104 Union Street South Concord, North Carolina 28025 …images.acswebnetworks.com/1/2243/PalmPassionChange...Liturgists and theologians speak of the “Paschal Mystery,” a phrase

THE SUNDAY OF THE PASSION OF OUR LORD Page 1 SAINT JAMES CHURCH, ELCA

The Solemn Choral Eucharist On Palm Sunday Together With The Passion Of Our Lord

The Introduction To Today’s Liturgy... Today's liturgy begins with a palm procession, commemorating Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Quickly the tone of the service changes as we meditate upon Jesus' passion and death. Because this story is so central to our faith, we hear Mark’s account of the passion today and John's version on Good Friday. Though Jesus is obedient even unto death on the cross, he is exalted by God. We gather to remember his offering for the life of the world, and to be fed by his life-giving mercy. This holy week will culminate in the celebration of the Three Days of Jesus' suffering, death, and resurrection.

104 Union Street South Concord, North Carolina 28025

Office Phone: 704.786.0166

Office Fax: 704.786.0299 Web Site: www.sjnc.net

“Growing in Christ Through Worship, Learning, Fellowship, and Service”

March 25, 2018 10:00 a.m. in the Nave

Welcome! Saint James is a house of prayer where all people can come to know the compassionate heart of Jesus. We are a diverse community of progressive Christians where you can belong before you believe. At Saint James the beauty of ancient worship and traditional spiritual practices transform contemporary lives. Join us as together we discover the sacred in the heart of the city. Our worship includes ancient and contemporary symbols and practices along with preaching and music to inspire you to follow Jesus in your daily life. We welcome both the spiritual seeker and seasoned disciple to find their home in God with us. If you are looking for a spiritual home or just exploring the life of faith, we hope you will walk with us on that journey of discovery.


Welcome! About the Liturgy During Holy Week

We welcome everyone on this Lord’s Day to the liturgy of Holy Eucharist.

To all who are spiritually weary and seek rest; to all who mourn and long for comfort; to all who struggle and desire victory; to all who sin and need a Savior; to all who are strangers and want fellowship; to all who hunger and thirst after righteousness; and to all who will come, this parish opens wide her doors and offers welcome in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ!

Newcomers and visitors, we hope that you will feel at home in this place and in this liturgy. Ushers are available in the narthex during the liturgy should you have any questions or concerns.

If you are a visitor or guest, please be sure and sign the guestbook located in the Narthex and introduce yourself to the Pastor or to an usher so that we can extend to you a warm welcome.

Although there are customary postures (such as standing and kneeling) in Lutheran worship, you are invited to be seated at any point, according to your needs and comfort.

This Service Leaflet contains all of today’s hymns and liturgy.

Children are most welcome in worship at Saint James Church. Children’s Ministry Bags are located in the narthex for use during worship. Please return them to the narthex area or leave them on the pews at the end of worship. Be sure to take home the Children’s Worship Bulletin and color sheets for your child. For those who desire it, nursery care is provided on the first floor of the Education Building.

Invitation to Communion: All baptized Christians who seek God and desire a deeper, stronger life in Christ are invited to receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion. The Pastor will bring the sacrament to persons in the pews who are unable to come forward. Please advise an usher if you wish the pastor to do so.

The First Aid Kit and the Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) are located outside the church office door, immediately behind the sanctuary. Fire Extinguishers are located in the Sacristy and in the Narthex.

If you are interested in membership to this parish or desire a call from the Pastor, please indicate this to an usher or to the Pastor.

Restrooms are available on the first and second floors of the Education Building.

In Lent we will frequently hear a word unfamiliar to English-speaking Christians, but one which, if we learn to use and understand it, will open our hearts and minds to the celebration of our redemption. The word is pascha, from which the term Paschal Triduum comes—which is the name for the three days between Maundy Thursday and Easter Saturday. It is the ancient biblical word for Passover and is used in the Holy Scriptures both for the exodus/Passover event which saved Israel in the time of Moses, and for the death and resurrection of Jesus, which we celebrate at Easter and on every Lord’s Day. Indeed in many languages the name of Easter is some variation of pascha—see particularly French, Italian, and Spanish. Liturgists and theologians speak of the “Paschal Mystery,” a phrase heard often in the liturgy during Lent and Eastertide. Its meaning is brought home by William Pregnall, former Dean of the Church Divinity School of the Pacific. He describes the Paschal Mystery as the saving event by which God in all times and in all places saves the human race. It has been specially manifested at four points in history:

1. In the Passover/Exodus, which freed Israel from slavery in Egypt, and journeying to the promised land;

2. In the death and resurrection of Jesus, which saves us from slavery to sin and death and leads us into the promised land of God’s kingdom;

3. In Holy Baptism, when we each become participants in the dying and rising of Jesus, and partakers of its benefits;

4. In our participation in the Eucharist, where all of these past events become present to us again and we are active participants in them.

Lent is not a gloomy time, a sad time, or a depressing time for those who are remembering what God has done for them. Our self-examination, which reveals our sin, prepares us to recognize our need for God. Then we gather Sunday by Sunday in the liturgy where our story as the people of God reminds us that God has met and still meets our need. Our fasting and self-denial give us the resources with which we can join Christ in his struggle against evil and death. oining him in that struggle, we also join him in his victory.


THE PROCESSION WITH PALMS The congregation gathers in the Garden Parking Lot. Palm branches are distributed before the service begins.

THE PALM SUNDAY GREETING Celebrant Grace, mercy, and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you. People And also with you. Celebrant Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, during Lent we have been preparing by works of love

and self-sacrifice for the celebration of our Lord’s death and resurrection. Today we come together to begin this solemn celebration in union with the Church throughout the world. Christ enters his own city to complete his work as our Savior; to suffer, to die, and to rise again. Let us go with him in faith and love, so that, united with him in his sufferings, we may share his risen life.

Celebrant Blessed is the one comes in the name of the Lord. People Hosanna to the Son of David. Celebrant The Lord be with you. People And also with you. Celebrant Let us pray. Assist us mercifully with your help, O Lord God of our salvation, that we may enter with joy upon the contemplation of those mighty acts, whereby you have given life and immortality; through Jesus Christ our Lord. People Amen.

THE GOSPEL OF THE TRIUMPHAL ENTRY Saint Matthew 21:1-11 Jesus’ entrance into the final days. Gospeller The Holy Gospel according to Saint Matthew the twenty-first chapter. People Glory to you, O Lord.

hen they had come near Jerusalem and had reached Bethphage, at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2saying 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. 3If anyone says anything to you, just say this, ‘The Lord needs them.’ And he will send them immediately.” 4This took place to fulfill what had been spoken through the prophet, saying, 5“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.” 6The disciples went and did as Jesus had directed them; 7they brought the donkey and the colt, and put their cloaks on them, and he sat on them. 8A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, and others cut branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9The 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!” 10When he entered Jerusalem, the whole city was in turmoil, asking, “Who is this?” 11The crowds were saying, “This is the prophet Jesus from Nazareth in Galilee.”

Gospeller The Gospel of the Lord. People Praise to you, O Christ.

The Liturgy of the Palms God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching, and song


The people raise their palm branches for the blessing and the processional hymn.

THE BLESSING OF THE PALMS Celebrant The Lord be with you. People And also with you. Celebrant Let us give thanks to the Lord our God. People It is right to give God thanks and praise. Celebrant We praise and thank you, O God, for the great acts of love by which you have redeemed us through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. On this day he entered the holy city of Jerusalem in triumph, and was acclaimed Son of David and King of kings by those who scattered their garments and branches of palm in his path. We ask that you bless these branches and those who bear them that they may be for us signs of his victory, and grant that we may ever hail him as our Lord and King and follow him with perfect confidence in the way that leads to eternal life; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. People Amen. Celebrant Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. People Hosanna to the Son of David. Celebrant Let us go forth in peace, People in the name of the Lord. The procession into the church is led by the choirs; the people follow the Celebrant as the hymn is sung.

The People stand THE HYMN AT THE PROCESSION WITH PALMS


THE PALM SUNDAY GATHERING LITANY Celebrant Let the women sing, People Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Celebrant Let the men sing, People Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Celebrant Let the children sing, People Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Celebrant Let all the people proclaim, People Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord. Celebrant The prophet Zechariah called to the people: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout aloud, O daughter of Jerusalem! Lo, your king comes to you; triumphant and victorious is he, humble and riding on a donkey, on a colt, the foal of a donkey. People We said the day of our Lord will come tomorrow. Lord have mercy, Lord have mercy, Have mercy upon us. Celebrant The prophet Isaiah called to the people: Go through, go through the gates, prepare the way for the people; build up, build up the highway, clear it of stones, lift up an ensign over the peoples. The Lord has proclaimed to the end of the earth: Say to daughter Zion, "See, your salvation comes; his reward is with him, and his recompense before him," People So we waited to prepare the road for our Lord. Christ have mercy, Christ have mercy, Have mercy upon us. Celebrant The psalmist invited the people to sing: The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. People The Lord is coming. The messiah rides in. Lord have mercy, Lord have mercy, Have mercy upon us.


THE CANTICLE

THE SALUTATION AND COLLECT OF THE DAY Celebrant Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. People Hosanna in the highest. Celebrant Let us pray.

Almighty and ever-living God, in your tender love for the human race you sent your Son our Savior Jesus Christ to take upon him our nature, and to suffer death upon the cross, giving us the example of his great humility: Mercifully grant that we may walk in the way of his suffering, and also share in his resurrection; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

People Amen.

THE APOSTLES’ CREED Celebrant God has made us his people through our Baptism into Christ. Living together in trust and hope, we confess our faith. People I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended into hell. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. 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.


THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE Celebrant With all our heart and with all our mind, let us pray for the church, those in need, and all of God's creation. The People kneel or sit as able The People sing the refrain two times.

Intercessor Be with all who wave palm branches and walk the road to the cross. For the mission of the gospel where your church is forgotten, for disciples wrestling with betrayal, for all who seek the Lord, let us pray. People Have mercy, O God. Intercessor Renew the waters of the earth and restore us to right relationship with all creation. For villages without access to clean water, for cities with an abundance, for flood lands and drought lands, let us pray. People Have mercy, O God. Intercessor End human trafficking in every nation. For children taken from their families, for men and women without hope, for governments and nonprofits seeking resolutions, let us pray. People Have mercy, O God. Intercessor Comfort the afflicted. For those imprisoned, for those waiting on death row, for all overwhelmed by sorrow, and for all who live with disease, chronic pain, and anxiety in this world, let us pray. People Have mercy, O God. Intercessor Enrich the children and youth of our congregation with an abundance of your Spirit. For each child in our community, for parents and guardians, for confirmation mentors and faith formation leaders, let us pray. People Have mercy, O God. Intercessor Sustain the weary. For all who mourn, for all who yearn to be with you in paradise, for funeral home staff, for hospital chaplains and grief counselors, let us pray. People Have mercy, O God. Celebrant Into your hands, gracious God, we commend all for whom we pray, trusting in your mercy; through Jesus Christ our Savior. People Amen.

The People stand THE PEACE Celebrant The peace of the Lord be with you always. People And also with you.

The peace that passes all understanding is Christ’s gift to us. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we share a gesture of God’s peace with one another.


The People sit THE PREPARATION OF THE ALTAR AND COLLECTION OF ALMS An offering is gathered for the mission of the church, including the care of those in need. During this time, the table is set. After the offering is gathered, the gifts are brought forward. The pew envelopes marked “Special Offering” are intended for use in designating offerings beyond regular contributions. Please be sure to write on the envelope to what fund or organization this offering is intended.

THE ANTHEM The Parish Choir and RSCM Choristers

Lift up your heads, O ye gates, and be ye lift up ye everlasting doors, and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates, and be ye lift up ye everlasting doors, and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, he is the King of glory.

Words: Psalm 24:7-10 Music: William Mathias (1934-1992)

The People stand and sing the hymn as the gifts are brought forward and presented at the altar. The Offertory Hymn serves as the turning point in our Liturgy in preparation for the Passion reading and the journey through Holy Week. At this point the mood of the Liturgy changes from the festive nature of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem to a somber mood as we observe the Passion of our Lord.

The People stand AT THE PRESENTATION, THE OFFERTORY HYMN, VSS 1, 3, & 5

THE COLLECT AT THE PREPARATION OF THE TABLE Celebrant Let us pray. People Compassionate God, we offer you these gifts as signs of our time and labor.

Receive the offering of our lives, and feed us with your grace, that, even in the midst of death, all creation might feast on your unending life in Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.


The People sit THE FIRST READING Isaiah 50:4-9a

This text, the third of the Servant Songs that arose in the last years of Israel's exile in Babylon, speaks of the servant's obedience in the midst of persecution. Though the servant has been variously understood as the prophet himself or a remnant of faithful Israel, Christians have often recognized the figure of Christ in these poems. Lector A reading from Isaiah, the fiftieth chapter.

he 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. 5The Lord GOD has opened my ear, and I was

not rebellious, I did not turn backward. 6I 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. 7The 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; 8he who vindicates me is near. Who will contend with me? Let us stand up together. Who are my adversaries? Let them confront me. 9It is the Lord GOD who helps me; who will declare me guilty?

Lector The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

THE SECOND READING Philippians 2:5-11

Paul quotes from an early Christian hymn that describes Jesus' death on the cross as the primary model for Christians of obedience and unselfishness. Lector A reading from Philippians, the second chapter.

et the same mind be in you that was in Christ Jesus, 6who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God as something to be exploited, 7but emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, being born in human likeness. And

being found in human form, 8he humbled himself and became obedient to the point of death — even death on a cross. 9Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him the name that is above every name, 10so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11and every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Lector The Word of the Lord. People Thanks be to God.

THE HANDBELL VOLUNTARY The Bells of Saint James

The Passion Prophecy Cathy Moklebust This handbell piece is a meditation based upon the following scripture:

“Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten by God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” —Isaiah 53:4-5

The Liturgy of the Passion God speaks to us in scripture reading, preaching, and song


The People remain seated until the point in the Passion where they are directed to stand.

The People remain seated THE HOLY GOSPEL Saint Mark 14:1—15:47

In fulfillment of scripture and obedience to God’s will, Jesus goes to the cross so that a new covenant in his blood may bring forgiveness of sins. Even the soldiers who crucify him recognize him to be the Son of God.

Gospeller The Holy Gospel according to Saint Mark the fourteenth and fifteenth chapters. People Glory to you, O Lord.

The Plot to Kill Jesus It was two days before the Passover and the festival of Unleavened Bread. The chief priests and the scribes were looking for a way to arrest Jesus by stealth and kill him; for they said, ‘Not during the festival, or there may be a riot among the people.’

The Anointing at Bethany

While he was at Bethany in the house of Simon the leper, as he sat at the table, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very costly ointment of nard, and she broke open the jar and poured the ointment on his head. But some were there who said to one another in anger, ‘Why was the ointment wasted in this way? For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denarii, and the money given to the poor.’ And they scolded her. But Jesus said, ‘Let her alone; why do you trouble her? She has performed a good service for me. For you always have the poor with you, and you can show kindness to them whenever you wish; but you will not always have me. She has done what she could; she has anointed my body beforehand for its burial. Truly I tell you, wherever the good news is proclaimed in the whole world, what she has done will be told in remembrance of her.’

Judas Agrees to Betray Jesus

Then Judas Iscariot, who was one of the twelve, went to the chief priests in order to betray him to them. When they heard it, they were greatly pleased, and promised to give him money. So he began to look for an opportunity to betray him.

The Passover with the Disciples

On the first day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover lamb is sacrificed, his disciples said to him, ‘Where do you want us to go and make the preparations for you to eat the Passover?’ So he sent two of his disciples, saying to them, ‘Go into the city, and a man carrying a jar of water will meet you; follow him, and wherever he enters, say to the owner of the house, “The Teacher asks, Where is my guest room where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?” He will show you a large room upstairs, furnished and ready. Make preparations for us there.’ So the disciples set out and went to the city, and found everything as he had told them; and they prepared the Passover meal. When it was evening, he came with the twelve. And when they had taken their places and were eating, Jesus said, ‘Truly I tell you, one of you will betray me, one who is eating with me.’ They began to be distressed and to say to him one after another, ‘Surely, not I?’ He said to them, ‘It is one of the twelve, one who is dipping bread into the bowl with me. For the Son of Man goes as it is written of him, but woe to that one by whom the Son of Man is betrayed! It would have been better for that one not to have been born.’

The Institution of the Lord’s Supper While they were eating, he took a loaf of bread, and after blessing it he broke it, gave it to them, and said, ‘Take; this is my body.’ Then he took a cup, and after giving thanks he gave it to them, and all of them drank from it. He said to them, ‘This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many. Truly I tell you, I will never again drink of the fruit of the vine until that day when I drink it new in the kingdom of God.’

Peter’s Denial Foretold

When they had sung the hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives. And Jesus said to them, ‘You will all become deserters; for it is written, “I will strike the shepherd, and the


sheep will be scattered.” But after I am raised up, I will go before you to Galilee.’ Peter said to him, ‘Even though all become deserters, I will not.’ Jesus said to him, ‘Truly I tell you, this day, this very night, before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times.’ But he said vehemently, ‘Even though I must die with you, I will not deny you.’ And all of them said the same.

Jesus Prays in Gethsemane They went to a place called Gethsemane; and he said to his disciples, ‘Sit here while I pray.’ He took with him Peter and James and John, and began to be distressed and agitated. And he said to them, ‘I am deeply grieved, even to death; remain here, and keep awake.’ And going a little farther, he threw himself on the ground and prayed that, if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. He said, ‘Abba, Father, for you all things are possible; remove this cup from me; yet, not what I want, but what you want.’ He came and found them sleeping; and he said to Peter, ‘Simon, are you asleep? Could you not keep awake one hour? Keep awake and pray that you may not come into the time of trial; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.’ And again he went away and prayed, saying the same words. And once more he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were very heavy; and they did not know what to say to him. He came a third time and said to them, ‘Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? Enough! The hour has come; the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Get up, let us be going. See, my betrayer is at hand.’

The Betrayal and Arrest of Jesus Immediately, while he was still speaking, Judas, one of the twelve, arrived; and with him there was a crowd with swords and clubs, from the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders. Now the betrayer had given them a sign, saying, ‘The one I will kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.’ So when he came, he went up to him at once and said, ‘Rabbi!’ and kissed him. Then they laid hands on him and arrested him. But one of those who stood near drew his sword and struck the slave of the high priest, cutting off his ear. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Have you come out with swords and clubs to arrest me as though I were a bandit? Day after day I was with you in the temple teaching, and you did not arrest me. But let the scriptures be fulfilled.’ All of them deserted him and fled. A certain young man was following him, wearing nothing but a linen cloth. They caught hold of him, but he left the linen cloth and ran off naked.

Jesus before the Council They took Jesus to the high priest; and all the chief priests, the elders, and the scribes were assembled. Peter had followed him at a distance, right into the courtyard of the high priest; and he was sitting with the guards, warming himself at the fire. Now the chief priests and the whole council were looking for testimony against Jesus to put him to death; but they found none. For many gave false testimony against him, and their testimony did not agree. Some stood up and gave false testimony against him, saying, ‘We heard him say, “I will destroy this temple that is made with hands, and in three days I will build another, not made with hands.” ’ But even on this point their testimony did not agree. Then the high priest stood up before them and asked Jesus, ‘Have you no answer? What is it that they testify against you?’ But he was silent and did not answer. Again the high priest asked him, ‘Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?’ Jesus said, ‘I am; and “you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power”, and “coming with the clouds of heaven.” ’ Then the high priest tore his clothes and said, ‘Why do we still need witnesses? You have heard his blasphemy! What is your decision?’ All of them condemned him as deserving death. Some began to spit on him, to blindfold him, and to strike him, saying to him, ‘Prophesy!’ The guards also took him over and beat him.

Peter Denies Jesus While Peter was below in the courtyard, one of the servant-girls of the high priest came by. When she saw Peter warming himself, she stared at him and said, ‘You also were with


Jesus, the man from Nazareth.’ But he denied it, saying, ‘I do not know or understand what you are talking about.’ And he went out into the forecourt. Then the cock crowed. And the servant-girl, on seeing him, began again to say to the bystanders, ‘This man is one of them.’ But again he denied it. Then after a little while the bystanders again said to Peter, ‘Certainly you are one of them; for you are a Galilean.’ But he began to curse, and he swore an oath, ‘I do not know this man you are talking about.’ At that moment the cock crowed for the second time. Then Peter remembered that Jesus had said to him, ‘Before the cock crows twice, you will deny me three times.’ And he broke down and wept.

Jesus before Pilate As soon as it was morning, the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council. They bound Jesus, led him away, and handed him over to Pilate. Pilate asked him, ‘Are you the King of the Jews?’ He answered him, ‘You say so.’ Then the chief priests accused him of many things. Pilate asked him again, ‘Have you no answer? See how many charges they bring against you.’ But Jesus made no further reply, so that Pilate was amazed.

Pilate Hands Jesus over to Be Crucified Now at the festival he used to release a prisoner for them, anyone for whom they asked. Now a man called Barabbas was in prison with the rebels who had committed murder during the insurrection. So the crowd came and began to ask Pilate to do for them according to his custom. Then he answered them, ‘Do you want me to release for you the King of the Jews?’ For he realized that it was out of jealousy that the chief priests had handed him over. But the chief priests stirred up the crowd to have him release Barabbas for them instead. Pilate spoke to them again, ‘Then what do you wish me to do with the man you call the King of the Jews?’ They shouted back, ‘Crucify him!’ Pilate asked them, ‘Why, what evil has he done?’ But they shouted all the more, ‘Crucify him!’ So Pilate, wishing to satisfy the crowd, released Barabbas for them; and after flogging Jesus, he handed him over to be crucified.

The Soldiers Mock Jesus Then the soldiers led him into the courtyard of the palace (that is, the governor’s headquarters); and they called together the whole cohort. And they clothed him in a purple cloak; and after twisting some thorns into a crown, they put it on him. And they began saluting him, ‘Hail, King of the Jews!’ They struck his head with a reed, spat upon him, and knelt down in homage to him. After mocking him, they stripped him of the purple cloak and put his own clothes on him. Then they led him out to crucify him. The People stand for the remainder of the reading of the Passion Gospel.

The Crucifixion of Jesus They compelled a passer-by, who was coming in from the country, to carry his cross; it was Simon of Cyrene, the father of Alexander and Rufus. Then they brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha (which means the place of a skull). And they offered him wine mixed with myrrh; but he did not take it. And they crucified him, and divided his clothes among them, casting lots to decide what each should take. It was nine o’clock in the morning when they crucified him. The inscription of the charge against him read, ‘The King of the Jews.’ And with him they crucified two bandits, one on his right and one on his left. Those who passed by derided him, shaking their heads and saying, ‘Aha! You who would destroy the temple and build it in three days, save yourself, and come down from the cross!’ In the same way the chief priests, along with the scribes, were also mocking him among themselves and saying, ‘He saved others; he cannot save himself. Let the Messiah, the King of Israel, come down from the cross now, so that we may see and believe.’ Those who were crucified with him also taunted him.


The Death of Jesus When it was noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. At three o’clock Jesus cried out with a loud voice, ‘Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?’ which means, ‘My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?’ When some of the bystanders heard it, they said, ‘Listen, he is calling for Elijah.’ And someone ran, filled a sponge with sour wine, put it on a stick, and gave it to him to drink, saying, ‘Wait, let us see whether Elijah will come to take him down.’ Then Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom. Now when the centurion, who stood facing him, saw that in this way he breathed his last, he said, ‘Truly this man was God’s Son!’ There were also women looking on from a distance; among them were Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joses, and Salome. These used to follow him and provided for him when he was in Galilee; and there were many other women who had come up with him to Jerusalem.

The Burial of Jesus When evening had come, and since it was the day of Preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath, Joseph of Arimathea, a respected member of the council, who was also himself waiting expectantly for the kingdom of God, went boldly to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Then Pilate wondered if he were already dead; and summoning the centurion, he asked him whether he had been dead for some time. When he learned from the centurion that he was dead, he granted the body to Joseph. Then Joseph bought a linen cloth, and taking down the body, wrapped it in the linen cloth, and laid it in a tomb that had been hewn out of the rock. He then rolled a stone against the door of the tomb. Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses saw where the body was laid.

Gospeller The Gospel of the Lord. People Praise to you, O Christ.


THE LORD’S PRAYER Celebrant And now as our Savior Christ has taught us, we are bold to pray, People Our Father, who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever and ever. Amen.

THE PRAYER OF HUMBLE ACCESS Celebrant This is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. Happy are those who are called to his supper. People We do not presume to come to your table, O merciful Lord, trusting in our own

righteousness, but in your manifold and great mercies. We are not worthy to gather up the crumbs under your table. But you are the same Lord whose property is always to have mercy. Grant us, therefore, gracious Lord, so to eat the flesh of your dear Son Jesus Christ, and so to drink his blood, that we may evermore dwell in him, and he in us. Amen.

THE INVITATION TO HOLY COMMUNION Celebrant The gifts of God for the people of God. Take them in remembrance that Christ died for you, and feed on him in your hearts by faith, with thanksgiving. People Thanks be to God!

The People sit THE MINISTRATION OF HOLY COMMUNION All baptized Christians are welcome to Holy Communion at Saint James Church. If you desire to receive the Sacrament at the High Altar, please proceed through the Choir to approach the High Altar and kneel at the communion rail for the reception of the Blessed Sacrament. If you desire to receive the Sacrament at the Communion Station located below the pulpit in the Nave, please proceed toward the Chancel steps for the reception of the Blessed Sacrament from the Communion Assistant on the Nave level. The Sacrament is administered by the method of Intinction. Take the wafer from the Assistant then dip it in the wine. The Pastor will bring the sacrament to persons in the pews who are unable to come forward. Please advise an usher if you wish the pastor to do so.

THE AGNUS DEI


THE HYMN AT THE COMMUNION

After the Choir has communed and returned to their places, Verse 1 will be repeated.


After all have communed then follows,

The People stand THE EUCHARISTIC BLESSING

Celebrant The body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ strengthen you and keep you in his grace. People Amen.

THE POSTCOMMUNION COLLECT Celebrant Let us pray.

Lord Jesus Christ, you humbled yourself in taking the form of a servant, and in obedience died on the cross for our salvation: give us the mind to follow you and to proclaim you as Lord and King, to the glory of God the Father.

People Amen.

THE BLESSING OVER THE PEOPLE Celebrant Almighty God, we pray you graciously to behold this your family, for whom our Lord Jesus Christ was willing to be betrayed, and given into the hands of sinners, and to suffer death upon the cross; who lives and reigns for ever and ever. People Amen.

THE SILENT PROCESSION OF THE CHOIR

THE DEPARTURE The People depart in silence.

THE LITURGY HAS ENDED; THE SERVICE BEGINS! “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be complete. Be of good comfort. Be of one mind. Live in peace and the God of love and peace will be with you. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” —Corinthians 13:11-14



Prayer List: (additions to full listing of names in monthly newsletter) Alex Barnhardt (surgery 4/19), Ken Hardison (surgery - 3/21), Hunter Huss, Mary Edith Jarvis, Suzanne Wright (friend of Avery Miller), Debbie Wilkinson and family (in the death of her husband Johnny), Brian & Stephanie Floyd and their son Bane (in the death of their daughter Ella—friends of Nick & Christine Lovelace), Family of Ted Feldewerth (friend of Al Pieschel) Readings for next Sunday: Acts 10:34-43 Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 1 Corinthians 15:1-11 Mark 16:1-8 Birthdays for the week: March 25 Jill Strahl 27 Isaac Jay 28 Frank Irvin Skyla Hardister 29 Jerry Hopkins 30 Anne Hodges Stations of the Cross: Please join us in honoring Christ for a Stations of the Cross walk on Good Friday, March 30 at 3:30 p.m. We will begin at Grace Lutheran Church (corner of Tournament and Chestnut, near Spring Street). The walk this year will be in the Logan community. We will stop for a devotional reading at each of the 14 stations. The walk should take about 75 minutes. If you have questions, please call the church office.

Easter Egg Hunt: Saturday, March 31 from 10:00—11:00 in the Fellowship Hall. Invite your friends and neighbors! If you are able to donate plastic eggs filled with individually wrapped candy, please place them in the blue basket in the portico area by March 25. Easter Breakfast (7:30 am): Please join us next Sunday morning, April 1 in the Fellowship Hall for a time of food and fellowship. We encourage you to sign up to make sure there is plenty of food for everyone! Chair/Yoga 8 week class begins April 4 from 1:00—2:00 p.m. Sign up sheets are available in portico area or you can call the church office. Cost is $4.00 per class. Women of the ELCA are collecting in-kind offerings for the Concord Opportunity House until April 28: We will be collecting items most in demand for the OH at the portico entrance which include: Toiletries, Razors, Lotions, Toothbrushes and Paste, Socks and Underwear, Diapers, Wipes and Powder, OTC Pain Relievers (individually wrapped if possible), Ace Wraps, Crutches and Medical Braces, Feminine Hygiene Products, Tampons and Pads, HE Laundry Detergent and Towels, Bus Passes, Stamps and Envelopes, Emergency Street Food (items that do not need to be cooked or refrigerated), Individually Wrapped Snacks. For just a dollar and 2 quarters you could help someone purchase a bus pass to

get to a doctor’s appointment, or visitation with a child or family member, or even a job interview. If you want to make a financial contribution, please make checks out to The Opportunity House and leave in the church office with Debbie Wilkinson, the Parish Administrator.

The Saint James Parish Notices The deadline for notices to be included in the weekly notices is 9 a.m. on Wednesday morning.

Please e-mail all information to the church office at [email protected]

Our $tewardship: Contributions and Receipts

For March 18, 2018: $7,430.00

($7,827.00 needed per week)

$$ CONTRIBUTE ONLINE $$ You may make contributions online by visiting our website at www.sjnc.net. You may contribute toward your pledge or to a designated fund. Look for the link “On-Line Giving” on the Saint James home page.


+ True Lenten Disciplines +

Fast from judging others; Feast on Christ dwelling in them.

Fast from fear of illness;

Feast on the healing power of God.

Fast from words that pollute; Feast on speech that purifies.

Fast from discontent;

Feast on gratitude.

Fast from anger; Feast on patience.

Fast from pessimism;

Feast on optimism.

Fast from negatives; Feast on alternatives.

Fast from bitterness;

Feast on forgiveness.

Fast from self-concern; Feast on compassion.

Fast from suspicion; Feast on truth.

Fast from gossip;

Feast on purposeful silence.

Fast from problems that overwhelm; Feast on prayer that sustains.

Fast from worry; Feast on faith.


104 UNION STREET SOUTH

PO BOX 684 CONCORD, NORTH CAROLINA 28025

Church Office 704.786.0166 Music Office 704.786.1063 Pre-School Office 704.786.1062 Church Fax 704.786.0299 Website www.sjnc.net Office Hours M-Th, 9:00—5:30 Closed for lunch from 12 Noon until 1:00 p.m. The Parish Office is closed on Fridays

THE DIRECTORY The Baptized Members of St. James...….…Ministers The Rev. Elizabeth A. Eaton.. …….Presiding Bishop The Rev. Dr. Timothy M. Smith………… ….Bishop

THE SAINT JAMES STAFF

The Rev. Tony Bradshaw ……………..Senior Pastor [email protected]

Mark D. Frye ...Director of Worship & Music/Organist

[email protected] Debbie Wilkinson…..…..… …..Parish Administrator

[email protected] Jill Irvin ……………………..Finance Administrator

[email protected] Cindy Cruse .…….……………..Hospitality Director

[email protected] Renee Hughes ………………………...Parish Nurse

[email protected] Kathryn Hoadley………….…. Nursery Coordinator

[email protected]

THE CONGREGATIONAL COUNCIL

Frank Irvin, President ……[email protected] Jeremy Jay, Vice-President……[email protected] Margaret Garrison, Sec. [email protected] Beth Huss, Treasurer ………[email protected] Joseph Beasley, Asst.Tr. [email protected] Mike Downs ……………[email protected] Bill Hardiser ………………[email protected] Samantha Hillegass……………[email protected] Hunter Huss……………[email protected] Marcia Klauss ………………[email protected] Kenny Propst……………………[email protected] Kathryn Radcliffe……………[email protected] Jodi Ramirez…...………[email protected]

Saint

James

LUTHERAN CHURCH

A Parish of the North Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

CONCORD

NORTH CAROLINA

The Liturgy Assistants The Parish Events

USHERS Brad Baker Chip Harward Taylor Pruette Al Pieschel Jon Miller Andy Yoos BUILDING SUPERVISOR Brad Baker (704-756-1284) and Jon Miller (704-780-0081) ALTAR GUILD Francie Davis and Jill Irvin GREETERS Mary Magdalene Circle (Dee Pieschel) NURSERY ATTENDANTS Today: Kathryn Radcliffe & Reggie Hardister Next Week: Kathryn Radcliffe COMMUNION ASSISTANTS Today: Joyce Osborne, Nancy Faggart, Kim Haberman Next Week: Tom Ridenhour, LECTORS Today: Elizabeth Hurley Next Week: INTERCESSOR Today: Dave Burke Next Week: ALTAR SERVERS Today: Master: Hudson Davis Regular: Avery Miller Torch: Sommer McDaniel, Jay Cruse Next Week: Master: Regular: CHILDREN’S CHURCH Today: LeeAnn Miller & Lisa Folino Next Week:

SUNDAY, March 25 Palm/Passion Sunday The Liturgy will begin outside in the Garden Parking Lot 9:00 Sunday Church School 9:00 Parish Choir Rehearsal 10:00 Choral Eucharist MONDAY, March 26 10:30 Quilting Group 6:30 Boy/Cub Scouts TUESDAY, March 27 No meetings/events scheduled WEDNESDAY, March 28 10:30 Singing Seniors 12:00 No Chapel this week 1:30 CROP Walk Mtg (Parlor) 6:00 Bells of St. James Rehearsal 7:00 Parish Choir Rehearsal THURSDAY, March 29 Maundy Thursday 6:00 Parish Choir Rehearsal 7:00 Maundy Thursday Eucharist FRIDAY, March 30 Good Friday 11:00 Parish Choir Rehearsal 12:05 Good Friday Service Lunch following in Fellowship Hall SATURDAY, March 31 10:00 Celebrating Sobriety 10:00 Easter Egg Hunt 10:00 Altar Guild Easter preparation SUNDAY, April 1 Easter Sunday 6:00 Parish Choir Rehearsal 6:30 Easter Sunrise (Garden Lot) 7:30 Easter Breakfast 9:00 Parish Choir Rehearsal Sunday Church School 10:00 Festival Eucharist (Nave)

Liturgy Copyright Information: From Sundays and Seasons.com. Copyright © 2008 Augsburg Fortress. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission under Augsburg Fortress Liturgies Annual License #22140. New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. “The Introduction to Today’s Liturgy” and “About the Liturgy” are taken from The Rite Light: Reflections on the Sunday Readings and Sundays of the Church Year. Copyright © 1998 by Michael W. Merriman. Church Publishing Corporation, New York.

EVENT SIGN-UP IS EASY! You can make reservations for all church functions one of three ways:

• www.sjnc.net by clicking on the Event Signup button

• sign up on pew pads in the Nave

• call the parish office at 704-786-0166, Ext. 0.

Documents

104 Union Street South Concord, North Carolina 28025 …images.acswebnetworks.com/1/2243/PalmPassionChange...Liturgists and theologians speak of the “Paschal Mystery,” a phrase