There are two ways to plan a service in Lutheran Service Builder. The first is to use a holiday already listed in Lutheran Service Builder. The second is to create a custom service on any day you wish. Using a pre-listed holiday is the easiest way to plan a normal Sunday Divine Service, whereas a custom service allows you to plan a service for any other day.

The steps to plan a normal service are covered in a separate article called “Planning a Service”. A custom service is planned in the same way, but there are a few additional steps. These steps allow you to select a past or future holiday, or to plan a service for an event like a wedding or funeral. Just like with planning a regular service, some readings will be automatically added to the planning view depending on the selected holiday.

Here is how to create a custom service:

1. From the calendar view, click on any date.
2. A new modal will appear where you can select a new date if needed, choose a holiday to use as a template, and give the service a name.
3. Click “Plan this service”.
4. Choose readings, hymns, the order of service, and any other rites as if you are creating a regular service.