Liturgy for Season of Pentecost
Beginning with Trinity Sunday, May 31, 2026, the liturgy will be slightly revised to include newer language authorized by The Episcopal Church and frequently used throughout the church.
The 9 AM and the 11:10 AM services will use the Eucharistic Prayers as written and authorized in the Book of Common Prayer without abridgment. Throughout Pentecost, we will be using all of the Eucharistic prayers. Eucharistic Prayer A is shaped by the Reformation (1549/1552-1662) and the Anglican tradition. Eucharistic Prayer B inherits the ancient Western tradition (400-600 AD) of the Roman Church. Eucharistic Prayer C was written in the 1970s for modern times and speaks to the church and the world today. Eucharistic Prayer D is the oldest in terms of inspiration, dating back to the 3rd-century church (215 AD).
We will also be using the alternate version of the Lord’s Prayer found in the Book of Common Prayer on page 364, in which the major change in language says, “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil.” In all cases, if you wish not to use this version, please feel free to use the more traditional version with which you are most comfortable.
Finally, the lectors will be closing their readings with, “Hear what the Spirit is saying to God’s people” rather than the “Word of the Lord.” In response, the congregation will still say, “Thanks be to God.”
The different language of the liturgy is designed to introduce the congregation to options that are frequently used in Episcopal worship. During this interim period, it is proper to explore liturgical options which may be adopted by your new rector.
Faithfully,
John+