NOTE: Page #s refer to the BAS

Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. -Matthew 5: 10

Processional Hymn   

Welcome & Acknowledgment of Land 

Call to Worship: Let every tongue give praise to God. 
Let us proclaim that God is with us, forgiving, liberating & redeeming
Let us rejoice in our worship; let us be open to God’s leading.
We will praise the God of love. Amen
(Seasons of the Spirit)

 (We prepare our hearts for worship in silence)

The Community Gathers p. 185

Glory to God p. 186

Kyrie Eleison p. 186

Collect:  Almighty God, our heavenly Father, whose children suffered at the hands of Herod, receive, we pray, all innocent victims into the arms of your mercy. By your great might frustrate all evil designs and establish your reign of justice, love, and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen

The Proclamation of the Word;

1st Lesson:    JEREMIAH 31:15-17 

PS 124 R:  We have escaped like a bird from the snare of the fowler.

The Gospel:   MATTHEW 2:13-18

Homily: “The Holy Innocents: A Reflection”

Affirmation of Faith: The Nicene Creed     p. 189 (please stand as able)

Prayers of the People    p.190

Confession and Absolution    p.191 

The Peace    p. 192

Offertory Hymn

Prayer over the Gifts Merciful God, accept all we offer you this day. Preserve your people from cruelty and indifference to violence, that the weak may always be defended from the tyranny of the strong. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen 

The Celebration of the Eucharist 

The Great Thanksgiving 

The Lord’s Prayer        p. 211

The Breaking of the Bread      #2  p. 212

The Communion (all are welcome to receive communion) p. 213

Prayer after Communion Eternal God, comfort of the afflicted and healer of the broken, you have fed us this day at the table of life and hope. Teach us the ways of gentleness and peace, that all the world may acknowledge the kingdom of your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen

Doxology (Old 100th): Praise God from whom all blessings flow! Praise him all creatures here below! Praise him above ye heavenly hosts! Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost! Amen 

The Blessing 

Closing Hymn: 

The Dismissal    p. 215