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Dedication of New Church Property

by The Rev. Thomas L. Weitzel
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

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This liturgy follows the post-communion prayer.

Weather permitting, the congregation processes to the place of the dedication while singing the hymn:

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Processional Hymn:

          Now thank we all our God

          With hearts and hands and voices

          Who wondrous things has done,

          In whom his world rejoices;

          Who, from our mothers' arms,

          Has blessed us on our way

          With countless gifts of love,

          And still is ours today.

          Oh, may this bounteous God

          Through all our life be near us,

          With ever joyful hearts

          And blessed peace to cheer us,

          And keep us in his grace,

          And guide us when perplexed,

          And free us from all harm

          In this world and the next.

          All praise and thanks to God

          The Father now be given,

          The Son, and him who reigns

          With them in highest heaven,

          The one eternal God,

          Whom earth and heav'n adore;

          For thus it was, is now,

          And shall be ever more.

P. Sisters and brothers in Christ: Today we seek God's blessing as with thankfulness we have come together to dedicate this addition to our church property.

A. Be joyful in God, all you lands.

C. Sing the glory of his name.

A. How awesome are God's deeds.

C. All the earth bows before him.

A. Come and see the works of the Lord:

C. The wonderful works he does for all people.

A. All your works praise you, O God.

C. And your faithful servants bless you.

P. Let us pray. Blessed are you, O Lord our God, King of the universe. Your gifts are many, and in wisdom you have made all things to give you glory. Be with us now and bless us as we dedicate this land to your praise and honor. Give us joy in all your works, and grant that this land may further our ministry in ways by which your will is done and your name is glorified; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. (Occ. Serv. #519)

C. Amen

P. Let us bless the Lord.

C. Thanks be to God.

P. The blessing of almighty God, Father, + Son, and Holy Spirit, be with you all.

C. Amen

A. Go in peace. Serve the Lord.

C. Thanks be to God.

Doxology:

          Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;

          Praise him, all creatures here below;

          Praise him above, ye heav'nly host;

          Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.