Oct 8-Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!
October 8, 2023 by Kara White
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
![](https://www.ivychapel.org/ivy/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/misty-mount2.jpg)
Please join us here on Youtube.
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ We welcome a dear friend and sibling in Christ, Rev. Mary Albert, as our guest faith witness this morning! Thank you, Mary, for offering your personal words of testimony in worship among us today. Christ is leading this journey toward higher ground: Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives! WELCOME PRELUDE -- Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us *CALL TO WORSHIP -- Jo Ann Moody One: Look, do you see that? All: Jesus is in the midst of the people! One: Listen, do you hear that? All: Jesus is calling our names! One: Come, all who are lost and searching. Come, all who are sick and tired. Come, all who are afraid and alone. Come, all who are ready for a change. All: The Holy One is here to heal and set us free! One: Let us worship God who gives us new life! *HYMN -- Standing on the Promises -- #181 Standing on the promises of Christ, my King, Through eternal ages let his praises ring; Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing, Standing on the promises of God. Refrain: Standing, standing, Standing on the promises of God, my Savior; Standing, standing, I'm standing on the promises of God. Standing on the promises that cannot fail. When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail, By the living Word of God I shall prevail, Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain] Standing on the promises of Christ, the Lord, Bound to him eternally by love's strong cord, Overcoming daily with the Spirit's sword, Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain] Standing on the promises I cannot fall, List'ning ev'ry moment to the Spirit's call, Resting in my Savior as my all in all, Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain] *PRAYER OF INVOCATION -- Jo Ann Moody O God, we come to worship today hoping for a sign, a glimpse of your presence, or a nudge in the right direction. Meet us today where we are. In our places of pain, meet us with comfort and healing. In our apathy and resignation, meet us with hope and conviction. And where we are stuck, open our eyes to see the path to new life. This we pray, trusting in your presence and your power. Amen. *PRAISE RESPONSE --I Will Sing of the Mercies -- worship booklet, p. 56 I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever I will sing I will sing I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever I will sing of the mercies of the Lord With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness Your faithfulness With my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever I will sing of the mercies of the Lord All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praises Forever for the things He has done. All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praises, forever All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praise. Who can be compared to God in faithfulness, in faithfulness? Who can be compared to God in faithfulness to all generations? I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever I will sing of the mercies of the Lord GOD’S WORD -- Psalm 8 -- Jo Ann Moody PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER-- Pastor Dan SPECIAL MUSIC -He Leadeth Me GOD’S WORD -- Luke 19:1-10 -- Rev. Mary Albert SERMON -- “My Journey to ‘Yes’!” -- Rev. Mary Albert *HYMN -- Higher Ground -- #448 I’m pressing on the upward way, New heights I’m gaining ev'ry day; Still praying as I’m onward bound, “Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.” Refrain: Lord, lift me up, and let me stand By faith, on heaven’s tableland; A higher plane than I have found, Lord, plant my feet on higher ground. My heart has no desire to stay Where doubts arise and fears dismay; Though some may dwell where these abound, My prayer, my aim, is higher ground. [Refrain] I want to live above the world, Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled; For faith has caught a joyful sound, The song of saints on higher ground. [Refrain] I want to scale the utmost height, And catch a gleam of glory bright; But still I’ll pray till heav’n I’ve found, “Lord, lead me on to higher ground.” [Refrain] *BENEDICTION -- Rev. Mary Albert *POSTLUDE -- Every Time I Feel the Spirit CCLI License #456361
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
July 30 — Weaving the Future
July 30, 2023 by Kara White
Filed under Livestream Links and Order for Worship
![](https://www.ivychapel.org/ivy/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/weaving-the-future-web-pic.jpg)
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!
![](https://www.ivychapel.org/ivy/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/wheat-and-weeds.jpg)
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
Holy Week 2023 at Ivy Chapel
March 31, 2023 by Rich
Filed under What's happening
The final days of our walk toward Easter are upon us. We hope you’ll take a moment this week to pause, reflect and join us for special Holy Week worship services.
Sunday, April at 10 a.m.
Palm Sunday
Online and in-person worship
Friday, April 7 at 1 p.m.
Good Friday
Online and in-person worship
Sunday, April 9 at 10 a.m.
Easter
Children’s message during worship
Coffee fellowship after worship
All are welcome to join us as we complete our Lenten journeys. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us.
February 19 – Changing before their very eyes
February 18, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Let us open our hearts; let us allow Christ Jesus to take the lead; and let us follow.
Join us for worship anytime. A link to today’s live worship will appear here once service begins, at 10 a.m. Sunday.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Prelude on the First Tone – Jullien
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: It is a blessing to gather together in God’s house of prayer.
All: In a moment,
One: In the twinkling of an eye,
All: We will all be changed.
One: Through saints and sinners alike,
All: God’s mercy flows.
One: Through all who receive Christ,
All: God’s mercy flows. Let us praise God!
*HYMN – Praise Him! Praise Him! – #73
Praise him, praise him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
Sing, O earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Hail Him, hail Him! Highest archangels in glory!
Strength and honor give to His holy name!
Like a shepherd, Jesus will guard His children.
In His arms He carries them all day long.
Refrain:
Praise Him! Praise Him! tell of His excellent greatness.
Praise Him! Praise Him! ever in joyful song.
Praise Him, praise Him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
For our sins, He suffered, and bled, and died.
He our rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail Him, Hail Him! Jesus, the crucified.
Sound His praises, Jesus who bore our sorrows,
Love unbounded, wonderful, deep, and strong. [Refrain]
Praise Him, praise Him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
Heav’nly portals loud with hosannas ring!
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever!
Crown Him, crown Him! Prophet, and Priest, and King!
Christ is coming, over the world victorious.
Pow’r and glory unto the Lord belong. [Refrain]
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of all time and space; compared to the rest of your creation, Earth is quite small. Yet you lavish great energy and love on this planet we call home. With differing gifts, with a wide array of abilities and resources; we come to worship you. We are here to be made one in you, Christ Jesus. Bless our differences, so that the unique gifts, strengths and perspectives of each one may contribute to the splendor of your creation, Almighty God! Drawn together by your Spirit, we offer you our praises. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Holy Ground – #83
We are standing on holy ground,
And I know that there are angels all around;
Let us praise Jesus now
We are standing in His presence on holy ground.
GOD’S WORD – Exodus 24:12-18
SPECIAL MUSIC – Get All Excited – Gaither/Bock
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 17:1-9
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER –Pastor Dan
*HYMN – We Will Glorify – #35
We will glorify the King of kings
We will glorify the Lamb
We will glorify the Lord of lords
Who is the great I Am
Lord Jehovah reigns in majesty
We will bow before His throne
We will worship Him in righteousness
We will worship Him alone
He is Lord of heaven Lord of earth
He is Lord of all who live
He is Lord above the universe
All praise to Him we give
Hallelujah to the King of kings
Hallelujah to the Lamb
Hallelujah to the Lord of lords
Who is the great I Am
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Prelude, F – J. S. Bach
January 22 – Called together
January 21, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Today, we are called to come home, together. We welcome you to this house, and hope you find the peace you need in your life, and may you become the peace we need in this world.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Intonation, Versets, and Finale – Carissimi
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: As Jesus of Nazareth, God teaches people many things.
All: One thing Jesus wants the world to learn is that God is wiser than human wisdom.
One: Jesus teaches us of our need for God.
All: We discover that God fills people with emotion.
One: God enables us to share in another person’s joy!
All: God also moves us to share in another’s sorrow.
One: God helps us to see others through God’s eyes.
All: God helps us to ‘see God’ in everyone.
One: God teaches us to hunger for God’s justice for all.
All: Christ Jesus proclaims, “God’s truth sets all people free.”
*HYMN – Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling – #389
Softly and tenderly, Jesus is calling,
Calling for you and for me;
See, on the portals He’s waiting and watching,
Watching for you and for me.
Refrain:
Come home, come home,
You who are weary, come home;
Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling,
Calling, O sinner, come home!
Why should we tarry when Jesus is pleading,
Pleading for you and for me?
Why should we linger and heed not His mercies,
Mercies for you and for me?
Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing,
Passing from you and from me;
Shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming,
Coming for you and for me.
Oh, for the wonderful love He has promised,
Promised for you and for me!
Though we have sinned, He has mercy and pardon,
Pardon for you and for me.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Gracious Giver of Light, into the shadows of our isolation you speak words of life and community.
Challenger of Souls, you call us to venture beyond the familiar, safe places which we think of as home, and you boldly lead us out into the big, wide world you love so much.
Through your gentle, healing touch; you redeem broken places in our lives,
and you heal the wounds of all the earth.
Healing Spirit, breathe new life into us during this time of worship.
Led by your Word, may we live as ambassadors of your reconciling love.
We praise you for calling us to ‘come home’ to you. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – We Have Come into His House (Verses 1 and 2) – #36
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him,
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him;
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him;
O, worship HIm, Jesus Christ, the Lord.
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him,
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him;
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him;
O, worship HIm, Jesus Christ, the Lord.
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 27:1, 4-9, 13-14 and Isaiah 9:1-2
SPECIAL MUSIC – We Are His People – Cotter
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 4:12-23
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Called as Partners in Christ’s Service – worship book, p. 32
Called as partners in Christ’s service
Called to ministries of grace
We respond with deep commitment
Fresh new lines of faith to trace
May we learn the art of sharing
Side by side and friend with friend
Equal partners in our caring
To fulfil God’s chosen end
Christ’s example Christ’s inspiring
Christ’s clear call to work and worth
Let us follow never faltering
Reconciling folk on earth
Men and women richer poorer
All God’s people young and old
Blending human skills together
Gracious gifts from God unfold
Thus new patterns for Christ’s mission
In a small or global sense
Help us bear each other’s burdens
Breaking down each wall or fence
Words of comfort words of vision
Words of challenge said with care
Bring new power and strength for action
Make us colleagues free and fair
So God grant us for tomorrow
Ways to order human life
That surround each person’s sorrow
With a calm that conquers strife
Make us partners in our living
Our compassion to increase
Messengers of faith thus giving
Hope and confidence and peace
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Praeludium – Van Den Gheyn
January 18 – Second Sunday after Epiphany
January 14, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. We are happy to have you worshipping with us today, whether you are here in our beautiful sanctuary or online.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Couplet du Kyrie – Couperin
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Have you heard the news?
All: God is calling us to be God’s servants!
One: Let’s each give this a try.
All: Let’s really apply ourselves to living this way;
and let’s serve God!
*HYMN – Great Is Thy Faithfulness – #17
Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father
There is no shadow of turning with Thee
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.
Refrain:
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!
Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth,
Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Faithful God, we are grateful, for we always can rely on you to care. In all situations, you bless us with your love and compassion.
This day, people throughout the world are holding their breath, waiting for someone to respond to their cries. This very moment, people are living through all sorts of difficult situations.
Merciful, Loving God, each time that you call on us, we are challenged to do more, to forgive more, to love more completely than we have so far. But what about when we fear that we have used up all that we have? It can feel as though we have nothing left to give. At such times, will you renew us? Will you help us make sense out of our efforts, even out of our failures?
Come now, Christ Jesus. Come in today. Come in to stay. Lead us to live as your children whole-heartedly serving you. Amen.
*RESPONSE – Into My Heart – #391
Into my heart, into my heart,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus;
Come in today, come in to stay,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus.
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 40:1-11
SPECIAL MUSIC – In the Garden – Wolaver
GOD’S WORD – John 1:29-42
SERMON – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Lamb of God – worship booklet, p. 59
Your only Son, no sin to hide,
But you have sent him from your side,
To walk upon this guilty sod,
And to become the lamb of God
Refrain:
O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God,
I love the holy Lamb of God!
O wash me in his precious blood
My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.
Your gift of love, the crucified,
They laughed and scorned him as He died,
The humble King they named a fraud
And sacrificed the Lamb of God (Refrain)
I was so lost, I should have died,
But You have brought me to your side,
To be led by your staff and rod,
And to be called a Lamb of God (Refrain)
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Jesus, I Come – #369
Out of my bondage, sorrow and night,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into thy freedom, gladness, and light,
Jesus, I come to thee.
Out of my sickness into Thy health,
Out of my want and into Thy wealth,
Out of my sin and into Thyself,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of my shameful failure and loss,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the glorious gain of Thy cross,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of earth’s sorrows into Thy balm,
Out of life’s storms and into Thy calm,
Out of distress to jubilant psalm,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of unrest and arrogant pride,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into Thy blessed will to abide,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of my self to dwell in Thy love,
Out of despair into raptures above,
Upward for aye on wings like a dove,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of the fear and dread of the tomb,
Jesus, I come, Jesus, I come;
Into the joy and light of Thy home,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
Out of the depths of ruin untold,
Into the peace of Thy sheltering fold,
Ever Thy glorious face to behold,
Jesus, I come to Thee.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Paean – Young
January 8 – Possibilities
January 7, 2023 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Happy New Year from Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! We are thrilled to have you with us, and hope you will join us in person. Our sanctuary is open and we are ready to welcome families to worship with us. Reach out if you have any questions.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head – Martin
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: How majestic is God’s name in all the earth!
All: Be glad, and celebrate!
One: Come; hear God’s Word for our day.
All: God’s Word is truth.
One: Let the truth set you free.
All: God’s word offers strength.
One: The Messiah that God promised is here!
All: Come and behold him; born the king of angels.
*HYMN – We Three Kings of Orient Are – #220
We three kings of Orient are;
Bearing gifts we traverse afar,
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.
Refrain:
O star of wonder, star of night,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy perfect light.
Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain,
Gold I bring to crown Him again,
King forever, ceasing never,
Over us all to reign. [Refrain]
Frankincense to offer have I;
Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, all men raising,
Worship Him, God on high. [Refrain]
Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume
Breathes a life of gathering gloom;
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,
Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. [Refrain]
Glorious now behold Him arise;
King and God and sacrifice:
Alleluia, Alleluia,
Peals through the earth and skies. [Refrain]
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Everlasting God; you come to life in this world as holy light, desiring to be known by humankind. During the year ahead, open our eyes and our ears and our hearts to recognize you living among us. Day by day, you are creating and leading us along the way to fullness of life. You came to earth through human childbirth. You did not send someone else. You came yourself! You were born as a little baby who grew up in a small town. We are grateful that you often come in quietly reassuring ways that do not call attention to yourself. We praise you for your abundant love, Jesus. Thank you for teaching us to live as disciples of your grace. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – The First Noel (Verse 1) – #205
The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay,
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.
Refrain:
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.
GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 60:1-6
SPECIAL MUSIC – What Child Is This? – Hayes
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 2:1-12
SERMON – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – The Star Carol – #201
Long years ago on a deep winter night,
High in the heav’ns a star shone bright,
While in a manger a wee Baby lay,
Sweetly asleep on a bed of hay.
Jesus, the Lord was that Baby so small,
Laid down to sleep in a humble stall;
Then came the star and it stood overhead,
Shedding its light ’round His little bed.
Dear Baby Jesus how tiny Thou art,
I’ll make a place for Thee in my heart.
And when the stars in the heavens I see,
Ever and always I think of Thee.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – As With Gladness Men of Old – #219
As with gladness men of old
Did the guiding star behold,
As with joy they hailed its light,
Leading onward, beaming bright,
So, most gracious Lord, may we
Evermore be led by Thee.
As with joyful steps they sped,
To that lowly manger bed,
There to bend the knee before
Him, whom heav’n and earth adore,
So may we with willing feet
Ever seek thy mercy seat.
As they offered gifts most rare
At the manger, rude and bare,
So may we with holy joy,
Pure and free from sin’s alloy,
All our costliest treasures bring,
Christ, to Thee, our heav’nly King.
Holy Jesus, ev’ry day
Keep us in the narrow way;
And, when earthly things are past,
Bring our ransomed souls at last
Where they need no star to guide,
Where no clouds Thy glory hide.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Now Thank We All Our God – Kauffmann
December 25 – Christmas – Christ is Born!
December 24, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
May God bless today’s worship as we celebrate God’s Christmas gift to the world–the Promised Messiah. Merry Christmas from all of us at Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
As always, you are more than welcome to join us at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Christmas morning, at Ivy Chapel. You may also watch our worship services anytime on YouTube.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Selected Christmas Music – Kathryn Kuntzman, Cello
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Sing of God’s glory!
All: Shout praises to God, all the earth!
One: Celebrate!
All: Let’s rejoice; for God is our life and our salvation! Christ is born!
*HYMN – O Come, All Ye Faithful – #188
O come, all ye faithful,
joyful and triumphant!
O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem!
Come and behold Him,
born the King of angels.
Refrain:
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ the Lord!
God from true God, and
Light of Light begotten,
Lo , He abhors not the Virgin’s womb;
Very God, begotten, not created
Refrain
Sing, choirs of angels,
sing in exultation,
O sing, all ye citizens of heav’n above!
Glory to God, all glory in the highest: [Refrain]
Yea, Lord, we greet Thee,
born this happy morning;
Jesus, to Thee be all glory giv’n!
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing: [Refrain]
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of light, we praise you for giving us the gift of Jesus Christ! We are here in your sanctuary filled with wonder and delight that you have come to humankind as a newborn child! Thank you, God, for being with us on this day of birth and rebirth. We are grateful for and humbled by your presence among us this Christmas morning.
Gracious, Joyful Spirit; you fill our hearts with renewed hope and joy. We worship you, for you bless souls everywhere with the Light of Christ. Glory to you in the highest, O God! Amen.
LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLES AND THE CHRIST CANDLE
*RESPONSE – Away in a Manger – #213
Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.
The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes.
I love Thee, Lord Jesus; look down from the sky,
And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.
Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,
And take us to heaven to live with Thee there.
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 98:1-4 • Isaiah 9:2-7
CHRIST IS BORN
RESPONSIVE READING – THE SAVIOR’S ADVENT – #639, Luke 2:8-20
CHRISTMAS CAROL SING – We will sing the first TWO verses of each selected carol.
Enter your requests into the YouTube chat and we’ll try to get to you, too.
*RESPONSIVE PRAYER
Voice One: Radiant Child, On this Christmas day, we pray for peace to fill us,
as the waters renew a dry and desolate landscape
Voice Two: How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of the messenger who announces peace!
Voice One: Radiant Child, on this Christmas day, we pray for hope to guide us forward,
making a way where the path is rocky.
Voice Two: All the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God!
Voice One: Radiant Child, on this Christmas Day, we pray for joy to uplift us, carrying us on the swift currents of laughter and community.
Voice Two: Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices; together they shout for joy!
Voice One: Radiant Child, on this Christmas Day, we pray for love to surround us, as the comforting and loving embrace of a trusted friend.
Voice Two: For the Lord has comforted his people; he has redeemed Jerusalem.
Voice One: Peace, Hope, Joy and Love!
May they fill, guide, uplift, and surround us now and always. Amen!
*HYMN – Joy to the World! – #194
Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let ev’ry heart prepare him room
And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n, and heav’n and nature sing.
Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ,
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.
No more let sins and sorrows grow
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make his blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as the curse is found.
He rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders of His love.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Joy to the World – Hustad