March 12 – Third Sunday of Lent – Thirsty Voices

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. In this world, we are all thirsting for the peace that can only come through God’s love. May you find relief here among us on this Lenten journey, either on our YouTube channel or in-person.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Lamento – Bonnet

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

*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!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Everlasting God, we come to this sanctuary to worship you. Whatever may be fragile or fearful or hurting within us we now entrust to your transforming power and gentle, loving care. Thank you for the countless ways that you break into this troubled world to calm and to reassure.
Pure and Holy God, you are like a cold, refreshing drink of water. We find in you a love even greater than we can imagine. You watch over and care for all people. From you, we receive water that wells up to life eternal.
Bless each soul who is thirsting for you, Christ Jesus. You are the Savior of the world. Turn us into gushing springs of living water that serve all who are thirsty. May all everyone be refreshed by drinking from your wellspring of grace. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Sanctuary – worship booklet, p. 76

Lord, prepare me to be a sanctuary,
Pure and holy, tried and true:
With thanksgiving, I’ll be a living
Sanctuary for You.

Shout to the Lord!
My Jesus, my Savior
Lord there is none like You
All of my days I want to praise
The wonders of Your mighty love

My comfort, my shelter
Tower of refuge and strength
Let every breath, all that I am
Never cease to worship You

Shout to the Lord all the Earth, let us sing
Power and majesty, praise to the King
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar
At the sound of Your name

I sing for joy at the work of Your hands
Forever I’ll love You, forever I’ll stand
Nothing compares to the promise I have in You

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – JoAnn Moody

*HYMN – There is a Balm in Gilead – #141

Refrain:
There is a balm in Gilead
to make the wounded whole,
there is a balm in Gilead
to heal the sin-sick soul.

Sometimes I feel discouraged
and think my work’s in vain,
but then the Holy Spirit
revives my soul again. Refrain

If you cannot preach like Peter,
if you cannot pray like Paul,
You can tell the love of Jesus
and say, “He died for all.” Refrain

CHRISTIAN ACTION – Caring for Kids, Inc. – Cynthia Harcourt, Executive Director

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 95

SPECIAL MUSIC – The Battle Belongs to the Lord – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – John 4:5-42

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – More Love to Thee – 428

More love to Thee, O Christ, More love to Thee!
Hear Thou the prayer I make On bended knee;
This is my earnest plea:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
More love to Thee, More love to Thee!

Once earthly joy I craved, Sought peace and rest;
Now Thee alone I seek, Give what is best;
This all my prayer shall be:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
More love to Thee, More love to Thee!

Let sorrow do its work, Send grief and pain;
Sweet are Thy messengers, Sweet their refrain,
When they can sing with me:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
Moe love to Thee, More love to Thee!

Then shall my latest breath Whisper Thy praise;
This be the parting cry My heart shall raise;
This still its prayer shall be:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
More love to Thee, More love to Thee!

*SENDING OUT – God sends us into the world to be living instruments of God’s peace. – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Prelude, A Minor – J. S. Bach

March 5 – Second Sunday of Lent – Blessing

Every day is a blessing! And we are blessed to have you with us today here at Ivy Chapel. You are welcome to join us every Sunday at 10 a.m. in our sanctuary, or anytime on our YouTube page.

Please let us know if you have any questions about being a part of the Ivy Chapel community.

This page will with a link to the live worship when it begins on Sunday.

All are welcome to join us at Christ’s table this morning. If you are worshipping from home, please take a moment to gather the elements of communion so you may celebrate with us.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Near the Cross – Hustad

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: We gather to worship Jesus Christ.
All: Baptized in Jesus’ name; we are born anew!
One: Christ died and rose on high.
All: Christ died for us.
One: This is the astonishing beauty of God’s love.
All: With all the joy that is in us, let us praise God!

*HYMN – O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing – #93

O for a thousand tongues to sing
My great Redeemer’s praise,
The glories of my God and King,
The triumphs of His grace!

Jesus! the name that charms our fears,
That bids our sorrows cease,
‘Tis music in the sinner’s ears,
‘Tis life and health and peace.

He breaks the power of cancelled sin,
He sets the prisoner free;
His blood can make the foulest clean;
His blood availed for me.

Hear Him, ye deaf; His praise, ye dumb,
Your loosened tongues employ;
Ye blind, behold your Saviour come;
And leap, ye lame, for joy.

My gracious Master and my God,
Assist me to proclaim,
To spread thro’ all the earth abroad
The honors of your name.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Let the winds of your Spirit blow in our lives today, Eternal God. Let us hear the sound and feel the power of your Enlivening Spirit. Open our hearts in new ways to your promises of healing grace.
Holy One, we gather to worship you. We seek reassurance that you are with us in our going out and our coming in. We ask for your help overcoming any temptation that might lead us away from you. Faithful God, you are the One we rejoice to serve! We praise you for relentlessly breathing new life into your world. May our love for you continue growing throughout this Lenten Season and beyond. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Shout to the Lord – worship book, pp. 80-81

My Jesus, my Saviour
Lord there is none like You
All of my days I want to praise
The wonders of Your mighty love

My comfort, my shelter
Tower of refuge and strength
Let every breath, all that I am
Never cease to worship You

Shout to the Lord all the Earth, let us sing
Power and majesty, praise to the King
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar
At the sound of Your name

I sing for joy at the work of Your hands
Forever I’ll love You, forever I’ll stand
Nothing compares to the promise I have in You

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 121

SPECIAL MUSIC – Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus – arr. Wyrtzen

GOD’S WORD – John 3:1-17

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Let Us Break Bread Together – #265

Let us break bread together on our knees.
Let us break bread together on our knees.

Refrain:
When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun,
O Lord have mercy on me.

Let us drink wine together on our knees.
Let us drink wine together on our knees. [Refrain]

Let us praise God together on our knees.
Let us praise God together on our knees. [Refrain]

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to receive God’s gifts at Christ’s Table.

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

*HYMN – Grace Greater Than Our Sin – #383

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount out-poured–
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.

Refrain:
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin!

Sin and despair, like the sea-waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater– yes, grace untold–
Points to the Refuge, the mighty Cross. [Refrain]

Dark is the stain that we cannot hide,
What can avail to wash it away?
Look! There is flowing a crimson tide;
Whiter than snow you may be today. [Refrain]

Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
All who are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive? [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Nun last uns Gott, dem Herren – Pachelbel

February 26 – First Sunday of Lent – Abundant Grace

Together with God’s whole Church, we are on a 40-day trek in the wilderness. By His grace alone, we live.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Choral Prelude Durch Adams Fall – Homilius

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Come, people of God, return to the One who gives you life.
All: We approach the One who knows us as we are and loves us fully.
One: This past week, we entered into the season of Lent.
All: God’s Church is going through a ‘wilderness.’
One: Yet this day of worship is an oasis in the desert.
All: Today, we remember temptations which Jesus faced.
One: We also remember the tremendous joys of a disciple’s life!
All: We remember that Jesus is the bread of heaven.
One: We remember that Jesus is the overflowing cup of blessing.
All: We come now, longing to walk more closely with our Savior.

*HYMN – Cleanse Me – #398

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 Ghost, revival comes from Thee;
Send a revival, Start the work in me.
Thy Word declares Thou wilt supply our need;
For blessings now, O Lor, I humbly plead.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of mercy, we are listening for your voice in the clamor of a world that scarcely notices this season of self-examination and spiritual devotion. We mistakenly give attention to serpents who are seeking to lure us away from faithfulness to you, Holy God. We delight in forbidden fruits, but then we complain when they turn sour. Patient and Forgiving Savior, lead us through every wilderness of our own creation, so that we may find our way back to you.Teach us, day by day, Christ Jesus. Guide us in your Way of amazing grace and steadfast love. 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 – Romans 5:12-19

SPECIAL MUSIC – Behold the Lamb Medley – arr. Wyrtzen

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 4:1-11

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan

*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.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Was mein Gott will, gescheh alizeit – Kindermann

February 22 – Ash Wednesday – 1 p.m.

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. On this Ash Wednesday, we begin a 40-day sacred journey; a holy pilgrimage leading to Resurrection Day.

Our Ash Wednesday service begins at 1 p.m. in our sanctuary at 620 N. Woods Mill Road in Chesterfield. We will post a link here and on our Facebook page once the live worship once the service begins.

PRELUDE – A Hymn of Penitence – Reger

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Inspired by Psalm 51
One: Have mercy upon us, O Holy One, according to your unfailing love.
All: Refresh and renew us in your righteousness.
One: Have mercy upon us, O Holy One, according to your unfailing love.
All: Sensitize our hearts to the brokenness of this world.
One: Have mercy upon us, O Holy One, according to your unfailing love.
All: Revive us again with a new and right spirit.
One: We come to remember that God is our Creator and that God gives
the breath of life to everything that breathes!
All: We gather this Ash Wednesday to praise God.

*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

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of Grace, we gather together in your name. Today begins a 40-day Lenten journey of spiritual devotion and discovery. As we embark on this fresh, new journey; our hearts long to be touched and changed, O God. Our spirits rise in anticipation of receiving your life-giving Word. Open our mouths to declare your praises. Open our minds to learn your ways. Open every ounce of our being that we may become your community, following in your footsteps, Christ Jesus.
We turn to you now, Forgiving God. Lead us to accept your extravagant grace, we pray. May the manner in which we live please you and welcome all people to your reconciling love. Amen.

GOD’S WORD – Joel 2:1-6, 10-13

CALL TO CONFESSION
One: God is merciful to all who confess their sins.
All: God is summoning us tonight, “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.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Merciful God, we confess our need of you. Our shortcomings confront us, and our disconnections from you and from our neighbors diminish us. We even cause harm to ourselves by living outside of your hope for us. Draw us near to you, so that we may accept your forgiveness and be renewed; in Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

SILENCE – Pastor Dan

*ASSURANCE OF PARDON – Pastor Dan

*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.

THE IMPOSITION OF ASHES

SPECIAL MUSIC – Jesus Paid It All – arr. Hamilton

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 51:1-4, 6-12 – 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
All who desire to receive are welcome to receive the bread and the cup at Christ’s Table.

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Abide with Me – #577

Abide with me: fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day;
Earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away.
Change and decay in all around I see.
O thou who changest not, abide with me.

I need Thy presence every passing hour.
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s power?
Who like Thyself my guide and strength can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord abide with me.

I fear no foe with Thee at hand to bless,
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness.
Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.

Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes.
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies.
Heaven’s morning breaks and earth’s vain shadows flee;
In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Komm, heiliger Geist, Herre Gott – Zachau

February 19 – Changing before their very eyes

Let us open our hearts; let us allow Christ Jesus to take the lead; and let us follow.

Join us for worship anytime. A link to today’s live worship will appear here once service begins, at 10 a.m. Sunday.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude on the First Tone – Jullien

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: It is a blessing to gather together in God’s house of prayer.
All: In a moment,
One: In the twinkling of an eye,
All: We will all be changed.
One: Through saints and sinners alike,
All: God’s mercy flows.
One: Through all who receive Christ,
All: God’s mercy flows. Let us praise God!

*HYMN – Praise Him! Praise Him! – #73

Praise him, praise him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
Sing, O earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Hail Him, hail Him! Highest archangels in glory!
Strength and honor give to His holy name!
Like a shepherd, Jesus will guard His children.
In His arms He carries them all day long.

Refrain:
Praise Him! Praise Him! tell of His excellent greatness.
Praise Him! Praise Him! ever in joyful song.

Praise Him, praise Him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
For our sins, He suffered, and bled, and died.
He our rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail Him, Hail Him! Jesus, the crucified.
Sound His praises, Jesus who bore our sorrows,
Love unbounded, wonderful, deep, and strong. [Refrain]

Praise Him, praise Him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
Heav’nly portals loud with hosannas ring!
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever!
Crown Him, crown Him! Prophet, and Priest, and King!
Christ is coming, over the world victorious.
Pow’r and glory unto the Lord belong. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of all time and space; compared to the rest of your creation, Earth is quite small. Yet you lavish great energy and love on this planet we call home. With differing gifts, with a wide array of abilities and resources; we come to worship you. We are here to be made one in you, Christ Jesus. Bless our differences, so that the unique gifts, strengths and perspectives of each one may contribute to the splendor of your creation, Almighty God! Drawn together by your Spirit, we offer you our praises. 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.

GOD’S WORD – Exodus 24:12-18

SPECIAL MUSIC – Get All Excited – Gaither/Bock

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 17:1-9

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – We Will Glorify – #35

We will glorify the King of kings
We will glorify the Lamb
We will glorify the Lord of lords
Who is the great I Am

Lord Jehovah reigns in majesty
We will bow before His throne
We will worship Him in righteousness
We will worship Him alone

He is Lord of heaven Lord of earth
He is Lord of all who live
He is Lord above the universe
All praise to Him we give

Hallelujah to the King of kings
Hallelujah to the Lamb
Hallelujah to the Lord of lords
Who is the great I Am

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Prelude, F – J. S. Bach

February 12 – From the Heart

Good morning! Thank you for joining us on this Sunday morning. Let’s discover together how the love of God is moving among us today.

Please get in touch if you have any questions about worshipping with Ivy Chapel. This page will be updated with the live service once worship begins at 10 a.m. on Sunday.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude – J. S. Bach

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God places before us the ways of life and death.
All: We are called to choose life.
One: Jesus Christ teaches us to live in communion with God and with
one another!
All: We are called to follow in Christ’s footsteps and to let his teaching
change us.
One: The Spirit is moving among us, drawing us together to become united in
Christ.
All: Let us sing, pray, and praise God; seeking always to rejoice that
Living God is present among us!

*HYMN – Day by Day – #486

Day by day and with each passing moment,
Strength I find to meet my trials here;
Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment,
I’ve no cause for worry or for fear.
He whose heart is kind beyond all measure
Gives unto each day what he deems best–
Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,
Mingling toil with peace and rest.

Ev’ry day the Lord himself is near me,
With a special mercy for each hour;
All my cares He fain would bear, and cheer me,
He whose name is Counselor and Pow’r.
The protection of His child and treasure
Is a charge that on Himself He laid:
“As your days, your strength shall be in measure”–
This the pledge to me He made.

Help me then in ev’ry tribulation
So to trust Thy promises, O Lord,
That I lose not faith’s sweet consolation
Offered me within Thy holy Word.
Help me, Lord, when, toil and trouble meeting,
E’er to take, as from a father’s hand,
One by one, the days, the moments fleeting,
Till I reach the promised land.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
O Holy One, we come to this time of worship troubled by many earthly demands and concerns. We are upset by inner conflicts. We sometimes find ourselves painfully at odds with those we love. We live in a country that is extremely divided and in a world that is on edge with terrible fears.
And yet, we come this day to praise you, Gracious Spirit. We come faithful in our belief that you can mend our brokenness and our divisions. Open our eyes to perceive your presence among us; and may we fully open our souls to the healing with which you can bless all creation! Amen.

*RESPONSE – O for a Heart to Praise My God (Verses 1 and 4) – #396

O for a heart to praise my God,
A heart from sin set free;
A heart that always feels Thy blood
So freely shed for me:

Thy nature, gracious Lord, impart,
Come quickly from above;
Write Thy new name upon my heart,
Thy new best name of Love.

GOD’S WORD – Deuteronomy 30:15-20

SPECIAL MUSIC – How Majestic Is Your Name – Sorrenson

GOD’S WORD – 1 Corinthians 3:5-9 & Matthew 5:21-37

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – Gracious Spirit, Dwell With Me – #149

Gracious Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would gracious be;
And with words that help and heal
Would thy life in mine reveal;
And with actions bold and meek
Would for Christ my Savior speak.

Truthful Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would truthful be;
And with wisdom kind and clear
Let Thy life in mine appear;
And with actions brotherly
Speak my Lord’s sincerity.

Mighty Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would mighty be;
Mighty so as to prevail
Where unaided man must fail;
Ever by a mighty hope
Pressing on and bearing up.

Holy Spirit, dwell with me:
I myself would holy be;
Separate from sin, I would
Choose and cherish all things good,
And whatever I can be,
Give to Him who gave me thee!

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Fugue – Pachelbel

February 5 – Restoring Beauty

We’re glad to have you with us today to hear about the restorative power of God’s love! As is our custom on the first Sunday of the month, we will be celebrating communion today. If you are worshipping from home, please gather the elements before worship so you may partake with us. All are welcome at Christ’s table.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Romanza – Hebble

*CALL TO WORSHIP
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 lights 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 heart has imagined
All: What God has prepared for those who love God!

*HYMN – ’Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus – #358

Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
Just to know, “Thus saith the Lord.”

Refrain:
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er!
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust Him more!

O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
Just in simple faith to plunge me
‘Neath the healing, cleansing flood! [Refrain]

Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace. [Refrain]

I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Wonderful God, we gather today to celebrate your presence in the lives of people everywhere. We are full of joy this morning, God! We praise you for leading us through all of the challenges of our yesterdays and our tomorrows.
Come close now, Eternal God. Guide us toward becoming faithful beacons of your holy Light.
God of Breath-taking Beauty; may we see you in the brightness of the sunlight as it streams down upon your world. May we recognize you in blossoms-to-be that, for now, remain beneath the ground. Each moment, your miracles and your promises of new life are coming alive! Amen.

*RESPONSE – You Are the Light (verses 1 and 2) – worship booklet, p. 100

You are the LIght we see. You are the Truth we know.
You are the Life we live.
You are the Hope, You are the Joy,
You are the Song we sing.

Within our hearts Your light. Within our minds Your truth.
Within our lives Your love.
Living Your hope, Spreading Your Joy,
Singing Your beautiful song.

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 5:13-20

SPECIAL MUSIC – All Things Bright and Beautiful – arr. Hassell

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 112:1, 4-7 & Isaiah 58:1-11

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*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
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to receive God’s gifts at Christ’s Table.

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

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

We’ve a story to tell to the nations,
That shall turn their hearts to the right,
A story of truth and mercy,
A story of peace and light,
A story of peace and light.

Refrain:
For the darkness shall turn to dawning,
And the dawning to noonday bright,
And Christ’s great kingdom shall come on earth,
The kingdom of love and light.

We’ve a song to be sung to the nations,
That shall lift their hearts to the Lord,
A song that shall conquer evil,
And shatter the spear and sword,
And shatter the spear and sword. [Refrain]

We’ve a message to give to the nations,
That the Lord who reigneth above
Hath sent us His Son to save us,
And show us that God is love,
And show us that God is love. [Refrain]

We’ve a Savior to show to the nations,
Who the path of sorrow has trod,
That all of the world’s great peoples
May come to the truth of God,
May come to the truth of God! [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Toccata – Speth

January 29 – Fourth Sunday after Epiphany

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. We are glad to have you worshipping with us today. Visit our YouTube page to view past services. This page will be updated with today’s service once worship begins.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Toccata – Krieger

*CALL TO WORSHIP

One: What a joy it is giving thanks to God!
All: Drawn together by the Spirit, we offer Christ our praises!
One: Christ teaches us that we are blessed.
All: Again and again, God renews people!
One: God’s tender mercies are new every morning.
All: May we keep learning to be givers of God’s extravagant grace.

*HYMN – I Would Be True – #432

I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are those who care;
I would be strong, for there is much to suffer;
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.

I would be friend of all—the foe, the friendless;
I would be giving, and forget the gift;
I would be humble, for I know my weakness;
I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.
I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.

I would be learning day by day the lessons
My heav’n-ly Father gives me in His Word;
I would be quick to hear His lightest whisper,
And prompt and glad to do the things I’ve heard;
And prompt and glad to do the things I’ve heard.

I would be prayerful through each busy moment;
I would be constantly in touch with God;
I would be tuned to hear His slightest whisper,
I would have faith to keep the path Christ trod;
I would have faith to keep the path Christ trod.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of grace and majesty, we gather to worship you. We see you in the morning sunlight streaming down from above.

Creator of all living things, you are with us today, shining like the sun and promising tomorrows overflowing with blessings.

God of justice and kindness; you frequently turn the world upside down, calling us to follow you toward new horizons, new actions, new challenges! When we grow tired or feel disappointed, remind us that you can bring change and hope out of even the most difficult situations. Lead us, we pray, to live faithfully as your children of compassion – doing justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly with you. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – This Is the Day – #84

This is the day, this is the day.
That the Lord has made, that the Lord has made.
We will rejoice, we will rejoice,
And be glad in it, and be glad in it.
This is the day that the Lord has made.
We will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day, this is the day
That the Lord has made.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody

*HYMN – Thy Word (Verses 1 and 2) – #178

Chorus:
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path.

When I feel afraid, think I’ve lost my way,
Still You’re there right beside me.
And nothing will I fear as long as You are near.
Please be near me to the end.

Chorus

I will not forget Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering.
Jesus be my guide and hold me to your side;
And I will love You to the end.

Chorus

GOD’S WORD – Micah 6:1-8

SPECIAL MUSIC – How Beautiful – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 5:1-12

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH – 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 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.

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.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Gelobet seist du, Jesu Christ – Walcha

January 22 – Called together

Today, we are called to come home, together. We welcome you to this house, and hope you find the peace you need in your life, and may you become the peace we need in this world.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Intonation, Versets, and Finale – Carissimi

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: As Jesus of Nazareth, God teaches people many things.
All: One thing Jesus wants the world to learn is that God is wiser than human wisdom.
One: Jesus teaches us of our need for God.
All: We discover that God fills people with emotion.
One: God enables us to share in another person’s joy!
All: God also moves us to share in another’s sorrow.
One: God helps us to see others through God’s eyes.
All: God helps us to ‘see God’ in everyone.
One: God teaches us to hunger for God’s justice for all.
All: Christ Jesus proclaims, “God’s truth sets all people free.”

*HYMN – Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling – #389

Softly and tenderly, Jesus is calling,
Calling for you and for me;
See, on the portals He’s waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.

Refrain:
Come home, come home,
You who are weary, come home;
Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling,
Calling, O sinner, come home!
Why should we tarry when Jesus is pleading,
Pleading for you and for me?
Why should we linger and heed not His mercies,
Mercies for you and for me?
Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing,
Passing from you and from me;
Shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming,
Coming for you and for me.
Oh, for the wonderful love He has promised,
Promised for you and for me!
Though we have sinned, He has mercy and pardon,
Pardon for you and for me.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Gracious Giver of Light, into the shadows of our isolation you speak words of life and community.

Challenger of Souls, you call us to venture beyond the familiar, safe places which we think of as home, and you boldly lead us out into the big, wide world you love so much.

Through your gentle, healing touch; you redeem broken places in our lives,
and you heal the wounds of all the earth.

Healing Spirit, breathe new life into us during this time of worship.

Led by your Word, may we live as ambassadors of your reconciling love.
We praise you for calling us to ‘come home’ to you. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – We Have Come into His House (Verses 1 and 2) – #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 – Psalm 27:1, 4-9, 13-14 and Isaiah 9:1-2

SPECIAL MUSIC – We Are His People – Cotter

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 4:12-23

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Called as Partners in Christ’s Service – worship book, p. 32

Called as partners in Christ’s service
Called to ministries of grace
We respond with deep commitment
Fresh new lines of faith to trace
May we learn the art of sharing
Side by side and friend with friend
Equal partners in our caring
To fulfil God’s chosen end

Christ’s example Christ’s inspiring
Christ’s clear call to work and worth
Let us follow never faltering
Reconciling folk on earth
Men and women richer poorer
All God’s people young and old
Blending human skills together
Gracious gifts from God unfold

Thus new patterns for Christ’s mission
In a small or global sense
Help us bear each other’s burdens
Breaking down each wall or fence
Words of comfort words of vision
Words of challenge said with care
Bring new power and strength for action
Make us colleagues free and fair

So God grant us for tomorrow
Ways to order human life
That surround each person’s sorrow
With a calm that conquers strife
Make us partners in our living
Our compassion to increase
Messengers of faith thus giving
Hope and confidence and peace

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Praeludium – Van Den Gheyn

January 18 – Second Sunday after Epiphany

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. We are happy to have you worshipping with us today, whether you are here in our beautiful sanctuary or online.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Couplet du Kyrie – Couperin

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Have you heard the news?
All: God is calling us to be God’s servants!
One: Let’s each give this a try.
All: Let’s really apply ourselves to living this way;
and let’s serve God!

*HYMN – Great Is Thy Faithfulness – #17

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father
There is no shadow of turning with Thee
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Refrain:
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Faithful God, we are grateful, for we always can rely on you to care. In all situations, you bless us with your love and compassion.
This day, people throughout the world are holding their breath, waiting for someone to respond to their cries. This very moment, people are living through all sorts of difficult situations.
Merciful, Loving God, each time that you call on us, we are challenged to do more, to forgive more, to love more completely than we have so far. But what about when we fear that we have used up all that we have? It can feel as though we have nothing left to give. At such times, will you renew us? Will you help us make sense out of our efforts, even out of our failures?
Come now, Christ Jesus. Come in today. Come in to stay. Lead us to live as your children whole-heartedly serving you. 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 – Psalm 40:1-11

SPECIAL MUSIC – In the Garden – Wolaver

GOD’S WORD – John 1:29-42

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Lamb of God – worship booklet, p. 59

Your only Son, no sin to hide,
But you have sent him from your side,
To walk upon this guilty sod,
And to become the lamb of God

Refrain:
O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God,
I love the holy Lamb of God!
O wash me in his precious blood
My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

Your gift of love, the crucified,
They laughed and scorned him as He died,
The humble King they named a fraud
And sacrificed the Lamb of God (Refrain)

I was so lost, I should have died,
But You have brought me to your side,
To be led by your staff and rod,
And to be called a Lamb of God (Refrain)

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Jesus, I Come – #369

Out of my bondage, sorrow and night,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into thy freedom, gladness, and light,
Jesus, I come to thee.
Out of my sickness into Thy health,
Out of my want and into Thy wealth,
Out of my sin and into Thyself,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Out of my shameful failure and loss,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the glorious gain of Thy cross,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of earth’s sorrows into Thy balm,
Out of life’s storms and into Thy calm,
Out of distress to jubilant psalm,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Out of unrest and arrogant pride,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into Thy blessed will to abide,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of my self to dwell in Thy love,
Out of despair into raptures above,
Upward for aye on wings like a dove,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

Out of the fear and dread of the tomb,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the joy and light of Thy home,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of the depths of ruin untold,
Into the peace of Thy sheltering fold,
Ever Thy glorious face to behold,
Jesus, I come to Thee.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Paean – Young

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