FROM THE PASTOR

The Great Litany

Dear church,

This Sunday, the First Sunday in Lent, we will begin worship as we did last year with a special prayer called The Litany or the Great Litany.

The Great Litany has been spoken or chanted by the people of God for centuries. It is persistent, urgent, and full of confidence that help will come.

It plumbs the depths of our common humanity and gives voice to our deepest needs. It is unselfish in its intercessions, reaching beyond ourselves to pray for all who suffer, all who struggle, and all who long for mercy.

The Litany follows a simple rhythm:

• We name the evils and dangers of the world and plead: Good Lord, deliver us.
• We remember Christ’s saving work and call out: Help us, good Lord.
• We lift up our own needs and ask: Graciously hear us.
• And we intercede on behalf of others, praying: We ask you to hear us.

Luther himself had a deep love for this prayer. He once said that next to the Lord’s Prayer, it is the very best that has come to earth. During times of war and uncertainty, he urged people, especially the young, to pray it often.

Let us trust that God hears us, that God is near, and that in lifting our voices together, we join a prayer that has been spoken across generations, a prayer that still rings true today.

See you in worship,
Pastor Kyle