Liturgy for Christ the King Sunday, Year C (Luke)
(Year C, Proper 29/34)
Texts: Jeremiah 23:1–6; Luke 1:68–79 or Psalm 46; Colossians 1:11–20; Luke 23:33–43
Like you, I’m in ministry.
I like to help others who serve God and the church by sharing what I create. I hope it helps.
Please leave a comment below—say hello and let us know where you’re reading from. We’ve got readers from around the world, and it’s a joy to see how God is at work across the globe.
When you share a link from this site (or retweet, etc.) on your social, it helps others like you and me find it through the algorithm.
What Is Liturgy? A Quick Guide for Worshippers
Liturgy simply means “the work of the people.” It refers to the shared rhythms, prayers, Scriptures, and actions we use in worship to glorify God and shape our hearts. Whether ancient or modern, liturgy invites us to participate—not just observe. Through liturgy, we rehearse the gospel and remember who we are in Christ. If you’re new to liturgy, this weekly resource will help you follow along and enter more deeply into worship.
Summary for Liturgy and Worship
Jeremiah 23:1–6 promises a righteous king who will reign with wisdom and justice, gathering the scattered flock and bringing peace.
Psalm 46 celebrates God as refuge and strength—a present help in trouble—declaring that even when nations rage, the Lord of hosts is with us.
Luke 1:68–79, the Song of Zechariah, rejoices in the coming of the Savior who will guide our feet into the way of peace.
Colossians 1:11–20 exalts Christ as the image of the invisible God, the one through whom all things were created and in whom all things hold together.
Luke 23:33–43 shows Christ’s reign from the cross—where mercy triumphs over judgment and the King welcomes a dying thief into paradise.
Together, these readings proclaim that Christ’s kingship is unlike any earthly power. He reigns not by force but by forgiveness, not from a throne of gold but from a cross of grace.
Read more: No Kings! Christ is King!!
Call to Worship
One: The Lord is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.
All: The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our stronghold.
One: Be still and know that the Lord is God—exalted among the nations, exalted in the earth!
All: We come to worship Christ our King, who reigns in love and truth forever.
See also: 22 Biblical Calls to Worship and 28 Modern (and Biblical) Calls to Worship.
Opening Prayer
King of Glory, ruler of all creation, you reign in truth, love, and mercy. You bring peace where the world brings war, and hope where despair has taken hold. As we gather before you, open our eyes to see your kingdom among us. Reign in our hearts, guide our thoughts, and lead us in the way of your cross. To you be honor, power, and praise, now and forever. Amen.
Call to Confession
Christ reigns not through power but through grace. Let us confess our sin before the One who welcomes us with mercy.
Prayer of Confession
Merciful Lord, we confess that we do not always live as citizens of your kingdom. We follow the ways of the world and forget that your power is made perfect in weakness. We cling to control, resist forgiveness, and overlook the suffering around us. Forgive us, O Christ our King. Rule in our hearts by your Spirit, that we may live as your redeemed people, serving others in humility and love. In your holy name we pray, Amen.
Assurance of Pardon
Hear the good news: “In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of God’s grace.” In Jesus Christ, we are forgiven and made whole. Thanks be to God! (Ephesians 1:7)
See also: Assurance of Pardon: Meaning, Scripture.
Prayer for Illumination
Eternal God, your Word reveals your glory and your kingdom. As the Scriptures are read and proclaimed, open our hearts to the reign of Christ, that we may live as faithful witnesses to your mercy and peace. Amen.
See also: 24 Prayers of Illumination.
Benediction Prayer
Go forth in the name of Christ the King.
Live as people of his kingdom—loving mercy, seeking justice, and walking humbly with God.
And may the blessing of God—
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—
be with you now and always. Amen.
See also: 22 Benedictions and Blessings in the Bible, Biblical Blessings: Meaning, Examples, and Relevance Today, and Final Greeting and Benediction (Philippians 4:21–23).
