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!
October 29 – The Compassionate Life
October 28, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
May our worship on this Reformation Sunday inspire each person participating
to become a messenger of our Savior’s Gospel of grace.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Simple Gifts
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pat Winship
One: Rejoice, people of God!
All: We praise God for the gift of life!
One: God is gracious and merciful.
All: God is slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.
One: Our God is a Mighty Fortress.
All: Together, let us praise God!
*HYMN – A Mighty Fortress Is Our God – #1
A mighty fortress is our God, A bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe Doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.
Did we in our own strength confide, Our striving would be losing,
Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God’s own choosing.
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth His name, from age to age the same;
And He must win the battle.
82ils filled, Should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us.
The Prince of Darkness grim, We tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure, for lo! his doom is sure;
One little word shall fell him.
That word above all earthly powers no thanks to them abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours Through him who with us sideth:
Let goods and kindred go, This mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God’s truth abideth still;
His kingdom is forever!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pat Winship
God Who Leads; we have not reached the Promised Land. We have not yet seen the fulfillment of all that you have spoken down through the generations. There remains much work to be done as your disciples in pursuit of “a just world for all.”
God Who Fulfills Promises; grant that we may have the vision of Moses, who trusted that your Realm Eternal, your precious Land of Milk and Honey, steadily is drawing near. Grant that we may be blessed with the courage of your prophets to continue working on behalf of your justice, even when these efforts seem futile.
Dear God, we give you thanks for gathering us together this morning. Here in your sanctuary, we vividly sense your closeness. We praise you for guiding us toward loving as Christ loves – toward being willing to sacrifice our own lives for others. Fill us with your Spirit of unselfishness, Jesus. We come to learn from you; for we long to walk in your footsteps. Amen.
*RESPONSE – We Bow Down – worship booklet, p. 93
You are Lord of creation and Lord of my life,
Lord of the land and the sea;
you were Lord of the heavens before there was time,
and Lord of all lords you will be.
We bow down, and we worship you, Lord;
we bow down, and we worship you, Lord;
we bow down, and we worship you, Lord;
Lord of all lords you will be.
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 1 – Pat Winship
SPECIAL MUSIC — Be Thou My Vision – Paul Manz
GOD’S WORD – 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 & Matthew 22:34-46 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH & THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
UCC STATEMENT OF FAITH – worship booklet, p. 4
*HYMN – Be Thou My Vision – #400
Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art;
Thou my best thought by or by night,
Waking and sleeping, Thy presence my light.
Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, and I Thy true son,
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.
Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine inheritance, now and always;
Thou and Thou only the first in my heart,
High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art.
High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heav’n’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Prelude in Classic Style – Gordon Young
October 15 – Consecration Sunday
October 14, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
God is guiding us and God will continue guiding us on our life-long journey as growing givers. May today’s worship inspire each one here to become a living channel of God’s abundant love. You are a vital part of Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!
Everyone is invited to a Consecration Celebration in Fellowship Hall following worship.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – How Firm a Foundation
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God’s blessings are plentiful!
All: Rejoice! God knows what God is doing.
One: You and I are being invited to follow ‘The Way of Jesus.’
All: Each moment, Christ is calling us to ministry.
One: Christ teaches, “Give my people something to eat.”
All: “Why don’t you feed them, Jesus?”
One: Christ commands, “Give them something yourselves.”
All: “But we don’t have enough!”
One: Christ assures, “Yes, you do.”
All: “How far can a few measly loaves and fish go?”
One: “Give it a try. With God, there is always more than enough.”
All: God’s blessings are plentiful!
*HYMN – Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above – #45
Sing praise to God who reigns above,
the God of all creation,
the God of power, the God of love,
the God of our salvation;
with healing balm my soul he fills,
and every faithless murmur stills:
o God all praise and glory.
What God’s almighty power hath made,
his gracious mercy keepeth;
by morning glow or evening shade
his watchful eye ne’er sleepeth.
Within the kingdom of his might,
lo! all is just and all is right:
to God all praise and glory
The Lord is never far away,
But through all grief distressing
An ever present help and stay
Our peace, and joy, and blessing;
As with a mother’s tender hand,
He leads His one, HIs chosen band:
To God all praise and glory.
Then all my gladsome way along
I sing aloud thy praises,
that men may hear the grateful song
my voice unwearied raises:
be joyful in the Lord, my heart!
Both soul and body bear your part!
To God all praise and glory.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of abundant grace; we worship you with joy. You offer love and life eternal to all people. What amazing gifts these are!
Master, you are Living Water who restores our souls. We are humbled that you have chosen us and called us friends. You are with each one of us in every personal situation that we are facing.
Risen Savior, we are grateful; and we are here this day to lift our praises to you! 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.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Pat Winship
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 57:1-3, 9-11
SPECIAL MUSIC – I Surrender All
GOD’S WORD – Mark 1:21, 29, 32-42 & Mark 5:24-30, 32-34
SERMON – Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives! – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – We Give Thee but Thine Own (Verses 1 &2) – #622
We give Thee but Thine own,
Whate’er the gift may be:
All that we have is Thine alone,
A trust, O Lord, from Thee.
May we Thy bounties thus
As stewards true receive,
And gladly, as Thou blessest us,
To Thee our first-fruits give.
PRAYER OF CONSECRATION
‘Always-Giving-Extra’ God, you extend to each of us a sacred invitation to become one of your disciples. What an amazing offer! ‘The Way that leads to Life’ can be narrow and difficult. Yet all things are possible with you.
We receive so much from you, Jesus. You are the One who generously blesses with ‘living water!’ Your life is our model for climbing higher; going farther; giving joyfully; loving beyond limit! May we receive the Spirit of love which you offer, and may we respond by giving with ‘joy beyond measure!’ Amen.
*INVITING GOD’S ACT OF CONSECRATION
We offer God our expressions of intended giving, asking God to consecrate them. All are invited to offer God your commitment supporting Christ’s ministries at Ivy Chapel UCC by placing your 2024 Estimate of Giving Card in the designated offering basket during singing of the final hymn. Be exalted, O God! Let your glory be over all the earth!
*CONSECRATION 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.
*TABLE GRACE AND BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – The Pipers – Dandrieu
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
![](https://www.ivychapel.org/ivy/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/misty-mount2.jpg)
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 CCLI License #456361
October 1 – World Communion Sunday
September 30, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Because of you, God’s church changes lives! Today, we join Christians around the world in celebrating World Communion Sunday. If you are worshipping with us from home, please gather the elements before the service begins so we may partake at Christ’s table together.
Watch this week’s service on YouTube.
WELCOME
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Sue Wilson
One: Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
All: In all its fullness, the world belongs to God!
One: How astonishing is the goodness of God.
All: Watch and listen closely; for God is here.
One: God is continuously nourishing life!
All: God’s blessings abundantly overflow!
*HYMN – Christ for the World We Sing – #545
Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With loving zeal;
The poor, and them that mourn,the faint and overborne,
Sinsick and sorrow-worn, For Christ to heal.
Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With fervent prayer;
The wayward and the lost, by restless passions tossed,
Redeemed at countless cost, From dark despair.
Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With one accord,
With us the work to share, with us reproach to dare,
With us the cross to bear, For Christ our Lord.
Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With joyful song;
The newborn souls, whose days, reclaimed from error’s ways,
Inspired with hope and praise, to Christ belong.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Sue Wilson
God, you are more than merely ‘beside us.’ You are the very life within us; for we are yours. All people are your children; and all are in your care. Human beings do not create our own security. You are our security, God.
You are the Maker of life, who shapes us and re-shapes us. All that is good and faithful comes from you. It is thanks to you, Ever-Creating God, that miracles blossom; that relationships are healthy; that sorrow receives comfort; that brokenness is healed; that souls purely love one another.
We are humbled by and thankful for your tender mercies, O God. Morning by morning, we seek you. Let your beauty be seen in us, we pray. Lead us as we continue on this life-long journey toward living as your children of grace. 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.
(Sing two times)
GOD’S WORD– Exodus 17:1-7 – Sue Wilson
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16, 32, 37-39, 51-54 & Matthew 21:23-32 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
World Communion Sunday
*COMMUNION HYMN – Break Thou the Bread of Life – #175
Break Thou the Bread of Life, Dear Lord, to me,
As Thou didst break the loaves Beside the sea;
Beyond the sacred page I seek Thee, Lord;
My spirit pants for Thee, O Living Word.
Bless Thou the truth, dear Lord, To me, to me,
As Thou didst bless the bread By Galilee;
Then shall all bondage cease, All fetters fall,
And I shall find my peace My All in all.
Thou art the Bread of Life, O Lord, to me,
Thy holy Word the truth That saveth me;
Give me to eat and live With Thee above;
Teach me to love Thy truth, For Thou art Love.
Oh, send Thy Spirit, Lord, Now unto me,
That He may touch my eyes, And make me see;
Show me the truth concealed Within Thy Word,
And in Thy Book revealed I see the Lord.
INVITATION TO RECEIVE THE BREAD AND THE CUP
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament at Christ’s Table. Cups in the outside ring on the communion tray contain grape juice. All other cups contain wine. Please come forward down the center aisle. Return to your seat by way of the West Side aisle.
*PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION
God, we are grateful. You welcome us into your Church. You welcome all people as guests at your table. We thank you, Christ Jesus, for this communion. The bread and the cup are simple yet marvelous reminders of your holy love. We pray for all people throughout your world this day. May each and every person joyously experience being fed, nourished, strengthened, and loved by you! Amen.
*HYMN – Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love – worship booklet, p. 57
Refrain:
Jesu, Jesu, fill us with your love,
show us how to serve the neighbors we have from you.
Kneels at the feet of his friends,
silently washes their feet,
Master who acts as a slave to them.
Refrain
Neighbors are wealthy and poor,
varied in color and race,
neighbors are near us and far away.
Refrain
These are the ones we should serve,
these are the ones we should love,
all these are neighbors to us and you.
Refrain
Loving puts us on our knees,
silently washing their feet,
this is the way we should live with you.
Refrain
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE
CCLI License #456361
Sept. 24 – Tensions in the Wilderness
September 23, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A Warm Ivy Welcome and Thank You to Rev. Al Schon! We are grateful to you for leading us in worship this morning.
You can view today’s worship on our YouTube channel.
WELCOME
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP – (Inspired by Psalm 145:1-8) – Rod Hertenstein
One: Bless the name of the Holy and Sovereign One forever and ever!
Many: Great is our God and greatly to be praised.
One: Bless the name of the Holy and Sovereign One forever and ever!
Many: This generation will tell the next generation so they may tell the
next generation of the Holy One’s magnificent and mighty acts.
One: Bless the name of the Holy and Sovereign One forever and ever!
Many: We declare the abundant goodness, gracious righteousness, and
holy love of our God. Praise the Holy One!
*HYMN – Blessed Quietness – #147
Joys are flowing like a river
Since the Comforter has come,
He abides with us forever,
Makes the trusting heart His home.
Refrain
Blessed quietness, holy quietness
What assurance in my soul!
On the stormy sea He speaks peace to me,
How the billows cease to roll!
Bringing life and health and gladness,
All around this heav’nly Guest,
Banished unbelief and sadness,
Changed our weariness to rest.
Like the rain that falls from heaven,
Like the sunlight from the sky,
So the Holy Ghost is given,
Coming on us from on high. [Refrain]
See, a fruitful field is growing,
Blessed fruit of righteousness,
And the streams of life are flowing
In the lonely wilderness. [Refrain]
What a wonderful salvation,
Where we always see His’s face!
What a perfect habitation,
What a quiet resting place! [Refrain]
*RESPONSIVE PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Rod Hertenstein
One: Mighty God, we enter your presence with thanksgiving and hope.
Many: You have formed us as your people.
One: You join us on the journey of life through valleys, upon mountains, and
on the plains.
Many: We set our attention and we seek your wisdom, encouragement,
and grace.
One: Reveal your will and display your glory among your people as we
worship your holy name.
Many: 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 – Exodus 16:2-15 – Rod Hertenstein
SPECIAL MUSIC
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 20:1-16 – Pastor Al Schon
SERMON – Pastor Al Schon
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Al Schon
*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 Al Schon
*POSTLUDE
August 27 – Be Transformed!
August 26, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel! We are glad you have been called to be with us today. We invite you to be transformed by the connections you find here, be they in-person or virtual.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Musette – Young
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God visits the earth and softens dry ground with rainwater.
All: God gives life!
One: God heats us up. God cools us down.
All: Yes, we can “smell” rain, and we can “taste” grace!
One: God shapes us into instruments of peace.
All: We are many. We are one. This is God’s doing. And it is
marvelous!
*HYMN – Blessed Be the Name – #59
All praise to Him who reigns on high, In majesty supreme,
Who gave His Son for man to die, That He might man redeem.
Refrain:
Blessed be the name, Blessed be the name,
Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Blessed be the name, Blessed be the name,
Blessed be the name of the Lord.
His name above all names shall stand, Exalted more and more,
At God the Father’s own right hand, Where angel hosts adore. Refrain
Redeemer, Savior, Friend of man Once ruined by the fall,
Thou hast devised salvation’s plan, For Thou hast died for all. Refrain
His name shall be the Counsellor, The mighty Prince of Peace,
Of all earth’s kingdoms, Conqueror, Whose reign shall never cease. Refrain
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Creator God, we gather as people formed by you. At the moment of our birth, you drew us out of gestational waters. To this day, you are the One who gives us life and breath. You meet us in the sanctuary and on the sofa. You call each of us by name with purpose, care, and love. May our time together in this space, online or onsite, remind us of our connectedness to you, to each other, and to all creation.
Merciful God, may you be glorified, honored, and worshiped in spirit and in truth. May we be rooted, challenged, and encouraged during this time of worship. We welcome your presence among us now, Christ Jesus. We place our trust in you forever. Amen.
*RESPONSE – Jesus, Name Above All Names – #57
Jesus, name above all names:
Beautiful Savior, glorious Lord,
Emanuel, God is with us,
Blessed Redeemer, Living Word.
GOD’S WORD – Exodus 1:8-2:10
SPECIAL MUSIC – Deep River – Wolaver
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 124
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Take My Life and Let It Be – #436
Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in endless praise,
let them flow in endless praise.
Take my feet and let them be Swift and beautiful for Thee;
Take my voice and let me sing,
Always only, for my King,
Always, only, for my King.
Take my lips and let them be Filled with messages for Thee;
Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold,
Not a mite would I withhold.
Take my love, my God I pour At Thy feet its treasure store;
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Bachiana on an Ancient Chorale – Young
August 20 – Bold Moves
August 19, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! We glad to have you worshipping with us today. We hope you are able to stay cool this week. You can join us in person on 10 a.m. every Sunday, or on our YouTube channel.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Classic Trio – Young
*CALL TO WORSHIP (based on Psalm 67)
One: How beautiful it is when people live together in harmony!
All: It is like a summer rain which restores the parched earth.
One: This day is a Sabbath dedicated to God.
All: Let this gathering place be a home to all people.
One: God is gracious.
All: The earth yields blessings in abundance!
One: Together, let us give thanks!
All: Let all the ends of the earth praise God!
*HYMN – For the Beauty of the Earth – #64
For the beauty of the earth,
For the glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies.
Refrain:
Lord of all, to Thee we raise
This our hymn of grateful praise.
For the beauty of each hour ,
Of the day and of the night,
Hill and vale and tree and flower,
Sun and moon and stars of light,
Refrain
For the joy of ear and eye,
For the heart and mind’s delight,
For the mystic harmony
Linking sense to sound and sight,
Refrain
For the joy of human love,
Brother, sister, parent child,
Friends on earth and and friends above,
For all gentle, thoughts and mild,
Refrain
For each perfect gift of Thine
To our race so freely giv’n,
Graces human and divine,
Flow’rs of earth and buds of heav’n,
Refrain
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God, on this precious morning, we lift our hearts to you in praise! For always offering the world your love, we are grateful to you beyond words. During even the most difficult moments, you provide people with grace and strength. You never stop loving.
God our Savior, you call us to become your disciples, and you send us on missions of mercy. All that we are and have is a gift which we have received from you. We are blessed to be your servants.
God, you are our starting place and our ultimate destination. As each faith journey unfolds, we encounter you, Christ Jesus. From your life, we learn the way which you envision every human being will live. Following you changes us! It means losing our lives; denying ourselves; looking out for others; feeding; praying; caring; foot-washing; serving. In all that we do, may you be seen in us, Jesus. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – People Need the Lord – #527
People need the Lord, people need the Lord
At the end of broken dreams, He’s the open door
People need the Lord, people need the Lord
When will we realize people need the Lord?
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody
*HYMN – Be Still, My Soul – #457
Be still, my soul! the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In ev’ry change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul! thy best, thy heav’nly Friend
Thro’ thorny ways leads to a joyful end.
Be still, my soul! thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul! the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.
Be still, my soul! the hour is hast’ning on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul! when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 67:1-2 & Isaiah 56:1, 3-7
SPECIAL MUSIC – Discipleship Medley – Tate
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 15:21-28
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – O God, Our Help in Ages Past – #67
O God, our help in ages past, Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal Home!
Under the shadow of Thy throne Still may we dwell secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone, And our defense is sure.
Before the hills in order stood, Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God, To endless years the same.
A thousand ages in Thy sight Are like an evening gone,
Short as the watch that ends the night, before the rising sun.
O God, our Help in ages past, our hope for years to come,
Be Thou our guide while life shall last, And our eternal home!
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Cathedral Fanfare – Young
August 13 – When All Seems Lost
August 12, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
We are glad you were called to worship with us today. We hope you find the order, peace and calm you need in your life among us.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Prelude #15 – Chopin
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: You call us, O God.
All: Out of the order and the disorder of our lives,
One: out of the joy and the pain of being human;
All: you call us to sing your praises, and to become your people.
One: We hear you calling to us now.
All: We come to worship you, O God.
*HYMN – Jesus Calls Us – #533
Jesus calls us; o’er the tumult of our life’s wild, restless sea;
Day by day His sweet voice soundeth, saying, “Christian, follow me.”
Jesus calls us from the worship of the vain world’s golden store,
From each idol that would keep us, saying, “Christian, love me more.”
In our joys and in our sorrows, days of toil and hours of ease,
Still He calls, in cares and pleasures, “Christian, love Me more than these.”
Jesus calls us– by Thy mercies, Savior, may we hear Thy call;
Give our hearts to Thine obedience, serve and love Thee best of all.
*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Living and Holy God, we have come this morning to praise you, and we have come to re-dedicate our lives to serving you. Following you is a huge challenge. But we are here to proclaim that we’re going to try! When we fail, we will call on you for grace. When we follow faithfully, we will exalt your holy name! Fill us with your love. Be our Inspiration; be our Guide; be our Leader. Your life, Christ Jesus, is the life we want to live! Amen!
*RESPONSE – He Is Lord – #103
He is Lord, He is Lord!
He is risen from the dead and he is Lord!
Ev’ry knee shall bow, ev’ry tongue confess
That Jesus Christ is Lord.
GOD’S WORD – Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28
SPECIAL MUSIC – There Is a Balm – Leafitt
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 85:8-13 & Matthew 14:22-33
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER
*HYMN – Love Lifted Me – #317
I was sinking deep in sin,
Far from the peaceful shore,
Very deeply stained within,
Sinking to rise no more;
But the Master of the sea
Heard my despairing cry,
From the waters lifted me–
Now safe am I.
Refrain:
Love lifted me, Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me;
Love lifted me, Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me.
All my heart to Him I give,
Ever to Him I’ll cling,
In His blessed presence live,
Ever His praises sing.
Love so mighty and so true
Merits my soul’s best songs;
Faithful, loving service, too,
To Him belongs. [Refrain]
Souls in danger, look above,
Jesus completely saves;
He will lift you by His love
Out of the angry waves.
He’s the Master of the sea,
Billows His will obey;
He your Savior wants to be–
Be saved today. [Refrain]
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Fugue – Pachelbel
August 6 – Face to Face
August 3, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Voluntary – Stanley
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Jan Wirtz
One: It only takes a spark to get a fire going.
All: That’s how it is with God’s love.
One: Once you’ve experienced it,
All: It’s fresh like spring.
One: You want to sing!
All: You want to pass it on!
*HYMN – The Old Rugged Cross – #247
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.
Refrain:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.
O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary. [Refrain]
In the old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me. [Refrain]
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true,
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me some day to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share. [Refrain]
*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jan Wirtz
God of Many Names; you command us to come to you. Regrettably, there are times when we are doubtful of our ability to make this journey. At times, we are unsteady and our steps are uncertain. We long to have the faith in ourselves that you have in us, O Holy One. We give you thanks for blessing us with the faith to rise to each occasion when you invite us to serve you by joyfully giving away your love. Guide us as we continue seeking to live as your children; walking in your ways. We praise you for your eternal presence, Faithful God, accompanying us as we journey ahead into your future. We pray in your name, Christ Jesus. Amen.
*RESPONSE – Great Is the Lord – #7
Great is the Lord, He is holy and just;
By His power we trust In His love.
Great is the Lord, He is faithful and true;
By His mercy He proves He is love.
Great is the Lord And worthy of glory!
Great is the Lord And worthy of praise.
Great is the Lord;
Now lift up your voice, Now lift up your voice:
Great is the Lord! Great is the Lord!
Great is the Lord, He is holy and just;
By His power we trust In His love.
Great is the Lord, He is faithful and true;
By His mercy He proves He is love.
Great are you Lord And worthy of glory!
Great are you Lord, And worthy of praise.
Great are you Lord:
I lift up my voice, I lift up my voice:
Great are you Lord! Great are you Lord!
GOD’S WORD – Genesis 32:22-31 – Jan Wirtz
SPECIAL MUSIC – Eucharistic Suite – Tate
GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 55:1-9 & Matthew 14:13-21 – Pastor Dan
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
As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate Christ’s Extravagant Welcome through “open” Communion.
All who desire to receive are welcome to receive the bread and the cup.
PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Pass It On – #503
It only takes a spark to get a fire going,
And soon all those around can warm up in its glowing.
That’s how it is with God’s love once you’ve experienced it;
You spread His love to everyone; You want to pass it on.
What a wondrous time is spring when all the trees are budding,
The birds begin to sing, the flowers start their blooming.
That’s how it is with God’s love once you’ve experienced it;
You want to sing, it’s fresh like spring, You want to pass it on.
I wish for you, my friend, this happiness that I’ve found,
You can depend on Him, it matters not where you’re bound.
I’ll shout it from the mountain top – I want my world to know;
The Lord of love has come to me, I want to pass it on.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Right Now – Skillings/Bock