Liturgical Color: Purple

Gospel: John 11:1-53

Theme: The raising of Lazarus; and the compassion of Jesus.

Pastoral Invitation to the Celebration
One pastor began this way: "Welcome to the fifth Sunday in Lent. How have you come today? Dragging in? Breezing in? Or, somewhere in between? Have you come insisting that the worship leaders entertain and inspire you, challenge and comfort you; or, have you come with expectations about meeting God face-to-face, because you've already spent some time before coming to prepare yourself to meet God? However you've come, you will receive far more than you're prepared to receive - if you will open yourself to the Spirit of God, beginning now!"

You may want to continue with this declaration of joy between pastor and ministers:

Pastor: Who are you? W…