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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)
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Scriptural Theme
He will swallow up death forever.
Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)
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Praying Isaiah 25:6-8 (New International Version)
On this mountain the LORD Almighty will prepare a feast of rich food for all peoples, a banquet of aged wine -- the best of meats and the finest of wines.
On this mountain he will destroy the shroud that enfolds all peoples, the sheet that covers all nations; he will swallow up death forever. *
The Sovereign LORD will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove the disgrace of his people from all the earth.
Response to the Scripture
Where O death is your victory? Where O death is your sting? Death has been swallowed up in victory - forever.
Draw near to God’s throne of grace
with the thanksgivings, prayers, & intercessions that are on your heart
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The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”
Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
He will swallow up death forever.
Praise / prayer / silence / sing a new song
(follow the leading of the Holy Spirit)
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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” )