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
July 30 — Weaving the Future
July 30, 2023 by Kara White
Filed under Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
Can’t make it to Ivy Chapel in person?
You can join us online every week on our YouTube channel.”
Thank you to Bob Meinz for serving as our worship musician this morning!
WELCOME
PRELUDE -- Just As I Am
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Christ is near.
All: Will we welcome him?
One: When God shows up, surprising things happen!
All: Let’s open wide our hearts.
One: Let’s put down our burdens.
All: Let’s set aside our distractions.
One: Let’s simply delight in Christ’s presence!
All: Nothing is too wonderful for God!
*HYMN-- Praise to the Lord, the Almighty #10
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is your health and salvation!
All ye who hear; now to His temple draw near,
Join me in glad adoration.
Praise to the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth;
Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!
Hast thou not seen How thy desires e’er have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?
Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee;
Surely His goodness and mercy here daily attend thee.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do,
If with his love He befriend thee.
Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the Amen sound from His people again;
Gladly for aye we adore Him.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
O Spirit, who accompanies us and who helps us in all of our struggles; we call on you in prayer. You truly are our health and salvation! In this experience of being together, during this time set apart for gathering side by side in community; we are reminded of how closely connected we are. For this blessing, we praise you, O God! You know us completely. Teach us and guide us to keep growing in our relationship with you, God. Lead us to rely on your astonishing promises. Fill us with your grace. May our dreams and visions be your dreams and visions, Faithful God. Amen.
*RESPONSE -- I Have Decided to Follow Jesus #427
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.
The world behind me, the cross before me,
The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
No turning back, no turning back.
Tho' none go with me, I still will follow,
Tho' none go with me I still will follow,
Tho' none go with me, I still will follow;
No turning back, no turning back.
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
No turning back, no turning back
GOD’S WORD -- Psalm 119:129-136
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE-- Diann Sheahan
GOD’S WORD -- Romans 8:26-39
SPECIAL MUSIC -- Lord, I Want to Be a Christian in My Heart
GOD’S WORD -- Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52
SERMON Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE and THE LORD’S PRAYER
*HYMN-- Here I Am, Lord
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 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
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
*BENEDICTION AND TABLE GRACE
*POSTLUDE --He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands
July 23- Wheat and Weeds Together
July 23, 2023 by Kara White
Filed under Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! What a great joy God offers all people as our Savior Jesus Christ!
Thank you to Bob Meinz for serving as our worship musician this morning!
WELCOME
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Come, sisters and brothers, everyone is welcome here!
All: God's people are many – of every land and every race;
of every age and every condition.
One: We gather to celebrate God's unbounded love.
All: God joins all people together into one community.
All people are God’s people! Let us worship God together!
*HYMN -- All Things Bright and Beautiful -- #65
Refrain:
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful,
The Lord God made them all.
Each little flow’r that opens,
Each little bird that sings,
He made their glowing colors,
He made their tiny wings. [Refrain]
The purple-headed mountain,
The river running by,
The sunset, and the morning
That brightens up the sky; [Refrain]
The cold wind in the winter,
The pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruits in the garden,
He made them, ev’ry one. [Refrain]
He gave us eyes to them,
And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty,
Who has made all things well. [Refrain]
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Living God, Maker and Caretaker of all life; the whole universe shouts with joy, praising you! You have made us and we are yours. We are blessed each time we are able to serve as your instruments.
You fill the world with stunning beauty. We are blown away by your artistry and your power, God. The most exquisite works on earth shout your praises.
What a Kind and Gracious Savior you are! Thank you, God, for gathering us today. We are ready for action. Teach us your ways, and lead us in living them! Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE -- El Shaddai -- #18
El Shaddai, El Shaddai,
El-elyon na Adonia,
Age to age you're still the same,
By the power of the name.
El Shaddai, El Shaddai,
Erkamka na Adonai,
We will praise and lift you high,
El Shaddai.
GOD’S WORD Psalm 86:11-17
SPECIAL MUSIC
GOD’S WORD -- Romans 8:12-25; Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43
SERMON -- Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER
*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
*BENEDICTION -- Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE
July 9 – Chosen Journeys
July 8, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
July 9 – Chosen Journeys
Welcome to Ivy Chapel on the sixth Sunday after Pentecost. God desires every sanctuary to be a house of prayer where everyone is welcomed and valued and loved.
Click here to view today’s worship service.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Prelude – Walther
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Ann Molyneaux
One: Come to the refreshing waters God provides!
All: We come with gladness!
One: Come, all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens.
All: As Christ invites us, we come to find rest for our souls.
*HYMN – When Morning Gilds the Skies – #66
When morning gilds the skies, My heart awaking cries:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Alike at work or prayer To Jesus I repair:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
The night becomes as day, When from the heart we say:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
The pow’rs of darkness fear When this sweet chant they hear:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Sing, suns and stars of space, Sing, ye that see His face,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Let all the earth around Ring joyous with the sound:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this, while life is mine, My canticle divine,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this th’ eternal song Through all the ages long,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Ann Molyneaux
God of our ancestors, we come to you this morning. We are thankful for this occasion to receive your Word and your Communion, Christ Jesus. As we worship you here, may we grow and learn to serve you in all places.
God of Clear Vision and True Wisdom, we turn to you today. Lead us. Through every twist and turn, lead us as you have always led your people.
God of every nation, pondering your grandeur fills us with awe. Who are we to approach you? Can we live up to all that you ask of us? Will we genuinely accept all that you offer? What if we do?
God, stir within us now. Reveal the paths that you want us to follow. Open our hearts to you, God. To know you is to live. Bring us alive! Amen.
*RESPONSE – Lord, I Lift Your Name on High – worship booklet, p. 68
Lord, I lift your name on high:
Lord, I love to sing Your praises.
I’m so glad You’re in my life;
I’m so glad You came to save us.
You came from heaven to earth to show the way,
From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay.
From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky;
Lord, I lift Your name on high!
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 145:8-18 – Ann Molyneaux
SPECIAL MUSIC – The Journey with He Leadeth Me – Sorenson
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 11:7-11, 16-19, 25-30 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – The Peace of Mind That Christ Can Bring – worship booklet, p.74
The peace of mind that Christ can bring Is peace in knowing how to sing
In spite of doubts of why or how, In spite of fears of the here and now.
The peace that strengthens faithful souls Can not be built on self made goals,
But rather comes to those who heed A call for help in time of need.
So one finds peace within the heart When each with others bears a part.
When peace for me is peace for you, Then Christ is present, peace is true.
So Christ, invade our life and will Until we see your justice still
Defining best all human worth, Reshaping dreams of peace on earth.
*BENEDICTION
*POSTLUDE – The Majestic Trumpet – Hebble
July 2 – Holy Welcome
July 1, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Praise God for Christ’s gifts of astonishing grace and love! Thank you for joining us on this joyful holiday weekend.
Today we will celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion. All are welcome at God’s table. Please gather the elements as worship begins so you may partake with us.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Prelude on an American Folk Medley – Hebble
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Rod Hertenstein
One: God is gracious and merciful.
All: God is abounding in steadfast love.
One: Come to the refreshing waters God provides.
All: Come, all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens.
One: The gentle Spirit of Christ invites us.
All: We have come to find rest for our souls.
*HYMN – Patriotic Hymn Sing (verses 1 and 4 of each hymn)
America – #602
My country, ’tis of thee, Sweet land of liberty,
Of thee I sing;
Land where my fathers died, Land of the pilgrims’ pride,
From ev’ry mountainside Let freedom ring!
Our fathers’ God to Thee, Author of liberty,
To Thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright, With freedom’s holy light,
Protect us by Thy might, Great God our King.
America the Beautiful – #600
O beautiful for spacious skies, For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties Above the fruited plain!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea!
O beautiful for patriot dream That sees beyond the years,
Thine alabaster cities gleam Undimmed by human tears!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea! Oh beautiful for halcyon skies
The Battle Hymn of the Republic – #604
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword:
His truth is marching on.
Refrain:
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Our God is marching on.
In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free!
While God is marching on. [Refrain]
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Rod Hertenstein
God of our ancestors, we worship you. We thank you for our precious homeland. Help us, Dear God, to continue moving toward a time when freedom truly will ring for all people. You are the One who clothes us with joy and fills us with hope. Yours is a love mightier than any danger or fear.
We praise you for our nation. We praise you for this church. Fill us with life in this place so that we may learn to serve you in all places.
You are God of the past and of the future. Lead us as you always have led your people, O God of Wisdom and Promise. Amen.
*RESPONSE – You Are My All in All – worship booklet, p. 99
You are my strength when I am weak
You are the treasure that I seek
You are my all in all
Seeking You as a precious jewel
Lord, to give up I’d be a fool
You are my all in all
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Taking my sin, my cross, my shame
Rising again I bless Your name
You are my all in all
When I fall down You pick me up
When I am dry You fill my cup
You are my all in all
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 10:39-42 – Rod Hertenstein
SPECIAL MUSIC – America the Beautiful
Earl Kreder, Saxophone & Mike Waller, Piano
GOD’S WORD – Genesis 22:1-14 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Break Thou the Bread of Life – #175
Break Thou the Bread of Life, Dear Lord, to me,
As Thou didst break the loaves Beside the sea;
Beyond the sacred page I seek Thee, Lord;
My spirit pants for Thee, O Living Word.
Bless Thou the truth, dear Lord, To me, to me,
As Thou didst bless the bread By Galilee;
Then shall all bondage cease, All fetters fall,
And I shall find my peace My All in all.
Thou art the Bread of Life, O Lord, to me,
Thy holy Word the truth That saveth me;
Give me to eat and live With Thee above;
Teach me to love Thy truth, For Thou art Love.
Oh, send Thy Spirit, Lord, Now unto me,
That He may touch my eyes, And make me see;
Show me the truth concealed Within Thy Word,
And in Thy Book revealed I see the Lord.
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to receive them here.
PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – Help Us Accept Each Other – #127
Help us accept each other as Christ accepted us;
Teach us as sister, brother, each person to embrace.
Be present, Lord, among us and bring us to believe:
We are ourselves accepted and meant to love and live.
Teach us, O Lord, Your lessons, as in our daily life
We struggle to be human and search for hope and faith.
Teach us to care for people, for all, not just for some,
To love them as we find them, or as they may become.
Let Your acceptance change us so that we may be moved
In living situations to do the truth in love;
To practice Your acceptance until we know by heart
The table of forgiveness and laughter’s healing art.
Lord, for today’s encounters with all who are in need,
Who hunger for acceptance, for righteousness and for bread,
We need new eyes for seeing, new hands for holding on:
Renew us with Your Spirit; Lord, free us, make us one!
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Hymn of Gladness – Wolford
June 25 – United and Uniting
June 24, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! On June 25, 1957, the Congregational Christian Churches and the Evangelical and Reformed Church merged and the United Church of Christ was born! We celebrate that all people are called by God to live as united and uniting human beings. We express our love for God by devoting ourselves to living in ways leading toward, “A just world for all.”
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Prelude and Fugue on the Kyrie – Corrette
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Jo Ann Moody
One: God is the source of all that is alive!
All: God gives birth to every living thing!
One: In certain ways, we are all thirsty.
All: At times, we seek things that do not satisfy.
One: We crave earthly things.
All: But the things of this world do not take care of our thirst.
One: Jesus Christ is the Living Water.
All: Whoever drinks this water will never thirst.
*HYMN – Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above – #45
Sing praise to God who reigns above,
the God of all creation,
the God of power, the God of love,
the God of our salvation;
with healing balm my soul he fills,
and every faithless murmur stills:
o God all praise and glory.
What God’s almighty power hath made,
his gracious mercy keepeth;
by morning glow or evening shade
his watchful eye ne’er sleepeth.
Within the kingdom of his might,
lo! all is just and all is right:
to God all praise and glory
The Lord is never far away,
But through all grief distressing
An ever present help and stay
Our peace, and joy, and blessing;
As with a mother’s tender hand,
He leads His one, HIs chosen band:
To God all praise and glory.
Then all my gladsome way along
I sing aloud thy praises,
that men may hear the grateful song
my voice unwearied raises:
be joyful in the Lord, my heart!
Both soul and body bear your part!
To God all praise and glory.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jo Ann Moody
Gracious God, we find in you a love even deeper than we can imagine. From you, we receive the water that wells up to life eternal. Your grace is a miraculous, free gift that you offer to everyone. As our trust in you continues growing; help us to let go of our burdens, our worries, our fears. Bless every soul who is thirsting for you, Christ Jesus. You are the Living Water. You are the wellspring of grace. You are the One who makes us whole. Come alive within us today, we pray. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Make Me a Servant – #415
Make me a servant humble and meek;
Lord, let me lift up those who are weak.
And may the prayer of my heart always be:
Make me a servant, make me a servant,
Make me a servant today
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 67:1-7 – Jo Ann Moody
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – We’re Marching to Zion – Wolaver
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 10:24-39 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
*UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST STATEMENT OF FAITH – worship booklet, p. 5
We believe in God, the Eternal Spirit, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ and our Father, and to his deeds we testify:
He calls the worlds into being, creates man in his own image and sets before him the ways of life and death.
He seeks in holy love to save all people from aimlessness and sin.
He judges men and nations by his righteous will declared through prophets and apostles.
In Jesus Christ, the man of Nazareth, our crucified and risen Lord, he has come to us and shared our common lot, conquering sin and death and reconciling the world to himself.
He bestows upon us his Holy Spirit, creating and renewing the church of Jesus Christ, binding in covenant faithful people of all ages, tongues, and races.
He calls us into his church to accept the cost and joy of discipleship, to be his servants in the service of men, to proclaim the gospel to all the world and resist the powers of evil, to share in Christ’s baptism and eat at his table, to join him in his passion and victory.
He promises to all who trust him forgiveness of sins and fullness of grace, courage in the struggle for justice and peace, his presence in trial and rejoicing, and eternal life in his kingdom which has no end.
Blessing and honor, glory and power be unto him.
Amen.
*HYMN – Wherever He Leads I’ll Go – #543
“Take up thy cross and follow Me, ”I heard my Master say;
“I gave My life to ransom thee, Surrender your all today”
Refrain:
Wherever He leads I’ll go, Wherever He leads I’ll go,
I’ll follow my Christ who loves me so, Wherever He leads, I’ll go.
He drew me closer to His side, I sought His will to know,
And in that will, I now abide, Wherever He leads, I’ll go [Refrain]
It may be through the shadows dim, Or o’er the stormy sea,
I take my cross and follow Him, Wherever He leadeth me. [Refrain]
My heart, my life, my all I bring To Christ who loves me so;
He is my Master, Lord, and King, Wherever He leads I’ll go. [Refrain]
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Marching to Zion – Wolaver
June 18 – Freely Give!
June 17, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Happy Father’s Day to all the dads in the Ivy Capel community, and to all those who fulfill fatherly roles in our lives.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Praeambulum – Scheidemann
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Together, we rejoice in amazement! God’s love has no limit!
All: Christ sends us out as his disciples, saying, “Go to the lost.
One: You have received without payment.
All: Give without payment.”
One: Come, Holy Spirit.
All: Lift us!
One: Come, Holy Spirit.
All: Teach us.
One: Come, Holy Spirit.
All: Fill us, and use us.
One: Send us into the world to serve as ambassadors of your grace.
All: Here we are, God. Send us!
*HYMN – All Hail the Power of Jesus’ Name – #68
All hail the power of Jesus’ name!
Let angels prostrate fall.
Let angels prostrate fall.
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown him Lord of all!
Bring forth the royal diadem,
And crown him Lord of all!
Ye chosen seed of Israel’s race
Ye ransomed of the fall,
Hail him who saves you by his grace,
And crown him Lord of all!
Hail him who saves you by his grace,
And crown him Lord of all!
Let every kindred, every tribe,
On this terrestrial ball;
To Him all majesty ascribe,
And crown him Lord of all.
To Him all majesty ascribe,
And crown him Lord of all!
Oh, that with yonder sacred throng
We at his feet may fall,
We’ll join the everlasting song
And crown Him Lord of all.
We’ll join the everlasting song
And crown Him Lord of all!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Life-Giving God, here now on holy ground, we gather together to make joyful noise and to worship you! We praise you, Astonishing God, for you are among us in this place as you are with all of your children in all places. With deep gratitude, we celebrate each one of the blessings that you freely give. Transform us into your servants; send us out as ambassadors of your healing and compassion. We pray in your name, Jesus. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Awesome God – worship booklet, p. 28
Our God is an awesome God,
He reigns from heaven above
With wisdom, power and love
Our God is an awesome God!
Our God is an awesome God!
Our God is an awesome God!
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE
*HYMN – I Will Sing of the Mercies of the Lord – worship booklet, p. 56
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing I will sing
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord
With my mouth will I make known
Your faithfulness Your faithfulness
With my mouth will I make known
Your faithfulness to all generations
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord
All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praises
Forever for the things He has done.
All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praises, forever
All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praise.
Who can be compared to God in faithfulness, in faithfulness?
Who can be compared to God in faithfulness to all generations?
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 100
SPECIAL MUSIC – Just a Closer Walk with Thee – Curry
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 9:35-10:8
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love – #119
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love
We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
And together we’ll spread the news that God is in our land:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love
We will work with each other, we will work side by side.
We will work with each other, we will work side by side.
And we’ll guard each man’s dignity and save each man’s pride:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love
All praise to the Father from whom all things come,
And all praise to Christ Jesus, His only Son,
And all praise to the Spirit who makes us one:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Offertoire sur les Grands Jeux – Couperin
