Song Love Divine, All Loves Excelling VU 333

Gathering and Welcome

Song “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling” VU 333

Reading 1 Corinthians 13

Song “What Wondrous Love is This” VU 147

Reading Isaiah 53: 1-12

Song “Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross” VU 142

Reading “PRAYER FOR GOOD FRIDAY” by Jo Sorril [Congregation reads bold print and sings Kyrie Eleison]

God, as we reflect on what this day means to us, we are awed by the wonder of your love for us.

When we are in our own Gethsemane, crying out like Jesus did, feeling overwhelmed by situations or events that confront us, we are tempted to think you aren’t aware or don’t care, when, in fact, you are standing steadfastly with us.

Ky-ri-e E-lei-son. Ky-ri-e E-lei-son. Ky-ri-e E-le - - - i-son

When we are called to bear our own crosses on our journey through life, reassure us time and time again that we are not alone and that you would take the burden of our suffering upon yourself.

When we suffer on our crosses there are times, like Jesus had, when we feel abandoned and alone. Let us be conscious and confident in your still small voice and reach out for the hand you offer. Ky-ri-e E-lei-son. Ky-ri-e E-lei-son. Ky-ri-e E-le - - - i-son Lead us from our places of darkness on this blackest of days, to our own resurrection where we can live life fully and joyfully with renewed strength and purpose.

And now, in silence, let us pray for ourselves... the people we love and share our life with... and for a world community that desperately needs to take bold steps out of the darkness into a resurrection that promises new life and hope.

[pause for silent prayer]

Song “Beneath the Cross of Jesus” VU 135

Meditation “Not My Will But Thine”

Song “Spirit Open My Heart” MV 79

Prayer “Lord’s Prayer” [Recited in Unison]

Song “Stay With Us Through the Night” VU 182

Silent Dispersal