July 9 – Chosen Journeys

July 9 – Chosen Journeys

Welcome to Ivy Chapel on the sixth Sunday after Pentecost. God desires every sanctuary to be a house of prayer where everyone is welcomed and valued and loved.

Click here to view today’s worship service.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude – Walther

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Ann Molyneaux
One: Come to the refreshing waters God provides!
All: We come with gladness!
One: Come, all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens.
All: As Christ invites us, we come to find rest for our souls.

*HYMN – When Morning Gilds the Skies – #66

When morning gilds the skies, My heart awaking cries:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Alike at work or prayer To Jesus I repair:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

The night becomes as day, When from the heart we say:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
The pow’rs of darkness fear When this sweet chant they hear:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

Sing, suns and stars of space, Sing, ye that see His face,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Let all the earth around Ring joyous with the sound:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

Be this, while life is mine, My canticle divine,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this th’ eternal song Through all the ages long,
May Jesus Christ be praised!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Ann Molyneaux
God of our ancestors, we come to you this morning. We are thankful for this occasion to receive your Word and your Communion, Christ Jesus. As we worship you here, may we grow and learn to serve you in all places.
God of Clear Vision and True Wisdom, we turn to you today. Lead us. Through every twist and turn, lead us as you have always led your people.
God of every nation, pondering your grandeur fills us with awe. Who are we to approach you? Can we live up to all that you ask of us? Will we genuinely accept all that you offer? What if we do?
God, stir within us now. Reveal the paths that you want us to follow. Open our hearts to you, God. To know you is to live. Bring us alive! Amen.

*RESPONSE – Lord, I Lift Your Name on High – worship booklet, p. 68

Lord, I lift your name on high:
Lord, I love to sing Your praises.
I’m so glad You’re in my life;
I’m so glad You came to save us.
You came from heaven to earth to show the way,
From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay.
From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky;
Lord, I lift Your name on high!

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 145:8-18 – Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC – The Journey with He Leadeth Me – Sorenson

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 11:7-11, 16-19, 25-30 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – The Peace of Mind That Christ Can Bring – worship booklet, p.74

The peace of mind that Christ can bring Is peace in knowing how to sing
In spite of doubts of why or how, In spite of fears of the here and now.

The peace that strengthens faithful souls Can not be built on self made goals,
But rather comes to those who heed A call for help in time of need.

So one finds peace within the heart When each with others bears a part.
When peace for me is peace for you, Then Christ is present, peace is true.

So Christ, invade our life and will Until we see your justice still
Defining best all human worth, Reshaping dreams of peace on earth.

*BENEDICTION

*POSTLUDE – The Majestic Trumpet – Hebble

July 2 – Holy Welcome

Praise God for Christ’s gifts of astonishing grace and love! Thank you for joining us on this joyful holiday weekend.

Today we will celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion. All are welcome at God’s table. Please gather the elements as worship begins so you may partake with us.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude on an American Folk Medley – Hebble

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Rod Hertenstein
One: God is gracious and merciful.
All: God is abounding in steadfast love.
One: Come to the refreshing waters God provides.
All: Come, all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens.
One: The gentle Spirit of Christ invites us.
All: We have come to find rest for our souls.

*HYMN – Patriotic Hymn Sing (verses 1 and 4 of each hymn)

America – #602

My country, ’tis of thee, Sweet land of liberty,
Of thee I sing;
Land where my fathers died, Land of the pilgrims’ pride,
From ev’ry mountainside Let freedom ring!

Our fathers’ God to Thee, Author of liberty,
To Thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright, With freedom’s holy light,
Protect us by Thy might, Great God our King.

America the Beautiful – #600

O beautiful for spacious skies, For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties Above the fruited plain!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for patriot dream That sees beyond the years,
Thine alabaster cities gleam Undimmed by human tears!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea! Oh beautiful for halcyon skies

The Battle Hymn of the Republic – #604

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword:
His truth is marching on.

Refrain:
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Our God is marching on.

In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free!
While God is marching on. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Rod Hertenstein
God of our ancestors, we worship you. We thank you for our precious homeland. Help us, Dear God, to continue moving toward a time when freedom truly will ring for all people. You are the One who clothes us with joy and fills us with hope. Yours is a love mightier than any danger or fear.
We praise you for our nation. We praise you for this church. Fill us with life in this place so that we may learn to serve you in all places.
You are God of the past and of the future. Lead us as you always have led your people, O God of Wisdom and Promise. Amen.

*RESPONSE – You Are My All in All – worship booklet, p. 99

You are my strength when I am weak
You are the treasure that I seek
You are my all in all
Seeking You as a precious jewel
Lord, to give up I’d be a fool
You are my all in all

Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name

Taking my sin, my cross, my shame
Rising again I bless Your name
You are my all in all
When I fall down You pick me up
When I am dry You fill my cup
You are my all in all

Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 10:39-42 – Rod Hertenstein

SPECIAL MUSIC – America the Beautiful
Earl Kreder, Saxophone & Mike Waller, Piano

GOD’S WORD – Genesis 22:1-14 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Break Thou the Bread of Life – #175

Break Thou the Bread of Life, Dear Lord, to me,
As Thou didst break the loaves Beside the sea;
Beyond the sacred page I seek Thee, Lord;
My spirit pants for Thee, O Living Word.

Bless Thou the truth, dear Lord, To me, to me,
As Thou didst bless the bread By Galilee;
Then shall all bondage cease, All fetters fall,
And I shall find my peace My All in all.

Thou art the Bread of Life, O Lord, to me,
Thy holy Word the truth That saveth me;
Give me to eat and live With Thee above;
Teach me to love Thy truth, For Thou art Love.

Oh, send Thy Spirit, Lord, Now unto me,
That He may touch my eyes, And make me see;
Show me the truth concealed Within Thy Word,
And in Thy Book revealed I see the Lord.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to receive them here.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

*HYMN – Help Us Accept Each Other – #127

Help us accept each other as Christ accepted us;
Teach us as sister, brother, each person to embrace.
Be present, Lord, among us and bring us to believe:
We are ourselves accepted and meant to love and live.

Teach us, O Lord, Your lessons, as in our daily life
We struggle to be human and search for hope and faith.
Teach us to care for people, for all, not just for some,
To love them as we find them, or as they may become.

Let Your acceptance change us so that we may be moved
In living situations to do the truth in love;
To practice Your acceptance until we know by heart
The table of forgiveness and laughter’s healing art.

Lord, for today’s encounters with all who are in need,
Who hunger for acceptance, for righteousness and for bread,
We need new eyes for seeing, new hands for holding on:
Renew us with Your Spirit; Lord, free us, make us one!

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Hymn of Gladness – Wolford

June 25 – United and Uniting

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! On June 25, 1957, the Congregational Christian Churches and the Evangelical and Reformed Church merged and the United Church of Christ was born! We celebrate that all people are called by God to live as united and uniting human beings. We express our love for God by devoting ourselves to living in ways leading toward, “A just world for all.”

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude and Fugue on the Kyrie – Corrette

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Jo Ann Moody
One: God is the source of all that is alive!
All: God gives birth to every living thing!
One: In certain ways, we are all thirsty.
All: At times, we seek things that do not satisfy.
One: We crave earthly things.
All: But the things of this world do not take care of our thirst.
One: Jesus Christ is the Living Water.
All: Whoever drinks this water will never thirst.

*HYMN – Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above – #45

Sing praise to God who reigns above,
the God of all creation,
the God of power, the God of love,
the God of our salvation;
with healing balm my soul he fills,
and every faithless murmur stills:
o God all praise and glory.

What God’s almighty power hath made,
his gracious mercy keepeth;
by morning glow or evening shade
his watchful eye ne’er sleepeth.
Within the kingdom of his might,
lo! all is just and all is right:
to God all praise and glory

The Lord is never far away,
But through all grief distressing
An ever present help and stay
Our peace, and joy, and blessing;
As with a mother’s tender hand,
He leads His one, HIs chosen band:
To God all praise and glory.

Then all my gladsome way along
I sing aloud thy praises,
that men may hear the grateful song
my voice unwearied raises:
be joyful in the Lord, my heart!
Both soul and body bear your part!
To God all praise and glory.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jo Ann Moody
Gracious God, we find in you a love even deeper than we can imagine. From you, we receive the water that wells up to life eternal. Your grace is a miraculous, free gift that you offer to everyone. As our trust in you continues growing; help us to let go of our burdens, our worries, our fears. Bless every soul who is thirsting for you, Christ Jesus. You are the Living Water. You are the wellspring of grace. You are the One who makes us whole. Come alive within us today, we pray. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Make Me a Servant – #415

Make me a servant humble and meek;
Lord, let me lift up those who are weak.
And may the prayer of my heart always be:
Make me a servant, make me a servant,
Make me a servant today

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 67:1-7 – Jo Ann Moody

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

SPECIAL MUSIC – We’re Marching to Zion – Wolaver

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 10:24-39 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST STATEMENT OF FAITH – worship booklet, p. 5

We believe in God, the Eternal Spirit, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ and our Father, and to his deeds we testify:
He calls the worlds into being, creates man in his own image and sets before him the ways of life and death.
He seeks in holy love to save all people from aimlessness and sin.
He judges men and nations by his righteous will declared through prophets and apostles.
In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Lord, he has come to us and shared our common lot, conquering sin and death and reconciling the world to himself.
He bestows upon us his Holy Spirit, creating and renewing the church of Jesus Christ, binding in covenant faithful people of all ages, tongues, and races.
He calls us into his church to accept the cost and joy of discipleship, to be his servants in the service of men, to proclaim the gospel to all the world and resist the powers of evil, to share in Christ’s baptism and eat at his table, to join him in his passion and victory.
He promises to all who trust him forgiveness of sins and fullness of grace, courage in the struggle for justice and peace, his presence in trial and rejoicing, and eternal life in his kingdom which has no end.
Blessing and honor, glory and power be unto him.
Amen.

*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 – Marching to Zion – Wolaver

June 18 – Freely Give!

Happy Father’s Day to all the dads in the Ivy Capel community, and to all those who fulfill fatherly roles in our lives.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Praeambulum – Scheidemann

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Together, we rejoice in amazement! God’s love has no limit!
All: Christ sends us out as his disciples, saying, “Go to the lost.
One: You have received without payment.
All: Give without payment.”
One: Come, Holy Spirit.
All: Lift us!
One: Come, Holy Spirit.
All: Teach us.
One: Come, Holy Spirit.
All: Fill us, and use us.
One: Send us into the world to serve as ambassadors of your grace.
All: Here we are, God. Send us!

*HYMN – All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name – #68

All hail the power of Jesus’ name!
Let angels prostrate fall.
Let angels prostrate fall.
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown him Lord of all!
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown him Lord of all!

Ye chosen seed of Israel’s race
Ye ransomed of the fall,
Hail him who saves you by his grace,
And crown him Lord of all!
Hail him who saves you by his grace,
And crown him Lord of all!

Let every kindred, every tribe,
On this terrestrial ball;
To Him all majesty ascribe,
And crown him Lord of all.
To Him all majesty ascribe,
And crown him Lord of all!

Oh, that with yonder sacred throng
We at his feet may fall,
We’ll join the everlasting song
And crown Him Lord of all.
We’ll join the everlasting song
And crown Him Lord of all!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Life-Giving God, here now on holy ground, we gather together to make joyful noise and to worship you! We praise you, Astonishing God, for you are among us in this place as you are with all of your children in all places. With deep gratitude, we celebrate each one of the blessings that you freely give. Transform us into your servants; send us out as ambassadors of your healing and compassion. We pray in your name, Jesus. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Awesome God – worship booklet, p. 28

Our God is an awesome God,
He reigns from heaven above
With wisdom, power and love
Our God is an awesome God!
Our God is an awesome God!
Our God is an awesome God!

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE

*HYMN – I Will Sing of the Mercies of the Lord – worship booklet, p. 56

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing I will sing
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord

With my mouth will I make known
Your faithfulness Your faithfulness
With my mouth will I make known
Your faithfulness to all generations

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord

All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praises
Forever for the things He has done.
All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praises, forever
All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praise.

Who can be compared to God in faithfulness, in faithfulness?
Who can be compared to God in faithfulness to all generations?

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 100

SPECIAL MUSIC – Just a Closer Walk with Thee – Curry

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 9:35-10:8

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love – #119

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
And together we’ll spread the news that God is in our land:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

We will work with each other, we will work side by side.
We will work with each other, we will work side by side.
And we’ll guard each man’s dignity and save each man’s pride:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

All praise to the Father from whom all things come,
And all praise to Christ Jesus, His only Son,
And all praise to the Spirit who makes us one:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Offertoire sur les Grands Jeux – Couperin

June 11 – The Call of Abram

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! Our Savior Jesus Christ calls us to newness of life. What a joy it is that God gathers us for worship! Praise God for this morning!

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Antiphon III, Op. 18, No. 3 – Dupré

*CALL TO WORSHIP – John Weiland
One: Let us rejoice!
All: We rejoice, for Living God rules over all the earth!
One: All that lives and moves belongs to God.
All: Let everything that breathes praise the Lord!
One: God is good.
All: God’s mercies endure forever.

*HYMN – Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing – #82

Come Thou fount of every blessing,
Tune my heart to sing Thy grace;
Streams of mercy never ceasing,
Call for songs of loudest praise.
Teach me some melodious sonnet,
Sung by flaming tongues above;
Praise the mount, I’m fixed upon it
Mount of Thy redeeming love.

Here I raise my Ebenezer,
Here by Thy great help I’ve come;
And I hope by Thy good pleasure,
Safely to arrive at home.
Jesus sought me when a stranger,
Wandering from the fold of God.
He, to rescue me from danger,
Bought me with His precious blood

O to grace how great a debtor,
Daily I’m constrained to be!
Let Thy goodness, like a fetter,
Bind my wandering heart to Thee:
Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it,
Prone to leave the God I love;
Here’s my heart, O take and seal it;
Seal it for Thy courts above.

*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – John Weiland
God, our Maker, Redeemer and Friend; you are always faithful. We rejoice that you are with us on this day and every day! As you once acted in our baptism, you are still acting to make all things new within us and among us. Gracious Savior, you change our hearts. You invite us to be your followers. Lead us, Jesus; for we seek to live as you live by offering all people your total love. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Change My Heart, O God – worship booklet, p. 33

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

You are the potter, I am the clay,
Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 50:7-15 – John Weiland

SPECIAL MUSIC – Brethren, We Have Met to Worship – arr. Goss

GOD’S WORD – Genesis 12:1-9 & Matthew 9:9-13,18-26 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – Wonderful Grace of Jesus – #319

Wonderful grace of Jesus, greater than all my sin;
How shall my tongue describe it, where shall its praise begin?
Taking away my burden, setting my spirit free,
For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me.

Refrain:
Wonderful the matchless grace of Jesus,
Deeper than the mighty rolling sea,
Higher than the mountain, sparkling like a fountain,
All sufficient grace for even me;
Broader than the scope of my transgressions, sing it!
Greater far than all my sin and shame.
O magnify the precious name of Jesus, praise his name!

Wonderful grace of Jesus, reaching to all the lost,
By it I have been pardoned, saved to the uttermost.
Chains have been torn asunder, giving me liberty,
For the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me. [Refrain]

Wonderful grace of Jesus, reaching the most defiled,
By its transforming power making him God’s dear child,
Purchasing peace and heaven for all eternity,
And the wonderful grace of Jesus reaches me. [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Toccata for a Joyous Occasion – Young

June 4 – This is Good!

In this world of God’s creation, there is always hope! Thanks to God’s power and love, hope for life, renewal and growth are always near.

To bring us ever closer and recognize the sacrifice God made for us in his Son Jesus, we celebrate open communion at Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. As we begin worship this morning, gather the elements so we may partake together.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Litany of the Bells – Hebble

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Diann Sheahan
One: It only takes a spark to get a fire going.
All: That’s how it is with God’s love.
One: Once you’ve experienced it,
All: It’s fresh like spring.
One: You want to sing!
All: You want to pass it on!

*HYMN – Morning Has Broken – #274

Morning has broken like the first morning,
Blackbird has spoken like the first bird.
Praise for the singing! Praise for the morning!
Praise for them, springing fresh from the Word!

Sweet the rain’s new fall sunlit from heaven,
Like the first dewfall on the first grass.
Praise for the sweetness of the wet garden,
Sprung in completeness where His feet pass.

Mine is the sunlight! Mine is the morning
Born of the one light Eden saw play!
Praise with elation, praise every morning,
God’s recreation of the new day!

*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Diann Sheahan
God, we do not know how faith grows any more than we know how seeds grow. We have been planted in this place in hopes that you would grow faith in us; first little blades of awakening; then ears of obedience; and finally the full grain of maturity into the likeness of Christ.
Guide us to live and grow in ways that please you, O God. May we joyfully serve you by fulfilling the ministries which you give us to do.
God, we have come here to worship you. This is holy ground. Cultivate us in your fertile soil. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Give Thanks – worship booklet, p. 42

Give thanks with a grateful heart,
Give thanks to the Holy One,
Give thanks because He’s given
Jesus Christ His Son.

Give thanks with a grateful heart,
Give thanks to the Holy One,
Give thanks because He’s given
Jesus Christ His Son.

And now let the weak say “I am strong”
Let the poor say “I am rich”
Because of what the Lord has done for us.

And now let the weak say “I am strong”
Let the poor say “I am rich”
Because of what the Lord has done for us.

Give thanks, give thanks.

GOD’S WORD – Genesis 1:1-2:4a – Diann Sheahan

SPECIAL MUSIC – El Shaddai – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 8 & Matthew 28:16-20 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – We Come As Guests Invited – #258

We come as guests invited When Jesus bids us dine,
HIs friends on earth united To share the bread and wine;
The bread of life is broken, The wine is freely poured
For us, in solemn token Of Christ our dying Lord.

We eat and drink, receiving From Christ the grace we need,
An in our hearts believing On Him by faith we feed;
With wonder and thanksgiving For love that knows no end,
We find in Jesus living Our ever present friend.

One bread is ours for sharing, One single, fruited vine,
Our fellowship declaring Renewed in bread and wine-
Renewed, sustained and given By token, sing and word,
The pledge and seal of heaven, The love of Christ our Lord.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate Christ’s Extravagant Welcome through “open” Communion. All who desire to receive are welcome to receive the bread and the cup.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Praise to the Lord, the Almighty – #10

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is your health and salvation!
All ye who hear; now to His temple draw near,
Join me in glad adoration.

Praise to the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth;
Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!
Hast thou not seen How thy desires e’er have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?

Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee;
Surely His goodness and mercy here daily attend thee.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do,
If with his love He befriend thee.

Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the Amen sound from His people again;
Gladly for aye we adore Him.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Intonation and Fugue – Scherer

May 28 – Pentecost

A Blessed Memorial Day Weekend to all. We offer God humble thanks for the sacrifice of each person who has given their life while serving in our nation’s military. Praise God for the blessing of living in this free nation.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Chorale – Hebble

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Receive God’s gift of the Holy Spirit!
All: The winds of God are stirring among us.
One: How amazing is the power of God!
All: The breath of God fills people with life!
One: God calls us to be dreamers and prophets.
All: Christ envisions a world alive with the Spirit of God!

*HYMN – The Church’s One Foundation – #115

The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ, her Lord;
She is his new creation by water and the Word.
From heav’n He came and sought her to be His holy bride;
With His own blood He bought her, and for her life He died.

Elect from ev’ry nation, yet one o’er all the earth;
Her charter of salvation: one Lord, one faith, one birth.
One holy name she blesses, partakes one holy food,
And to one hope she presses, with ev’ry grace endued.

Tho’ with a scornful wonder men see her sore oppressed,
By schisms rent asunder, by heresies distressed,
Yet saints their watch are keeping; their cry goes up, “How long?”
And soon the night of weeping shall be the morn of song.

Mid toil and tribulation and tumult of her war
She waits the consummation of peace forevermore
Till with the vision glorious her longing eyes are blest,
And the great Church victorious shall be the Church at rest.

Yet she on earth hath union with God, the Three in One
And mystic sweet communion with those whose rest is won;
O happy ones and holy! Lord, give us grace that we,
Like them, the meek and lowly, On high may dwell with Thee.

*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of wind and fire; Source of mountains and seas; Creator of darkness and light; we marvel at all of your magnificent works! God of Pentecost, may you fill this house of prayer today. Sweep through this sanctuary, Mighty Wind, and bless your people with a breath of new life! Awaken our spirits; inspire our praise; and set us on fire with your love! May no one remain unmoved by your presence or deprived of the dreams you have for all humankind. Help us respond to your Gospel with joy and commitment by serving others in your name, Jesus. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Spirit of the Living God – #150

Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me,
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me.
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 104:24-34, 35b

SPECIAL MUSIC – Joy Song – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – Acts 2:1-21

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – We’ve a Story to Tell to the Nations – #524

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Lobe den Herren, den mächtigen König der Ehren – Walther

May 21 – 59th Anniversary

Good morning, and thank you for joining us for the 59th Anniversary of Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Couplet du Gloria – Couperin

*CALL TO WORSHIP – (November 14, 1965 adapted)
One: Come, let us celebrate God’s presence among us!
All: I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord!’
One: I will lift up my voice in God’s sanctuary.
All: With songs of gladness, I will praise God – the rock of my salvation.
One: O come, let us worship and bow down before God, our Maker.
All: We are God’s people, the sheep of God’s pasture.
One: Each day, new blessings come from Living God.
All: Let all people praise God today!

*HYMN – All Creatures of Our God and King – #33

All creatures of our God and King,
Lift up your voice and with us sing,
Alleluia, Alleluia!
Thou burning sun with golden beam,
Thou silver moon with softer gleam,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Thou rushing wind that art so strong,
Ye clouds that sail in heav’n along,
O praise Him, Alleluia!
Thou rising morn in praise rejoice,
Ye lights of evening, find a voice,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Thou flowing water, pure and clear,
Make music for thy Lord to hear,
Alleluia, Alleluia!
Thou fire so masterful and bright,
That givest man both warmth and light,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

And all ye men of tender heart,
Forgiving others, take your part,
O sing ye, Alleluia!
Ye who long pain and sorrow bear,
Praise God and on HIm cast your care,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Let all things their Creator bless,
And worship Him in humbleness,
O Praise Him, Alleluia!
Praise, praise the Father and the Son,
And praise the spirit, three in one,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – (January 26, 1975 adapted)
With great joy we come to you, our God. We praise you for your marvelous works among us! Be with us now as we offer you the love of our hearts and the service of our hands. Grant that your goodness, which has crowned all our days, may prompt us to see your glory in this temple built to you. Let the words of our mouths and the meditations of our hearts be acceptable in your sight, O God, our Strength and our Redeemer. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – We Bow Down (Verses 1 and 2) – worship booklet, p. 93

You are Lord of creation and Lord of my life
Lord of the land and the sea
You were Lord of the heavens before there was time
Lord of all lords You will be

We bow down and we worship You Lord
We bow down and we worship You Lord
We bow down and we worship You Lord
Lord of all Lords You will be

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – I’m So Glad, Jesus Lifted Me (Verses 1, 2 and 3) – worship booklet, p. 51

I’m so glad, Jesus lifted me,
I’m so glad, Jesus lifted me,
I’m so glad, Jesus lifted me,
Singing glory, hallelujah, Jesus lifted me.

Satan had me bound, Jesus lifted me,
Satan had me bound, Jesus lifted me,
Satan had me bound, Jesus lifted me,
Singing glory, hallelujah, Jesus lifted me.

When I was in trouble, Jesus lifted me,
When I was in trouble, Jesus lifted me,
When I was in trouble, Jesus lifted me
Singing glory, hallelujah, Jesus lifted me.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 55:2, Proverb 3:18, 21-22a, 34 & 1 Peter 5:5-7, 10-11

SPECIAL MUSIC – How Great Thou Art – Marohnic

GOD’S WORD – John 17:1-11

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – I Then Shall Live – #133

I then shall live as one who’s been forgiven.
I’ll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child and I am not afraid.
So, greatly pardoned, I’ll forgive my brother;
The law of love I gladly will obey

I then shall live as one who’s learned compassion.
I’ve been so loved, that I’ll risk loving too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I’ll dare to see another’s point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I’ll be there to care and follow through.

Your Kingdom come around and through and in me;
Your power and glory, let them shine through me.
Your Hallowed Name, O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world through me.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Fantasy – Pachelbel

May 14 – Witness of Love

To all of the mothers out there, and those who fill motherly roles in our lives, a Happy Mother’s Day from Ivy Chapel.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Canon – Martini

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Find strength in God’s power.
All: In all times and places, we can rely on God.
One: Find hope in all that God promises!
All: God in Christ Jesus has set us all free.
One: Find joy in all that God provides!
All: God’s mercies are new every morning!

*HYMN – Love Divine, All Loves Excelling – #71

Love divine, all loves excelling,
Joy of heav’n, to earth come down,
Fix in us Thy humble dwelling,
All Thy faithful mercies crown.
Jesus, Thou art all compassion,
Pure, unbounded love Thou art.
Visit us with Thy salvation;
Enter every trembling heart.

Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit
Into every troubled breast.
Let us all in Thee inherit,
Let us find the promised rest.
Take away the love of sinning;
Alpha and Omega be.
End of faith, as its beginning,
Set our hearts at liberty.

Come, Almighty, to deliver,
Let us all Thy life receive.
Suddenly return, and never,
Nevermore Thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
Serve Thee as Thy hosts above,
Pray, and praise Thee without ceasing,
Glory in Thy perfect love.

Finish, then, Thy new creation;
Pure and spotless let us be.
Let us see Thy great salvation
Perfectly restored in Thee.
Changed from glory into glory,
Till in heav’n we take our place,
Till we cast our crowns before Thee,
Lost in wonder, love and praise.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Faithful God, you continue revealing to us that your love never quits. Again and again, you search for us, find us, and welcome us back to fullness of life with you. This is what you are doing this very morning. Somehow you have brought us here today for another brush with your Unseen, Holy Presence. We are in awe of your grace and power, Dear God.
Stir within us now, we pray. Merciful Redeemer, what pure joy it is experiencing the fullness of your love through Christ. May we ever love and serve you in the Spirit of Jesus Christ our Savior. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – The Gift of Love (Verses 1, 2 and 3) – #126

Though I may speak with bravest fire,
And have the gift to all inspire,
And have not love, my words are vain,
As sounding brass, and hopeless gain

Though I may give all I possess,
And striving so my love profess,
But not be given by love within,
The profit soon turns strangely thin.

Come, Spirit, come, our hearts control,
Our spirits long to be made whole.
Let inward love guide every deed;
By this we worship, and are freed.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 66:8-20 & 1 Peter 3:13-22

SPECIAL MUSIC – Here I Am, Lord – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – John 14:15-21, 27

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – Love Lifted Me – #317

I was sinking deep in sin,
Far from the peaceful shore,
Very deeply stained within,
Sinking to rise no more;
But the Master of the sea
Heard my despairing cry,
From the waters lifted me–
Now safe am I.

Refrain:
Love lifted me, Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me;
Love lifted me, Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me.

All my heart to Him I give,
Ever to Him I’ll cling,
In His blessed presence live,
Ever His praises sing.
Love so mighty and so true
Merits my soul’s best songs;
Faithful, loving service, too,
To Him belongs. [Refrain]

Souls in danger, look above,
Jesus completely saves;
He will lift you by His love
Out of the angry waves.
He’s the Master of the sea,
Billows His will obey;
He your Savior wants to be–
Be saved today. [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Antiphon V,Op. 18, No. 5 – Dupré

May 7 – Enduring Witness

Whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey; you are welcome here. There are no strangers here at Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Christ is risen, so that all people may enjoy abundant life!

On this Fifth Sunday of Easter, we will celebrate the sacred rite of Communion. If you are worshipping from home, please gather the elements before the service begins so you may join us at the Lord’s table.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prologue – Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Come, let us celebrate God’s presence among us!
All: I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord!’
One: I will lift up my voice in God’s sanctuary.
All: With songs of gladness, I will praise God – the rock of my salvation.
One: O come, let us worship and bow down before God, our Maker.
All: We are God’s people, the sheep of God’s pasture.
One: Each day, new blessings come from Living God.
All: Let all people praise God today

*HYMN – There’s a Quiet Understanding (Verses 1 and 2) – #144

There’s a quiet understanding
when we’re gathered in the Spirit,
It’s a promise that He gives us,
When we gather in His name.
There’s a love we feel in Jesus,
There’s a manna that He feeds us,
It’s a promise that He gives us
When we gather in His name.

And we know when we’re together,
sharing love and understanding,
That our brothers and our sisters
feel the oneness that He brings.
Thank You, thank You, thank You, Jesus,
for the way You love and feed us,
For the many ways You lead us,
Thank You, thank You, Lord.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Everlasting God, we celebrate the gifts of your Spirit. We are grateful that you do not feed the world a diet of shame or fear. You offer all people wholesome, true nourishment through your Living Word. In this manner, you teach humankind to live in compassionate, caring ways.
Trail-blazing God, you call on all people to stand up for your justice and to follow wherever you lead. You fill people with strength and hope! Christ Jesus, Risen Savior, breathe on us and fill us with your Spirit. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – You Are My All in All – worship booklet, p. 99
You are my strength when I am weak
You are the treasure that I seek
You are my all in all
Seeking You as a precious jewel
Lord, to give up I’d be a fool
You are my all in all

Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name

Taking my sin, my cross, my shame
Rising again I bless Your name
You are my all in all
When I fall down You pick me up
When I am dry You fill my cup
You are my all in all

Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 122:1-2, 7-9 & 1 Peter 2:1-5, 10

SPECIAL MUSIC – Morning Has Broken – Marohnic

GOD’S WORD – John 14:1-14

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Come, Share the Lord – #260

We gather here in Jesus’ name,
His love is burning in our hearts like living flame,
For thru the loving Son the Father makes us one.
Come take the bread, come drink the wine,
Come share the Lord.

No one is a stranger here, everyone belongs.
Finding our forgiveness here,
we in turn forgive all wrongs.

He joins us here, He breaks the bread;
The Lord who pours the cup risen from the dead.
The one we love the most is now our gracious host.
Come take the bread, come drink the wine,
Come share the Lord

We are now a family of which the Lord is head.
Though unseen, He meets us here,
In the breaking of the bread.

We’ll gather soon where angels sing,
We’ll see the glory of our lord and coming King.
Now we anticipate the feast for which we wait.
Come take the bread, come drink the wine,
Come share the Lord

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
We celebrate Christ’s Extravagant Welcome through “open” Communion.
All who desire to receive the gifts of God are welcome to receive the bread and the cup at this table.

Leader: Jesus said, “Believe in God, believe also in me.”
People: And the people said, “How can we know The Way?
Leader: And Jesus said, “I am the Way. And the truth. And the light.”
People: And the people said, “Show us, and we will be satisfied.”
Leader: And Jesus said, “If in my name you ask me for anything, I will do it.
And so since you have asked, today I will show you one of the ways that I will always be here with you.
People: And so Jesus took the bread, and broke it, and gave it to them and said,
“I am the Way and the truth and the life.”
Leader: If you know me, you will know my Abba God also. And I will show you, so you remember. Take this bread. ‘This bread is just like my body, whenever you eat it and remember all that unites you, I am with you.’
People: And after supper, Jesus took the cup and poured it out sharing it with them. And again, he told them. “I am the Way and the truth and the life.”
Leader: Then he said “In my Abba’s house there are many rooms. And I will show you, so you remember. This is the cup of forgiveness, which is as vast as my Abba’s house in heaven. This cup is grace, poured out abundantly on all and for all.”
People: Then Jesus said, “I go and prepare a place for you, so that where I am, there you will be also.”
Leader: This is Christ’s table, and all are welcome here. Come from the Fast and the West, from the North and the South to gather at this feast for forgiveness and unity,

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

*HYMN – Jesus Is All the World to Me – #342

Jesus is all the world to me,
My life, my joy, my all;
He is my strength from day to day,
Without Him I would fall:
When I am sad, to Him I go,
No other one can cheer me so;
When I am sad, He makes me glad,
He’s my friend.

Jesus is all the world to me,
My friend in trials sore;
I go to Him for blessings, and
He gives them o’er and o’er:
He sends the sunshine and the rain,
He sends the harvest’s golden grain;
Sunshine and rain, harvest of grain,
He’s my friend.

Jesus is all the world to me,
And true to Him I’ll be;
Oh, how could I this friend deny,
When He’s so true to me?
Following Him I know I’m right,
He watches o’er me day and night;
Following Him by day and night,
He’s my friend.

Jesus is all the world to me,
I want no better friend;
I trust Him now, I’ll trust Him when
Life’s fleeting days shall end:
Beautiful life with such a friend,
Beautiful life that has no end;
Eternal life, eternal joy,
He’s my friend.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott – Pachelbel

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