KOG SERVICE FOR APRIL 30, 2023

 NOWTHE FEASTAND CELEBRATION

Easter, the resurrection of the crucified Jesus, is one single celebration which lasts for fifty days.  Each Sunday of Easter—from the Resurrection to Pentecost—celebrates the resurrection, the appearances, acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord, the community’s experience of the risen Lord, Christ’s mission to the disciples, and the promise of the Spirit.  This fifty-day long celebration testifies to the truth that the last word and the lasting word is not death, but God’s Word of life.

Hymn for the Season of Easter 

“Jesus Christ Is Risen Today”

[click on the link below]

Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!

our triumphant holy day, Alleluia!

who did once upon the cross, Alleluia!

Suffer to redeem our loss.  Alleluia!

Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia!

Unto Christ, our heavenly king, Alleluia!

Who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia!

Sinners to redeem and save.  Alleluia!

But the pains which he endured, Alleluia!

Our salvation have procured; Alleluia!

Now above the sky he’s king, Alleluia!

Where the angels ever sing. Alleluia!

Sing we to our God above, Alleluia!

Prasie eternal as his love; Alleluia!

Praise him, all you heavenly host, Alleluia!

Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.  Alleluia!

GATHERING

WE RESPOND TO GOD’S CALL WITH PRAISE AND PRAYER,
AND PREPARE TO HEAR GOD’S WORD OF LIFE

GREETING

Pastor: Alleluia! Christ is risen.

People: Christ is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Pastor: The grace and peace of our risen Lord Jesus Christ, 

the love of God,

and the communion of the Holy Spirit

be with you all.

People: And also with you

HYMN OF PRAISE

“Now the Feast and Celebration”

[click on the link below]

PRAYER OF THE DAY     

O God our shepherd, you know your sheep by name and lead us to safety through the valleys of death.  Guide us by your voice, that we may walk in certainty and security to the joyous feast prepared in your house, through Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

WORD

THE CHURCH HEARS THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD ACTING
IN THIS AND EVERY TIME AND PLACE

FIRST READING  

Acts 2:42-47

They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 

Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved. 

SECOND READING                                                                                                        1 Peter 2:19-25                                                                                                                    For it is to your credit if, being aware of God, you endure pain while suffering unjustly. If you endure when you are beaten for doing wrong, where is the credit in that? But if you endure when you do right and suffer for it, you have God’s approval. For to this you have been called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so that you should follow in his steps.
‘He committed no sin,
   and no deceit was found in his mouth.’
When he was abused, he did not return abuse; when he suffered, he did not threaten; but he entrusted himself to the one who judges justly. He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that, free from sins, we might live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. For you were going astray like sheep, but now you have returned to the shepherd and guardian of your souls. 

THE GOSPEL

Pastor: The Holy Gospel according to St. John the tenth chapter.

People: Glory to you, O Lord.

GOSPEL READING                                                                                                         John 10:1-10                                                                                                                   ‘Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers.’ Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them. 

So again Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. 

Pastor: The Gospel of the Lord.

People: Praise to you, O Christ.

                                                                                                                                 SERMON

[click on the link below]

HYMN OF THE DAY

NICENE CREED   (on festival Sundays)

Pastor: Let us confess our faith in the words of the Nicene Creed.

All: 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;

by the power of the Holy Spirit

    he became incarnate from the virgin Mary, and was made man.

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.

With the Father and the Son he 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.

TODAY IN OUR PRAYERS

Bill, Carol, Curtis, and Christine Buchkowsky, Teri Peterson, Wayne Turner, Kyrie Parimi, Doris Turner, Hilda Anderson, Linda Wolfe, Naomi, Bev Gregory, Dale Robinson, Audrey Hedlin,  Mona Neher, Oma Ywo, Owen Peterson, Helga Halldorsdottir, Evaline Sanders, Wayne Andre, Pat Sarich, Lauren and Brandon Pelletier and baby Grace, Cari Schappert, the family of Norm Gregory,  the family of baby Mavrick Gallant (Bev Gregory’s great-grandson), the family of Katherine Meger (Joshua Bratvold’s great grandmother), the family of Lois Jenkins (Ann Salmon’s mother), the family of John Beaven (Bev Gregory’s brother), the family of Carl Rausch, the family of Janet Gregory (Bev Gregory’s sister in-law).  

We remember the missing and murdered indigenous women in Canada, the children and people buried in unmarked graves at residential schools and First Nation lands, and all those who have suffered the trauma of residential schools, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the people of Syria, Iraq, Iran, the fighting in Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan, Yemen, Venezuela, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, the Palestinians and Israelis, Ethiopia and Tigray, Myanmar and the Rohingya Muslim refugees, Lebanon, all at the Mexico/United States border seeking refuge, the 100 million refugees and displaced persons, the people of Haiti suffering from political disasters, the victims and communities in Turkey and Syria devastated by earthquake, those in the United States, Canada, and throughout the world caught up in racism and injustice and the resulting violence, and those throughout the world, in Canada, in our province, and in our community still threatened by the coronavirus.

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE OF FAITH

[The congregational response after each petition is:  “COMPLETE YOUR NEW CREATION.”]

Pastor:  As we celebrate the joy of the resurrection, let us pray for God’s continuing work of new creation in the life of the Church, for the peace and well-being of the world, and wherever brokenness and death oppose God’s abundant life, saying, “Hear us, O God of life,” and responding, “Complete your new creation.”

Petitioner:  God of life, Jesus, the good Shepherd, calls us and through him we have the gift of new and abundant life and are gathered together in your presence.  We pray for all that you call, gather, and keep in your presence:  every nation, all tribes, peoples and languages, and for all in this assembly:  musicians, artists, teachers, greeters, readers, communion assistants, council members, and all who serve in so many ways.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:  God of all creation, in the gift of the earth blessed by you for us, our acts of disobedience and faithfulness stand side by side.  Forgive our lack of care and renew our stewardship for endangered species, polluted watersheds, clear-cut forests, land scarred by mining and ruined by poor farming practices, and a toxic atmosphere.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:   God of promise, you lead us to a table of plenty where everyone is welcome.  We pray for international relief agencies such as Canadian Lutheran World Relief, and local agencies such as the Saskatoon Food Bank, the Friendship Inn, all individuals who care for the hungry, and especially for all who are fed by them.  Hear us, O God of life…

Pastor:   God of healing, you lead us through dark valleys and difficult circumstances.  We pray for the lost and discouraged, for all facing the loss of a loved one, a job, good health, sustaining relationships, or their own inner peace and wholeness. We remember especially before you ….   Renew all with your promise of abundant life.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:   God of peace, while securely within your fold, do not let us sleep, but awaken us to hear the cries of our sisters and brothers in the world, who live in fear, who are broken and helpless, who suffer in the face of oppression, persecution, and violence, and yearn for peace.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:  God of wholeness, you seek us in steadfast love.  Gather the people of St. David’s/Trinity, Resurrection, Trinity, and King of Glory into a unity of ministries, and send us out so that we may boldly spread the good news of new life in Jesus Christ and may be both a prophetic witness and a pastoral presence in a needy world.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:  God of mission, you have redeemed and anointed your people through baptism and united us in the death and resurrection of Jesus for a life-giving mission.  Your resurrection creates new ways to live.  Through your Spirit lead us to put aside our own lives, that your life may abound in us. When we act as lost sheep open new opportunities, renew our ministries and our callings through your promise of new life, and graciously give us the resolve to faithfully worship, nurture and proclaim Christ’s love with one voice for all in our community and in our world.   Hear us, O God of life…  

Pastor:  Sustaining God, as you bring life even out of death, hear our call for your abundant life, make our prayers part of your new creation, and guide us with the hope of joy in your presence for the sake of the crucified and risen one, Jesus Christ, our Lord.

People:  Amen.  

THANKSGIVING


THE COMMUNITY PRAISES GOD FOR THE GRACIOUS GIFTS OF CREATION
AND THE SAVING DEEDS OF JESUS CHRIST

THE GREETING AND SHARING OF PEACE

Pastor: Sisters and brothers, rejoice, encourage one another, live in peace.
God through Christ has given us the gift of reconciliation.

People: Therefore, let us be reconciled to God and to one another.

Pastor: The peace of the Lord be with you always.

People: And also with you.

(If with others greet one another with a gesture of peace, using these or similar words: “Christ’s peace be with you.”)

THE OFFERING

(We worship God with the offering of our selves, our time, our talents, and our possessions.)

OFFERTORY PRAYER

Leader: Let us pray.
Blessed are you, O God,

People: ruler of heaven and earth.  

Day by day you shower us with blessings.

As you have raised us to new life in Christ,

give us glad and generous hearts.

May these gifts be signs of our whole lives returned to you,

dedicated to the healing and unity of all creation,

through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Pastor: Lord, remember us in your kingdom, and teach us to pray:

People: Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done,

  on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins

as we forgive those

  who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial

and deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power,

and the glory are yours,

now and forever. Amen.

SENDING


ALL RECEIVE THE BLESSING OF GOD, LEAVE IN PEACE,
AND ARE SENT OUT TO SERVE

BENEDICTION

Pastor: The God of life, who has called you to eternal life in Christ,

lift you up and restore you to wholeness.

People: Amen.

Pastor:  Jesus Christ, the Living Word,

bless you and send you to be his witnesses.

People:  Amen.

Pastor:  God the Holy Spirit, who renews the whole earth,

refresh, restore, support, and strengthen you this day and always.

People: Amen.

CLOSING HYMN

DISMISSAL

Pastor: Alleluia!  Go and tell the news that Christ is risen.

People: Christ is risen indeed.  Alleluia!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TODAY AT KOG                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           THIS WEEK AT KOG                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                

– Thursday, May 4, Bev Gregory is hosting (154 Arrand Crescent)  quilt- making bees every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.                                                                                                                                               

Thursday, May 4, Bible Study, “A Short History of Grace,”  7:30 p.m. Hosted by Renita Falkenstern.  We meet in Pastor Michael’s home, 1010 Duke Street.

COMING UP AT KOG                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         Sunday, May 7Coffee Social after the service.  Hosted by Carol Sarich.               – Tuesday, May 16, Church Council meeting via Zoom, 7:30 p.m.                                 Thursday, May 18, Bible Study, “A Short History of Grace,”  7:30 p.m. Host needed.  We meet in Pastor Michael’s home, 1010 Duke Street.                    – Saturday, May 27, Men’s Breakfast Out at Mulberry’s Restaurant 2326 B Millar           Avenue, 8:30 a.m.                                                                                                   – Wednesday, May 31, Women’s Breakfast Out, at Mulberry’s Restaurant 2326 B Millar Avenue, 10:00 a.m.                                                                          

March, April, and Year-to-Date Budget and Contribution Report for KOG

2023 Budget:  $50,471       Monthly Budget:  $4,260     Weekly Budget:  $971

2023 income/expenses: $4,263.63

March income/expenses: -676.89

Weekly contributions for March:  March 5: $740  March 12 and 19: $1555        March 26: $220                                     Weekly contributions for April:  April 2: $1120    April 9: $130      April 16: $190 April 23: $40 

We welcome to the new life in Christ through baptism Grace Helen Pelletier.  We rejoice with parents Lauren and Brandon Pelletier, sponsors Stephanie McGowan and Kyle Sarich, extended family and friends.  We pray for the outpouring of the gifts of the Holy Spirit upon Grace Helen and that Jesus, the Good Shepherd, lead her to the green pastures of goodness and abundant life and the still waters of steadfast love and forgiveness.

“A Short History of Grace”. This Bible and theology study looks at the ways grace is interpreted from the time of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament, through St. Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther and to contemporary theologies of liberation. 

Emergency Appeal – Earthquake in Türkiye and Syria: Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR), along with other leading Canadian aid agencies in the Humanitarian Coalition, is appealing for funds to assist those in need in Turkey and Syria affected by the earthquake and to support rescue efforts. Our focus right now is to provide blankets, shelter, life-saving clean water, food and healthcare. Please give what you can by donating at clwr.org/earthquake or by calling 1-800-661-2597 (office hours Mon-Fri, 9 am-4 pm), and pray for all those who are affected.

Offerings.  

Even though we are not all meeting together we still have expenses and need your offerings so that we can pay them.  Church Council has decided that best way to receive your offerings is that you mail a cheque (Please no cash for mail security reasons) to the church and we can process them from there.

Send your contributions to:  King of Glory Lutheran Church

    3318 Merritt Street

    Saskatoon, SK  S7M 3P6

Thank you for your generosity.

KOG SERVICE FOR APRIL 23, 2023

 NOW THE FEAST AND CELEBRATION

Easter, the resurrection of the crucified Jesus, is one single celebration which lasts for fifty days.  Each Sunday of Easter—from the Resurrection to Pentecost—celebrates the resurrection, the appearances, acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord, the community’s experience of the risen Lord, Christ’s mission to the disciples, and the promise of the Spirit.  This fifty-day long celebration testifies to the truth that the last word and the lasting word is not death, but God’s Word of life.

Hymn for the Season of Easter 

“Jesus Christ Is Risen Today”

[click on the link below]

Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!

our triumphant holy day, Alleluia!

who did once upon the cross, Alleluia!

Suffer to redeem our loss.  Alleluia!

Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia!

Unto Christ, our heavenly king, Alleluia!

Who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia!

Sinners to redeem and save.  Alleluia!

But the pains which he endured, Alleluia!

Our salvation have procured; Alleluia!

Now above the sky he’s king, Alleluia!

Where the angels ever sing. Alleluia!

Sing we to our God above, Alleluia!

Prasie eternal as his love; Alleluia!

Praise him, all you heavenly host, Alleluia!

Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.  Alleluia!

GATHERING

WE RESPOND TO GOD’S CALL WITH PRAISE AND PRAYER,
AND PREPARE TO HEAR GOD’S WORD OF LIFE

GREETING

Pastor: Alleluia! Christ is risen.

People: Christ is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Pastor: The grace and peace of our risen Lord Jesus Christ, 

the love of God,

and the communion of the Holy Spirit

be with you all.

People: And also with you

HYMN OF PRAISE

“Now the Feast and Celebration”

[click on the link below]

PRAYER OF THE DAY     

O God, your Son makes himself known to all his disciples in the breaking of bread.  Open the eyes of our faith, that we may see him in his redeeming work, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

WORD

THE CHURCH HEARS THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD ACTING
IN THIS AND EVERY TIME AND PLACE

FIRST READING  

Acts 2:14a, 36-41

But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: ‘Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say.
Therefore let the entire house of Israel know with certainty that God has made him both Lord and Messiah, this Jesus whom you crucified.’ 

Now when they heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and to the other apostles, ‘Brothers, what should we do?’ Peter said to them, ‘Repent, and be baptized 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. For the promise is for you, for your children, and for all who are far away, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to him.’ And he testified with many other arguments and exhorted them, saying, ‘Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.’ So those who welcomed his message were baptized, and that day about three thousand persons were added. 

SECOND READING                                                                                                        1 Peter 1:17-23                                                                                                                    If you invoke as Father the one who judges all people impartially according to their deeds, live in reverent fear during the time of your exile. You know that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your ancestors, not with perishable things like silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without defect or blemish. He was destined before the foundation of the world, but was revealed at the end of the ages for your sake. Through him you have come to trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are set on God. 

Now that you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mutual love, love one another deeply from the heart. You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God.

THE GOSPEL

Pastor: The Holy Gospel according to St. Luke, the twenty-fourth chapter.

People: Glory to you, O Lord.

GOSPEL READING                                                                                                         Luke 24:13-35                                                                                                                Now on that same day two of them were going to a village called Emmaus, about seven miles from Jerusalem, and talking with each other about all these things that had happened. While they were talking and discussing, Jesus himself came near and went with them, but their eyes were kept from recognizing him. And he said to them, ‘What are you discussing with each other while you walk along?’ They stood still, looking sad. Then one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answered him, ‘Are you the only stranger in Jerusalem who does not know the things that have taken place there in these days?’ He asked them, ‘What things?’ They replied, ‘The things about Jesus of Nazareth, who was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how our chief priests and leaders handed him over to be condemned to death and crucified him. But we had hoped that he was the one to redeem Israel. Yes, and besides all this, it is now the third day since these things took place. Moreover, some women of our group astounded us. They were at the tomb early this morning, and when they did not find his body there, they came back and told us that they had indeed seen a vision of angels who said that he was alive. Some of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but they did not see him.’ Then he said to them, ‘Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared! Was it not necessary that the Messiah should suffer these things and then enter into his glory?’ Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, he interpreted to them the things about himself in all the scriptures. 

As they came near the village to which they were going, he walked ahead as if he were going on. But they urged him strongly, saying, ‘Stay with us, because it is almost evening and the day is now nearly over.’ So he went in to stay with them. When he was at the table with them, he took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him; and he vanished from their sight. They said to each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening the scriptures to us?’ That same hour they got up and returned to Jerusalem; and they found the eleven and their companions gathered together. They were saying, ‘The Lord has risen indeed, and he has appeared to Simon!’ Then they told what had happened on the road, and how he had been made known to them in the breaking of the bread. 

Pastor: The Gospel of the Lord.

People: Praise to you, O Christ.

SERMON

[click on the link below]

HYMN OF THE DAY

NICENE CREED   (on festival Sundays)

Pastor: Let us confess our faith in the words of the Nicene Creed.

All: 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;

by the power of the Holy Spirit

    he became incarnate from the virgin Mary, and was made man.

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.

With the Father and the Son he 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.

TODAY IN OUR PRAYERS

Bill, Carol, Curtis, and Christine Buchkowsky, Teri Peterson, Wayne Turner, Kyrie Parimi, Doris Turner, Hilda Anderson, Linda Wolfe, Naomi, Bev Gregory, Dale Robinson, Audrey Hedlin,  Mona Neher, Oma Ywo, Owen Peterson, Helga Halldorsdottir, Evaline Sanders, Wayne Andre, Pat Sarich, Lauren and Brandon Pelletier and baby Grace, Cari Schappert, the family of Norm Gregory,  the family of baby Mavrick Gallant (Bev Gregory’s great-grandson), the family of Katherine Meger (Joshua Bratvold’s great grandmother), the family of Lois Jenkins (Ann Salmon’s mother), the family of John Beaven (Bev Gregory’s brother), the family of Carl Rausch, the family of Janet Gregory (Bev Gregory’s sister in-law).  

We remember the missing and murdered indigenous women in Canada, the children and people buried in unmarked graves at residential schools and First Nation lands, and all those who have suffered the trauma of residential schools, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the people of Syria, Iraq, Iran, the fighting in Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan, Yemen, Venezuela, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, the Palestinians and Israelis, Ethiopia and Tigray, Myanmar and the Rohingya Muslim refugees, Lebanon, all at the Mexico/United States border seeking refuge, the 100 million refugees and displaced persons, the people of Haiti suffering from political disasters, the victims and communities in Turkey and Syria devastated by earthquake, those in the United States, Canada, and throughout the world caught up in racism and injustice and the resulting violence, and those throughout the world, in Canada, in our province, and in our community still threatened by the coronavirus.

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE OF FAITH

[The congregational response after each petition is:  “COMPLETE YOUR NEW CREATION.”]

Pastor:  As we celebrate the joy of the resurrection, let us pray for God’s continuing work of new creation in the life of the Church, for the peace and well-being of the world, and wherever brokenness and death oppose God’s abundant life, saying, “Hear us, O God of life,” and responding, “Complete your new creation.”

Petitioner:  God of life, in spite of all we have heard and all that we have seen we forget where healing comes from, forget who binds all together as community, forget that life in Christ is completely different.  Through touching the water of baptism, hearing the Word of forgiveness, tasting the goodness of your life-giving meal, help us remember that we have a God of truth and mercy whose gracious, steadfast love for us is certain and assured.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:  God of all creation, you open our eyes and we marvel at the wonders of your spring-time of life.  Send us forth as humble people who care for the waters, lands, and air, for the plants and animals of your creation.  Help us to understand that as your life has been broken for us that we might be healed, we now might go about healing your creation which we have broken through our greed, misuse, and carelessness.     Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:   God of promise, transform us from frightened individuals, communities, and nations, into a community of celebration and thanksgiving.  Open our eyes to see the presence of Christ in our midst.  Open our hearts to receive forgiveness, grace, and hope.  Open our mouths to proclaim, “It is the Lord!”  Open our doors to welcome all.  Hear us, O God of life…

Pastor:   God of healing, you tend to those who are weak and in distress, overcome with sadness, loss, and disappointment.  Send us forth as practitioners of compassion to attend to all facing the loss of a loved one, a job, good health, sustaining relationships, or their own inner peace and wholeness. We remember especially before you ….   Renew all with your promise of life. Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:   God of peace, instill in our world, national, provincial, and local leaders a spirit of cooperation and reconciliation, and the courage to serve the way of justice and peace among nations, communities, and within families.  Make them signs of hope for all in need.  Send them wisdom to uphold justice and security, safe neighbourhoods, adequate housing, health care, and sufficient food and employment for all people.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:  God of hope, we are blessed by your continued love and presence among us and where the scriptures have been opened in our midst.  Open our hearts and minds to receive your words of life, send us forth as witnesses to the resurrection, give us boldness of speech in proclaiming your new life, and daring in our actions of forgiveness, that your love for the whole world might be revealed.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:  God of mission, you have redeemed and anointed your people through baptism and united us in the death and resurrection of Jesus for a life-giving mission.  Your resurrection creates new ways to live.  When we are lost or empty, renew our ministries and our callings through this covenant of new life.  Help us to discover daily Christ walking before, beside, and behind us wherever our paths may lead.  Hear us, O God of life…  

Pastor:  Sustaining God, as you bring life even out of death, hear our call for your abundant life, make our prayers part of your new creation, and guide us with the hope of joy in your presence for the sake of the crucified and risen one, Jesus Christ, our Lord.

People:  Amen.  

THANKSGIVING


THE COMMUNITY PRAISES GOD FOR THE GRACIOUS GIFTS OF CREATION
AND THE SAVING DEEDS OF JESUS CHRIST

THE GREETING AND SHARING OF PEACE

Pastor: Sisters and brothers, rejoice, encourage one another, live in peace.
God through Christ has given us the gift of reconciliation.

People: Therefore, let us be reconciled to God and to one another.

Pastor: The peace of the Lord be with you always.

People: And also with you.

(If with others greet one another with a gesture of peace, using these or similar words: “Christ’s peace be with you.”)

THE OFFERING

(We worship God with the offering of our selves, our time, our talents, and our possessions.)

OFFERTORY PRAYER

Leader: Let us pray.
Blessed are you, O God,

People: ruler of heaven and earth.  

Day by day you shower us with blessings.

As you have raised us to new life in Christ,

give us glad and generous hearts.

May these gifts be signs of our whole lives returned to you,

dedicated to the healing and unity of all creation,

through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Pastor: Lord, remember us in your kingdom, and teach us to pray:

People: Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done,

  on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins

as we forgive those

  who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial

and deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power,

and the glory are yours,

now and forever. Amen.

SENDING


ALL RECEIVE THE BLESSING OF GOD, LEAVE IN PEACE,
AND ARE SENT OUT TO SERVE

BENEDICTION

Pastor: The God of life, who has called you to eternal life in Christ,

lift you up and restore you to wholeness.

People: Amen.

Pastor:  Jesus Christ, the Living Word,

bless you and send you to be his witnesses.

People:  Amen.

Pastor:  God the Holy Spirit, who renews the whole earth,

refresh, restore, support, and strengthen you this day and always.

People: Amen.

CLOSING HYMN

DISMISSAL

Pastor: Alleluia!  Go and tell the news that Christ is risen.

People: Christ is risen indeed.  Alleluia!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TODAY AT KOG                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           THIS WEEK AT KOG                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 – Wednesday, April 26, Women’s Breakfast Out, at Mulberry’s Restaurant 2326 B Millar Avenue, 10:00 a.m.   

– Thursday, April 27, Bev Gregory is hosting (154 Arrand Crescent)  quilt- making bees every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.                                                                                                                                               

– Thursday, April 27, Church Council meeting via Zoom, 7:30 p.m.                           – Saturday, April 29, Men’s Breakfast Out at Mulberry’s Restaurant 2326 B Millar           Avenue, 8:30 a.m. 

COMING UP AT KOG                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Thursday, May 4, Bible Study, “A Short History of Grace,”  7:30 p.m. Hosted by Renita Falkenstern.  We meet in Pastor Michael’s home, 1010 Duke Street.                                                                                                                        Sunday, May 7Coffee Social after the service.  Host needed.                                    Thursday, May 18, Bible Study, “A Short History of Grace,”  7:30 p.m. Host needed.  We meet in Pastor Michael’s home, 1010 Duke Street.                                                                          

March, April, and Year-to-Date Budget and Contribution Report for KOG

2023 Budget:  $50,471       Monthly Budget:  $4,260     Weekly Budget:  $971

2023 income/expenses: $4,479.08

January income/expenses: -4,453.08

Weekly contributions for March:  March 5: $740  March 12 and 19: $1555        March 26: $220                                     Weekly contributions for April:  April 2: $1120    April 9: $130      April 16: $190 

“A Short History of Grace”. This Bible and theology study looks at the ways grace is interpreted from the time of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament, through St. Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther and to contemporary theologies of liberation. 

Thank you to Karen Larson for Hosting the April 2 Coffee Social.

Greetings from the Lutheran Anglican Women’s Retreat Committee.

The Lutheran Anglican Women’s Retreat Committee is looking for volunteers to serve with us on our committee. We are organizing an annual retreat for Lutheran and Anglican women from congregations of Saskatoon and area, to be held Saturday October 21, 2023.

We are serving the Lord through providing a retreat experience to nurture spiritual growth and faith in women.  

For more information or to volunteer, please contact 

Lorraine Harilstad at 306-370-7260. 

Emergency Appeal – Earthquake in Türkiye and Syria: Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR), along with other leading Canadian aid agencies in the Humanitarian Coalition, is appealing for funds to assist those in need in Turkey and Syria affected by the earthquake and to support rescue efforts. Our focus right now is to provide blankets, shelter, life-saving clean water, food and healthcare. Please give what you can by donating at clwr.org/earthquake or by calling 1-800-661-2597 (office hours Mon-Fri, 9 am-4 pm), and pray for all those who are affected.

Offerings.  

Even though we are not all meeting together we still have expenses and need your offerings so that we can pay them.  Church Council has decided that best way to receive your offerings is that you mail a cheque (Please no cash for mail security reasons) to the church and we can process them from there.

Send your contributions to:  King of Glory Lutheran Church

    3318 Merritt Street

    Saskatoon, SK  S7M 3P6

Thank you for your generosity.

KOG SERVICE FOR APRIL 16, 2023

 NOW THE FEAST AND CELEBRATION

Easter, the resurrection of the crucified Jesus, is one single celebration which lasts for fifty days.  Each Sunday of Easter—from the Resurrection to Pentecost—celebrates the resurrection, the appearances, acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord, the community’s experience of the risen Lord, Christ’s mission to the disciples, and the promise of the Spirit.  This fifty-day long celebration testifies to the truth that the last word and the lasting word is not death, but God’s Word of life.

Hymn for the Season of Easter 

“Jesus Christ Is Risen Today”

[click on the link below]

Jesus Christ is risen today, Alleluia!

our triumphant holy day, Alleluia!

who did once upon the cross, Alleluia!

Suffer to redeem our loss.  Alleluia!

Hymns of praise then let us sing, Alleluia!

Unto Christ, our heavenly king, Alleluia!

Who endured the cross and grave, Alleluia!

Sinners to redeem and save.  Alleluia!

But the pains which he endured, Alleluia!

Our salvation have procured; Alleluia!

Now above the sky he’s king, Alleluia!

Where the angels ever sing. Alleluia!

Sing we to our God above, Alleluia!

Prasie eternal as his love; Alleluia!

Praise him, all you heavenly host, Alleluia!

Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.  Alleluia!

GATHERING

WE RESPOND TO GOD’S CALL WITH PRAISE AND PRAYER,
AND PREPARE TO HEAR GOD’S WORD OF LIFE

GREETING

Pastor: Alleluia! Christ is risen.

People: Christ is risen indeed. Alleluia!

Pastor: The grace and peace of our risen Lord Jesus Christ, 

the love of God,

and the communion of the Holy Spirit

be with you all.

People: And also with you

HYMN OF PRAISE

“Now the Feast and Celebration”

[click on the link below]

PRAYER OF THE DAY     

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 in you and receive the fulness of Christ’s blessing, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

WORD

THE CHURCH HEARS THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD ACTING
IN THIS AND EVERY TIME AND PLACE

FIRST READING  

Acts 2:14a, 22-32

But Peter, standing with the eleven, raised his voice and addressed them: ‘Men of Judea and all who live in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and listen to what I say. 

‘You that are Israelites, listen to what I have to say: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with deeds of power, wonders, and signs that God did through him among you, as you yourselves know— this man, handed over to you according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of those outside the law. But God raised him up, having freed him from death, because it was impossible for him to be held in its power. For David says concerning him,
“I saw the Lord always before me,
   for he is at my right hand so that I will not be shaken;
therefore my heart was glad, and my tongue rejoiced;
   moreover, my flesh will live in hope.
For you will not abandon my soul to Hades,
   or let your Holy One experience corruption.
You have made known to me the ways of life;
   you will make me full of gladness with your presence.” 

‘Fellow Israelites, I may say to you confidently of our ancestor David that he both died and was buried, and his tomb is with us to this day. Since he was a prophet, he knew that God had sworn with an oath to him that he would put one of his descendants on his throne. Foreseeing this, David spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah, saying,
“He was not abandoned to Hades,
   nor did his flesh experience corruption.”
This Jesus God raised up, and of that all of us are witnesses. 

SECOND READING                                                                                                        1 Peter 1:3-9                                                                                                                 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, and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who are being protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. In this you rejoice, even if now for a little while you have had to suffer various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith—being more precious than gold that, though perishable, is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honour when Jesus Christ is revealed. Although you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, for you are receiving the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls. 

THE GOSPEL

Pastor: The Holy Gospel according to St. John, the twentieth chapter.

People: Glory to you, O Lord.

GOSPEL READING  

John 20:19-31                                                                                                                 When it was evening on that day, the first day of the week, and the doors of the house where the disciples had met were locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ After he said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, ‘Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.’ When he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive the sins of any, they are forgiven them; if you retain the sins of any, they are retained.’ 

But Thomas (who was called the Twin), one of the twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. So the other disciples told him, ‘We have seen the Lord.’ But he said to them, ‘Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put my finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe.’ 

A week later his disciples were again in the house, and Thomas was with them. Although the doors were shut, Jesus came and stood among them and said, ‘Peace be with you.’ Then he 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.’ Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!’ Jesus said to him, ‘Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have come to believe.’ 

Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. But these are written so that you may come to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through believing you may have life in his name. 

Pastor: The Gospel of the Lord.

People: Praise to you, O Christ.

SERMON

[click on the link below]

HYMN OF THE DAY

“We Walk By Faith”

We walk by faith, and not by sight: 

with gracious words draw near 

O Christ who spoke as none e’er spoke, 

“My peace be with you here.” 

We may not touch your hands and side, 

Nor follow where you trod; 

but in your promise we rejoice 

and cry “My Lord and God” 

Help then, O Lord, our unbelief, 

and may our faith abound; 

to call on you when you are near 

and seek where you are found: 

And when our life of faith is done, 

in realms of clearer light 

may we behold you as you are 

with full and endless sight

NICENE CREED   (on festival Sundays)

Pastor: Let us confess our faith in the words of the Nicene Creed.

All: 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;

by the power of the Holy Spirit

    he became incarnate from the virgin Mary, and was made man.

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.

With the Father and the Son he 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.

TODAY IN OUR PRAYERS

Bill, Carol, Curtis, and Christine Buchkowsky, Teri Peterson, Wayne Turner, Kyrie Parimi, Doris Turner, Hilda Anderson, Linda Wolfe, Naomi, Bev Gregory, Dale Robinson, Audrey Hedlin,  Mona Neher, Oma Ywo, Owen Peterson, Helga Halldorsdottir, Evaline Sanders, Wayne Andre, Pat Sarich, Lauren and Brandon Pelletier and baby Grace, Cari Schappert, the family of Norm Gregory,  the family of baby Mavrick Gallant (Bev Gregory’s great-grandson), the family of Katherine Meger (Joshua Bratvold’s great grandmother), the family of Lois Jenkins (Ann Salmon’s mother), the family of John Beaven (Bev Gregory’s brother), the family of Carl Rausch, the family of Janet Gregory (Bev Gregory’s sister in-law).  

We remember the missing and murdered indigenous women in Canada, the children and people buried in unmarked graves at residential schools and First Nation lands, and all those who have suffered the trauma of residential schools, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the people of Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan, Yemen, Venezuela, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, the Palestinians and Israelis, Ethiopia and Tigray, Myanmar and the Rohingya Muslim refugees, Lebanon, all at the Mexico/United States border seeking refuge, the 100 million refugees and displaced persons, the people of Haiti suffering from political disasters, the victims and communities in Turkey and Syria devastated by earthquake, those in the United States, Canada, and throughout the world caught up in racism and injustice and the resulting violence, and those throughout the world, in Canada, in our province, and in our community still threatened by the coronavirus.

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE OF FAITH

[The congregational response after each petition is:  “COMPLETE YOUR NEW CREATION.”]

Pastor:  As we celebrate the joy of the resurrection, let us pray for God’s continuing work of new creation in the life of the Church, for the peace and well-being of the world, and wherever brokenness and death oppose God’s abundant life, saying, “Hear us, O God of life,” and responding, “Complete your new creation.”

Petitioner:  God of life, in spite of all we have heard and all that we have seen, it is often hard to believe.  Because it is hard to believe return to us again and again that we may hear your word of forgiveness, life, and love; invite us to your supper that we may touch and taste your presence; and breathe your Spirit upon us offering us your peace.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:  God of all creation, you fashioned and nurtured this wonderful earth for the fullness of life.  We pray for rainforests and deserts, mountains and tundra, oceans, lakes, and rivers, grasslands and prairies, and all creatures that call this earth home.  Sustain your world with clean water and favourable weather.  Breathe healing on all your creation. Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:   God of promise, transform us from frightened individuals, communities, and nations, into a people and a community of open doors such that justice, mutual sharing of material goods, and peace may be abundant for all and that no person or nation among us is in need.  Hear us, O God of life…

Pastor:   God of healing, bring your peace and comfort in the midst of fear and confusion upon all facing the loss of a loved one, a job, good health, sustaining relationships, or their own inner peace and wholeness. We remember especially before you ….   Uplift them and renew them with your promise of life. Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:   God of peace, all peoples are created and beloved by you, and you provide us with the bonds of community for mutual care and support.  We remember all the nations and peoples, especially those torn by violence, oppression, and displacement, and all who are refugees that they might find compassionate relief. Teach peace to our war-weary world. Make your presence known to all by offering peace.   Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:  God of hope, in the risen Christ you have delivered us from the power of death. Now make us die every die to sin and by your Spirit raise us up daily to be free for joyfully serving those who still are shrouded by sin, despair, shame, and death.  Hear us, O God of life…

Petitioner:  God of mission, you have redeemed and anointed your people through baptism and united us in the death and resurrection of Jesus for a life-giving mission.  Your resurrection creates new ways to live.  Make us faithful followers to be the wounded hands of Christ to all who doubt or disbelieve or are broken by fear in this world.  Send us out to share our bread and to be bread for a hungry world.  Hear us, O God of life…  

Pastor:  Sustaining God, as you bring life even out of death, hear our call for your abundant life, make our prayers part of your new creation, and guide us with the hope of joy in your presence for the sake of the crucified and risen one, Jesus Christ, our Lord.

People:  Amen.  

THANKSGIVING


THE COMMUNITY PRAISES GOD FOR THE GRACIOUS GIFTS OF CREATION
AND THE SAVING DEEDS OF JESUS CHRIST

THE GREETING AND SHARING OF PEACE

Pastor: Sisters and brothers, rejoice, encourage one another, live in peace.
God through Christ has given us the gift of reconciliation.

People: Therefore, let us be reconciled to God and to one another.

Pastor: The peace of the Lord be with you always.

People: And also with you.

(If with others greet one another with a gesture of peace, using these or similar words: “Christ’s peace be with you.”)

THE OFFERING

(We worship God with the offering of our selves, our time, our talents, and our possessions.)

OFFERTORY PRAYER

Leader: Let us pray.
Blessed are you, O God,

People: ruler of heaven and earth.  

Day by day you shower us with blessings.

As you have raised us to new life in Christ,

give us glad and generous hearts.

May these gifts be signs of our whole lives returned to you,

dedicated to the healing and unity of all creation,

through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Pastor: Lord, remember us in your kingdom, and teach us to pray:

People: Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done,

  on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins

as we forgive those

  who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial

and deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power,

and the glory are yours,

now and forever. Amen.

SENDING


ALL RECEIVE THE BLESSING OF GOD, LEAVE IN PEACE,
AND ARE SENT OUT TO SERVE

BENEDICTION

Pastor: The God of life, who has called you to eternal life in Christ,

lift you up and restore you to wholeness.

People: Amen.

Pastor:  Jesus Christ, the Living Word,

bless you and send you to be his witnesses.

People:  Amen.

Pastor:  God the Holy Spirit, who renews the whole earth,

refresh, restore, support, and strengthen you this day and always.

People: Amen.

CLOSING HYMN

“Thine is the Glory”

[click on the link below]

Thine is the glory, risen conquering Son;

endless is the victory thou over death hast won!

Angels in bright raiment rolled the stone away,

kept the folded grave-clothes where thy body lay.

Refrain:

Thine is the glory, risen, conquering son;

endless is the victory thou over death hast won!

Lo, Jesus meets thee risen from the tomb!

Lovingly he greets thee, scatters fear and gloom;

let his church with gladness hymns of triumph sing,

for the Lord now liveth;

death hath lost its sting!

Refrain

No more we doubt thee, glorious Prince of Life;

life is naught without thee; aid us in our strife

make us more than conquerors, through thy deathless love;

bring us safe through Jordan to thy home above.

Refrain

DISMISSAL

Pastor: Alleluia!  Go and tell the news that Christ is risen.

People: Christ is risen indeed.  Alleluia!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TODAY AT KOG                                                                                                               

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           THIS WEEK AT KOG                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 – Thursday, April 20, Bev Gregory is hosting (154 Arrand Crescent)  quilt- making bees every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.                                                                                                                                               

Thursday, April 20, Bible Study, “A Short History of Grace,”  7:30 p.m. Hosted by Doreen Matschke.  We meet in Pastor Michael’s home, 1010 Duke Street.    

COMING UP AT KOG                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   – Wednesday, April 26, Women’s Breakfast Out, at Mulberry’s Restaurant 2326 B Millar Avenue, 10:00 a.m.                                                                                     – Thursday, April 27, Church Council meeting via Zoom, 7:30 p.m.                           – Saturday, April 29, Men’s Breakfast Out at Mulberry’s Restaurant 2326 B Millar           Avenue, 8:30 a.m.                                                                                                   Thursday, May 4, Bible Study, “A Short History of Grace,”  7:30 p.m. Host needed.  We meet in Pastor Michael’s home, 1010 Duke Street.                                                                                               Sunday, May 7Coffee Social after the service.  Host needed.                                                                                             

March, April, and Year-to-Date Budget and Contribution Report for KOG

2023 Budget:  $50,471       Monthly Budget:  $4,260     Weekly Budget:  $971

2023 income/expenses: $4,479.08

January income/expenses: -4,453.08

Weekly contributions for February:  February 5: $13,050  February 12: $250

February 19 and 26: $140

Weekly contributions for March:  March 5: $740  March 12 and 19: $1555        March 26: $220                                     Weekly contributions for April:  April 9: $130

“A Short History of Grace”. This Bible and theology study looks at the ways grace is interpreted from the time of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament, through St. Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther and to contemporary theologies of liberation. 

Thank you to Karen Larson for Hosting the April 2 Coffee Social.

Spring Hymn-Sing and Reception

You are invited: to a Spring Hymn Sing featuring local Lutheran parish choirs and musicians, Thursday, April 20th at 7:30 p.m. at Augustana Lutheran Church, 1201 Broadway Ave. S.  Proceeds from the evening’s offering will go towards Augustana’s purchase of All Creation Sings worship resources, as well as the Queen Elizabeth School Breakfast Program.  Let’s celebrate Easter through choral music and joyous congregational singing.  

For more information, contact Deborah Buck, dbuck@sasktel.net or 306-652-0379.         

Greetings from the Lutheran Anglican Women’s Retreat Committee.

The Lutheran Anglican Women’s Retreat Committee is looking for volunteers to serve with us on our committee. We are organizing an annual retreat for Lutheran and Anglican women from congregations of Saskatoon and area, to be held Saturday October 21, 2023.

We are serving the Lord through providing a retreat experience to nurture spiritual growth and faith in women.  

For more information or to volunteer, please contact 

Lorraine Harilstad at 306-370-7260. 

Emergency Appeal – Earthquake in Türkiye and Syria: Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR), along with other leading Canadian aid agencies in the Humanitarian Coalition, is appealing for funds to assist those in need in Turkey and Syria affected by the earthquake and to support rescue efforts. Our focus right now is to provide blankets, shelter, life-saving clean water, food and healthcare. Please give what you can by donating at clwr.org/earthquake or by calling 1-800-661-2597 (office hours Mon-Fri, 9 am-4 pm), and pray for all those who are affected.

Offerings.  

Even though we are not all meeting together we still have expenses and need your offerings so that we can pay them.  Church Council has decided that best way to receive your offerings is that you mail a cheque (Please no cash for mail security reasons) to the church and we can process them from there.

Send your contributions to:  King of Glory Lutheran Church

    3318 Merritt Street

    Saskatoon, SK  S7M 3P6

Thank you for your generosity.

KOG Service for April 2, 2023

FOLLOWINGTHE LEADOF JESUS

Lent is, first of all, about God baptizing us into a life of faithful discipleship.  Lent attests to the power of the cross through word and water, bread and wine to conform the lives of God’s people to the image of Christ. Lent prepares us and leads us to the life-giving cross which ends not in death but resurrection. The tone of this Lenten order of worship—in the midst of its call to turn, repent, and be cleansed of sin— is one of promise and hope. Sunday after Sunday the Scripture Readings reflect God’s promises. These promises are centered in the fact that God sends Jesus not to condemn the world but to invite, seek, heal, and raise those entombed in tradition, culture, sickness, and death. Over and over we will see, hear, touch, and taste, how the impossible difficulties of sin are met with the promise of God’s saving action.

CONFESSION AND ABSOLUTION

WE REMEMBER OUR BAPTISMS, CONFESS OUR FAITHLESSNESS, 

AND HEAR GOD’S FAITHFUL PROMISE OF FORGIVENESS

Pastor: Let us return to our gracious and merciful God,

remembering God’s life-giving promises declared at our baptisms,

and confessing our need for God’s continual healing.

Ever-loving God,

People: through the gift of baptism 

you give new birth to your children

by water and the Spirit.

Yet we seem to remember only that we

come from dust and return to dust.

We forget that we are also born from grace.

We prefer to hide in our darkness,

rather than receive your gracious light and life.

We thirst for all those things and desires that can never satisfy.

We are blind to all the ways you invite us to come and see your goodness.

We wander from your promises and

find ourselves entombed in the ways of death.

We use your gifts to our own ends,

are reluctant to share these gifts with others,

and treat the gifts of your creation with carelessness.

Turn us again, O God.

Renew us.

Forgive us our sin,

and gather us again into your abundant life.

Pastor: A world cut off from God can never hope to be a place of life.

But God is not cut off from us.

God so loved the world that having sent the Son, Jesus,

we are gathered into God’s embrace of forgiveness and abundant 

life.

We are reconciled to God.

Once lost, we are now found.

Once dead in sin we are now alive.

For the sake of Jesus Christ,

I declare to you the good news that

grace, mercy, forgiveness, and peace are yours.

People: Amen.

GATHERING

WE RESPOND TO GOD’S CALL WITH PRAISE AND PRAYER,
AND PREPARE TO HEAR GOD’S WORD OF LIFE

GREETING

Pastor: From our God who loves us with an everlasting love

who brings forth a new creation in Christ,

who leads us by the Spirit in the wilderness,

grace, love and abundant peace be with you all.

People: And also with you

KYRIE                                                                                                                                [click on the link below]                                                 https://youtu.be/b8WdyJHLUgg

Kyrie eleison  Lord have mercy,

Christe eleison  Christ have mercy

Kyrie eleison  Lord have mercy

PRAYER OF THE DAY

Pastor: The Lord be with you.

People: And also with you.

Pastor: Let us pray:

People: Everlasting God, in your endless love for the human race you sent our Lord Jesus Christ to take on our nature and to suffer death on the cross.  In your mercy enable us to share in his obedience to your will and in the glorious victory of his resurrection, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever.  Amen.

WORD

THE CHURCH HEARS THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD ACTING
IN THIS AND EVERY TIME AND PLACE

FIRST READING 

Isaiah 50:4-9a 

The Lord God has given me
   the tongue of a teacher,
that I may know how to sustain
   the weary with a word.
Morning by morning he wakens—
   wakens my ear
   to listen as those who are taught.
The Lord God has opened my ear,
   and I was not rebellious,
   I did not turn backwards.
I gave my back to those who struck me,
   and my cheeks to those who pulled out the beard;
I did not hide my face
   from insult and spitting. 


The Lord God helps me;
   therefore I have not been disgraced;
therefore I have set my face like flint,
   and I know that I shall not be put to shame;
   he who vindicates me is near.
Who will contend with me?
   Let us stand up together.
Who are my adversaries?
   Let them confront me.It is the Lord God who helps me;
   who will declare me guilty?
All of them will wear out like a garment;
   the moth will eat them up. 

SECOND READING  

Philippians 2:5-11

Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus,
who, though he was in the form of God,
   did not regard equality with God
   as something to be exploited,
but emptied himself,
   taking the form of a slave,
   being born in human likeness.
And being found in human form,
   he humbled himself
   and became obedient to the point of death—
   even death on a cross. 

Therefore God also highly exalted him
   and gave him the name
   that is above every name,
so that at the name of Jesus
   every knee should bend,
   in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
and every tongue should confess
   that Jesus Christ is Lord,
   to the glory of God the Father. 

THE GOSPEL

Matthew 21:1-11                                                                                                                                When they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, saying to them, ‘Go into the village ahead of you, and immediately you will find a donkey tied, and a colt with her; untie them and bring them to me. If anyone says anything to you, just say this, “The Lord needs them.” And he will send them immediately.’ This took place to fulfil what had been spoken through the prophet, saying,
‘Tell the daughter of Zion,
Look, your king is coming to you,
   humble, and mounted on a donkey,
     and on a colt, the foal of a donkey.’                                                                             The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; they brought the donkey and the colt, and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting,
‘Hosanna to the Son of David!
   Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!
Hosanna in the highest heaven!’
When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, ‘Who is this?’ The crowds were saying, ‘This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.’ 

SERMON

[click on the link below]

APOSTLES’ CREED

Pastor: Let us confess our faith in the words of the Apostles’ Creed.

All:       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 again;

he ascended into heaven,

he is seated at the right hand of the Father,

and he will come again 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.

TODAY IN OUR PRAYERS

Bill, Carol, Curtis, and Christine Buchkowsky, Teri Peterson, Wayne Turner, Kyrie Parimi, Doris Turner, Hilda Anderson, Linda Wolfe, Naomi, Bev Gregory, Dale Robinson, Audrey Hedlin,  Mona Neher, Oma Ywo, Owen Peterson, Helga Halldorsdottir, Evaline Sanders, Wayne Andre, Pat Sarich, Lauren and Brandon Pelletier and baby Grace, Cari Schappert, the family of Norm Gregory,  the family of baby Mavrick Gallant (Bev Gregory’s great-grandson), the family of Katherine Meger (Joshua Bratvold’s great grandmother), the family of Lois Jenkins (Ann Salmon’s mother), the family of John Beaven (Bev Gregory’s brother), the family of Carl Rausch, the family of Janet Gregory (Bev Gregory’s sister in-law).  

We remember the missing and murdered indigenous women in Canada, the children and people buried in unmarked graves at residential schools and First Nation lands, and all those who have suffered the trauma of residential schools, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the people of Syria, Iraq, Iran, Sudan, South Sudan, Somalia, Afghanistan, Yemen, Venezuela, Hong Kong, Sri Lanka, the Palestinians and Israelis, Ethiopia and Tigray, Myanmar and the Rohingya Muslim refugees, Lebanon, all at the Mexico/United States border seeking refuge, the 100 million refugees and displaced persons, the people of Haiti suffering from political disasters, the victims and communities in Turkey and Syria devastated by earthquake, the victims and families of the school shooting in Nashville, those in the United States, Canada, and throughout the world caught up in racism and injustice and the resulting violence, and those throughout the world, in Canada, in our province, and in our community still threatened by the coronavirus and the many omicron variants.

THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE OF FAITH

[The congregational response after each petition is:  “ GRANT US YOUR PEACE.”]

Pastor:  As we journey with Jesus to the cross, the tree of life, witnessing to the transformation of life that comes with faith, repentance and forgiveness, let us pray for the renewal of the Church and the restoration of the whole world to the life of God, saying, “O God, in your compassion” and responding, “Grant us your peace.”

Petitioner: Merciful God, in your boundless compassion you lived among us and suffered death at human hands.  Hold the way of the cross before your people by your Spirit working through your Word and sacraments to make us faithful witnesses of your steadfast love.   Plant Christ’s cross in our hearts, so that as palms were carried in a procession of praise, so now our palms are offered in a life of service to the neighbour and all in need.  O God, in your compassion …

Petitioner:  God of wisdom, through the cross of Christ you have called all people from darkness to light, from error into truth, from death into life.  Raise us by your Spirit.  Revive us by your Word. Form us by your hand.  Remind us of our baptismal waters of life and nourish us with your bread and cup of blessing that we might  see a future of hope, start life anew, and bear witness to your grace.  O God, in your compassion …

Petitioner:   Righteous God, break down the walls of division throughout the world, so that in this Holy Week, people of all faiths may grow in understanding and mutual respect for one another.  Teach us to live with humility with one another and to live with humility and gratitude for the world you created that is groaning under our faithlessness, so that we might show reverence for all people and be humble stewards for all living things.   O God, in your compassion…

Pastor:   Comforting God, you meet us in the depths of human suffering.  Care for all who are weary and weak and who endure doubt, despair, illness, conflict, loss, trials and grief.  We remember especially before you ….   Sustain all in their times of testing.  O God, in your compassion …

Petitioner:   God of new life, we pray for the fragile gift of creation, that our world’s many scars and sufferings find healing in your gracious life-giving love.  Give us the faith and the courage to live in such a way that we do not betray, deny or mock this precious gift, but dedicate our lives to the care and redemption of all that you have made.  O God, in your compassion …

Petitioner:   Praiseworthy God, rescue your beloved, war-weary world from hatred and terror, so that all nations may turn from evil and walk in paths of peace.  Lead all courts and judges, nations and rulers, in your ways of justice.  Be with all who suffer from violence, abuse, oppression, terrorism; end torture, that all may be free from needless and useless suffering.  O God, in your compassion …

Petitioner:   Sustaining God, guard us from betraying you, give us courage that we not deny you, help us wear the cross marked on us in our baptisms and enable us to remain faithful to the new covenant poured out for us in the cup of your salvation.  During this Holy Week guide our walk in the way of the cross, so that we find in it the way of life, joy, peace, service, and hope.   O God, in your compassion …

Pastor:  Gracious God, hear us as we pray.  As you have made us and redeemed us, so now sustain us with your hope, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

People:  Amen.

THANKSGIVING


THE COMMUNITY PRAISES GOD FOR THE GRACIOUS GIFTS OF CREATION
AND THE SAVING DEEDS OF JESUS CHRIST

THE GREETING AND SHARING OF PEACE

Pastor: Sisters and brothers, rejoice, encourage one another, live in peace.
God through Christ has given us the gift of reconciliation.

People: Therefore, let us be reconciled to God and to one another.

Pastor: The peace of the Christ be with you always.

People: And also with you.

(If with others greet one another with a gesture of peace, using these or similar words: “Christ’s peace be with you.”)

THE OFFERING

(We worship God with the offering of our selves, our time, our talents, and our possessions.)

OFFERTORY SONG

“Create In Me”

[click on the link below]

Create in me a clean heart, O God,

Let me be like you in all my ways.

Give me your strength,

Teach me your song,

Shelter me in the shadow of your wings.

For we are your righteousness.

If we die to ourselves and live through your death,

We shall be born again to be blessed in your love.

OFFERTORY PRAYER

Pastor: Let us pray.
God our abundant Giver,

People: you provide us with every gift of creation,

and you quench our thirst with living water.

You have not fed us with bread alone,

but with words of grace and life.

Receive these tokens of your goodness to us.

May our lives be bread for the hungry

and streams in the wilderness,

signs of the abundance of your grace

in Jesus Christ.  Amen.

THE LORD’S PRAYER

Pastor: Lord, remember us in your kingdom, and teach us to pray:

People: Our Father in heaven,

hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done,

  on earth as in heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins

as we forgive those

  who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial

and deliver us from evil.

For the kingdom, the power,

and the glory are yours,

now and forever. Amen.

SENDING


ALL RECEIVE THE BLESSING OF GOD, LEAVE IN PEACE,
AND ARE SENT OUT TO SERVE

BENEDICTION

Pastor: God give you the strength to raise up the cross of Christ,

wisdom to follow in the cross of Christ,

and the guidance of the Spirit to carry the cross of Christ

into our world.

People: Amen.

DISMISSAL

Pastor: Reconciled to God through the life-giving cross of Christ,

let us go out into the world in peace..

People: Thanks be to God.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

TODAY AT KOG                                                                                                                 – Coffee Social after the service.  Hosted by Karen Larson.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           THIS WEEK AT KOG                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                 – Thursday, March 30, Bev Gregory is hosting (154 Arrand Crescent)  quilt- making bees every Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.                                                                                                                                               

Thursday, April 6, Bible Study, “A Short History of Grace,”  7:30 p.m. Hosted by Karen Larson.  We meet in Pastor Michael’s home, 1010 Duke Street.                         – Friday, April 7, Good Friday service with St. David’s/Trinity, 10:30 a.m.                 – Sunday, April 9, Easter service with St. David’s/Trinity, 10:30 a.m.  

COMING UP AT KOG                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           Thursday, April 20, Bible Study, “A Short History of Grace,”  7:30 p.m. Hosted by Doreen Matschke.  We meet in Pastor Michael’s home, 1010 Duke Street.                                                                                                                         – Wednesday, April 26, Women’s Breakfast Out, at Mulberry’s Restaurant 2326 B Millar Avenue, 10:00 a.m.                                                                                       – Thursday, April 27, Church Council meeting via Zoom, 7:30 p.m.                             – Saturday, April 29, Men’s Breakfast Out at Mulberry’s Restaurant 2326 B Millar           Avenue, 8:30 a.m.                                                                                               

February, March, and Year-to-Date Budget and Contribution Report for KOG

2023 Budget:  $50,471       Monthly Budget:  $4,260     Weekly Budget:  $971

2023 income/expenses: $4,479.08

January income/expenses: -4,453.08

Weekly contributions for February:  February 5: $13,050  February 12: $250

February 19 and 26: $140

Weekly contributions for March:  March 5: $740  March 12 and 19: $1555        March 26: $220

“A Short History of Grace”. This Bible and theology study looks at the ways grace is interpreted from the time of the Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament, through St. Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther and to contemporary theologies of liberation. 

We would like one person from King of Glory along with a person from St. David’s/Trinity to be a Greeter for the Good Friday Service and a person to be a Greeter for the service on Easter Sunday.

Spring Hymn-Sing and Reception

You are invited: to a Spring Hymn Sing featuring local Lutheran parish choirs and musicians, Thursday, April 20th at 7:30 p.m. at Augustana Lutheran Church, 1201 Broadway Ave. S.  Come to enjoy choral anthems for the Easter season, presented by Augustana, Resurrection, and other choirs–but come ready to sing, too!  Together we’ll be getting acquainted with a variety of beautiful hymns from a promising new resource, the latest supplement to our Lutheran hymnals, called All Creation Sings.  A coffee reception will follow, hosted by Augustana Choir.  Proceeds from the evening’s offering will go towards Augustana’s purchase of All Creation Sings worship resources, as well as the Queen Elizabeth School Breakfast Program.  Let’s celebrate Easter through choral music and joyous congregational singing.  

For more information, contact Deborah Buck, dbuck@sasktel.net or 306-652-0379.         

Greetings from the Lutheran Anglican Women’s Retreat Committee.

The Lutheran Anglican Women’s Retreat Committee is looking for volunteers to serve with us on our committee. We are organizing an annual retreat for Lutheran and Anglican women from congregations of Saskatoon and area, to be held Saturday October 21, 2023.

We are serving the Lord through providing a retreat experience to nurture spiritual growth and faith in women.  

For more information or to volunteer, please contact 

Lorraine Harilstad at 306-370-7260. 

Emergency Appeal – Earthquake in Türkiye and Syria: Canadian Lutheran World Relief (CLWR), along with other leading Canadian aid agencies in the Humanitarian Coalition, is appealing for funds to assist those in need in Turkey and Syria affected by the earthquake and to support rescue efforts. Our focus right now is to provide blankets, shelter, life-saving clean water, food and healthcare. Please give what you can by donating at clwr.org/earthquake or by calling 1-800-661-2597 (office hours Mon-Fri, 9 am-4 pm), and pray for all those who are affected.

Offerings.  

(Please no cash for mail security reasons)

Send your contributions to:  King of Glory Lutheran Church

    3318 Merritt Street

    Saskatoon, SK  S7M 3P6

Thank you for your generosity.