The first reading is a reading from the Acts of the Apostles. At Miletus, Paul spoke to the

Presbyters of the Church of Ephesus. Keep watch over yourselves and over the whole flock, of which the Holy Spirit has appointed you as overseers, in which you tend the Church of God that he acquired with his own

blood. I know that after my departure, savage wolves will come among you, and they will not spare the

flock. And from your own group, men will come forward, perverting the truth to draw the disciples

away from them, away after them.

So be vigilant and remember that for these three years, night and day, I unceasingly admonished

each of you with tears. And now I commend you to God and to that gracious word of His

that can build you up and give you the inheritance among all who are consecrated.

I have never wanted anyone's silver or gold or clothing.

You know well that these very hands have served my needs and my companions.

In every way I have shown you that by hard work, and of what sort we must keep the weak,

and keep in mind the words of the Lord Jesus, who himself said, it is more blessed to give than to receive.

When he had finished speaking, he knelt down and prayed with them all.

They were all weeping loudly as they

threw their arms around Paul and kissed him, for they were deeply distressed that he had said

that they would never see his face again. Then they escorted him to the ship. The word of the Lord,

thanks be to God. Sing to God who kingdoms of the ship. The word of the Lord, thanks be to God. Sing to God, O kingdoms of the earth. Sing to God,

O kingdoms of the earth. Show forth, O God, your power, the power, O God, with which you took our part.

For your temple in Jerusalem, let the kings bring you gifts. Sing to God, who kingdoms of the earth. Your kingdoms of

the earth, sing to God. chant praise to the Lord who rides on the heights of the ancient heavens.

Behold his voice resounds, the voice of power, confess the power of God. Sing to God, who kingdoms of the earth.

Over Israel is His majesty. his power is in the skies.

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