Church, we are Easter people

Pastor: Church, we are Easter people living in resurrection victory.  Along with the Psalmist, we worship the Lord in the splendor of holiness.  We declare His glory in the midst of His people. We proclaim His greatness as we worship. We sing songs and hymns of praise. We preach His grace. We celebrate His wonderful works together.  Yet we also tremble before Him, for we know that we are sinners in need of forgiveness.  In humble repentance, let us confess before God and one another the ways in which we do not embrace and live out the faith to which we have been called. 

Silence for reflection on God’s Word and for personal confession

Pastor: Merciful Father, we have not been the Church You call us to be.  For thoughts, words and actions that do not bring glory to Your name or tell of Your salvation from day to day,

People: Forgive us Lord.

Pastor: For being content to keep the praise of Your name within the walls of this building and among those who know You, rather than declaring Your glory among the nations, and Your marvelous works among all people,

People: Forgive us Lord. 

Pastor: For taking Your salvation for granted by following after worthless idols, 

People: Forgive us Lord.  Create in us clean hearts. Renew us by Your Spirit and restore to us the joy of Your salvation, that we may be unhesitating in proclaiming Your wonders, and that You may be glorified in our words and our deeds. Amen.

Pastor: Church of God, rejoice! God has brought His salvation into the world through Jesus. In His mercy He has given His Son to die for us and, for His sake, forgives us all our sins. Through His Holy Spirit, He cleanses us and gives us power to proclaim the mighty deeds of our God who called us out of darkness into the splendor of His light. Be at peace, your sins are forgiven!

People: Alleluia! Amen!  

Pastor: Oh sing to the Lord a new song;

People:sing to the Lord, all the earth!