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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
I am the resurrection and the life.
Sing to the Lord a song of praise
(acapella, or accompanied by instruments / recorded music)
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Praying John 11:17-26 (New International Version)
On his arrival, Jesus found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days.
Now Bethany was less than two miles from Jerusalem, and many Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them in the loss of their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went out to meet him, but Mary stayed at home. "Lord," Martha said to Jesus, "if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But I know that even now God will give you whatever you ask." *
Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise again."
Martha answered, "I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day." *
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die."
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
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The Spirit and the Bride say *
“Come!”
Even so, Lord Jesus, come quickly. *
I am the resurrection and the life.
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” )