March 31 – Easter Sunday

A blessed Easter to all!

SILENT REFLECTION — The Risen Lord #646

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Thine Is the Glory

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jim French
One: The tomb is empty!
All: Our Savior lives!
One: Christ himself told us, “On the third day, the Son will rise.”
All: Christ is risen!
One: Christ is risen indeed!
All: Alleluia!

*HYMN – Christ the Lord Is Risen Today – #268

Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!
Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Dying once, He all doth save, Alleluia!
Where’s thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!

Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids Him rise, Alleluia!
Christ has opened Paradise, Alleluia!

Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia!
Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!
Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jim French
O God, the things you do! For generations, you have been doing “new things.” And now, Holy Week! Jesus is alive?! He is! This is the awesome joy that fills our hearts and raises our spirits. God, you rule! Christ Jesus, you are alive! You raise us beyond our fears, our doubts and our sins. You can conquer anything, including death. O God of Resurrection, the things you do! Amen!

*RESPONSE – Were You There? – #266

Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?

Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?

Were you there when He rose up from the dead?
Were you there when He rose up from the dead?
Oh, sometimes I feel like shouting, glory, glory, glory!
Were you there when He rose up from the dead?

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Pat Winship

*HYMN – He Is Lord – #103

He is Lord, He is Lord!
He is risen from the dead and he is Lord!
Ev’ry knee shall bow, ev’ry tongue confess
That Jesus Christ is Lord.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 – im French

SPECIAL MUSIC – Was It a Morning Like This? – Croegaert
Valerie Waterman, Vocalist

GOD’S WORD – Mark 16:1-8 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Thine Is the Glory – #281

Thine is the glory, Risen conquering Son!
Endless is the victr’y Thou or death has won!
Angels in bright raiment Rolled the stone away,
Kept the folded grave clothes Where Thy body lay.

Refrain:
Thine is the glory, Risen Conquering Son!
Endless is the victr’y Thou o’er death hast won!

Lo! Jesus meets us. Risen from the tomb,
Lovingly He greets us, Scatters fear and gloom.
Let His church with gladness Hymns of triumph sing,
For the Lord now liveth; Death has lost its sting. [Refrain]

No more we doubt Thee, Glorious Prince of Life!
Life is naught without Thee; Aid us in our strife;
Make us more than conqu’rors, Through thy deathless love;
Bring us safe through Jordan To Thy home above. (Refrain)

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Hallelujah! (from Messiah) – G. F. Handel

March 29 — Good Friday

Our worship is in memory of the sacrificial, self-giving love offered to all on the cross by Jesus Christ.

SILENT REFLECTION — Crucifixion of Christ — #645

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: We come now to the hill at Calvary.
All: The love of God leads to the Cross.
One: The Servant Messiah summons us.
All: Despised and rejected; Jesus is a man of sorrows, acquainted with all our griefs.
One: The Anointed One of God, whom we have grown to love dearly, is being crucified.
All: We are in disbelief.
One: How can Jesus be dying?
All: Truly, Jesus is the Son of God.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Everlasting God, we need you. You respond to the cries of your children from all walks of life. This day, though; Christ Jesus, you are the One crying out. Help us to hear your cries; to see what you see; to feel what you feel. We are saved by your sacrifice. On this unforgettable Friday, may we be moved by the sorrows of betrayal, denial, cruelty, and condemnation that you endure for us. Your suffering and death are agony. On this day, we remember your excruciating pain, dying on the cross for all people. Our souls ache with grief and guilt over your crucifixion, Jesus.
You are aware of our need for your grace. We worship you. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world. Amen.

*HYMN — I Need Thee Every Hour — #169

I need Thee every hour, Most gracious Lord
No tender voice like Thine Can peace afford

Refrain:
I need Thee oh I need Thee
Every hour I need Thee
Oh bless me now, my Savior,
I come to Thee

I need Thee every hour, Stay Thou nearby
Temptations lose their power When Thou art nigh

I need Thee every hour In joy or pain
Come quickly and abide Or life is vain

I need Thee every hour, Most Holy One
Oh make me Thine indeed, Thou blessed son

CALL TO CONFESSION
One: God longs for us to come to God; to be truthful; and to confess our sin. God desires to free us from guilt and fear. Let us pray together.
All: God of steadfast love, we keep ourselves busy with pursuits that do not satisfy. We exhaust ourselves trying to fill our emptiness with activities and possessions that drain our energies rather than give life. Before you now, O God, we confess that we do not know how to live; and we are afraid to die. We readily excuse our own sin, but, at the same time, we are quick to condemn wrongdoing we see in others. Help us to own up to our sin and to repent. Forgive us when we do not do what you ask of us. Eternal God, we are sorry for failing you. Forgive us, Christ Jesus; we pray in your name. Amen.

SILENCE

*ASSURANCE OF GOD’S FORGIVENESS

*HYMN — Beneath the Cross of Jesus — #239

Beneath the cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand,
The shadow of a mighty Rock within a weary land;
A home within the wilderness, A rest upon the way,
From the burning of the noontide heat And the burden of the day.

Upon the cross of Jesus Mine eye at times can see
The very dying form of One Who suffered there for me:
And from my smitten heart with tears Two wonders I confess,
The wonders of redeeming love And my unworthiness.

I take, O cross, thy shadow For my abiding place:
I ask no other sunshine than The sunshine of His face;
Content to let the world go by, To know no gain nor loss;
My sinful self my only shame, My glory all the cross.

GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 52:13-53:12

*HYMN — Were You There? — #266

Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?

Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?

Christ on the Cross

The third hour
Luke 23:34
“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they are doing.”

The fourth hour
John 19:26-27
“Woman, behold your son… Behold your mother.”

The fifth hour
Luke 23:43
“Truly, truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

The sixth hour
John 19:28
“I thirst.”

The seventh hour
Matthew 27:46
“My God! My God! Why have you forsaken me?”

The eighth hour
Luke 23:46
“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”

The ninth hour
John 19:30
“It is finished.”

SOLO — Tis Finished — Valerie Waterman, Soloist

+ Depart in silence +

March 24 — Palm Sunday

Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — He Is Exalted

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Hosanna to the King of kings!
All: Let all who follow Christ sing God’s praises!
One: John the Baptist says, “One is coming who is greater than me.”
All: Blessed is the One who comes in the name of God!
One: Look, he’s riding on a donkey. Here comes the Savior!
All: Let every knee bow before Jesus.
One: Let every tongue welcome him,
All: “Hosanna in the highest!”

*HYMN — Hosanna, Loud Hosanna — #233

Hosanna, loud hosanna The little children sang;
Through pillared court and temple The lovely anthem rang.
To Jesus, who had blessed them, Close folded to his Breast,
The children sang their praises, The simplest and the best.

From Olivet they followed Mid an exultant crowd,
The victor palm branch waving, And chanting clear and loud.
The Lord of men and angels Rode on in lowly state,
Nor scorned that little children Should on his bidding wait.

“Hosanna in the highest!” That ancient song we sing,
For Christ is our Redeemer, The Lord of heaven, our King.
O may we ever praise Him With heart and life and voice,
And in His blissful presence Eternally rejoice!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of joyful moments; this morning, we recall the excitement felt by people welcoming Jesus along the road to Jerusalem. What a moment! Today, we find ourselves swept up in the party atmosphere of that wonderful parade. Even now, we can feel your mighty grace and love. We want to cut loose in ways that honor and praise you, Jesus. Your amazing love reaches out and includes everyone.
Your goodness challenges all people to rise up and walk in your ways. Hosanna! Reign over us, Holy Jesus. Come; and live among us. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — Lord, Be Glorified — #528

In my life, Lord be glorified, be glorified.
In my life, Lord be glorified today.

In your church, Lord, be glorified, be glorified.
In your church, Lord, be glorified today.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

*HYMN — Amazing Grace — #299

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see

‘Twas Grace that taught my heart to fear,
And Grace, my fears relieved;
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed!

Through many dangers, toils and snares,
We have already come;
‘Tis Grace that brought us safe thus far,
And Grace will lead us home.

When we’ve been there then thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun.

GOD’S WORD — Philippians 2:5-11

SPECIAL MUSIC — Lord, I Lift Your Name on High

GOD’S WORD — Mark 11:1-11

SERMON — Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LOR’DS PRAYER — Pastor Dan

*HYMN — All Glory, Laud and Honor — #234

All glory, laud, and honor to Thee, Redeemer, King,
To whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring.
Thou art the King of Israel, Thou David’s royal Son,
Who in the Lord’s name cometh, the King and Blessed One!

The company of angels Are praising Thee on high;
And mortal men and all things Created make reply.
The people of the Hebrews with palms before Thee went;
Our praise and prayer and anthems Before Thee we present.

To Thee before Thy passion, They sang their hymns of praise;
To Thee now high exalted, Our melody we raise.
Thou didst accept their praises Accept the prayers we bring,
Who in all good delightest, Thou good and gracious King!

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Majesty, Worship His Majesty

March 17 –Fifth Sunday of Lent – Deep in our Hearts

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Let us worship and praise Living God with all our being!

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Be Thou My Vision – Kathryn Kuntzman, cello

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Let us call on God’s steadfast love and mercy.
All: Our brokenness can be healed.
One: And our wholeness can be restored.
All: God offers humankind salvation.
One: Through Jesus Christ, we are God’s new creation.
All: Praise God!

*HYMN – O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee – #542

O Master, let me walk with thee
In lowly paths of service free;
Tell me thy secret, help me bear
The strain of toil, the fret of care.

Help me the slow of heart to move
By some clear, winning word of love;
Teach me the wayward feet to stay,
And guide them in the homeward way.

Teach me thy patience; still with thee
In closer, dearer company,
In work that keeps faith sweet and strong,
In trust that triumphs over wrong.

In hope that sends a shining ray
Far down the future’s broad’ning way,
In peace that only thou canst give,
With thee, O Master, let me live.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of mercy; we call on you this day. Come, now, O Holy One. Shape us and lead us, we pray. May we be truly merciful, in the manner of our Savior, Christ Jesus.May we love as you love—without limit! God, we treasure that you know each of us by name. You call us to follow you by serving others. With faith in you, O God; may our lives display your tender mercies. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Jesus Paid It All — #255

I hear the Savior say, “Thy strength indeed is small,
Child of weakness, watch and pray, Find in Me thine all in all.

Refrain:
Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

Lord, now indeed I find Thy pow’r and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots And melt the heart of stone. [Refrain]

For nothing good have I Where-by Thy grace to claim;
I’ll wash my garments white In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb. [Refrain]

And when, before the throne, I stand in Him complete,
“Jesus died my soul to save,” My lips shall still repeat. [Refrain]

MISSION MOMENT — Caring for Kids, Inc. — Bet Stapleton, Program Director

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 119:9-16

SPECIAL MUSIC — Traditional Irish Melody — Kathryn Kuntzman, cello

GOD’S WORD — Jeremiah 31:31-34 — John 12

SERMON — Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER –Pastor Dan

*HYMN — God of Grace and God of Glory — #514

God of grace and God of glory, On Thy people pour Thy pow’r;
Crown Thine ancient Church’s story, Bring her bud to glorious flow’r.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
For the facing of this hour,
For the facing of this hour.

Lo, the hosts of evil round us Scorn Thy Christ, assail His ways.
From the fears that long have bound us Free our hearts to faith and praise.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
For the living of these days,
For the living of these days.

Cure Thy children’s warring madness; Bend our pride to Thy control;
Shame our wanton, selfish gladness, Rich in things and poor in soul.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
Lest we miss Thy kingdom’s goal,
Lest we miss Thy dom’s goal.

Set our feet on lofty places, Gird our lives that they may be
Armored with all Christlike graces In the fight to set ment free.
Grant us wisdom, Grant us courage,
That we fail not man nor Thee,
That we fail not man nor Thee.

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Londonderry Air

March 10 – Fourth Sunday in Lent

SILENT REFLECTION — Testimony — Page opposite Hymn #294 (Psalm 107)

WELCOME

PRELUDE — The Solid Rock/’Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus

*CALL TO WORSHIP — John Weiland
One: God’s love is for all of creation.
All: The vastness of God is for human, animal, soil, and sun, all together composing God’s beloved creation.
One: God has not come into the world in Jesus to condemn us.
All: Jesus has come to live God’s love in the flesh.
One: The world may be teeming with injustice and loneliness.
All: In Jesus, the light of God’s love illumines our path.
One: Come. Let us gather together and offer God our praises.
All: Let us worship God.

*HYMN — Wondrous Love — #250

What wondrous love is this, O my soul, O my soul
What wondrous love is this, O my soul!
What wondrous love is this that caused the Lord of bliss
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul, for my soul,
To bear the dreadful curse for my soul

To God and to the Lamb, I will sing, I will sing
To God and to the Lamb, I will sing;
To God and to the Lamb, who is the great “I Am,”
While millions join the theme, I will sing, I will sing,
While millions join the theme, I will sing

And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing on;
And when from death I’m free, I’ll sing and joyful be,
And through eternity, I’ll sing on, I’ll sing on,
And through eternity, I’ll sing on!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — John Weiland
O God, the vastness of your love flows through all of creation, and this is cause for rejoicing. For all of the harshness and condemnation that we see in the world, you have come to us out of love and compassion to save us. We believe that you have come to redeem, to heal, to restore, and forgive, not just some of the world, but all of the world. May our worship embody the love and the light that you bring, Jesus. We pray in your holy name. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Love Was When God Became a Man — #249

Love was when God became a man
Locked in time and space without rank or place;
Love was God born of Jewish kin,
Just a carpenter with some fishermen.

Love was when Jesus walked in history
Lovingly He brought a new life that’s free;
Love was God nailed to bleed and die
To reach and love one such as I.

Love was when God became a man
Down where I could see love that reached to me;
Love was God dying for my sin
And so trapped was I, my whole world caved in.

Love was when Jesus rose to walk with me
Lovingly He brought an new life that’s free;
Love was God only He would try
To reach and love one such as I.

CELEBRATING GOD’S ASTONISHING LOVE WITH A SPECIAL OFFERING
One Great Hour of Sharing — “It’s Time to Share the Light!”

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 107:1-9 — John Weiland

SPECIAL MUSIC — In the Garden

GOD’S WORD — John 3:14-21 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Pastor Dan

*HYMN — O Jesus, I Have Promised — #466

O Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Be thou forever near me,
My Master and my Friend;
I shall not fear the battle
If Thou art by my side,
Nor wander from the pathway
If Thou wilt be my guide.

O Jesus,Thou hast promised
To all who follow Thee
That where Thou art in glory
There shall Thy servant be.
And, Jesus, I have promised
To serve thee to the end;
O give me grace to follow,
My Master and my Friend.

O let me feel thee near me!
The world is ever near:
I see the sights that dazzle,
The tempting sounds I hear.
My foes are ever near me,
Around me and within;
But, Jesus, draw Thou nearer,
And shield my soul from sin.

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Day by Day

March 3 – Third Sunday in Lent – Turning the Tables

The grace and love of Jesus Christ are God’s immeasurable gifts to all people. On the third Sunday of Lent, we celebrate this love and remember God’s gift to us with communion. All are welcome at God’s table.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Pat Winship
One: The heavens are telling of the glory of God!
All: Day and night, earth’s creatures announce God’s works!
One: All life proclaims God’s handiwork.
All: The law of God is perfect.
One: The decrees of God are sure.
All: The precepts of God are right.
One: The commandments of God are clear.
All: God is faithful. Let us praise God together!

*HYMN — A Mighty Fortress Is Our God — #1

A mighty fortress is our God, A bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe Doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

Did we in our own strength confide, Our striving would be losing,
Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God’s own choosing.
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth His name, from age to age the same;
And He must win the battle.
82ils filled, Should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us.
The Prince of Darkness grim, We tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure, for lo! his doom is sure;
One little word shall fell him.

That word above all earthly powers no thanks to them abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours Through him who with us sideth:
Let goods and kindred go, This mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God’s truth abideth still;
His kingdom is forever!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Pat Winship
Wise and Powerful God, we are drawn to this holy place, in part, because we realize that our knowledge alone is not enough to give life meaning. The pieces of our lives need a center. As your aspiring disciples, we are in the process of growing to recognize your Cross as the center. On the Cross, you displayed total unselfishness. You placed service to others above everything else. At Calvary, you went the distance for us. The truth is that your example scares us, Jesus. We are intimidated by what you soon may ask of us.Yet we long for wholeness which only you provide. Our longing for this is so deep that we continue seeking to follow you regardless of the risks.
Let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable to you, O God, our Rock and our Redeemer. We come to you, Christ Jesus. Make yourself known to us, we pray. Amen.

*RESPONSE — We Have Come Into His House — #36

We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him,
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him;
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him;
O, worship HIm, Jesus Christ, the Lord.

Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him,
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him;
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him;
O, worship HIm, Jesus Christ, the Lord.

GOD’S WORD — 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 — Pat Winship

SPECIAL MUSIC — Sun of My Soul

GOD’S WORD — John 2:13-22 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

*HYMN — One Bread, One Body — worship booklet, pp. 72-73

Refrain
One bread, one body, one Lord of all;
one cup of blessing which we bless,
and we, though many throughout the earth,
we are one body in this one Lord.

Gentile or Jew, servant or free,
woman or man, no more. Refrain

Many the gifts, many the works,
one in the Lord of all. Refrain

Grain for the fields, scattered and grown,
gathered to one for all. Refrain

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
Believing the Table of Jesus Christ is open to all, we celebrate Open Communion.
All who desire to share in the Sacrament are welcome to receive the bread and the cup.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Pastor Dan

*HYMN — How Great Thou Art — #16
O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made,
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy pow’r thro’out the universe displayed.

Refrain
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee;
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee;
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

When thro’ the woods and forest glades I wander
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees,
When I look down from lofty mountains grandeur,
And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze. Refrain

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing.
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in,
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin. Refrain

When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow in humble adoration,
And there proclaim, my God, go great Thou art. Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Thou Art Worthy

February 25 – Always Close

Today, we ask for God’s guidance as we come together on this second Sunday of Lent, moving ever closer to Resurrection Day.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — He Leadeth Me

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jan Wirtz
One: In Christ, God has given us a holy invitation.
All: We are invited to walk with God.
One: Turn to God, all the earth.
All: God not only speaks, but God also listens.
One: God hears our prayers, and God answers.
All: Let us exalt God with our praises!

*HYMN — Have Thine Own Way, Lord — #414

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Thou art the potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still.

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Search me and try me, Master, today!
Whiter than snow, Lord, wash me just now,
As in Thy presence humbly I bow.

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Wounded and weary, help me I pray!
Power, all power, surely is Thine!
Touch me and heal me, Savior divine!

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Hold o’er my being absolute sway!
Fill with Thy Spirit till all shall see
Christ only, always, living in me!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jan Wirtz
God, we turn to you in prayer this morning. Come, Holy Spirit, be with us in worship today. You alone are our Creator and our Savior, Dear God. We are hungry to know you more fully and to serve you more completely. We treasure the astounding promises which you fulfilled in the lives of our ancestors and which you are fulfilling in our lives.
God, we praise you for gathering us together here. We come, seeking your guidance and your blessing. Fill us with your Spirit. Make us instruments of your love and grace.
God, full of compassion; lead us and be our peace on the journey. Amen.

*RESPONSE — O How He Loves You and Me — #254

Oh, how He loves you and me,
Oh, how He loves you and me.
He gave His life, what more could He give;
Oh, how He loves you,
Oh, how He loves me,
Oh, how He loves you and me.

Jesus to Calv’ry did go,
His love for mankind to show.
What He did there, brought hope from despair.
Oh, how He loves you,
Oh, how He loves me,
Oh, how He loves you and me.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 22:23-31 — Jan Wirtz

SPECIAL MUSIC — The Old Rugged Cross

GOD’S WORD — Mark 8:31-35 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN — Wherever He Leads I’ll Go — #543

“Take up thy cross and follow Me, ”I heard my Master say;
“I gave My life to ransom thee, Surrender your all today”

Refrain:
Wherever He leads I’ll go, Wherever He leads I’ll go,
I’ll follow my Christ who loves me so, Wherever He leads, I’ll go.

He drew me closer to His side, I sought His will to know,
And in that will, I now abide, Wherever He leads, I’ll go [Refrain]

It may be through the shadows dim, Or o’er the stormy sea,
I take my cross and follow Him, Wherever He leadeth me. [Refrain]

My heart, my life, my all I bring To Christ who loves me so;
He is my Master, Lord, and King, Wherever He leads I’ll go. [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross

February 14 – Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday begins the Season of Lent, which is a 40-day spiritual journey to Resurrection Day.

SILENT REFLECTION – Christ, My Every Need – #425

PRELUDE – Be Still, My Soul

*CALL TO WORSHIP
Gather the people. Prepare a holy meeting.
Today, we acknowledge the fragility and preciousness of life.
Gather the people. Return to God with our whole mind, body, and spirit.
We rend our hearts not our clothes. We open ourselves to the pain of
the world with compassion and grace in the way of Jesus.
Gather the people. Seek the Holy One, who is alive within us.
We offer to God our sacrifice of praise. Earth to earth, ashes to ashes,
dust to dust; we are here to worship.

*HYMN – Just As I Am – #387

Just as I am, without one plea,
But that thy blood was shed for me,
And that thou biddest me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot.
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!

Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind;
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need in Thee I find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Holy One, have mercy upon us, according to your faithful love. Create within us a new heart; a heart for love, justice and righteousness. Replace any guilt with your promise of new life abounding in mercy and grace!
Come, Holy Spirit, be our companion in the choices we make and in the ways that we interact with one another. Let honesty, humility and kindness characterize our being. Holy One, you transform earthly dust into something marvelous! Let us honor you by living our days in community with you and with all creation. Renew us, O God. Amen.

GOD’S WORD – Joel 2:1-6, 10-13

CALL TO CONFESSION and PRAYER OF CONFESSION
One: God is merciful to all who confess their sins.
All: God is summoning us this day, “Return to me with all your heart.”
One: The Spirit of God is calling, “Turn away from evil. Turn toward me.”
All: So then, let us turn to God and confess our sins.
One: Let us prayer together.
All: Mighty and Merciful God, we come to you in prayer. We confess our need for your help. Our failures confront us, and our disconnections from you and from our neighbors diminish us. Cleanse us of all guilt and shame. Forgive us for our sin. Draw us near to you, God of grace; so that we may accept your forgiveness and be renewed. This we pray in your holy name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

SILENCE – Pastor Dan

*ASSURANCE OF PARDON – Pastor Dan

*RESPONSE – Cleanse Me – #410

Search me, O God, and know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from ev’ry sin and set me free.

I praise Thee, Lord, for cleansing me from sin;
Fulfill Thy Word, and make me pure within.
Fill me with fire where once I burned with shame;
Grant my desire to magnify Thy name.

Lord, take my life and make it wholly Thine;
Fill my poor heart with Thy great love divine.
Take all my will, my passion, self, and pride;
I now surrender; Lord, in me abide.

O Holy Spirit, revival comes from Thee;
Send a revival – start the work in me.
Thy Word declares Though will supply our need;
For blessings now, O Lord, I humbly plead.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 51:1-4, 6-10 – Pastor Dan

THE IMPOSITION OF ASHES

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

*HYMN – Here, O My Lord, I See Thee – #259

Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face;
Here would I touch and handle things unseen;
Here grasp with firmer hand th’eternal grace,
And all my weariness upon Thee lean.

Here would I feed upon the Bread of God;
Here drink with Thee the royal wine of heav’n;
Here would I lay aside each earthly load;
Here taste afresh the calm of sin forgiv’n.

I have no help but Thine; nor do I need
Another arm save Thine to lean upon;
It is enough, my Lord, enough indeed;
My strength is in Thy might, Thy might alone.

Mine is the sin, but Thine the righteousness;
Mine is the guilt, but Thine the cleansing blood.
Here is my robe, my refuge, and my peace;
They blood, Thy righteousness, O Lord, my God.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts… debtors)

*HYMN – Take My Life and Let It Be – #436

Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in endless praise,
let them flow in endless praise.

Take my feet and let them be Swift and beautiful for Thee;
Take my voice and let me sing,
Always only, for my King,
Always, only, for my King.

Take my lips and let them be Filled with messages for Thee;
Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold,
Not a mite would I withhold.

Take my love, my God I pour At Thy feet its treasure store;
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Near to the Heart of God

Feb. 11 – The Transfiguration of Christ

SILENT PRAYER OF PREPARATION – #541

WELCOME

PRELUDE – He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Blessed is the one whose help is the God of Jacob;
whose hope is in God, the Maker of heaven and earth!
All: The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down.
One: The Lord upholds the oppressed and gives food to the hungry.
All: The Lord sets prisoners free!
One: The Lord gives sight to the blind.
All: The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down.
One: The Lord loves the righteous.
All: The Lord remains faithful forever. Praise the Lord!

*HYMN – We Come, O Christ, to You – 289

We come, O Christ, to You, true Son of God and man,
By Whom all things consist, in Whom all life began.
In You alone we live and move,
And have our being in Your love.

You are the Way to God, Your blood our ransom paid;
In You we face our Judge and Maker unafraid.
Before the throne absolved we stand;
Your love has met Your law’s demand.

You are the living Truth! All wisdom dwells in You,
The Source of every skill, The One Eternal True!
O great I AM! in You we rest,
Sure answer to our every quest.

You only are true Life, To know You is to live
The more abundant life That earth can never give.
O risen Lord! We live in You:
In us each day Your life renew!

We worship You, Lord Christ, Our Savior and our King;
To You our youth and strength Adoringly we bring:
So fill our hearts, that all may view
Your life in us and turn to You!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Powerful God, your love poured out in Jesus Christ invests us with strength the world cannot offer. Through your blessing, souls find rest. Through the Sabbath, the foundations of human lives are rebuilt. God of all nations and all people; stir within us. Shatter our narrow understandings of who you are. By your grace and peace, empower our witness. Dear God, you reveal what true mightiness is! Fill the lives of all your children with joy and love today. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Holy Ground – #83

We are standing on holy ground,
And I know that there are angels all around;
Let us praise Jesus now
We are standing in His presence on holy ground.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE

*HYMN – The Light of the World Is Jesus – #373

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 50:1-8, 14-15, 23

SPECIAL MUSIC – I Want Jesus to Walk with Me

GOD’S WORD – Mark 9:2-9 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Higher Ground – #448

I’m pressing on the upward way,
New heights I’m gaining ev’ry day;
Still praying as I’m onward bound,
“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

Refrain:
Lord, lift me up, and let me stand
By faith, on heaven’s tableland;
A higher plane than I have found,
Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.

My heart has no desire to stay
Where doubts arise and fears dismay;
Though some may dwell where these abound,
My prayer, my aim, is higher ground. [Refrain]

I want to live above the world,
Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled;
For faith has caught a joyful sound,
The song of saints on higher ground. [Refrain]

I want to scale the utmost height,
And catch a gleam of glory bright;
But still I’ll pray till heav’n I’ve found,
“Lord, lead me on to higher ground.” [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – French Dances – Ludwig von Beethoven

February 4 – Source of Strength

Today we break bread together, celebrating open communion as is the tradition of the United Church of Christ. Take a moment to gather the elements so we may gather at Christ’s table as one. All are welcome.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Amazing Grace

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Sue Wilson
One: Let your light shine, people of God!
All: Let us give glory to God!
One: You and I are blessed!
All: We are called to be God’s light in the world!
One: We can be the salt of the earth.
All: God is within each one of us, inviting us to live with flair and flavor!
One: No eye has seen,
All: No ear has heard,
One: No human imagination has envisioned,
All: What God has prepared for those who love God.

*HYMN – We Praise Thee, O God, Our Redeemer – #27

We praise you, O God, our Redeemer, Creator;
In grateful devotion our tribute we bring;
We lay it before Thee, We kneel and adore Thee,
We bless Thy holy name: glad praises we sing.

We worship Thee, God of our fathers, we bless Thee,
Thru life’s storm and tempest our Guide hast Thou been;
When perils o’er take us, escape Thou wilt make us,
And with Thy help, O Lord, our battles we win.

With voices united our praises we offer,
To Thee, great Jehovah, glad anthems we raise;
Thy strong arm will guide us, our God is beside us,
To Thee, our great Redeemer, forever be praise!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Sue Wilson
Living God, you are our joy and our salvation. Through your supreme power, you bring all creation to life. God of astonishing love; we are grateful to you for teaching us your truth. Draw us away from the ways of the world. Empty us of all that would injure or harm. Help us to realize that you are alive within all creation. Lead us to treasure your closeness.
We depend on you, God. You are our Savior; no one else besides you. Your Living Water cleanses; and your Living Word gives life. Come, Holy Spirit; wash over us. Come as light in our darkness. Come as new life to the weary. Come as strength to our weakness. Take us – soul, body and mind. Come, Holy Spirit; we need you now. Guide us to live with grace and compassion. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Into My Heart – #391

Into my heart, into my heart,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus;
Come in today, come in to stay,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus.

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 40:21-31 – Sue Wilson

SPECIAL MUSIC – It Is Well with My Soul

GOD’S WORD – Mark 1:29-39

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Take Time to Be Holy – #171

Take time to be holy, Speak oft with thy Lord;
Abide in Him always, and feed on His Word.
Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak,
Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek.

Take time to be holy, The world rushes on;
Spend much time in secret, With Jesus alone.
By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be;
Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.

Take time to be holy, let Him be thy guide;
And run not before Him, whatever betide.
In joy or in sorrow, Still follow thy Lord,
And, looking to Jesus, still trust in His Word.

Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul,
Each thought and each motive Beneath His control.
Thus led by His Spirit to fountains of love,
Thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
Believing the Table of Jesus Christ is open to all, the United Church of Christ celebrates Open Communion. All who desire to share in the Sacrament are welcome to receive the bread and the cup. The cups in the outer circle on the communion tray contain grape juice. The other cups contain wine.

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – The Solid Rock – #315

My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name

Refrain:
On Christ the solid Rock I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on HIs unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil.
Refrain

His oath, His covenant, His blood Support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my sould gives way, He then is all my hope and stay.
Refrain

When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in HIm be found;
Dressed in HIs righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne.
Refrain

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Ev’ry Time I Feel the Spirit

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