OPENING HYMN
The hymns in Lutheran worship are selected to enhance the appreciation of the lessons of each Sunday. They often tie in with other music in the service, and are selected both from the Lutheran Book of Worship, and the Hymnal Supplement. Hymns from other sources may be included in the service as inserts in the bulletin. We sing a variety of hymnody, from chorale-melodies of the time of Luther, Early American music, Romantic/Victorian era hymns, melodies of contemporary composers, and other music through the present day. You will notice that we almost always sing all the verses of the hymns, as the meaning of the text is not complete unless that is done.

KYRIE
From the Greek, "Kyrie eleison", or "Lord, have mercy", this ancient series of petitions and responses is led by the assisting minister. The congregational part is never difficult, but is an essential element of the dialogue between ministers and congregation as we worship. We use settings of this text found in the Lutheran Book of Worship, Music from Taize, and other sources.

HYMN of PRAISE
Not a traditional hymn, but a longer text set to a joyous modern melody. If you are new to the Lutheran service, it is probably the most complex item you will be asked to sing. It is, however, learned through repetition, and is a stirring way to praise God.

RESPONSORIAL PSALM
During Lent, Advent, and on other occasions during the year, we sing a congregation response to the Psalm. This psalmody is led by a cantor or choir and is printed as an insert to the bulletin. Music here is from a variety of sources, including newly composed music for this congregation.

GOSPEL ACCLAMATIONS
These responses precede and follow the Gospel reading. They highlight the importance of the position of the Gospel reading, coming as it does after the 1st lesson and 2nd lesson.

SERMON HYMN
This hymn is chosen by the Pastor, who selects a text that further illustrates the theme or themes of the Sermon.

ANTHEM
This music is provided by the choir or bell choir, and has been carefully selected to relate to the appointed lessons for the day. Often, the music is based upon familiar melodies, and is likely to be from a variety of musical styles.

OFFERTORY
This music is our congregational preparation for the Service of Holy Communion, and is of a different nature than that of the Hymn of Praise.

COMMUNION LITURGY/RESPONSES
This music, easily learned, is part of the continuing dialog between minister and congregation.

COMMUNION HYMNS
These hymns sometimes reflect themes of the day, but are most often melodies and texts that concern The Lord's Supper. During some seasons of the year, instrumental music is heard instead of hymns.

POST COMMUNION CANTICLE
A joyous conclusion to the Service of Holy Communion, this canticle of praise and thanks is the last part of the liturgy that we sing before the closing hymn.

CLOSING HYMN
Like the opening hymn, this music reflects the themes of the day's lessons.

POSTLUDE
Instrumental music which brings the service to a close. Although not part of the service proper, as is the prelude, this music is also chosen to go with the day's hymns, if possible. It may also be of a purely festive nature, depending on the season of the Church Year.