Prepare! for Worship

May 11-12, 2008

Day of Pentecost

INTRODUCTION

Today's festival derives its name from the Jewish festival of Pentecost, observed fifty days after Passover. On the fiftieth day of Easter we celebrate the Holy Spirit as the power of God among us that heals, forgives, inspires, and unites. In the reading from Acts, images of wind and fire describe the Spirit poured out on disciples of all nations. In John's gospel the risen Christ breathes the Spirit on his followers on Easter evening. In the one Spirit we are baptized into one body, and at the Lord's table the Spirit unites us for witness in the world.

Prayer of the Day (ELW)

O God, on this day you open the hearts of your faithful people

by sending into us your Holy Spirit.

Direct us by the light of that Spirit,

that we may have a right judgment in all things

and rejoice at all times in your peace,

through Jesus Christ, your Son and our Lord,

who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,

one God, now and forever.

Gospel Acclamation (ELW)

Alleluia. Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts | of your faithful,*

and kindle in us the fire | of your love. Alleluia.

Readings

Acts 2:1–21

Numbers 11:24–30 (Alternate)

Psalm 104:24–34, 35b

Send forth your Spirit and renew the face of the earth. (Ps. 104:30)

1 Corinthians 12:3b–13

Acts 2:1–21 (Alternate)

John 20:19–23

John 7:37–39 (Alternate)