June 30 — Healing Powers

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! Today is UCC Open and Affirming Sunday. We are honored to be an Open and Affirming congregation.

Read our Open and Affirming Covenant.

Read more about Healing Powers in this week’s blog post.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Prelude in G — Couperin

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Diann Sheahan
One: For rebirth and resilience,
All: Blessed be God;
One: For the spiritually humble,
All: Glory to God, hallelujah;
One: For all who are hungry and thirsty for justice,
All: Praise God and magnify God forever;
One: For all who are banned because of speaking the truth,
All: Blessed be God;
One: For all who triumph over their bitter circumstance,
All: Glory to God, hallelujah;
One: For all who risk reputation, livelihood, and life itself
for Christ’s sake and the Gospel;
All: All praise and all glory; this is God’s Realm;
praise God and love God forever!

*HYMN — Revive Us Again — #95

We praise Thee, O God! for the Son of Thy love,
For Jesus Who died, and is now gone above.

Refrain:
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.
Hallelujah! Amen.
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.

Revive us again.
We praise Thee, O God! for Thy Spirit of light,
Who hath shown us our Savior, and scattered our night.
Refrain

All glory and praise To the Lamb that was slain,
Who hath borne all our sins, and hath cleansed every stain.
Refrain

Revive us again; fill each heart with Thy love;
May each soul be rekindled with fire from above.
Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Diann Sheahan
O Faithful God, you yearn to be close to us
so that we can know you
in every breath, in every hope, in every relationship.
O Faithful God, you long for us to trust in your power
to bring to life new possibilities
where there has been no hope.
Meet us here today, Christ Jesus,
and teach us to recognize the ways of life and hope
in which you are leading us.
May our desires become your desires;
may our work become your work;
may this community become your faith community
where you above all are loved and served. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Shout to the Lord — worship booklet, 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

Shout to the Lord
My Jesus, my Saviour, Lord, there is none like You;
All of my days I want to praise the wonder of Your mighty love.

My comfort, my Shelter, Tower of refuge and strength;
Let ev’ry 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 30:2-5, 11-12 — Diann Sheahan

SPECIAL MUSIC — Give Thanks — Hayes

GOD’S WORD — Mark 5:21-43 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

OPEN AND AFFIRMING COVENANT — Unison Reading

Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ celebrates God’s boundless and unconditional love by intentionally welcoming and celebrating all of God’s people.  We commit ourselves to:

• addressing issues of faith openly and honestly
• nourishing the Spirit of God within all people
• creating a caring community that celebrates human diversity
• respecting the faithfulness and the wisdom of other faith traditions
• working with all others to create a just world for all

Called by God to love one another, Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ commits to being an Open and Affirming community of faith.  We invite everyone into full participation in the life and leadership of this congregation, celebrating that each unique human being is a child of God. We love and affirm every person of any age, race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, faith tradition, physical ability, mental ability, sexual orientation,  gender identity, and gender expression. We joyfully invite everyone to join in this ministry of ongoing commitment to live as an actively Open and Affirming community of God. 

We celebrate our diversity as we journey in faith together.

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE — Pastor Dan

*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]

*BENEDICTION Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE Fugue – Dandrieu

June 23 — In the boat together

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! God loves all the people. Whoever you are, you’re welcome here. Let’s rejoice and worship God together!

Read this week’s blog post about the UCC’s 60th anniversary.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — It Is Well with My Soul

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: We gather in amazement! We are here to worship the God of life.
All: Let’s open our hearts to the steadfast love God offers.
One: The fullness of God is beyond us.
All: Yet we do catch glimpses of God’s greatness.
One: God does not leave us alone when we are dismayed or scared.
All: God is a stronghold for all people at all times.

*HYMN — I Sing the Almighty Power of God — #6

I sing th’almighty pow’r of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies.
I sing the wisdom that ordained
The sun to rule the day;
The moon shines full at his command,
And all the stars obey.

I sing the goodness of the Lord
That filled the earth with food;
He formed the creatures with His word
And then pronounced them good.
Lord, how Thy wonders are displayed,
where’er I turn my eyes,
If I survey the ground I tread
Or gaze upon the skies.

There’s not a plant or flower below
But makes your glories known,
And clouds arise and tempests blow
By order from Thy throne;
While all that borrows life from Thee
Is ever in Thy care,
And everywhere that we can be,
Thou, God, art present there.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
We sing your praises, O God; for you are gracious to us in the course of so many storms. When enemies threaten, you give us the strength to take them on. God, you are the One who enables us to give to the winds our fears. Because of you, we can trust and be unafraid. You are a fantastic God who makes good on each one of your promises.
O Holy One, we have come to worship you this morning. May we listen closely for your voice, which we sometimes have difficulty to hearing. Like the wild and restless sea—may we be still; know that you are God. Calm our fears, Christ Jesus, as you did for the disciples on that stormy, rough sea. Fill us with courage, and bless us with faith to follow you by offering your peace to everyone. We pray in your name, Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Be Still and Know — #24

Be still and know that I am God.
Be still and know that I am God.
Be still and know that I am God.

I am the Lord that heal-eth thee.
I am the Lord that heal-eth thee.
I am the Lord that heal-eth thee.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 107:1-6, 23-32

SPECIAL MUSIC — Jesus, Savior, Pilot Me

GOD’S WORD — Mark 4:35-41

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — Peace Like a River — #360

I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river in my soul.
I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river in my soul.

I’ve got love like an ocean,
I’ve got love like an ocean,
I’ve got love like an ocean in my soul.
I’ve got love like an ocean,
I’ve got love like an ocean,
I’ve got love like an ocean in my soul.

I’ve got joy like a fountain,
I’ve got joy like a fountain,
I’ve got joy like a fountain in my soul.
I’ve got joy like a fountain,
I’ve got joy like a fountain,
I’ve got joy like a fountain in my soul.

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — He’s Got the Whole World (… the wind and the rain!) In His Hands

June 16 – Flourishing

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
Happy Father’s Day! Please come to Fellowship Hall for refreshments after worship.
Welcome back, Mike Waller! With thanksgiving, we rejoice that we share this opportunity to praise God.

Read our blog post on the seeds of Juneteenth.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Prelude in C — J. S. Bach

*CALL TO WORSHIP
We marvel at God’s miracles!
The Realm of God is like a mustard seed – both great and small.
Each enormous mustard shrub grows from a small mustard seed.
Faith is similar. Even a tiny amount of faith in God can do big things.
Let us worship God with all the faith we have!
Then God will bless us with growth – helping us to extend our branches; so that the world may be shaded with God’s love.

*HYMN — God of Our Fathers — #599

God of our fathers, whose almighty hand
Leads forth in beauty all the starry band
Of shining worlds in splendor through the skies,
Our grateful songs before Thy throne arise.

Thy love divine hath led us in the past;
In this free land with thee our lot is cast;
Be Thou our Ruler, Guardian, Guide, and Stay,
Thy Word our law, Thy paths our chosen way.

From war’s alarms, from deadly pestilence,
Be Thy strong arm our ever sure defense;
Thy true religion in our hearts increase;
Thy bounteous goodness nourish us in peace.

Refresh Thy people on their toilsome way;
Lead us from night to never-ending day;
Fill all our lives with love and grace divine,
And glory, laud, and praise be ever thine.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
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.
Creator God, you are our Maker who grants us life. May seeds of wisdom from this day’s sacred texts grow within us, so that we will bear good fruit that nourishes a hungry world.
God, we have come here to worship you. This is holy ground. Cultivate us as your fertile soil. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart — 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 — Psalm 84:1-4, 10-12

SPECIAL MUSIC — His Eye Is on the Sparrow — Wolaver

GOD’S WORD — Mark 4:26-34

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — This Is My Father’s World — #40

This is my Father’s world, And to my listening ears
All nature sings, and round me rings
The music of the spheres.
This is my Father’s world: I rest me in the thought
Of rocks and trees, of skies and seas–
His hand the wonders wrought.

This is my Father’s world: The birds their carols raise,
The morning light, the lily white,
Declare their Maker’s praise.
This is my Father’s world: He shines in all that’s fair;
In the rustling grass I hear Him pass,
He speaks to me everywhere.

This is my Father’s world: O let me ne’er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong,
God is the Ruler yet.
This is my Father’s world: Why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King: let the heavens ring!
God reigns; let earth be glad!

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Fugue — Pachelbel

June 9 — The Will of God

This is the third Sunday after Pentecost. Let us praise God together!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Praise Medley
He Is Exalted ~ Holy Ground ~ Majesty

*CALL TO WORSHIP — John Weiland
One: God reigns! Let the earth be glad!
All: We come in awe before the Holy One whose love is everlasting.
One: God’s Word is truth; let all people rejoice!
All: We come to be renewed and empowered by God’s love.

*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!

*GATHERING PRAYER — John Weiland
Let the light of your Word shine into the darkness of this world, O God; illuminating our decisions, enlightening our thoughts, and empowering our actions. Living God, we are grateful that you are with us as we gather here this morning. Fill us with your wisdom and compassion as we sing praises to your holy name. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — I Will Call Upon the Lord — #101

I will call upon the Lord
Who is worthy to be praised;
So shall I be saved from my enemies.
I will call upon the Lord (Repeat)

The lord liveth and blessed be the Rock,
And let the God of my salvation be exalted.
The lord liveth and blessed be the Rock,
And let the God of my salvation be exalted. (Repeat)

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 130 — John Weiland

SPECIAL MUSIC — Sweet Hour of Prayer

GOD’S WORD — Mark 3:20-35 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — I Love to Tell the Story — #322

I love to tell the story of unseen things above,
Of Jesus and his glory, Of Jesus and his love.
I love to tell the story Because I know it’s true;
It satisfies my longings As nothing else can do.

Refrain:
I love to tell the story; ’twill be my theme in glory,
To tell the old, old story of Jesus and his love.

I love to tell the story, More wonderful it seems
Than all the golden fancies Of all our golden dreams.
I love to tell the story, It did so much for me;
And that is just the reason I tell it now to thee. {Refrain}

I love to tell the story, ‘Tis pleasant to repeat
What seems each time I tell it, More wonderfully sweet.
I love to tell the story For some have never heard
The message of salvation From God’s own Holy Word {Refrain}

I love to tell the story, For those who know it best
Seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest.
And when, in scenes of glory, I sing the new, new song,
‘Twill be the old, old story That I have loved so long {Refrain}

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Psalm 19, “The Heavens are Telling the Glory of God” — Benedetto Marcello

June 2 — Stretch Out Your Hand

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. May God bless all people with love and joy! We celebrate open communion on the first Sunday of every month. If you are worshipping with us from home, please gather the elements before worship begins so you may gather at the table with us. All are welcome here.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Praise to the Lord, the Almighty

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Pat Winship
One: O come now into this time of worship and praise to God!
All: We enter joyfully into “the sacred place of the Most High.”
One: We long to encounter God as Spirit,
All: And to worship God in spirit and in truth.
One: Let every breath become a prayer,
All: And every heartbeat become an open door through whic the Living One may enter.

*HYMN — Sing Praise to God — #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:
to 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 — Pat Winship
Holy Spirit Fire; Wind of God; you are beyond all that we can imagine. There are no words that can fully describe your majesty and power. Dear God, we know you best through your life among us as the Messiah. As Jesus of Nazareth, you showered your love on everyone you met. Still today, Jesus, you call for our re-birth as your children, through the cleansing waters of baptism. We long to be like you, Christ Jesus. May we be faithful and fruitful in the ministries which you give us to do.
Wind of God, blowing among crowds, sweeping across generations to claim us; may we be born anew to your sacred lifestyle of giving. Hear us, Holy God, as we pray together, asking you to shape us into the human beings you intend us to be. Come, help us to live as you have created us to live. Amen.

*RESPONSE — There’s a Quiet Understanding — #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.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 81:1-10 — Pat Winship

SPECIAL MUSIC — Here I Am to Worship

GOD’S WORD — Mark 2:23-3:6 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — 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.

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

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

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

THE JOYFUL FEAST
The Sacrament of Holy Communion [A] worship book, pp. 10-11

As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate ‘Open’ Communion.
All who desire the bread and the cup are welcome to receive.

*HYMN — We Are a New Creation — worship booklet, p. 91

We are a new creation Of Christ the Living Word.
Our songs of jubilation Shall everywhere be heard.
New life blooms fresh and glorious For those who heed the call
Of Christ Who reigns victorious O’er sin and death and all.

We are a new creation of God For this new day.
As partners let us follow The life, the truth, the way.
Christ bids us work together As colleagues old and young.
As women, men, and nations, God’s folk of every tongue.

We are a new creation For service here on earth.
We live our faith in action To tell our Savior’s worth,
Let love and justice blending Now show for all to see
God’s grace is never ending. It reaches you and me

We are a new creation By God’s own gracious hand,
Old burdens cast behind us, A daring future planned
In ministry and mission, United let us live,
In Christ a shining vision To God’s wide world to give.

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — “Little” Prelude and Fugue in F — J. S. Bach

May 26 — Trinity Sunday

The first Sunday after Pentecost is Trinity Sunday, a celebration of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. On this Memorial Day weekend, we also take a moment to remember those who have lost their lives in service to our country.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Sanctuary

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Julie McAllister
One: We come here looking, all of us carrying our small lamps of hope.
People: We come here calling out; listening to one another; and
retelling the story of promise.
One: In this sanctuary, as we approach Living God, we are transformed into
the Body of Christ – breathing together in rhythm with the Holy Spirit.
People: Let us celebrate as a faith community, gathered in the love of
our God.

*HYMN — Spirit — worship booklet, pp. 82-83

Spirit, Spirit of gentleness, blow through the wilderness calling and free,
Spirit, Spirit of restlessness, stir me from placidness, wind, wind on the sea.

You moved on the waters, you called to the deep,
then you coaxed up the mountains from the valleys of sleep;
and over the eons you called to each thing:
“Awake from your slumbers and rise on your wings.” Refrain

You swept through the desert, you stung with the sand,
and you goaded your people with a law and a land;
and when they were blinded with idols and lies,
then you spoke through your prophets to open their eyes. Refrain

You sang in a stable, you cried from a hill,
then you whispered in silence when the whole world was still;
and down in the city you called once again,
when you blew through your people on the rush of the wind. Refrain

You call from tomorrow, you break ancient schemes.
From the bondage of sorrow all the captives dream dreams;
our women see visions, our men clear their eyes.
With bold new decisions your people arise. Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Julie McAllister
Gracious God, we praise you for your goodness and mercy! Again and again, you bless us with astonishing compassion. Your presence among us is a holy gift.
Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on us this day. Renew us, we pray. Guide us to live with joyful abandon in pursuit of the abundant future which you envision for all. May your transformative power come alive among us and within us.
Loving God and Savior, we joyfully turn toward you with wonder and with deep gratitude as you continue leading all creation to fullness of life! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — Lord, Speak to Me — #535

Lord, speak to me, that I may speak In living echoes of Thy tone;
As Thou has sought, so let me seek Thy erring children lost and lone.

O teach me, Lord, that I may teach The precious things Thou dost Impart;
And wing my words, that they may reach The hidden depths of many a heart.

O fill me with Thy fullness, Lord, Until my very heart o’er flow;
In kindling thoughts and glowing word Thy love to tell, Thy praise to show.

O use me, Lord, use even me, Just as Thou wilt and when and where;Until Thy blessed face I see, Thy rest, Thy joy, Thy glory share.

GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 6:1-8 — Julie McAllister

SPECIAL MUSIC — God So Loved the World

GOD’S WORD — John 3:1-17 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — Give to the Winds Your Fears — #458

Give to the winds your fears, Hope and be undismayed;
God hears thy sighs and counts thy tears; God shall lift up thy head.
Through waves and clouds and storms,He gently clears the way;
Wait for His time, so shall this night Soon end in joyous day.

Still heavy is your heart? Still sink your spirits down?
Cast off the weight, let fear depart, And every care be gone.
He everywhere has sway And all things serve His mind;
His every act pure blessing is, His path unsullied light.

Far, far above your thought His counsel shall appear,
When fully He the work hath wrought, That caused thy needless fear.
Leave to His sovereign will To choose and to command;
With wonder filled, you then shall own How wise, how strong His hand.

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Sweet, Sweet Spirit

Mother’s Day-Seventh Sunday of Easter

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
A Happy Mother’s Day to one and all!

WELCOME

PRELUDE -Themes from “The Four Seasons”

*CALL TO WORSHIP                                                                  
 Let us gather in the Spirit of Christ. 
 We come in response to the One who calls us ‘friends’ 
 Remember God’s love and faithfulness.
 Let our hands reflect the life of our serving Savior.
 Let our voices echo God’s praises! 
 Together, let us sing of God who is doing marvelous things! 

*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.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION                                                         

Creator of ‘friendships,’ your love lifts us from mindless serving to meaningful caring.  We learn so much from you, God.  Your example inspires us to risk giving of ourselves.  Come, Holy Spirit; lift us from empty routines to the fullness of joy experienced by offering your love.  Stir our voices to praise you out of sheer delight!  Open our hearts to trust that you are leading us, especially in times of difficulty or discouragement.  Calm our doubts.  Guide us through our fears.  Reveal your ways to us, so that we may bear good fruit.  Help us grow in your likeness  –  readily giving all people your love.  We are baptized in your name, Jesus.  May we faithfully follow where you lead.  Amen.

*RESPONSE-Spirit Song- worship book, pp. 84-85
Oh, let the Son of God enfold you with His Spirit and His love;
Let Him fill your heart and satisfy your soul
Oh, let Him have the things that hold you, and His Spirit, like a dove, 
Will descend upon your life and make you whole.

Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs
Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs

O come and sing this song with gladness as your hearts are filled with joy,
Lift your hands in sweet surrender to His name.
O give Him all your tears and sadness, give Him all your years of pain
And you’ll enter into life in Jesus’ name.

Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs
Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs

GOD’S WORD- Psalm 1                                    

SPECIAL MUSIC    Bist Du Bei Mir (Be Thou with Me)  – J. S. Bach

GOD’S WORD –John 17:6-19 – Pastor Dan                                                               

SERMON – Pastor Dan                                                                                                             

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan                                                                            
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

*HYMN – I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry – worship book, pp. 54-55  
I was there to hear your borning cry, I’ll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.
I was there when you were but a child, with a faith to suit you well;
In a blaze of light you wandered off to find where demons dwell. 

When you heard the wonder of the Word I was there to cheer you on;
You were raised to praise the living Lord, to whom you now belong.
If you find someone to share your time and you join your hearts as one,
I’ll be there to make your verses rhyme from dusk ‘till rising sun. 

In the middle ages of your life, not too old, no longer young,
I’ll be there to guide you through the night, complete what I’ve begun.
When the evening gently closes in, and you shut your weary eyes,
I’ll be there as I have always been with just one more surprise. 

I was there to hear your borning cry, I’ll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan                        

*POSTLUDE –Four short pieces for the Flutes – J. Hayden    

May 5 – “I have called you friends.”

A warm welcome and a special thank you to the Rev. Mary Albert who is leading us in worship today.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – My Jesus, I Love Thee

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Diann Sheahan
One: Friends, we gather this morning knowing God is with us.
All: We gather in the love of God which holds us close.
One: Let us welcome one another, remembering that Jesus never turned anyone away.
All: May God move among us, and surprise us with signs of the Holy Spirit.
One: Let us be drawn into communion with God and with one another.
All: May our worship reflect our gratitude and praise. Amen.

*HYMN – What a Friend We Have in Jesus – #162

What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry Everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee; Thou wilt find asolace there.

*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Diann Sheahan
O Holy One, you know us through and through. You call each of us by name, and you call us your friends. In awe and wonder, we marvel at the depth of your love and compassion. In this sacred moment, let us lay aside our distractions, our worries, and our preoccupations. Help us to turn all of our attention to you. Forgive our shortcomings and cleanse our hearts. Heal us, restore us, and inspire us, we pray. Gather us together and fill us with the power to be your beloved community. This we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Rejoice in the Lord Always – #113

Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

GOD’S WORD – Acts 10:44-48 – Diann Sheahan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Jesus Loves Me – based on Clair de Lune by Debussy

GOD’S WORD – John 15:9-17 – Pastor Mary Albert

SERMON – Pastor Mary Albert

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Mary Albert

*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 JOYFUL SACRAMENT OF COMMUNION
The Sacrament of Holy Communion [A] worship book, pp. 10-11
As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate Open Communion.
All who desire the bread and the cup are welcome to receive.

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

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Mary Albert

*POSTLUDE – What a Friend

April 21 – Enfolded by Love

“I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me.”
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. We are blessed that God has given another day of life!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Jesus Shall Reign

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: The Good Shepherd accompanies us to green pastures.
All: We are refreshed beside still waters.
One: We have been given all that we have.
All: God provides us with everything that we need.
One: Every valley that we walk through; God comforts us.
All: Step by step, God is with us.
One: God leads us along God’s path of goodness and righteousness.
All: Our cup overflows.
One: We receive abundantly from God.
All: Let us joyfully share this abundance!

*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

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God our Maker, and Creator of all the earth; you have enabled us to gather this day in your sanctuary. We are deeply grateful to be known and loved by you. We marvel at the wholeness which you offer everyone. In worship, we receive guidance for living as your people.
Good Shepherd, you tirelessly watch over all your sheep. In turn, you ask us to care for one another in life-giving ways. Help us to grow in love that displays genuine caring and self-sacrifice.
May we dare to take on the roles that you give us to fulfill, O God. Help us to be your loving disciples everywhere you lead us. Amen.

*RESPONSE — We Are the Reason — #245

We are the reason that He gave His life,
We are the reason that He suffered and died.
To a world that was lost He gave all He could give,
To show us the reason to live.

We were the reason that He gave His life
We were the reason that He suffered and died
To a world that was lost, He gave all He could give
To show us the reason to live

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE

*HYMN — Hymn of Promise — #277

In the bulb, there is a flower
In the seed, an apple tree
In cocoons, a hidden promise
Butterflies will soon be free

In the cold and snow of winter
There’s a spring that waits to be
Unrevealed until its season
Something God alone can see

There’s a song in every silence
Seeking word and melody
There’s a dawn in every darkness
Bringing hope to you and me

From the past will come the future
What it holds, a mystery
Unrevealed until its season
Something God alone can see

In our end is our beginning
In our time, infinity
In our doubt, there is believing
In our life, eternity
In our death, a resurrection
At the last, a victory

Unrevealed until its season
Something God alone can see

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 23

SPECIAL MUSIC — Sheep May Safely Graze — J. S. Bach

GOD’S WORD — John 10:11-18

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — Lift High the Cross — #523

(Refrain)
Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim,
Till all the world adore His sacred name.

Come, brethren, follow where our Saviour trod,
Our King victorious, Christ the Son of God. (Refrain)

Led on their way by this triumphant sign,
The hosts of God in conquering ranks combine. (Refrain)

O Lord, once lifted on the glorious Tree,
As Thou hast promised, draw men unto Thee. (Refrain)

Set up Thy throne, that earth’s despair may cease
Beneath the shadow of its healing peace. (Refrain)

For Thy blest Cross which doth for all atone,
Creation’s praises rise before Thy Throne. (Refrain)

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Lift High the Cross

April 14 – Christ Among Us

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! A warm welcome and a special thank you to Judy Lindquist for serving as worship musician today.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Lamb of God – Paris

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Sue Wilson
One: It’s springtime; and things are coming alive!
All: As life blossoms, we rejoice over the earthly beauties of God.
One: Spring is a worldly rebirth.
All: Imagine all of the possibilities there are for life with God!
One: Jesus of Nazareth once walked upon the earth.
All: God became a human being.
One: Jesus died on the Cross to bless all people with forgiveness and hope.
All: Jesus rose to walk with his disciples.
One: Christ is living among us.
All: This very moment, God is walking with us.

*HYMN – The Day of Resurrection – #276

The day of resurrection! Earth, tell it out abroad;
The Passover of gladness, The Passover of God.
From death to life eternal, From earth unto the sky,
Our Christ hath brought us over, With hymns of victory.

Our hearts be pure from evil, That we may see aright
The Lord in rays eternal Of resurrection light;
And listening to His accents, May hear, so calm and plain,
His own “All hail!” and, hearing, May raise the victor strain.

Now let the heavens be joyful! Let earth her song begin!
The world resound in triumph, And all that is therein!
Let all things seen and unseen Their notes in gladness blend,
For Christ the Lord hath risen, Our joy that hath no end.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Sue Wilson
Risen Savior, you fill us with life! When no one else can, you raise our spirits. Especially during times when it feels that our lives are dominated by disappointment or despair; O God, you transform us. In your miraculous, uplifting way, you provide resurrection. You fill empty souls with life!
Christ Jesus, you are the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world. You invite us to live and to love boldly as your followers. This is challenging! Still we are empowered to give your invitation a try, for we know that you do not expect perfection out of us. When we fail, you are the One who helps us, who picks us up, and who encourages us to try again. This is a wondrous blessing of Christian discipleship! With you, it is never too late to make a new start. Thank you, Jesus. You give us hope. Amen.

*RESPONSE – I Want Jesus to Walk with Me – #480

I want Jesus to walk with me.
I want Jesus to walk with me.
All along my pilgrim journey,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.

In my trials, Lord, walk with me.
In my trials, Lord, walk with me.
When my heart is almost breaking,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.

When I’m in trouble, Lord, walk with me.
When I’m in trouble, Lord, walk with me.
When my head is bowed in sorrow,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 81:1-3, 6-10, 16 — Sue Wilson

SPECIAL MUSIC — I Will Rise — Tomlin

GOD’S WORD — Luke 24:13-48 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — Because He Lives — #275

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal and forgive
He lived and died to buy my pardon
An empty grave is there to prove my savior lives

And life is worth the living, just because He lives
How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy He gives;
But greater still the calm assurance,
This child can face uncertain days because He lives.
Refrain

Refrain:
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future

And then one day I’ll cross the river;
I’ll fight life’s final war with pain;
And then as death gives way to victory,
I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know He lives.
Refrain

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Be Thou My Vision — Irish tune

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