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Contemplation on the Historic Gospel for this Sunday

Exaudi, The Sunday after the Ascension – John 15:26-16:4

Part of the Holy Spirit’s work was to witness to Christ. We too must be witnesses for our Lord and Savior. The Apostles witnessed by going, preaching, suffering, bleeding, and dying. Thus have other believers witnessed down through the centuries. We are to be no different. The only difference with us today so far is that we have not been called upon to suffer, bleed, and die – at least not yet!

Our witnessing is to consist in a devout will, the services of a pure heart, self-sacrificing love, and in faithfulness to our task. Sounds almost like a military oath to “duty, honor, country,” doesn’t it? As well it should. For we are in an “army” of sorts – the army of heaven; soldiers of the Cross! Thus, we have the duty of showing our faith, the honor of serving Christ, and are part of the country of God’s kingdom.

And we must not be surprised at the opposition of those who are ignorant of Christ and His Gospel. We must not think that Christianity is wrong merely because is it opposed by the majority. It is the work of the Spirit to make us the kind of people who can live our faith in such a way that all can see Christ in us and then seek Him for themselves. God, make us willing and effective warriors for Your Word!

Calendar of the Christian Church

Exaudi – The Sixth Sunday after the Resurrection

Appointed Scripture Readings:

  • Old Testament – Ezekiel 36:25-27
  • 1st Epistle – Acts 2:1-13
  • 1st Psalm – Psalm 93
  • 1st Gospel – John 15:26-16:4
  • 2nd Epistle – Romans 8:29-39
  • 2nd Psalm – Psalm 97
  • 2nd Gospel – John 17:20-26

About this Sunday of the Church Year

This Sunday is unique in the entire post-Resurrection period. While all the other Sundays bear a mark of joy and triumph, this Sunday has a distinct tone of longing and even melancholy. Just a few days before, the Church bade farewell to the visible presence of Jesus. And the promised coming of the Comforter has not yet happened. The church is in need of consolation. Thus, she cries out, "Exaudi" – "Hear, O Lord!"

On this Sunday the believers entreat their Lord and Savior not to leave them comfortless, orphaned, and alone; not to hide His face from them. It is a time of waiting and expectation, but anticipation grounded firmly on the sure and certain promises from the victorious and glorified Christ. The Holy Spirit will indeed come – and soon!

Introit: Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice. Hallelujah! When You said, Seek My face, my heart said unto You, Your face, LORD, will I seek. Hide not Your face from me. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! The LORD is my Light and my Salvation; whom shall I fear? Amen.

Collect: Almighty, everlasting God, make us to have always a devout will toward You and to serve Your majesty with a pure heart. Amen.

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Service Times & Directions

Second Saturday of every month: Private Confession & Absolution at 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM, or by special appointment with the Pastor.

Sunday

Bible Class and Children's Bible Time: 9:30 AM

Worship: 10:30 AM

NO BIBLE CLASSES ON JUNE 3, 2012

Fellowship: 11:30 AM

Wednesday

Bible Break: 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM

NO BIBLE BREAK MAY 2 & 30, JUNE 6 & 13, NOR JULY 18

Thursday

Youth Instruction: 6:00 PM

 

During Advent and Lent

Ash Wednesday:

Imposition of Ashes - 6:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 6:45 PM

Light supper - 6:00 PM

Worship Service - 7:00 PM

Wednesdays in Advent and Lent:

Light supper - 6:00 PM

Vesper Service - 7:00 PM