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
November 2 – Blood Drive at Ivy Chapel
September 21, 2023 by Kara White
Filed under What's happening
Ivy Chapel is again hosting a Blood Drive with Impact Life on Thursday November 2, 2023 from 2- 6 pm.
Our organizer, Sue Wilson, said, “I was speaking with a friend the other day about the blood drive Ivy Chapel UCC hosts twice a year. She works in a local hospital and said that last week 1 patient required 20 units of blood and another had used 18 units of blood and would probably require more. The hospital she works at was scrambling to obtain emergency blood supplies to meet the needs of these 2 patients.”
Blood supplies are again dangerously low and we need YOUR HELP!
Schedule your appointment here , or contact event coordinator, Sue Wilson at 314-324-3765 for help setting up your appointment.
Thank you for choosing to give the gift of life!
September 17 – Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!
September 16, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
You are a vital part of this ministry. God’s Church changes lives, thanks to you. We are honored to have you with us today.
You can watch this week’s service on our YouTube channel.
WELCOME
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Call on God with praise and thanksgiving.
All: All who seek God wind up rejoicing!
One: Celebrate God’s gifts!
All: Sing of God’s goodness!
*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
Living God, you are the One who calls us together to live as one faith community. You are the Creator who makes us uniquely individual and who also designs us for companionship. Let us journey with one another this day in your presence.
Holy God, we need your strength in our weakness. Sometimes we struggle to forgive ourselves. This can lead us to be critical of others to deflect attention away from our own failures. We withhold forgiveness, mercy, and grace from others at the same time that we need forgiveness, mercy and grace for our mistakes. But you show us a more faithful way. As Christ Jesus, you are the Way. Lead us, we pray, to display your goodness in our lives – extending forgiveness to a world deeply in need of your grace for transformation. We ask this in your name, Jesus. 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.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody
*HYMN – I Will Call Upon the Lord – #101
I will call upon the Lord
Who is worthy to be praised;
So shall I be saved from my enemies.
I will call upon the Lord (Repeat)
The lord liveth and blessed be the Rock,
And let the God of my salvation be exalted.
The lord liveth and blessed be the Rock,
And let the God of my salvation be exalted. (Repeat)
GOD’S WORD – Galatians 5:22-23 & 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, 11-14, 27, 31 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC
GOD’S WORD – Micah 6:6-8 – Pastor Dan
MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – 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 everyone.
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:
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*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 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
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 16 – Good Soil
July 15, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ!
What great joy God offers all people as our Savior Jesus Christ!
WELCOME – Duo – Clerambault
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP (Based on Psalm 65:9-13)
One: God visits the earth and waters it
All: Greatly enriching the earth.
One: God waters the earth, softening it with showers,
All: And blessing the earth.
One: Along with the hills, the meadows, and the valleys,
All: Let us shout and sing together for joy!
*HYMN – The Church’s One Foundation – #115
The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ, her Lord;
She is his new creation by water and the Word.
From heav’n He came and sought her to be His holy bride;
With His own blood He bought her, and for her life He died.
Elect from ev’ry nation, yet one o’er all the earth;
Her charter of salvation: one Lord, one faith, one birth.
One holy name she blesses, partakes one holy food,
And to one hope she presses, with ev’ry grace endued.
Tho’ with a scornful wonder men see her sore oppressed,
By schisms rent asunder, by heresies distressed,
Yet saints their watch are keeping; their cry goes up, “How long?”
And soon the night of weeping shall be the morn of song.
Mid toil and tribulation and tumult of her war
She waits the consummation of peace forevermore
Till with the vision glorious her longing eyes are blest,
And the great Church victorious shall be the Church at rest.
Yet she on earth hath union with God, the Three in One
And mystic sweet communion with those whose rest is won;
O happy ones and holy! Lord, give us grace that we,
Like them, the meek and lowly, On high may dwell with Thee.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Loving God, you create life in us and all around us. Open us to receive the manifold gifts of your Holy Word — that we may be not just hearers of the word, but doers also. We have come to your sanctuary this morning. Here on holy ground we feel especially close to you, God. Fill us with your Spirit, we pray. Amen.
*RESPONSE – Thy Word – #178
Chorus:
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path.
When I feel afraid, think I’ve lost my way,
Still You’re there right beside me.
And nothing will I fear as long as You are near.
Please be near me to the end.
Chorus:
I will not forget Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering.
Jesus be my guide and hold me to your side;
And I will love You to the end.
Chorus:
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 119:105-112 & Romans 8:1-11
SPECIAL MUSIC – Interlude No. 9 – Tate
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Spirit – worship booklet, pp. 82-83
Refrain:
Spirit, Spirit of gentleness, blow through the wilderness calling and free,
Spirit, Spirit of restlessness, stir me from placidness, wind, wind on the sea.
You moved on the waters, you called to the deep,
then you coaxed up the mountains from the valleys of sleep;
and over the eons you called to each thing:
“Awake from your slumbers and rise on your wings.” Refrain
You swept through the desert, you stung with the sand,
and you goaded your people with a law and a land;
and when they were blinded with idols and lies,
then you spoke through your prophets to open their eyes. Refrain
You sang in a stable, you cried from a hill,
then you whispered in silence when the whole world was still;
and down in the city you called once again,
when you blew through your people on the rush of the wind. Refrain
You call from tomorrow, you break ancient schemes.
From the bondage of sorrow all the captives dream dreams;
our women see visions, our men clear their eyes.
With bold new decisions your people arise. Refrain
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Eternal Life Suite – Tate
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
