The Eighth Sunday After Pentecost

July 26, 2020

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Please stand.


PROCESSIONAL HYMN “O Worship the King, all Glorious Above !


THE WORD OF GOD (Please stand.)

Celebrant: Blessed be God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

People: And blessed be his kingdom, now and for ever. Amen.


THE COLLECT FOR PURITY

Almighty God, to you all hearts are open, all desires known, and from you no secrets are hid: Cleanse the thoughts of our hearts by the inspiration of your Holy Spirit, that we may perfectly love you, and worthily magnify your holy Name; through Christ our Lord. Amen.


THE SUMMARY OF THE LAW

Jesus said: You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 22:37-40


Lord, have mercy

Christ, have mercy

Lord, have mercy.


GLORIA (Spoken)

Glory to God in the highest, and peace to his people on earth. Lord God, heavenly King, almighty God and Father, we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory. Lord Jesus Christ, only Son of the Father, Lord God, Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world, have mercy on us; you are seated at the right hand of the Father: receive our prayer. For you alone are the Holy One, you alone are the Lord, you alone are the Most High, Jesus Christ, with the Holy Spirit, in the glory of God the Father. Amen.


THE COLLECT OF THE DAY

Celebrant: The Lord be with you.

People: And with your spirit.

Celebrant: Let us pray.

Almighty and everlasting God, you are always more ready to hear than we to pray, and to give more than we either desire or deserve: Pour down upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which our conscience is afraid, and giving us those good things for which we are not worthy to ask, except through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ our Savior; who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.


THE LESSONS OF THE DAY

A reading from 1 Kings 3:3-14

3 Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of David his father, only he sacrificed and made offerings at the high places. 4 And the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was the great high place. Solomon used to offer a thousand burnt offerings on that altar. 5 At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream by night, and God said, “Ask what I shall give you.” 6 And Solomon said, “You have shown great and steadfast love to your servant David my father, because he walked before you in faithfulness, in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart toward you. And you have kept for him this great and steadfast love and have given him a son to sit on his throne this day. 7 And now, O Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of David my father, although I am but a little child. I do not know how to go out or come in. 8 And your servant is in the midst of your people whom you have chosen, a great people, too many to be numbered or counted for multitude. 9 Give your servant therefore an understanding mind to govern your people, that I may discern between good and evil, for who is able to govern this your great people?” 10 It pleased the Lord that Solomon had asked this. 11 And God said to him, “Because you have asked this, and have not asked for yourself long life or riches or the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern what is right, 12 behold, I now do according to your word. Behold, I give you a wise and discerning mind, so that none like you has been before you and none like you shall arise after you. 13 I give you also what you have not asked, both riches and honor, so that no other king shall compare with you, all your days. 14 And if you will walk in my ways, keeping my statutes and my commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen your days.”

Reader: The Word of the Lord.

People: Thanks be to God.


Psalm 119:121-136

121 I have done that which is lawful and right; *

O give me not over to my oppressors.

122 Be surety for your servant’s good; *

O let not the arrogant oppress me.

123 My eyes have wasted away with looking for your salvation, *

and for the word of your righteousness.

124 O deal with your servant according to your loving mercy, *

and teach me your statutes.

125 I am your servant; O grant me understanding, *

that I may know your testimonies.

126 It is time for you, O Lord, to act, *

for they have broken your law.

127 For I love your commandments above all things, *

more than gold and precious stones.

128 Therefore I hold all your commandments to be right, *

and all false ways I utterly abhor.

129 Your testimonies are wonderful; *

therefore does my soul keep them.

130 When your word goes forth it gives light *

and understanding to the simple.

131 I opened my mouth, and drew in my breath, *

for my delight was in your commandments.

132 O look upon me, and be merciful unto me, *

as you always do for those who love your Name.

133 Order my steps according to your word, *

and so shall no wickedness have dominion over me.

134 O deliver me from those who deal wrongfully, *

and so shall I keep your commandments.

135 Show the light of your countenance upon your servant, *

and teach me your statutes.

136 My eyes gush out water *

because of those who do not keep your law.

A reading from Romans 8:26-34

26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. 27 And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. 29 For those whom he foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son, in order that he might be the firstborn among many brothers. 30 And those whom he predestined he also called, and those whom he called he also justified, and those whom he justified he also glorified.31 What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? 32 He who did not spare his own Son but gave him up for us all, how will he not also with him graciously give us all things? 33 Who shall bring any charge against God's elect? It is God who justifies. 34 Who is to condemn? Christ Jesus is the one who died—more than that, who was raised—who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us.

Reader: The Word of the Lord.

People: Thanks be to God.

The Holy Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ according to matthew

People: Glory to you, Lord Christ.

THE GOSPEL Matthew 13:31-33, 44-50

The Mustard Seed and the Leaven

31 He put another parable before them, saying, “The kingdom of heaven is like a grain of mustard seed that a man took and sowed in his field. 32 It is the smallest of all seeds, but when it has grown it is larger than all the garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches.” 33 He told them another parable. “The kingdom of heaven is like leaven that a woman took and hid in three measures of flour, till it was all leavened.”

The Parable of the Hidden Treasure

44 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

The Parable of the Pearl of Great Value

45 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, 46 who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.

The Parable of the Net

47 “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a net that was thrown into the sea and gathered fish of every kind. 48 When it was full, men drew it ashore and sat down and sorted the good into containers but threw away the bad. 49 So it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come out and separate the evil from the righteous 50 and throw them into the fiery furnace. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Reader: The Gospel of the Lord.

People: Praise to you, Lord Christ.


THE SERMON The Rev. Chris Hill, Associate Rector


THE NICENE CREED

All stand to recite the Nicene Creed, the Celebrant first saying:

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

(Celebrant and People)

We believe in one God,

the Father, the Almighty,

maker of heaven and earth,

of all that is, visible and invisible.

We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,

the only-begotten 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:

was incarnate from the Holy Spirit and 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,

who with the Father and the Son is worshiped and glorified.

who 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.


THE PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE (Please stand)

Let us pray for the Church and for the world, saying, “hear our prayer.”

For the peace of the whole world, and for the well-being and unity of the people of God.

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

For the Primates of the Worldwide Anglican Communion; the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby and Caroline; Archbishop of the Anglican Church in North America, Foley Beach and Allison; our Bishop, James Hobby and Shari; for all clergy and other ministers, especially our Rector, Father Ron and Sue; our Associate Rector, Father Chris and Katherine; our assisting clergy, Fr. Terry and Mary Anne; all missionaries, especially The Rev. Alison Barfoot, in Uganda; Diocesan Staff; the Anglican Province of Myanmar; Advance Community Church; and for all the clergy and people of our Diocese and Congregation.

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

For all those who proclaim the Gospel at home and abroad; for all who teach and disciple others; and for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are persecuted for their faith.

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

For all the men and women in our Armed Forces at home and abroad. Defend them day by day with your heavenly grace; strengthen them in their trials and temptations; and give them courage to face the perils that beset them; and help them to know that nothing can separate them from your love.

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

For our nation, for those in authority, and for all in public service especially, our Congress, Supreme Court and our President, Donald Trump.

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

For all affected by the coronavirus. For those suffering with symptoms, whether hospitalized or at home; for those who have died, provide rest for their souls and comfort for their families as they grieve. Protect and secure all health care workers and those who provide essential services, as well as those who have lost jobs and those discouraged and depressed from isolation and loneliness. Help and guide those seeking to discover a vaccine. Heal us.

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

For all those who are in trouble, sorrow, need, sickness, or any other adversity especially…

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

For all those who have departed this life in the certain hope of the resurrection, especially...

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

We thank you, Lord, for all the blessings of this life…

(The people are invited to share their thanksgivings aloud)

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

In thanksgiving for the fruitful discussions with the Episcopal Diocese regarding this property.

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

For our vestry, especially our wardens, Dave and Jeremy, that as your appointed leaders they may faithfully serve you and this church.

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

For the special needs and concerns of this congregation, especially…

(The people may share their petitions silently or aloud)

Reader: Lord in your mercy:

People: hear our prayer.

The Celebrant concludes with this or some other appropriate Collect.

Heavenly Father, grant these our prayers for the sake of Jesus Christ, our only Mediator and Advocate, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.


THE CONFESSION AND ABSOLUTION OF SIN

The Officiant says to the People

We pray to you also for the forgiveness of our sins.

Silence is kept.

All standing, the Officiant and People pray

Most merciful God, we confess that we have sinned against you in thought, word, and deed, by what we have done, and by what we have left undone. We have not loved you with our whole heart; we have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We are truly sorry and we humbly repent. For the sake of your Son Jesus Christ, have mercy on us and forgive us; that we may delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your Name. Amen.

The Priest stands and says

Almighty God, our heavenly Father, who in his great mercy has promised forgiveness of sins to all those who sincerely repent and with true faith turn to him, have mercy upon you, pardon and deliver you from all your sins, confirm and strengthen you in all goodness, and bring you to everlasting life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hear the Word of God to all who truly turn to him.

Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28


THE PEACE (Please remain in your pew)

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

People: And with your spirit.


BIRTHDAY AND ANNIVERSARY PRAYERS

Birthday:

Watch over your child, O Lord, as his days increase; bless and guide him wherever he may be. Strengthen him when he stands; comfort him when discouraged or sorrowful; raise him up if he falls; and in his heart may your peace which passes all understanding abide all the days of his life; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Anniversary:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for your continued blessings on the union of these your servants, that have enabled them to reach another anniversary. We thank You for letting their love deepen and for helping them in time of trial. We ask You to continue to watch over them, over their home and family. Help them to renew and strengthen their vows of love and commitment and to strive to remain united with You, steadfast in their faith and in your service. Amen.

THE HOLY COMMUNION

Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. Hebrews 13:16


OFFERTORY HYMN “If Thou but Trust in God to Guide Thee

Offertory plates will not be passed but are at the back of the nave.

You may also give online: saintthomasanglican.org/give


DOXOLOGY (Spoken) (Please stand)

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;

praise him, all creatures here below;

praise him above, ye heavenly host:

praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.


Celebrant: The Lord be with you.

People: And with your spirit.

Celebrant: Lift up your hearts.

People: We lift them up to the Lord.

Celebrant: Let us give thanks to the Lord our God.

People: It is right to give him thanks and praise.

It is right, our duty and our joy, always and everywhere to give thanks to you, Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth.

Through Jesus Christ our Lord, who on the first day of the week overcame death and the grave, and by his glorious resurrection opened to us the way of everlasting life.

Therefore we praise you, joining our voices with Angels and Archangels and with all the company of heaven, who for ever sing this hymn to proclaim the glory of your Name:

Holy, Holy, Holy, Lord, God of power and might, heaven and earth are full of your glory. Hosanna in the highest. Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. Hosanna in the highest.


THE PRAYER OF CONSECRATION (Please remain standing)

Holy and gracious Father: In your infinite love you made us for yourself; and when we had sinned against you and become subject to evil and death, you, in your mercy, sent your only Son into the world for our salvation. By the Holy Spirit and the Virgin Mary he became flesh and dwelt among us.

In obedience to your will, he stretched out his arms upon the cross and offered himself once for all, that by his suffering and death we might be saved. By his resurrection he broke the bonds of death, trampling Hell and Satan under his feet. As our great high priest, he ascended to your right hand in glory, that we might come with confidence before the throne of grace.

On the night that he was betrayed, our Lord Jesus Christ took bread; and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, “Take, eat; this is my Body which is given for you: Do this in remembrance of me.”

Likewise, after supper, Jesus took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, saying, “Drink this, all of you; for this is my Blood of the New Covenant, which is shed for you, and for many, for the forgiveness of sins: Whenever you drink it, do this in remembrance of me.”

Therefore we proclaim the mystery of faith:

Celebrant and People:

Christ has died.

Christ is risen.

Christ will come again.

We celebrate the memorial of our redemption, O Father, in this sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving, and we offer you these gifts. Sanctify them by your Word and Holy Spirit to be for your people the Body and Blood of your Son Jesus Christ. Sanctify us also, that we may worthily receive this holy sacrament, and be made one body with him, so that he may dwell in us and we in him. And bring us with all your saints into the fullness of your heavenly kingdom, where we shall see our Lord face to face.

All this we ask through your Son Jesus Christ: By him, and with him, and in him, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all honor and glory is yours, Almighty Father, now and forever. Amen.


THE LORD’S PRAYER

And now as our Savior Christ has taught us, we are bold to pray:

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, for ever and ever. Amen.


THE BREAKING OF THE BREAD

Alleluia. Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us.

Therefore let us keep the feast. Alleluia.

THE MINISTRATION OF 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.


~All baptized Christians are welcome at the Lord’s Table. The host of this sacred meal is Jesus. He is our spiritual food and drink. He invites you to come and eat. The bread of heaven is received in open hands and should be consumed after you return to your pew.

~If you choose not to receive the bread, simply cross your arms and a blessing will be said.

~Gluten free communion wafers are available upon request. Please inform an usher or Fr. Ron or Fr. Chris of your request.


FOR THOSE UNABLE TO ATTEND THE SERVICE TO PHYSICALLY RECEIVE THIS SACRAMENT

Silence is kept. Each member of the family may read and reflect on this prayer or otherwise meditate on Christ’s spiritual presence.

Dear Jesus, I believe that you are truly present in the Holy Sacrament. I love you above all things, and I desire to possess you within my soul, and since I cannot now receive you sacramentally, I beseech you to come spiritually into my heart. I unite myself to you, together with all your faithful people, gathered around every altar of your Church, and I embrace you with all the affections of my soul. Never permit me to be separated from you. Amen.


COMMUNION HYMN “Be Thou My Vision


THE POST COMMUNION PRAYER (Please stand)

Almighty and everliving God, we thank you for feeding us, in these holy mysteries, with the spiritual food of the most precious Body and Blood of your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; and for assuring us, through this Sacrament, of your favor and goodness towards us: that we are true members of the mystical body of your Son, the blessed company of all faithful people; and are also heirs, through hope, of your everlasting kingdom. And we humbly ask you, heavenly Father, to assist us with your grace, that we may continue in that holy fellowship, and do all the good works that you have prepared for us to walk in; through Jesus Christ our Lord, to whom, with you and the Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, now and for ever. Amen.


THE BLESSING

The peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord; and the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be among you, and remain with you always. Amen.


RECESSIONAL HYMN “The Steadfast Love of the Lord "


DISMISSAL

Celebrant: ALLELUIA! ALLELUIA! Let us go forth in to the world, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit.

People: Thanks be to God. ALLELUIA! ALLELUIA!