Feb 18 – God’s Loving Paths
February 16, 2024 by Kara White
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
WELCOME
PRELUDE– Spirit of the Living God
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God has blessed us with the gift of this precious morning.
All: This blessing raises our spirits!
One: Today, we praise our Ever-Faithful God.
All: This week, we have entered into a new season.
One: Our 40-day spiritual journey to Resurrection Day has begun.
All: As we navigate this wilderness, Eternal God is our compass.
One: Let us return to God our Savior.
All: God will put a new and right spirit within us.
*HYMN–My Faith Looks Up to Thee –#462
My faith looks up to Thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine!
Now hear me while I pray, Take all my guilt away,
Oh, let me from this day Be wholly Thine!
May Thy rich grace impart Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire!
As Thou hast died for me, Oh, may my love toThee
Pure, warm, and changeless be, A living fire!
While life’s dark maze I tread, And griefs around me spread,
Be Thou my guide;
Bid darkness turn to day, Wipe sorrow’s tears away,
Nor let me ever stray From Thee aside.
When ends life’s transient dream, When death’s cold, sullen stream
Shall o’er me roll;
Blest Savior, then in love, Fear and distrust remove;
Oh, bear me safe above, A ransomed soul!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of Quiet Strength, we cannot resist evil completely by ourselves. Earthly temptations are around us everywhere. How can we deal with these temptations? We rely on you for help, Great God. You are always present; living among us; living within us. We are deeply grateful to be in your care.
God of Quiet Strength, help us to be still before you – – putting aside our cares and our distresses. In the stillness and in the beauty of this morning, may we be reminded that you are God. You repeatedly invite us to follow you. So then, Christ Jesus; come now, and fill us with the faith to receive your remarkable gift of life eternal. Amen.
*RESPONSE –Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord — #424
Teach me Thy way, O Lord; teach me thy way!
Thy guiding grace afford; teach me thy way!
Help me to walk aright, more by faith, less by sight;
Lead me with heav’nly light; teach me Thy way!
When I am sad at heart, teach me Thy way!
When earthly joys depart, teach me Thy way!
In hours of loneliness, in times of dire distress,
In failure or success, teach me Thy way!
When doubts and fears arise, teach me Thy way!
When storms o’erspread the skies, teach me Thy way!
Shine thro’ the cloud and rain, thro’ sorrow, toil, and pain;
Make Thou my pathway plain; teach me Thy way!
Long as my life shall last, teach me Thy way!
Where’er my lot be cast, teach me Thy way!
Until the race is run, until the journey’s done,
Until the crown is won, teach me Thy way!
GOD’S WORD— Psalm 25:1-10
SPECIAL MUSIC –Great Is Thy Faithfulness
GOD’S WORD — Mark 1:9-15
SERMON -Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE— Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer, Silent Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*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 — O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee
Feb. 11 – The Transfiguration of Christ
February 10, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
SILENT PRAYER OF PREPARATION – #541
WELCOME
PRELUDE – He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Blessed is the one whose help is the God of Jacob;
whose hope is in God, the Maker of heaven and earth!
All: The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down.
One: The Lord upholds the oppressed and gives food to the hungry.
All: The Lord sets prisoners free!
One: The Lord gives sight to the blind.
All: The Lord lifts up those who are bowed down.
One: The Lord loves the righteous.
All: The Lord remains faithful forever. Praise the Lord!
*HYMN – We Come, O Christ, to You – 289
We come, O Christ, to You, true Son of God and man,
By Whom all things consist, in Whom all life began.
In You alone we live and move,
And have our being in Your love.
You are the Way to God, Your blood our ransom paid;
In You we face our Judge and Maker unafraid.
Before the throne absolved we stand;
Your love has met Your law’s demand.
You are the living Truth! All wisdom dwells in You,
The Source of every skill, The One Eternal True!
O great I AM! in You we rest,
Sure answer to our every quest.
You only are true Life, To know You is to live
The more abundant life That earth can never give.
O risen Lord! We live in You:
In us each day Your life renew!
We worship You, Lord Christ, Our Savior and our King;
To You our youth and strength Adoringly we bring:
So fill our hearts, that all may view
Your life in us and turn to You!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Powerful God, your love poured out in Jesus Christ invests us with strength the world cannot offer. Through your blessing, souls find rest. Through the Sabbath, the foundations of human lives are rebuilt. God of all nations and all people; stir within us. Shatter our narrow understandings of who you are. By your grace and peace, empower our witness. Dear God, you reveal what true mightiness is! Fill the lives of all your children with joy and love today. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Holy Ground – #83
We are standing on holy ground,
And I know that there are angels all around;
Let us praise Jesus now
We are standing in His presence on holy ground.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE
*HYMN – The Light of the World Is Jesus – #373
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 50:1-8, 14-15, 23
SPECIAL MUSIC – I Want Jesus to Walk with Me
GOD’S WORD – Mark 9:2-9 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Higher Ground – #448
I’m pressing on the upward way,
New heights I’m gaining ev’ry day;
Still praying as I’m onward bound,
“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”
Refrain:
Lord, lift me up, and let me stand
By faith, on heaven’s tableland;
A higher plane than I have found,
Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.
My heart has no desire to stay
Where doubts arise and fears dismay;
Though some may dwell where these abound,
My prayer, my aim, is higher ground. [Refrain]
I want to live above the world,
Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled;
For faith has caught a joyful sound,
The song of saints on higher ground. [Refrain]
I want to scale the utmost height,
And catch a gleam of glory bright;
But still I’ll pray till heav’n I’ve found,
“Lord, lead me on to higher ground.” [Refrain]
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – French Dances – Ludwig von Beethoven
Chili Supper
February 9, 2024 by Kara White
Filed under What's happening
Our Annual Chili Supper is BACK!
Be sure to mark your calendars for Saturday, March 2nd from 4:30-7 pm and join us as we come together for fellowship, food and fun!
Adults meals are $15 and kids are $8 (10 and under)
Tickets are on sale after worship on Sundays.
For more information please contact the church office at 314-434-4991 or ivychapelucc@ivychapel.org.
January 28 – Power
January 27, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
WELCOME
PRELUDE – As the Deer
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Come to Christ, the Living One,
All: Rejected by the world, but in God’s sight chosen and precious.
One: New life is rising among us!
All: We rejoice at the miraculous ways God brings creation alive!
One: Christ’s Tomb is empty!
All: God astonishes us with new life!
*HYMN – God of the Ages – #51
God of the ages, History’s Maker,
Planning our pathway, Holding us fast,
Shaping in mercy All that concerns us;
Father, we praise You, Lord of the past.
God of this morning, Gladly Your children
Worship before You, Trustingly bow;
Teach us to know You Always among us,
Now and forever Kept by Your hand.
Lord of past ages, Lord of this morning,
Lord of the future, Help us, we pray;
Teach us to trust You, Love and obey You,
Crown You each moment Lord of today.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Almighty God, your wisdom is beyond ours. Your patience surpasses ours. Your compassion exceeds ours. We continue finding ourselves amazed by you, Living God. This morning, we gather to praise you.
Christ Jesus, your life, death and resurrection are our model for faithful discipleship. Strengthen us, we pray, as we seek to walk in your ways: living wisely, patiently, and compassionately. Fill us, we pray, with your Spirit of unselfishness and love. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – 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.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Linda Lowry
*HYMN – Lord, Speak to Me, That I May Speak – #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 – Psalm 111
SPECIAL MUSIC – Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing
GOD’S WORD – Mark 1:21-28
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – O For a Heart to Praise My God – #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:
A humble, lowly, contrite heart,
Believing, true, and clean,
Which neither life nor death can part
From Him that dwells within:
A heart in every thought renewed,
And full of love divine;
Perfect and right and pure and good —
A copy, Lord, of thine.
Thy nature, gracious Lord, impart,
Come quickly from above;
Write Thy new name upon my heart,
Thy new best name of Love.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Rigaudon – Andre Campra
January 21 – Follow Me
January 20, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
January 21 – Follow Me
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ!
Following worship today, we will gather in Fellowship Hall for “Open and Affirming Reflection,” hosted by Ivy Chapel UCC Council. This will be an opportunity for everyone to share together in dialogue, spiritual reflection and spiritual discernment regarding the Proposed Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ Open and Affirming Covenant which will be considered and voted on at our Annual Meeting next Sunday, January 28.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Pastorale (First Movement) – J. S. Bach
*CALL TO WORSHIP (based on Psalm 62)
One: For God alone my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from God.
All: God only is my rock and my salvation. I will not be shaken.
One: Pour out your hearts before God. Trust in God at all times.
All: Our trust is in God, Maker of heaven and earth!
*HYMN – O Worship the King, All Glorious Above – #90
O worship the King, all glorious above,
O gratefully sing His power and His love:
Our Shield and Defender, the Ancient of Days,
Pavilioned in splendor and girded with praise.
Wose robe is the light, whose canopy space.
His chariots of wrath the deep thunderclouds form,
And dark is His path on the wings of the storm.
Thy bountiful care, what tongue can recite?
It breathes in the air, it shines in the light;
It streams from the hills, it descends to the plain,
And sweetly distills in the dew and the rain.
Frail children of dust, and feeble as frail,
In Thee do we trust, nor find Thee to fail.
Thy mercies, how tender, how firm to the end!
Our Maker, Defender, Redeemer, and Friend!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of all times and places, may we receive your message this day. As your Word is proclaimed, sometimes we do not like what we hear. Yet we are aware that you call on us to listen. Although we may try to make distinctions which favor us; your message is true and universal. You call us out of our comfort zones to try new things and to live courageously! Rejoice; welcome; forgive; heal; love. These are acts of faith that you teach everyone to put into practice. Faithful God, you command us to reach out to all people, especially people with whom it may seem that we have little in common.
Still-Speaking God, you call us to accompany you on the sacred path of ‘living grace.’ Lead us to learn from you, Jesus, and to respond by living as you teach us to live. Then we will follow you by carrying what we have received from you to the places you send us and to the people you summon us to love. Amen.
*RESPONSE – We Have Come Into His House – #36
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him,
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him;
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him;
O, worship HIm, Jesus Christ, the Lord.
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him,
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him;
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him;
O, worship HIm, Jesus Christ, the Lord.
GOD’S WORD — Psalm 62:5-12
SPECIAL MUSIC — Bist Du Bei Mir (When You Are Near) — J. S. Bach
GOD’S WORD — Mark 1:14-20
SERMON — Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Here I Am, Lord – worship booklet, pp. 46-47
I, the Lord of sea and sky I have heard my people cry.
All who dwell in dark and sin My hand will save.
I have made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright.
Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send?
Refrain:
Here I am, Lord Is it I, Lord?
I have heard You calling in the night.
I will go, Lord, If You lead me.
I will hold Your people in my heart.
I, the Lord of wind and flame I will tend the poor and lame.
I will set a feast for them My hand will save.
Finest bread I will provide ‘Til their hearts be satisfied.
I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send? Refrain
I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people’s pain.
I have wept for love of them, they turn away.
I will break their hearts of stone, give them hearts for love alone.
I will speak my word to them. Whom shall I send? Refrain
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Little Prelude and Fugue in F – J. S. Bach
January 7 – Epiphany!
January 6, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Happy New Year from Ivy Chapel. Star of Wonder! Today we celebrate Epiphany and are glad to have guest musician Judy Lindquist here with us to lead worship.
We also mark this day with Communion. If you are worshipping with us at home, please gather the elements before the service begins so we may celebrate God’s gift to us together.
WELCOME
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: How majestic is God’s name in all the earth!
All: Be glad, and celebrate!
One: Hear God’s word for our day.
All: May we respond as the shepherds did.
One: Let’s go to Bethlehem.
All: May we display the ambition of the Magi!
One: Let’s follow God’s starlight to the Christ Child’s birthplace.
All: Come and behold him; born the king of angels!
*HYMN – We Three Kings of Orient Are – #220
We three kings of Orient are;
Bearing gifts we traverse afar,
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.
Refrain:
O star of wonder, star of night,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain,
Gold I bring to crown Him again,
King forever, ceasing never,
Over us all to reign. [Refrain]
Frankincense to offer have I;
Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, all men raising,
Worship Him, God on high. [Refrain]
Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume
Breathes a life of gathering gloom;
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,
Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. [Refrain]
Glorious now behold Him arise;
King and God and sacrifice:
Alleluia, Alleluia,
Peals through the earth and skies. [Refrain]
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of new things and God of all things; you are the Giver of grace. You surprised the world in Bethlehem. The way that you came alive in the commonplace was amazing! You did not send someone else. You came yourself! You were born as a vulnerable, little baby. We are grateful that you often come to us in quietly reassuring ways that do not call attention to yourself.
We praise you, Christ Jesus, for your wonderful, everlasting love! We give you thanks from the bottom of our hearts. May our lives humbly point to your presence in the world and faithfully contribute to your vision of a world led by you, Emmanuel, God-with-us. Amen.
*RESPONSE – The First Noel – #205
The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay,
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.
Refrain:
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.
They looked up and saw a star
Shining in the east beyond them far;
And to the earth it gave great light,
And so it continued both day and night. [Refrain]
And by the light of that same star
Three wise men came from country far;
To seek for a king was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went. [Refrain]
GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 60:1-6 & Psalm 72:1-7, 10-14
SPECIAL MUSIC – How Beautiful (T. Paris) – Judy Lindquist
RESPONSIVE READING – ADORATION OF THE MAGI, Matthew 2: 1-2 – #640
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to receive the sacrament.
The cups in the outer ring on each tray contain grape juice. The other cups contain wine.
*HYMN – As With Gladness Men of Old – #219
As with gladness men of old
Did the guiding star behold,
As with joy they hailed its light,
Leading onward, beaming bright,
So, most gracious Lord, may we
Evermore be led by Thee.
As with joyful steps they sped,
To that lowly manger bed,
There to bend the knee before
Him, whom heav’n and earth adore,
So may we with willing feet
Ever seek thy mercy seat.
As they offered gifts most rare
At the manger, rude and bare,
So may we with holy joy,
Pure and free from sin’s alloy,
All our costliest treasures bring,
Christ, to Thee, our heav’nly King.
Holy Jesus, ev’ry day
Keep us in the narrow way;
And, when earthly things are past,
Bring our ransomed souls at last
Where they need no star to guide,
Where no clouds Thy glory hide.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE
December 31 – God’s Long-Awaited Gift
December 30, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Angels from the Realms of Glory
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Sing of God’s glory!
All: Shout to God, all the earth!
One: Rejoice!
All: Christ is born!
*HYMN – Joy to the World! – #194
Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let ev’ry heart prepare him room
And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n, and heav’n and nature sing.
Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ,
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.
No more let sins and sorrows grow
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make his blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as the curse is found.
He rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders of His love.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God, you are with us! We have heard the promise of the prophets. We have rejoiced at the melody of angels’ songs. We have seen your star in the heavens. We have followed your star to a humble birthplace. We have come to be with you, because you have come to be with us. Now, may all hope and joy fill our lives, as we echo your angels, proclaiming, “Glory to God in the highest! Peace to God’s people on earth.” Amen.
*RESPONSE – Angels We Have Heard on High – #206
Angels we have heard on high,
Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply
Echo back their joyous strains:
Refrain:
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 61:10-62:3
SPECIAL MUSIC – Christmas Meditation
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 148
RESPONSIVE READING – The Savior’s Advent / Luke 2:8-20
– #639
SERMON – Pastor Dan
CHRISTMAS CAROL SING
We will sing the first TWO verses of each selected carol.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – How Great Our Joy – #192
*RESPONSIVE BENEDICTION
One: In a lowly stable, the Son of God is born.
All: God Most High comes down to earth.
One: No one except God would have imagined doing this!
All: Go, tell it on the mountain – Jesus Christ is born!
*POSTLUDE – Joy to the World!
December 3 – Hope
December 2, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
The Advent Season begins. This season is a time of preparation for the coming birth of God’s Messiah. Today we also celebrate communion. If you are worshipping with us at home, please gather the elements before you get settled so you may celebrate with us.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Good Christian Friends, Rejoice
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Jim French
One: The Holy One is alive today!
All: God is great and greatly to be praised!
One: The Holy One is living within people of this faith community.
All: We marvel at the splendor of God!
One: The Holy One – God Most High – is closer than our next breath.
All: Let us praise God!
*PROCESSIONAL HYMNS
Hark! The Herald Angels Sing – (verses 1 and 3) – #191
Hark! the herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King:
Peace on earth, and mercy mild,
God and sinners reconciled!”
Joyful, all ye nations, rise,
Join the triumph of the skies;
With th’angelic hosts proclaim,
“Christ is born in Bethlehem!”
Refrain:
Hark! the herald angels sing,
“Glory to the newborn King”
Hail the heaven-born Prince of Peace!
Hail the Sun of Righteousness!
Light and life to all He brings,
Risen with healing in His wings.
Mild He lays His glory by,
Born that man no more may die,
Born to raise the sons of earth,
Born to give them second birth. [Refrain]
Angels We Have Heard on High – (verses 1 and 4) – #206
Angels we have heard on high,
Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply
Echo back their joyous strains:
Refrain:
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
See Him in a manger laid,
Jesus, Lord of heav’n and earth!
Mary, Joseph, lend your aid,
With us sing our Savior’s birth. [Refrain]
Go, Tell It on the Mountain – (verses 1, 2 and 3) – #216
Refrain
Go, tell it on the mountain, Over the hills and everywhere;
Go, tell it on the mountain That Jesus Christ is born.
While shepherds kept their watching O’r silent flocs by night,
Behold, throughout the heavens There shone a holy light. Refrain
The shepherds feared and trembled When, Lo! Above the earth
Rang out the angel chorus That hailed our Savior’s birth. Refrain
Down in a lowly manger Our humble Christ was born,
And God sent us salvation That blessed Christmas morn. Refrain
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jim French
Living God, you promise to be with your people; and you faithfully fulfill this promise. Long ago, you sent your Spirit to live among us, guiding your creation toward a hope-filled future.
This morning, we come seeking your truth, your justice, your mercy.
O God, you are with us now. Help us to sense your closeness and to value your loving presence. May we recognize and welcome and serve you. Come, O God of peace; fulfill your desires for all the world this Advent. Amen.
LIGHTING THE ADVENT WREATH – The Candle of Hope
RESPONSE – Emmanuel – #185
Emmanuel, Emmanuel
His name is called Emmanuel;
God with us, revealed in us;
His name is called Emmanuel.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Dottie Foster
HYMNS
O Christmas Tree – (verses 1, 2 and 3) – #221
Oh Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, your branches are uplifted.
You seem to say that on this day our world’s supremely gifted
The shining of your cadles bright, reminds us Light has come tonight.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, you lift our eyes to heaven.
Oh Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, you shine like stars above us;
And with your beauty silent say, “How greatly God must love us!”
You show us Him who with God’s face, brought to our hearts the gift of grace.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, you lift our eyes to heaven.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, in plainness you were growing
Until we came and brought you here and set your branches glowing.
Your living beauty helps us see how clothed with Christ our lives can be.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, you lift our eyes to heaven.
What Child Is This? – (verses 1 and 3) – #202
What child is this, who, laid to rest
On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet
While shepherds watch are keeping?
Refrain:
This, this is Christ the King
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing
Haste, haste to bring him laud
The babe, the son of Mary
So bring Him incense, gold, and myrrh
Come, peasant, king, to own Him
The King of kings salvation brings
Let loving hearts enthrone Him
Refrain:
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH – Pastor Dan
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 80:1-9, 14-19 – Jim French
SPECIAL MUSIC – I Wonder as I Wander
GOD’S WORD – Mark 13:24-37 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All people are invited to Christ’s Table. All who desire are welcome to receive the bread and the cup. The cups in the outer ring on the communion tray contain grape juice. The other cups contain wine.
*HYMN – Live Into Hope – worship booklet, p. 65
Live into hope of captives freed,
Of sight regained, the end of greed.
Th’ oppressed shall be the first to see
The year of God’s own jubilee!
Live into hope! The blind shall see
With insight and with clarity,
Removing shades of pride and fear,
A vision of our God brought near.
Live into hope of liberty,
The right to speak, the right to be,
The right to have one’s daily bread,
To hear God’s word and thus be fed.
Live into hope of captives freed,
From chains of fear or want or greed.
God now proclaims our full release
To faith and hope and joy and peace.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Hark, the Herald Angels Sing!
November 26 – Reign of Christ
November 25, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
As we give thanks to God, let this worship be a time to quiet our souls, watching intently for God. A Blessed Thanksgiving to all!
SILENT REFLECTION – Thanksgiving to God – #636
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Let All Things Now Living – Tune: Ash Grove
*CALL TO WORSHIP (based on Psalm 95) – John Weiland
One: Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
All: God cares for everyone.
One: Like a shepherd, searching for lost sheep, God calls to us.
All: God calls out to us by name.
One: God reaches out to rescue all who have strayed.
All: Scattered, weak and injured ones are cared for by God.
One: We are the sheep of God’s pasture.
All: O come, let us kneel before God our Maker.
*HYMN – Rejoice, the Lord Is King! #282
Rejoice, the Lord is King:
Your Lord and King adore!
Rejoice, give thanks and sing,
And triumph evermore.
Lift up your heart,
Lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Jesus, the Savior, reigns,
The God of truth and love;
When He has purged our stains,
He took his seat above;
Lift up your heart,
Lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
His kingdom cannot fail,
He rules o’er earth and heav’n;
The keys of death and hell
Are to our Jesus giv’n:
Lift up your heart,
Lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in glorious hope!
Our Lord and judge shall come
And take His servants up
To their eternal home:
Lift up your heart,
Lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – John Weiland
O Breath of Life; you are with us in our going out and our coming in. Wherever we are, you are steadily leading us, God. We are grateful.
Come, Holy Spirit; we need you now. Come in your strength and your power; come in your own gentle way. O Breath of Life; open every heart to your promise of steadfast love. You are a God of astounding faithfulness!
We come this morning, seeking guidance that you alone can provide, God of Life and Breath. Fill us with your holy love and lead us, we pray. Amen.
*RESPONSE – How Majestic Is Your Name – #9
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.
O Lord, we praise your name.
O Lord, we magnify your name:
Prince of Peace, mighty God;
O Lord God Almighty.
GOD’S WORD – Ezekiel 34:11-16, 20-24 – John Weiland
SPECIAL MUSIC – Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 25:31-46 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Our God Reigns! – #290
How lovely on the mountains are the feet of him
Who brings good news,good news
Announcing peace, proclaiming news of happiness.
Our God reigns; our God reigns!
Chorus:
Our God reigns! Our God reigns!
Our God reigns! Our God reigns!
He had no stately form; He had no majesty,
That we should be drawn to Him.
He was despised, and we took no account of Him,
Yet now He reigns with the Most High. [Chorus]
Out of the tomb He came with grace and majesty;
He is alive, He is alive.
God loves us so see here His hands, His feet, His side.
Yes, we know He is alive. [Chorus]
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Crown Him with Many Crowns
Oct 8-Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!
October 8, 2023 by Kara White
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Please join us here on Youtube.
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ
We welcome a dear friend and sibling in Christ, Rev. Mary Albert, as our guest faith witness this morning! Thank you, Mary, for offering your personal words of testimony in worship among us today.
Christ is leading this journey toward higher ground: Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!
WELCOME
PRELUDE -- Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us
*CALL TO WORSHIP -- Jo Ann Moody
One: Look, do you see that?
All: Jesus is in the midst of the people!
One: Listen, do you hear that?
All: Jesus is calling our names!
One: Come, all who are lost and searching.
Come, all who are sick and tired.
Come, all who are afraid and alone.
Come, all who are ready for a change.
All: The Holy One is here to heal and set us free!
One: Let us worship God who gives us new life!
*HYMN -- Standing on the Promises -- #181
Standing on the promises of Christ, my King,
Through eternal ages let his praises ring;
Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.
Refrain:
Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God, my Savior;
Standing, standing,
I'm standing on the promises of God.
Standing on the promises that cannot fail.
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]
Standing on the promises of Christ, the Lord,
Bound to him eternally by love's strong cord,
Overcoming daily with the Spirit's sword,
Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]
Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
List'ning ev'ry moment to the Spirit's call,
Resting in my Savior as my all in all,
Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION -- Jo Ann Moody
O God, we come to worship today hoping for a sign, a glimpse of your presence, or a nudge in the right direction. Meet us today where we are. In our places of pain, meet us with comfort and healing. In our apathy and resignation, meet us with hope and conviction. And where we are stuck, open our eyes to see the path to new life. This we pray, trusting in your presence and your power. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE --I Will Sing of the Mercies -- 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 8 -- Jo Ann Moody
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER-- Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC -He Leadeth Me
GOD’S WORD -- Luke 19:1-10 -- Rev. Mary Albert
SERMON -- “My Journey to ‘Yes’!” -- Rev. Mary Albert
*HYMN -- Higher Ground -- #448
I’m pressing on the upward way,
New heights I’m gaining ev'ry day;
Still praying as I’m onward bound,
“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”
Refrain:
Lord, lift me up, and let me stand
By faith, on heaven’s tableland;
A higher plane than I have found,
Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.
My heart has no desire to stay
Where doubts arise and fears dismay;
Though some may dwell where these abound,
My prayer, my aim, is higher ground. [Refrain]
I want to live above the world,
Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled;
For faith has caught a joyful sound,
The song of saints on higher ground. [Refrain]
I want to scale the utmost height,
And catch a gleam of glory bright;
But still I’ll pray till heav’n I’ve found,
“Lord, lead me on to higher ground.” [Refrain]
*BENEDICTION -- Rev. Mary Albert
*POSTLUDE -- Every Time I Feel the Spirit
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