Bishop’s Note – The Dismissal

Bishop Eric Menees

Dear friends, this week we conclude our examination of the new Book of Common Prayer 2019 Service of Holy Eucharist ~ Standard Text. The service, following the blessing and closing hymn, concludes with the Deacon or Celebrant loudly proclaiming:

The Dismissal

The Deacon, or the Priest, may dismiss the people with these words

                       Let us go forth in the name of Christ.

People           Thanks be to God.

or this

Deacon          Go in peace to love and serve the Lord.

People           Thanks be to God.

or this

Deacon         Let us go forth into the world, rejoicing in the power of the Holy Spirit.

People           Thanks be to God.

or this

Deacon         Let us bless the Lord.

People           Thanks be to God.

From the Easter Vigil through the Day of Pentecost “Alleluia, alleluia” is added to any of the dismissals. It may be added at other times, except during Lent and on other penitential occasions.

The People respond

                      Thanks be to God. Alleluia, Alleluia.

These dismissal statements make it clear that while our worship has ended our service has only just begun. And yet too often people think that after worship the primary focus is Coffee Hour. In fact, all of what we’ve done is, at least in part, in preparation to be sent into the world to serve our Lord and savior!

In fact, it’s about fulfilling the Great Commission. Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)

Indeed, let us “Go in peace to love and serve the Lord!”