February 16 — Surprising Teaching

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. God loves all people. You are welcome here. All people are welcome and affirmed here.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — How Long Has It Been — Lister

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jim French
One: Rejoice, people of God!
All: We have been given this opportunity to worship God today!
One: God has gathered us here.
All: We are God’s people.
One: God joins us together as many parts of one body.
All: God shapes us into the one Body of Christ.
One: God is calling on us to bring good news to all people.
All: Let us tell everyone about the wonderful love of our Savior!

*HYMN — Live Into Hope — Ivy Worship booklet 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.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jim French
God of universal love, we gather to offer you our praises. You are fully alive throughout the world! Open our hearts to receive you, we pray. Free us to trust your call and to follow you, Blessed Savior. Fill us to overflowing with your grace, so that we offer blessing and love to all people. This means everyone everywhere! You are our refuge and our strength. Christ Jesus, your Spirit is alive within us, guiding us to join you in your ministries of mercy and compassion. Amen.

*RESPONSE — God is So Good — #616

God is so good, God is so good,
God is so good, He’s so good to me.

He cares for me, He cares for me,
He cares for me, He’s so good to me.

I’ll do His will, I’ll do His will,
I’ll do His will, He’s so good to me.

He loves me so, He loves me so,
He loves me so, He’s so good to me.

GOD’S WORD — Jeremiah 17:5-10

SPECIAL MUSIC — On Eagle’s Wings — Joncas

GOD’S WORD — Luke 6:17-26 — Rev. Karen Pepmeier

SERMON — Rev. Karen Pepmeier

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Rev. Karen Pepmeier

*HYMN — Be Not Afraid — Ivy Worship booklet pp. 30-31

You shall cross the barren desert but you shall not die of thirst.
You shall wander far in safety though you do not know the way.
You shall speak your words in foreign lands and all will understand.
You shall see the face of God and live.

Refrain
Be not afraid. I go before you always.
Come, follow me, and I will give you rest.

If you pass through raging waters in the sea, you shall not drown
If you walk amid the burning flames, you shall not be harmed.
If you stand before the pow’r of hell and death is at your side,
know that I am with you through it all.
Refrain

Blessed are your poor, for the kingdom shall be theirs.
Blest are you that weep and mourn, for one day you shall laugh.
And if wicked tongues insult and hate you all because of me,
Blessed, blessed are you!
Refrain

BENEDICTION — Rev. Karen Pepmeier

*POSTLUDE

February 9 — Into the Deep

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. God loves all people. You are welcome here. All people are welcome and affirmed here.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Voluntary — D. Wagner

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: It is a joy to give thanks to the One who loves us into being!
All: We gather this morning to worship God our Creator.
One: Through the lives of all who truly accept this amazing gift,
God’s mercy flows.
All: Thanks be to God for unconditional love!
One: May our hearts be open to receiving God’s mercy.
All: With our being, let us sing praise to God.

*HYMN — Guide Me, O Though Great Jehovah — #442

Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah,
Pilgrim through this barren land.
I am weak, but Thou art mighty;
Hold me with Thy powerful hand.
Bread of heaven, Bread of heaven
Feed me now and evermore;
Feed me now and evermore.

Open now the crystal fountain,
Whence the healing waters flow;
Let the fire and cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through.
Strong Deliverer, Strong Deliverer,
Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.
Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.

When I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside;
Death of death, and hell’s destruction,
Land me safe on Canaan’s side.
Songs of praises, Songs of praises,
I will ever give to Thee; I will ever give to Thee.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Living God, make yourself known to us this hour. If we have doubts, help us to experience your presence right along with our uncertainties. If we have questions, relieve us of the compulsion to come up with all of the answers ourselves. Show us that at times it is through the very blurriness of life that we vividly receive your mercy. When we are in pain, enable us to sense that you feel it too. Every chance we get, lead us to share joy!

Surprising God, all your ways are gracious and merciful, abounding in steadfast love! As Jesus of Nazareth, you freely offer all people mercy. Just when we feel that our strength is exhausted or our vision is clouded or our hope is gone, this may wind up being a moment when we discover you reaching out to us! Christ Jesus, we have come here to grow in our love for you; so that we may faithfully walk in your ways. 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.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE

*HYMN — I Am Bound for the Promised Land — #574

On Jordan’s stormy banks I stand,
And cast a wishful eye
To Canaan’s fair and happy land,
Where my possessions lie.

Refrain:
I am bound for the promised land,
I am bound for the promised land;
Oh, who will come and go with me?
I am bound for the promised land.

All o’er those wide extended
Plains Shines one eternal day;
There God the Son forever reigns
And scatters night away.
Refrain

No chilling winds nor pois’nous breath
Can reach that healthful shore
There God the Son for ever reigns
And scatters night away
Refrain

GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 6:1-8

SPECIAL MUSIC — Alleluia — Sinclair/Bock

GOD’S WORD — Luke 5:1-11 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*HYMN — Here I Am, Lord — Ivy worship booklet, p. 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 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 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Musette — Young

January 26 – One in Christ and a Farewell

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Praise God!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Supplication — Hebble

*CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP — John Weiland
One: We gather to worship God.
All: We are God’s people.
One: God anoints us to bring good news to all people.
All: The Spirit of God is upon us.
One: God draws us together as many parts of one body.
All: Together, we become the Body of Christ.
One: This day is holy to our Resurrecting God!
All: The joy of God is our strength!

*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

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — John Weiland
O God, our Creator; you bring separate lives together. You gather us to hear your Word and to respond. You bless us by inviting us to carry out your ministries. We seek your guidance and your wisdom. Above all, God, we seek you. Help us to perceive who you reveal yourself to be. Guide us. With your help, we aspire to become your faithful disciples. Transform us from lone individuals into one community, the Body of Christ.
Merciful God, your Spirit is upon us. Your joy is our strength. Draw us together. We pray in your name, Jesus. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — Shout to the Lord — worship booklet, pp. 80-81

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

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

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

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

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — Jo Ann Moody

*HYMN — Give Thanks, with a Grateful Heart — worship booklet, p. 42

Give thanks with a grateful heart,
Give thanks to the Holy One,
Give thanks because He’s given
Jesus Christ His Son.

Give thanks with a grateful heart,
Give thanks to the Holy One,
Give thanks because He’s given
Jesus Christ His Son.

And now let the weak say “I am strong”
Let the poor say “I am rich”
Because of what the Lord has done for us.

And now let the weak say “I am strong”
Let the poor say “I am rich”
Because of what the Lord has done for us.
Give thanks, give thanks.

GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 61:1-4, 9-11 — John Weiland

SPECIAL MUSIC — Since Jesus Came Into My Heart — Hamilton

GOD’S WORD — Luke 4:1-2a,14-21 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE PRAYER OF JESUS — Pastor Dan

SERVICE OF FAREWELL

LITURGY FOR A TIME OF TRANSITION
Leader:
On Sunday, October 11, 1998, Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ called the Rev. Dan Wilson to serve as ordained pastor. That time has ended, and Pastor Dan now leaves knowing that the God who was with him in the past goes with him into the future wherever the future leads.

WORDS OF GRATITUDE AND FORGIVENESS
Pastor Dan Wilson:
I thank you all for the love, kindness, and support that you have shown me during our many years together. I ask your forgiveness for the mistakes that I have made. I am grateful for the ways my leadership has been accepted. As I leave, I carry with me all that I have learned here.

People (Ivy Chapel UCC Congregation):
We receive your thankfulness, offer forgiveness, and accept that you now leave to serve God in new ways. We express our gratitude for your time among us. We ask your forgiveness for our mistakes. Your influence on our faith and faithfulness will not leave us at your departure.

Pastor Dan Wilson:
I forgive you and accept your gratitude, trusting that our time together and our parting are pleasing to God.

VOWS OF RELEASE
Leader:
Do you, the members and friends of Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ, release Pastor Dan Wilson from his duties as your spiritual leader?

People (Ivy Chapel UCC Congregation):
We do, with the help of God.

Leader:
Do you offer your encouragement for his ministry as it unfolds in new ways?

People (Ivy Chapel UCC Congregation):
We do, with the help of God.

Leader:
Do you, Pastor Dan Wilson, release this community from turning to you and depending on you?
Pastor Dan Wilson:
I do, with the help of God.

Leader:
Do you offer your encouragement for the continued ministry here and for the congregation’s relationship with a new minister who will come to serve?

Pastor Dan Wilson:
I do, with the help of God.

PRAYER OF BLESSING
Leader:
Let us all pray together.
All:
Gracious God, whose everlasting love for all is trustworthy, help each of us to trust the future which rests in Your care. In the time we were together, You saw our laughter and tears, our hopes and disappointments. Guide us as we hold these cherished memories and move in new directions, trusting that You are with us on every path. We have experienced Your blessing on our ministry together, Faithful God. We ask that You continue to bless the ministries of Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ and of Pastor Dan Wilson. We pray this in Your name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*HYMN — Sing Praise and Hallelujah! — worship booklet, p. 77

Sing praise and hallelujah! To God who reigns supreme.
Creator of this planet And all we see or dream.
Today we raise our voices In thanks for days and years.
God’s love and truth have led us Through all our joys and tears.

Sing praise and Hallelujah! For present friends and past,
For children’s voices singing, For faith and hope that lasts,
For sacraments and sermons Through which we’ve known God’s Word,
For kindly thoughts and actions We, here, have seen and heard.

Sing praise and hallelujah! Long may our witness thrive,
For God still calls to service And keeps our faith alive.
The future lies before us With mission to increase.
All ages join the chorus Proclaiming joy and peace.

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Baroque Trumpet — Young

December 24 — Christmas Eve

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Tonight’s offering gifts will be given to the U.C.C. Christmas Fund. Peace on earth. Goodwill to all. Christ the Savior is born!

Our apologies, due to technical difficulties, we do not have a livestream of our Christmas Eve 2024 worship.

PRELUDE — Still, Still, Still — Paxton

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Rejoice this night!
All: God above has come to earth!
One: Jesus has come to bring light and life to all people.
All: Glory to God in the highest!
One: Peace on earth.
All: Christ is born.

*HYMN — It Came Upon the Midnight Clear — #199

It came upon the midnight clear,
That glorious song of old,
From angels bending near the earth
To touch their harps of gold:
“Peace on the earth, good will to men,
From heaven’s all-gracious King.”
The world in solemn stillness lay,
To hear the angels sing.

Still through the cloven skies they come
With peaceful wings unfurled,
And still their heavenly music floats
O’er all the weary world;
Above its sad and lowly plains,
They bend on hovering wing,
And ever o’er its Babel sounds
The blessed angels sing.

And ye, beneath life’s crushing load,
Whose forms are bending low,
Who toil along the climbing way
With painful steps and slow,
Look now! for glad and golden hours
Come swiftly on the wing.
O rest beside the weary road,
And hear the angels sing!

For lo! the days are hastening on,
By prophet seen of old,
When with the ever-circling years
Shall come the time foretold
When the new heav’n and earth shall own
The Prince of Peace their King.
And the whole world send back the song
Which now the angels sing.

LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLES AND THE CHRIST CANDLE

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING FOR THE BIRTH OF CHRIST
God Emmanuel, you are our Creator and the One who brings all creation into being! Your light overcomes darkness. As a candle provides light, you offer light to all people. You are the Savior of all the world!
O Holy One, wash over us during this time of worship. We believe in your power for transformation, and we ask you to guide us along the way toward new life in you. Renew us as we lift our voices and our souls in praise and in remembrance of you, Jesus.
Cleanse us that we may faithfully reflect your image as you draw us nearer and nearer to you. Be born in us today, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — O Little Town of Bethlehem — #200

O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep The silent stars go by
Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting Light;
The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in thee tonight.

For Christ is born of Mary, And gathered all above,
While mortals sleep, the angels keep Their watch of wondering love,
O morning stars together Proclaim thy holy birth!
And praises sing to God the King, And peace to men on earth

How silently, how silently, The wondrous gift is giv’n!
So God imparts to human hearts The blessings of HIs heav’n.
No ear may hear His coming, But in this world of sin,
Where meek souls will receive Him still The dear Christ enters in.

O holy Child of Bethlehem! Descend to us, we pray;
Cast out our sin, and enter in; Be born in us today.
We hear the Christmas angels Teh great glad tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Emmanuel.

CHRISTMAS PRAYER
O God, so tender and mild; two thousand years ago, you displayed the full extent of your love for all people by coming to life as a human being – Jesus, our brother, kind and good. This night, O God, we ask that you revive within us your image – your holiness.
Our Lord Emmanuel, you are full of surprises! While the world tempts us to focus on flashiness, you are constantly appearing in out-of-the-way places among ordinary people.Earthly life can be loud and hectic. Yet, above this world’s noise, the songs of your angels still resound. Above this world’s frenzy, the night sky remains tranquil. Your stars serenely shine.
Just as you calmed the stormy Sea of Galilee, you are the One who calms any and all turmoil in our lives. God Emmanuel, help us not to be afraid. Tonight, may all your children live without fear and receive your great joy: Christ is born! Amen.

A vision of God

Keeping watch

Sight unseen

Eyestrain

A thrill of hope

Forevermore

SPECIAL MUSIC — O Holy Night (Valerie Waterman, Soloist) — arr. Strickling

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive are welcome to receive the bread and the cup at Christ’s Table. Cups in the outer ring on the communion tray contain grape juice. Other cups contain wine.

The Breaking of the Bread and the Pouring of the Cup

The Sharing of the Bread and the Cup

*The Prayer of Thanksgiving (in unison)
God Emmanuel, you are the One whom our very souls adore. Thank you, Christ Jesus, for bringing us together tonight to celebrate your birth. You became a human being to connect with us, and we marvel at your creativity!
Jesus, we are grateful to you for welcoming us as guests at your table. Each time we accept your invitation, we are blessed. Receiving the bread and the cup from you fills us with renewed hope.
Christ Jesus, may we devote ourselves to you by freely and joyously sharing with all people the extravagant grace which we receive from you. Amen.

*SHARING THE LIGHT OF CHRIST

*HYMN — Silent Night — #189

Silent night, holy night!
All is calm, all is bright
‘Round yon virgin mother and child.
Holy Infant, so tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night, holy night!
Shepherds quake at the sight.
Glories stream from heaven afar,
Heav’nly hosts sing, Alleluia!
Christ, the Savior, is born!
Christ, the Savior, is born!

Silent night, holy night!
Son of God, love’s pure light
Radiant beams from thy holy face
With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord, at thy birth,
Jesus, Lord, at thy birth.

Merry Christmas from Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ!

November 24 — A Wise Reign

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. Let us faithfully follow Christ so that all people may receive from God’s overflowing cup and discover the fullness of joy Christ brings. A Blessed Thanksgiving to all!

WELCOME

PRELUDE —Sarabande — Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Pat Winship
One: In the midst of difficulty, God sets a table of rejoicing for us.
All: Though the world seems focused on turmoil, yet we will praise God!
One: We are called to live as witnesses to God’s goodness and power.
All: Our hearts are created to offer compassion to all people.
One: May we live as God’s servants and witnesses in the world.
All: Let us be faithful and strong for God.

*HYMN — Let All Things Now Living — worship booklet, pp. 60-61

Let all things now living a song of thanksgiving
To God the creator triumphantly raise.
Who fashioned and made us, protected and stayed us,
Who still guides us on to the end of our days.
God’ banners are o’er us, His light goes before us,
A pillar of fire shining forth in the night.
Till shadows have vanished and darkness is banished
As forward we travel from light into light.

His law he enforces, the stars in their courses
And sun in its orbit obediently shine;
The hills and the mountains, the rivers and fountains,
The deeps of the ocean proclaim him divine.
We too should be voicing our love and rejoicing;
With glad adoration a song let us raise
Till all things now living unite in thanksgiving:
“To God in the highest, Hosanna and praise!”

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Pat Winship
Holy God, your boundless grace humbles us. Your attentive, loving care takes our breath away. The winds blow, the waters flow, and the sun shines. All creation declares your majesty, Astonishing God! In you, we live and move and have our being. May your eternal love be made known through our words and our actions. In the countryside and on city streets, you reign supreme. From deepest valleys and from highest heights, forever will we proclaim your goodness.
This morning, Ever-Alive God, we come to you in thanksgiving for your gift of a phenomenal homeland—a land whose harvest feeds us and has the potential for feeding all the world. We come to you in thanksgiving for your gift of faith — a faith dearly experienced here in this sacred place. Above all, we come to you in thanksgiving for the gift of your abundant love, Christ Jesus. We rejoice that you are with us as we worship 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.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 93 — Pat Winship

SPECIAL MUSIC — O God Beyond All Praising — Tate

GOD’S WORD — Revelation 1:4b-8 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*STATEMENT OF FAITH — UCC Statement of Faith — worship booklet, p. 4

*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!

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — The Heavens Declare — Marcello

November 10th-Risk and Retribution

 PRELUDE   Chorale Prelude Nun Bitten Wir  – Buxtehude

*CALL TO WORSHIP  — Sue Wilson
 One:  Come, all who are anxious or exhausted. 
All:  Come, all who are encouraged or discouraged
One:  God welcomes you.
All:  This is the house of God
One:  God is here to greet you and to love you.
All:  This is holy ground.
One:  The Spirit of Christ brings people together.
All:  The Spirit of Christ gathers us.

*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.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION   —   Sue Wilson    
Christ our Savior; out of pure love you set people free.  We worship you because of who you are.
God, you give fully.  To all the world, you give of yourself   –   Living Word,   Living Bread,   Living Water,   Living Spirit.   We long to give of ourselves as completely as you do, Christ Jesus.  We are here now to learn of you, so that we may grow in faithfulness.  Today, with humility and gratitude, we come to give you all that we have.
  Living Savior, breathe on us, we pray.  Take our lives and continue shaping us into the human beings you would like us to be.  Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE     Jesus, Jesus, Lord to Me #330
Jesus, Jesus, Lord to me;
Master, Savior, Prince of Peace;
Ruler of my heart today;
Jesus, Lord to me.

GOD’S WORD    Psalm 146 — Sue Wilson  

SPECIAL MUSIC   Deep River – Wolaver 

GOD’S WORD   Ruth 3:1-5 and 4:13-17  — Pastor Dan  

SERMON      Pastor Dan    

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE      Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Prayer of Jesus (debts… debtors)

*HYMN       I Surrender All  #408
All to Jesus I surrender, 
All to Him I freely give;
I will ever love and trust Him, 
In His presence daily live.

Refrain:
I surrender all, I surrender all;
All to Thee, my blessed Savior,
I surrender all.

All to Jesus I surrender, 
Humbly at His feet I bow,
Worldly pleasures all forsaken,
Take me, Jesus, take me now. Refrain

All to Jesus I surrender,
Make me, Savior, wholly Thine;
May Thy Holy Spirit fill me,
May I now Thy pow’r divine. Refrain

All to Jesus I surrender,
Lord, I give myself to Thee;
Fill me with Thy love and power,
Let Thy blessing fall on me. Refrain

*BENEDICTION    Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE   Prelude in A Minor – Marcello

October 27 — Take Heart

We invite all God’s people to gather with us today, and to find the guidance we need in the world.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Legend — Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jo Ann Moody
One: Sing out together! Sing for joy!
All: God is gathering God’s people.
One: From the farthest parts of the earth, we come.
All: All who are struggling, God will help.
One: All who are grieving, God will console.
All: All who are lost, God will guide.
One: Let us worship the God who gathers us!

*HYMN — 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

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jo Ann Moody
God of perpetual renewal; we give you thanks today for gathering us here as your Church and for gracing us with your faithful presence. This morning, we celebrate our history – ancient and still developing; and we marvel at the rich, diverse dimensions of your Church.
God of steadfast love and mercy; grant us the faith to be part of a living, ever-new ‘reformation’ within your Church, serving as a breath of fresh air in the world.
God of newness; we rejoice that you are shaping all that is alive into your masterpiece! Continue guiding your whole creation toward your vision that all may be one in you, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Change My Heart, O God — worship booklet, p. 33

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

You are the potter, I am the clay,
Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 34:1-8 — Jo Ann Moody

SPECIAL MUSIC — El Shaddai — Hayes

GOD’S WORD — Mark 10:46-52 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — He Keeps Me Singing As I Go — #359

There’s within my heart a melody;
Jesus whispers sweet and low,
“Fear not, I am with you, peace, be still,”
In all of life’s ebb and flow.

Refrain:
Jesus, Jesus, Jesus,
Sweetest name I know,
Fills my every longing,
Keeps me singing as I go.

All my life was wrecked by sin and strife,
Discord filled my heart with pain,
Jesus swept across the broken strings,
Stirred the slumbering chords again. [Refrain]

Feasting on the riches of His grace,
Resting ‘neath His sheltering wing,
Always looking on His smiling face,
That is why I shout and sing. [Refrain]

Though sometimes He leads through waters deep,
Trials fall across the way;
Though sometimes the path seems rough and steep,
See His footprints all the way. [Refrain]

Soon He’s coming back to welcome me
Far beyond the starry sky;
I shall wing my flight to worlds unknown,
I shall reign with Him on high.

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Ricercare on “St. Anne” — Young

October 13 -‘Imagine Together!’

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
Alongside of each other, we continue going ahead on this amazing expedition “Imagine Together!”

WELCOME

PRELUDE    Prelude on “Rhosymedre”   – Wolford  

*CALL TO WORSHIP                                                                    
One:  Incline your ear to God! 
All:  We hope to hear good news. 
One:  Listen, so that you may live!
All:  We hope to have enough to share. 
One:  Imagine together!
All:  We imagine enough at every table. 

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    
God of inspiration and grace; sometimes we feel like we are spinning our wheels. Sometimes we feel like we are caught in short-term ups and downs.   At moments, we lose sight of your bigger picture, Dear God.  Remind us that you have always known us and that you know where we are right now.
Holy One, you bring healing to our lives where injuries have hardened our hearts.  You welcome us into community just when we are in danger of feeling isolated and alone. You provide patience and persistence, especially when change takes longer than we have imagined.
Faithful God, comfort us with rest and bless us with renewal this day, while you are giving us sacred glimpses of your amazing Realm to come.  Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — The Gift of Love  #126
Though I may speak with bravest fire,
And have the gift to all inspire,
And have not love, my words are vain,
As sounding brass, and hopeless gain

Though I may give all I possess,
And striving so my love profess,
But not be given by love within,
The profit soon turns strangely thin.

Come, Spirit, come, our hearts control,
Our spirits long to be made whole.
Let inward love guide every deed;
By this we worship, and are freed.

GOD’S WORD –  Isaiah 58:6-14 & Philippians 2:1-5

SPECIAL MUSIC    Thy Word  – Hayes

GOD’S WORD — Matthew 25:31-40 

MESSAGE     Jo Ann Moody                                                                 

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

HYMN   Give of Your Best to the Master   #422
Give of your best to the Master;
Give of the strength of your youth;
Throw your soul’s fresh, glowing ardor
Into the battle for truth.
Jesus has set the example,
Dauntless was He, young and brave;
Give Him your loyal devotion;
Give Him the best that you have.

Refrain:
Give of your best to the Master;
Give of the strength of your youth;
Clad in salvation’s full armor,
Join in the battle for truth.

Give of your best to the Master;
Give Him first place in your heart;
Give Him first place in your service;
Consecrate every part.
Give, and to you will be given;
God His beloved Son gave;
Gratefully seeking to serve Him,
Give Him the best that you have.

Give of your best to the Master;
Naught else is worthy His love;
He gave Himself for your ransom,
Gave up His glory above.
Laid down His life without murmur,
You from sin’s ruin to save;
Give Him your heart’s adoration,
Give Him the best that you have.

BENEDICTION    Pastor Dan      

POSTLUDE    Carillon    – Wolford

September 29 – ‘Imagine Together!’

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.

A heart-felt welcome to our guest witnessing steward, the Rev. Doni Driemeier-Showers. We are blessed that Doni is offering a personal faith message during worship today as our congregation sets out together on our autumn stewardship pilgrimage.

Everyone is invited to Fellowship Hall following worship for a special reception in celebration of and in thanksgiving for the ministry of our worship musician Bob Meinz.
Thank you so much, Bob, for your good-natured, extended service providing worship leadership among us!

WELCOME

PRELUDE –  Lord, I Want to Be a Christian   — arr. John Carter                  

*CALL TO WORSHIP  (Psalm 146, UCC Worship Ways adapted)    –  John Weiland 
One-Blessed are those whose hope is in God, the Maker of heaven and earth –
 ALL-for God keeps faith forever!
One-God executes justice for the oppressed and gives food for the hungry.
 ALL-God sets the prisoners free and opens the eyes of the blind!
One-God lifts up those who are bowed down.
ALL-God watches over the strangers and upholds the orphan and the widow.  
One-People of God, sing praises to the One who is your help –
 ALL-for God keeps faith forever!

*HYMN- Come, Christians, Join to Sing  #70

Come, Christians, join to sing Alleluia! Amen!
Loud praise to Christ our King; Alleluia! Amen!
Let all, with heart and voice, Before his throne rejoice;
Praise is His gracious choice: Alleluia! Amen!

Come, lift your hearts on high, Alleluia! Amen!
Let praises fill the sky; Alleluia! Amen!
He is our Guide and Friend, To us He’ll condescend;
His love shall never end: Alleluia! Amen!

Praise yet our Christ again; Alleluia! Amen!
Life shall not end the strain; Alleluia! Amen!
On heaven’s blissful shore, His goodness we’ll adore,
Singing forevermore, “Alleluia! Amen!”

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – John Weiland  

 God Eternal, you have gathered us together. We are here to praise you! As recipients of your blessings, we are inspired by you to become givers!  May we lavish your grace and your compassion on all people.  
 Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on us. During this time of worship, teach us your ways, Christ Jesus. Lead us to continue learning and growing in faithfulness to you. We pray in your holy name, Jesus.  Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – To Be God’s People #121

Almighty Father give us a vision
of a dying world that needs Your love and care.
We see the need, the yearning for a Savior,
In Jesus’ name, grant this our prayer.

Refrain:
To be God’s people in this place,
live His goodness, share His grace,
Proclaim God’s mercy through His Son
be His love, to every one.  

And when we falter, be Thou our comfort. 
Guide us as Your children that our lives may be
A beacon in this darkness that surrounds us,
A light that others then may see.

Refrain:

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 13 – John Weiland

PRAYER OF CONFESSION AND TRANSFORMATION    Pastor Dan

We confess, O God, that the burdens which weigh us down also narrow our vision.  Fear of scarcity makes us focus on our own survival.  We regard strangers with suspicion, and we find it difficult to share.  We speak words that we regret, and we keep silent when we need to speak. Weariness and discouragement sap our energy and our faith.
We wonder how there could be good news that is not of our own making.   We, whom you call to be an Easter people, are in need of resurrection.  Amen.

 WORDS OF GOD’S LOVE AND ASSURANCE    Pastor Dan
In the person of Jesus,
God invites us to discover the freedom and new life that God offers:
God’s forgiveness heals us.
God’s grace dispels our weariness and discouragement.
God’s love clears our vision.
God’s compassion lifts our burdens. 
Thanks be to God!  Amen.

SPECIAL MUSIC – As the Deer  

GOD’S WORD  – John 11

SERMON – Rev. Driemeier-Showers                   

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH –  Rev. Driemeier-Showers            
Pastoral Prayer concluding with the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

*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 –  Rev. Driemeier-Showers

*POSTLUDE – Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee  — arr. Matt Limbaugh

Fall BBQ Sept 28th, 2024

Ivy’s Annual BBQ fundraiser on Saturday afternoon, Sept. 28th 4:30-7pm.
Stop by to get a full meal without having to cook yourself-what a deal!
Meals are:
$10 for adult meals (Choose 1 main, 2 sides, 1 dessert)
$5 for kid meals (Comes with a hot dog & chips and choice of 1 dessert)
Find out about the meal details here.
Click here to purchase tickets.

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