🔔
I join with all who are praying *
to the Father, through the Son, in the power of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Opening Prayer
Thou, O Lord, hast freed us from the fear of death.
Thou has made the end of this life the beginning to us of true life.
Thou hast saved us from the curse and from sin
having become both for our sakes.*
Thou hast broken the heads of the dragon
who had seized us with his jaws,
in the yawning gulf of disobedience.
Thou hast shown us the way of resurrection,
having broken the gates of hell,
and brought to nought him who had the power of death - the devil. *
Thou hast given a sign to those that fear thee
in the symbol of the holy cross
to destroy the adversary and save our life.
- St. Macrina
Observe a time of silence before the Lord
(1 – 5 minutes)
🔔
Scriptural Theme
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life.
Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)
🔔
Praying John 3:27-36 (New International Version)
To this John replied, "A person can receive only what is given them from heaven. You yourselves can testify that I said, 'I am not the Messiah but am sent ahead of him.' The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom's voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less."
The one who comes from above is above all; the one who is from the earth belongs to the earth, and speaks as one from the earth. The one who comes from heaven is above all. He testifies to what he has seen and heard, but no one accepts his testimony. *
Whoever has accepted it has certified that God is truthful. For the one whom God has sent speaks the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without limit. The Father loves the Son and has placed everything in his hands. Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God's wrath remains on them.
Response to the Scripture
We are not afraid, Lord Jesus! We believe the Father sent you for our redemption and, trusting in you, we will live and reign with you forever.
Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart
🔔
The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”
Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life.
Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song
(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)
🔔
Ending Prayer
O my soul, be mindful of that awesome day, and wake up and light your lamp with the oil of joy, for you do not know when the voice will call upon you saying: "Behold, the Bridegroom is coming."
So, take heed, my soul, not to fall asleep, lest you stand outside knocking like the five foolish virgins. But watch, entreating that you may meet Christ the Lord with rich oil, and He may grant you the wedding of His true and heavenly glory.
- The Agpeya of the Coptic Church
In the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Amen.
( Adapted by Christ the Reconciler from Season 5: Easter Bridge Prayer – “Jesus Our Bridegroom King” )