers we offer.

    We give thanks for… We pray for… the nations:
    Guide with your wisdom and power the leaders of the nations, so that everyone may live in peace and mutual trust, sharing with justice the resources of the earth. Give the people of this land a spirit of unselfishness, compassion, and fairness in public and private life.
    Lord, in your mercy,
    hear our prayer.

    We give thanks for… We pray for…the Church:
    Send out the light and truth of your gospel and bring people everywhere to know and love you. Enable those who minister among us to commend your truth by their example and teaching. May we gladly receive and obey your word.
    Lord, in your mercy,
    hear our prayer.

    We give thanks for… We pray for…those in need:
    We commend to your fatherly care, merciful God, all who are in sorrow, sickness, discouragement or any other trouble. Give them patience and a firm trust in your goodness. Help those who care for them, and bring us all into the joy of your salvation.
    Lord, in your mercy,
    hear our prayer.

    We give thanks for the life and work of…
    We praise you for all your servants whose lives have honoured Christ. Encourage us by their example, so that we may run with perseverance the race that lies before us, and share with them the fullness of joy in your kingdom.

    Hear us, Father, through Jesus Christ our Lord,
    who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
    one God, now and forever. Amen.

    A Prayer Book for Australia (modified).

    10.3

    God of everlasting love,
    you generously provide all things for us.
    We pray for people everywhere:
    make your way known to them,
    your saving power among all nations
    (especially we pray for…).

    We pray for the welfare of your church here on earth:
    guide and govern it by your good Spirit,
    so that all who call themselves Christians
    may be led in the way of truth,
    and hold the faith in unity of spirit,
    in the bond of peace, and in righteousness of life
    (especially we pray for…).

    We commend to your fatherly goodness
    all who are afflicted or distressed
    in body, mind or circumstances
    (especially we pray for…).

    Relieve them according to their needs,
    give them patience in their sufferings,
    and deliver them from all their afflictions.
    All this we ask for the sake of Jesus Christ our Saviour. Amen.

    Sunday Services (modified)

    10.4

    Almighty God,
    we praise you for your creation,
    and all you richly provide.
    Enable us to live in such a way
    that your majesty and mercy
    are seen by all.
    Father hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    All governments rule under your authority.
    May they work for the good of those they rule,
    seeking your justice and peace in every law and action.
    Father hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    Enable those who are engaged in industry and commerce,
    the media and education, sport and the arts,
    to fulfil their responsibilities with integrity and an attitude of service.
    Father hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    Comfort and strengthen those who are gripped by poverty,
    weakened by illness, or oppressed by cruelty.
    May they know your love and experience your care.
    Father hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    Inspire your church here on earth to proclaim the gospel of your love
    in the death and resurrection of your Son.
    May all people hear the call to trust you.
    Father hear our prayer,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord.

    Help your people to display your compassion to all those in need.
    May the poor and the lost of this world find in you
    their true wealth and sure destiny.
    Refresh and equip us, O God,
    to be your faithful and obedient people,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Sunday Services (modified)

  • Creeds and other affirmations of faith

    Creeds are normally used in response to the reading of Scripture or its exposition in a sermon. As well as uniting us in the expression of revealed truths, traditional creeds and other affirmations of faith are forms of praise to God, because they acknowledge the character and mighty acts of God as Trinity.

     

    9.1 I believe in God, the Father Almighty,
    creator of heaven and earth.
    I believe in Jesus Christ,
    God’s only Son, our Lord,
    who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
    born of the Virgin Mary,
    suffered under Pontius Pilate,
    was crucified, died, and was buried;
    he descended to the dead.
    On the third day he rose from the dead;
    he ascended into heaven,
    and is seated at the right hand of the Father;
    from there he will come to judge
    the living and the dead.
    I believe in the Holy Spirit,
    the holy catholic Church,
    the communion of saints,
    the forgiveness of sins,
    the resurrection of the body,
    and the life everlasting. Amen.

    The Apostles’ Creed

    9.2

    Do you believe and trust in God the Father?
    We believe in God, the Father Almighty,
    creator of heaven and earth.

    Do you believe and trust in God the Son?
    We believe in Jesus Christ,
    God’s only Son, our Lord,
    who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
    born of the Virgin Mary,
    suffered under Pontius Pilate,
    was crucified, died and was buried;
    he descended to the dead.
    On the third day he rose from the dead;
    he ascended into heaven.
    and is seated at the right hand of the Father;
    from there he will come again to
    judge the living and the dead.

    Do you believe and trust in the Holy Spirit?
    We believe in the Holy Spirit,
    the holy, catholic Church,
    the fellowship of the saints,
    the forgiveness of sins,
    the resurrection of the body, and life eternal. Amen.

    A responsive version of The Apostles’ Creed

    9.3

    We believe in one God,
    the Father, the Almighty,
    maker of heaven and earth
    of all that is, seen and unseen.
    We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,
    the only Son of God,
    eternally begotten of the Father,
    God from God, Light from Light,
    true God from true God,
    begotten not made,
    of one being with the Father;
    through him all things were made.
    For us and for our salvation
    he came down from heaven,
    was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary
    and became truly human.
    For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
    he suffered death and was buried.
    On the third day he rose again
    in accordance with the Scriptures;
    he ascended into heaven
    and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
    He will come again in glory to judge
    the living and the dead
    and his kingdom will have no end.
    We believe in the Holy Spirit,
    the Lord, the giver of life,
    who proceeds from the Father and the Son,
    who with the Father and the Son
    is worshipped and glorified,
    who has spoken through the prophets.
    We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
    We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
    We look for the resurrection of the dead,
    and the life of the world to come. Amen.

    The Nicene Creed

    9.4

    We believe in one God,
    the Father, the Almighty,
    maker of heaven and earth,
    of all that is, seen and unseen.

    We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,
    the only Son of God,
    eternally begotten of the Father,
    God from God, Light from Light,
    true God from true God,
    begotten not made,
    of one being with the Father;
    through him all things were made.
    For us and for our salvation
    he came down from heaven,
    was incarnate of the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary
    and became truly human.
    For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
    he suffered death and was buried.
    On the third day he rose again
    in accordance with the Scriptures;
    he ascended into heaven
    and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
    He will come again in glory to judge
    the living and the dead
    and his kingdom will have no end.

    We believe in the Holy Spirit,
    the Lord, the giver of life,
    who proceeds from the Father and the Son,
    who with the Father and the Son is worshipped and glorified.
    He has spoken through the prophets.
    We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
    We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
    We look for the resurrection of the dead,
    and the life of the world to come. Amen.

    A responsive version of The Nicene Creed

    9.5

    We believe in one God
    Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
    He is the true and living God,
    worthy to receive glory and honour and power.
    He created all things,
    by his will they existed and were created.
    We believe in the Lord Jesus Christ;
    all things came into being through him.
    He is the image of the invisible God
    the firstborn of all creation.
    In him all things in heaven and on earth were created.
    He himself is before all things,
    and in him all things hold together.
    Being in the form of God, he emptied himself,
    he took the form of a slave, and was born in human likeness.
    Being found in human form, he humbled himself
    he became obedient to the point of death – even death on a cross.
    Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures;
    he was buried; he was raised on the third day, according to the Scriptures.
    God also highly exalted Jesus:
    he gave him the name that is above every name.
    God has put all things under his feet:
    he made him the head over all things for the church, which is his body.
    We believe that Jesus died and rose again:
    through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have died.
    As all die in Adam,
    so all will be made alive in Christ.
    Thanks be to God
    who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

    Sunday Services (an affirmation of faith based on various biblical texts)

    9.6

    Jesus Christ is the image of the invisible God,
    the firstborn of all creation.
    For in him all things in heaven and on earth were created:
    things visible and invisible,
    whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers;
    all things have been created through him and for him.
    He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together.
    And he is the head of the body, the church;
    he is the beginning, the firstborn from among the dead,
    so that he might come to have first place in everything.
    For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell,
    and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things,
    whether on earth or in heaven,
    by making peace through the blood of his cross.

    Sunday Services (an affirmation of faith based on Colossians 1:15-20)

    9.7

    With all Christians everywhere,
    we believe in one God,
    who made everything.
    The Father sent his Son Jesus
    to die on the cross.
    Jesus rose again as Lord of all,
    that we might live forever with him.
    God sent his Holy Spirit to live in us,
    that we might grow more like Jesus. Amen    .

    Sunday Services

    9.8

    We believe in God the Father,
    maker of all things.
    We believe in his Son Jesus Christ,
    Lord and Saviour of the world.
    We believe in the Holy Spirit,
    giver of life and light.
    We belong to the Church,
    God’s family everywhere. Amen.

    Sunday Services

    9.9

    Do you believe and trust in God the Father,
    source of all being and life,
    the one for whom we exist?
    We believe and trust in him.
    Do you believe and trust in God the Son,
    who took our human nature,
    died for us and rose again?
    We believe and trust in him.
    Do you believe and trust in God the Holy Spirit,
    who gives life to the people of God
    and makes Christ known in the world?
    We believe and trust in him.
    This is the faith of the Church.
    This is our faith.
    We believe and trust in one God,
    Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen    .

    Common Worship

  • Scriptural expressions of praise

    Many wonderful songs of praise have been written throughout the centuries and regularly find their place in our services.  But there is great benefit in reading together biblical expressions of praise, in the language that God inspired.  Many passages from the Psalms could be used in this way.  Suitable passages from other parts of the Bible are suggested here, some combining verses from different contexts.

    • An Australian Prayer Book includes versions of the following, in a form that can easily be recited together:

    Hymn to the Risen Christ (1 Corinthians 5:7; Romans 6:9; 1 Corinthians 15:20, p. 23)

    Te Deum (‘We praise you O God’, p. 24)

    The Song of Zechariah (Luke 1:68-79, p. 25)

    The Song of Mary (Luke 1:46-55, p. 30)

    The Song of Simeon (Luke 2:29-32, p. 30)

    Hymn to the Word (John 1:1-5, 10-14, 16, p. 70)

    Ephesians 1:3-6 (p. 73)

    A Song of Isaiah (Isaiah 12:2-6, p. 71)

    A Song of Christ’s Glory (Philippians 2:6-11, p. 76)

    Hebrews 10:19-22 (p. 79)

    Jesus Saviour of the World (p. 80)

    Ephesians 2:4-7 (p. 81)

    A Song to the Lamb (Revelation 4:11; 5:9b-10, p. 82)

    Great and Wonderful (Revelation 15:3-4, p. 85).

    • Common Worship (pp. 786-96) contains the following additional biblical ‘songs’ or passages suitable for corporate praise:

    A Song of the Wilderness (Advent, Isaiah 35:1, 2b-4a, 4c-6, 10)

    A Song of the Messiah (Christmas, Isaiah 9:2, 3b, 4a, 6, 7)

    A Song of the New Jerusalem (Epiphany, Isaiah 60:1-3, 11a, 18, 19, 14b)

    A Song of Humility (Lent, Hosea 6:1-6)

    The Song of Moses and Miriam (Easter, Exodus 15:1b-3, 6, 10, 13, 17)

    A Song of Ezekiel (Pentecost, Ezekiel 36:24-26, 28b)

    A Song of David (1 Chronicles 29:10b-13, 14b)

    A Song of the Spirit (Advent, Revelation 22:12-14, 16, 17)

    A Song of Redemption (Christmas, Colossians 1:13-18a, 19, 20a)

    A Song of Praise (Epiphany, Revelation 4:11; 5:9b, 10)

    A Song of Christ the Servant (Lent, 1 Peter 2:21b-25)

    A Song of Faith (Easter, 1 Peter 1:3-5, 18, 19, 21)

    A Song of God’s Children (Pentecost, Romans 8:2, 15, 15b-19)

    A Song of the Lamb (Revelation 19:1b, 5b, 6b, 7, 9b)

  • Assurances of forgiveness

    It is essential to follow a corporate confession of sin with some assurance of forgiveness, remembering the basis of that forgiveness in the sacrifice of the Lord Jesus Christ. This is an important moment for proclaiming gospel promises and offering hope to those with guilty consciences. It should not be a mere formality. Scripture verses, declarations of forgiveness, and prayers for renewal of life and obedience can be included, together with suitable songs. The numbers here correspond with those in section 5, so that 6.1 is the form of assurance that was written to follow the confession at 5.1, and so on. In some cases, new compositions have been paired with familiar confessions.

    6.1 The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ has no pleasure in the death of sinners,
    but would rather they should turn from their wickedness and live.
    He has given authority to his ministers to declare to his people when they repent
    the forgiveness of their sins.
    God pardons and absolves all who truly repent and believe his holy gospel.
    So we ask him to grant us true repentance and his Holy Spirit,
    that what we do now may please him
    and that the rest of our life may be pure and holy,
    so that at the last we may come to his eternal joy;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    The Book of Common Prayer (revised)

    6.2

    God pardons those who humbly repent and truly believe the gospel.
    Since Jesus died for us, we have peace with God,
    to whom be praise and honour for ever. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book (modified).

    6.3

    Almighty God our heavenly father,
    who of his great mercy has promised forgiveness of sins
    to all who with hearty repentance and true faith turn to him:
    have mercy on you; pardon and deliver you from all your sins;
    confirm and strengthen you in all goodness;
    and keep you in eternal life;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book

    6.4

    Almighty God,
    who has promised forgiveness of sins to all who turn to him in faith:
    pardon you and set you free from all your sins,
    strengthen you to do his will,
    and keep you in eternal life;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book

    6.5

    God is slow to anger and full of compassion.
    He forgives all who humbly repent and trust in his Son as Saviour and Lord.
    There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. Amen.

    Cf. Exodus 34:6-7; Romans 8:1

    6.6

    Our God fulfils his promises and is true to his word.
    We have confessed our sins.
    God has forgiven us,
    because Christ died for us. Amen.

    Sunday Services

    6.7

    Our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ gave himself for us
    to redeem us from all wickedness
    and to purify for himself are people that are his very own,
    eager to do what is good.
    Thanks be to God for his inexpressible gift! Amen.

    Cf. Titus 2:13-14; 2 Cor. 9:15

    6.8

    May the Father of all mercies cleanse us from our sins,
    and restore us in his image,
    to the praise and glory of his name,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Common Worship

    6.9

    May the Father forgive us by the death of his Son
    and strengthen us to live in the power of the Spirit all our days. Amen.

    Common Worship

    6.10

    Merciful Lord,
    grant to your faithful people pardon and peace,
    that they may be cleansed from all their sins,
    and serve you with a quiet mind;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book

  • General confessions

    Various forms of confession are possible, including prayers said together, prayers said by the leader alone on behalf of the congregation, responsive prayers with pauses for reflection, and scriptural passages shared together. A confession of sin, whether said together or shared in a responsive form, should allow those present to acknowledge the seriousness of their sin and express genuine repentance. At the same time, it should indicate that the character of God and the saving work of the Lord Jesus are the basis for seeking forgiveness and the grace to change. If possible, a declaration of forgiveness or absolution should be chosen which reflects the language, length and theme of the confession. Suggestions are made at section 6 to assist in this choice.

    5.1 Almighty and most merciful Father,
    we have erred and strayed from your ways like lost sheep.
    We have followed too much the devices and desires of our own hearts.
    We have offended against your holy laws.
    We have left undone what we ought to have done,
    and we have done what we ought not to have done,
    and there is no health in us.
    Yet, good Lord, have mercy on us:
    restore those who are penitent,
    according to your promises declared to us in Jesus Christ our Lord.
    And grant, merciful Father, for his sake,
    That we may live a godly, righteous, and obedient life,
    to the glory of your holy name. Amen.

    The Book of Common Prayer (modified)

    5.2

    Most merciful God,
    we humbly admit that we need your help.
    We confess that we have wandered from your way:
    we have done wrong, and we have failed to do what is right.
    You alone can save us.
    Have mercy on us:
    wipe out our sins and teach us to forgive others.
    Bring forth in us the fruit of the Spirit
    that we may live as disciples of Christ.
    This we ask in the name of Jesus our Saviour. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book

    5.3

    Almighty God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,
    maker of all things, judge of all people,
    we acknowledge with shame the sins we have committed,
    by thought, word and deed, against your divine majesty,
    provoking most justly your wrath and indignation against us.
    We earnestly repent, and are heartily sorry for all our misdoings.
    Have mercy on us, most merciful Father.
    For your Son our Lord Jesus Christ’s sake
    forgive us all that is past,
    and grant that from this time forward
    we may serve and please you in newness of life,
    to the honour and glory of your name,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book

    5.4

    Merciful God,
    our maker and our judge,
    we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed:
    we have not loved you with our whole heart,
    we have not loved our neighbours as ourselves:
    we repent, and are sorry for all our sins.
    Father, forgive us.
    Strengthen us to love and obey you in newness of life;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book

    5.5

    Heavenly Father,
    we praise you for adopting us as your children
    and making us heirs of eternal life.
    In your mercy you have washed us from our sins
    and made us clean in your sight.
    Yet we still fail to love you as we should
    and serve you as we ought.
    Forgive us our sins and renew us by your grace,
    that we may continue to grow as members of Christ,
    in whom alone is our salvation. Amen.

    Sunday Services

    5.6

    Almighty God, our heavenly Father,
    you are merciful and kind,
    but we have gone our own way,
    not loving you as we ought,
    nor loving our neighbours as ourselves.
    We have sinned against you in thought, word and deed
    and in what we have failed to do.
    We deserve your condemnation.
    Father, forgive us.
    Help us to love you and our neighbour,
    and to live for your honour and glory;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Sunday Services (modified)

    5.7

    Heavenly Father,
    you have loved us with an everlasting love,
    but we have gone our own way,
    and rejected your will for our lives.
    We are sorry for our sins and turn away from them.
    For the sake of your Son who died for us,
    forgive us, cleanse us, and change us.
    By your Holy Spirit, enable us to live for you,
    and to please you in every way;
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Sunday Services (modified)

    5.8

    (Come let us return to the Lord and say:)
    Lord our God,
    in our sin we have avoided your call.
    Our love for you is like a morning cloud,
    like the dew that goes early away.
    Have mercy on us;
    deliver us from judgement;
    bind up our wounds and revive us;
    in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Common Worship (cf. Hosea 6)

    5.9

    (Let us admit to God the sin which always confronts us.)
    Lord God,
    we have sinned against you;
    we have done evil in your sight.
    We are sorry and repent.
    Have mercy on us according to your love.
    Wash away our wrongdoing and cleanse us from our sin.
    Renew a right spirit within us
    and restore us to the joy of your salvation,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Common Worship (cf. Psalm 51)

    5.10

    Gracious God, we have come to see that our lives fall far short of your glory.
    Have mercy and forgive us.
    You have given your Son for us, and poured out your Spirit, yet we fail to return your love with all our heart.
    Have mercy and change us.
    Too often we are selfish and proud, ignoring you and neglecting others.
    Have mercy and cleanse us.
    When we do not truly trust and obey you, we are overwhelmed by self-pity, fear and worry.
    Have mercy and deliver us.
    In Christ we are given a sure hope and secure love, yet we follow the false hopes and desires of this world.
    Have mercy and renew us.
    Father, through the redeeming death of your Son, by your Spirit, and through your word,
    enable us to follow you with joy.
    All this we ask, confident of your faithfulness and love. Amen.

    Sunday Services (modified)

  • Invitations to confess sins

    Whether the confession of sin is to take place at the beginning or later in the service, it should be preceded by a brief time of preparation. This may involve the recital of biblical texts, a brief exhortation, or a song pointing to the need for confession and highlighting God’s provision for our forgiveness. Attention can be drawn to particular words in the confession about to be used, so that all may reflect on the significance of what they will say together. If the beginning of a service has been characterised by praise, an appropriate bridge to confession should be provided. Alternatively, a call to confess sins may be directly linked with the general introductions in section 1 and provide a penitential opening to the service, as in the traditional Prayer Book exhortation (4.1). Whatever the pattern, appropriate sentences or brief exhortations should highlight the need to confess our sin and be assured of God’s forgiveness, as we approach him together. There should be a pause for reflection between the invitation and the confession. Biblical texts can be used before or after the exhortations. If there is need to respond to a sermon with penitence, the confessions and assurances in sections 5 and 6 can be used at that point in the service.

    4.1 Dear friends, the Scriptures urge us to acknowledge our sins,
    and not to conceal them in the presence of God our heavenly Father,
    but to confess them with a penitent and obedient heart,
    so that we may be forgiven through his boundless goodness and mercy.
    We ought always humbly to admit our sins before God,
    but chiefly when we meet together
    to give thanks for the benefits we have received at his hands,
    to offer the praise that is due to him,
    to hear his holy word,
    and to ask what is necessary for the body as well as the soul.
    Therefore, let us draw near to the throne of our gracious God,
    and pray together.

    An Australian Prayer Book
    4.2

    We are the people of God,
    but Scripture reminds us that we still sin.
    We need to confess our failures,
    knowing that the Lord Jesus intercedes for us with the Father,
    who freely forgives us, through his infinite goodness and mercy.
    So let us draw near to God with sincerity and confidence, and pray together.

    Sunday Services
    4.3

    The gospel calls us to turn away from sin and be faithful to Christ.
    As we offer ourselves to him in penitence and faith,
    we renew our confidence and trust in his mercy.

    New Patterns for Worship
    4.4

    When the Lord comes,
    He will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness,
    and will disclose the purposes of the heart.
    Therefore, in the light of Christ let us confess our sins.

    New Patterns for Worship
    4.5

    Compassion and forgiveness belong to the Lord our God,
    though we have rebelled against him.
    Let us then renounce our wilfulness and seek his mercy
    by confessing our sins in penitence and faith.

    New Patterns for Worship
    4.6

    Christ himself bore our sins in his body on the cross,
    so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness;
    by his wounds we have been healed.
    So let us acknowledge our failure and disobedience,
    and return to the Lord with penitence and faith.

    Cf. 1 Peter 2:24-25
    4.7

    God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
    If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in the darkness,
    we lie and do not practise the truth.
    But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light,
    we have fellowship with one another,
    and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin.
    So let us confess our sins to God,
    knowing that he is faithful and just,
    to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

    Cf. 1 John 1:5-6, 9 ESV
    4.8 Biblical texts which may be used to move us to repentance include the following:.

    Psalm 32 1 Blessed is he whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. 2 Blessed is the man whose sin the LORD does not count against him and in whose spirit is no deceit.

    Psalm 51 17 The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.

    Psalm 143 2 Do not bring your servant into judgment, for no one living is righteous before you.

    Isaiah 1 18 “Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.

    Isaiah 55 6 Seek the LORD while he may be found; call on him while he is near. 7 Let the wicked forsake his way and the evil man his thoughts. Let him turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on him, and to our God, for he will freely pardon. 8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.

    Ezekiel 18 27 But if a wicked man turns away from the wickedness he has committed and does what is just and right, he will save his life.

    Ezekiel 18 32 For I take no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Sovereign LORD. Repent and live!

    Daniel 9 9 The Lord our God is merciful and forgiving, even though we have rebelled against him; 10 we have not obeyed the LORD our God or kept the laws he gave us through his servants the prophets.

    Joel 2 13 Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the LORD your God, for he is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and he relents from sending calamity.

    Matthew 2237 Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

    Mark 1 15 “The time has come,” he said. “The kingdom of God is near. Repent and believe the good news!”

    Luke 15 18 I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. 19 I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’

    Acts 3 19 Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord,

    Acts 17 30 In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. 31 For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to all men by raising him from the dead.”

    Titus 2 13 while we wait for the blessed hope– the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.

    1 John 3 2 Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. 3 Everyone who has this hope in him purifies himself, just as he is pure.

  • Opening prayers and praises

    An opening prayer or act of praise is a significant opportunity to express our desire to encounter God together. There may be specific things for which to thank God, but mostly we will want to pray for him to be honoured in our gathering and for our faith, hope and love to be increased as we minister to one another in his name. After a simple greeting, these or other prayers and praises may introduce a service. They may also be included later at section 7, after the confession of sin and assurance of forgiveness. As well as inviting us to praise God, they seek his help in hearing and responding to his word appropriately. The first four may be used responsively or by the leader alone.

    3.1 Open our lips, O Lord,
    and we shall declare your praise.
    Give us the joy of your saving help,
    and sustain us with your life-giving Spirit.

    Cf. Psalms 51:15, 12

    3.2

    Sing to the Lord, praise his name;
    proclaim his salvation day after day.
    Declare his glory among the nations,
    his marvellous deeds among all peoples.

    Psalm 96:2-3

    3.3

    To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb
    be praise and honour and glory and power,
    for ever and ever! A    men

    Revelation 5:13

    3.4

    Great and marvellous are your deeds,
    Lord God Almighty.
    Just and true are your ways,
    King of the nations.
    Who will not fear you, Lord,
    and bring glory to your name?
    For you alone are holy.
    All nations will come and worship before you
    For your righteous acts have been revealed.

    Revelation 15:3-4

    3.5

    God our Father,
    we pray that the message of your Son
    will dwell richly among us,
    as we teach and admonish one another
    with the wisdom you give,
    and sing with thankfulness in our hearts to you.
    And whatever we do, in word or deed,
    may it be done
    in the name of our Saviour Jesus Christ,
    and for his glory. Amen.

    Cf. Colossians 3:16-17

    3.6

    Faithful one, whose word is life,
    come with saving power
    to free our praise,
    inspire our prayer
    and shape our lives
    for the kingdom of your Son,
    Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    New Patterns for Worship

    3.7

    Almighty God,
    to whom all hearts are open,
    all desires known,
    and from whom no secrets are hidden:
    cleanse the thoughts of our hearts
    by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit,
    that we may perfectly love you,
    and worthily magnify your holy name,
    through Christ our Lord. Amen.

    An Australian Prayer Book
    3.8 Almighty God,
    nothing is hidden from you,
    not even the secrets of our hearts.
    By your Holy Spirit,
    purify our deepest thoughts,
    so that we may truly love you
    and bring honour to your name,
    through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

    Sunday Services