July 4 Livestream – Healing Powers
July 3, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Happy Independence Day! We invite you to join us today for a patriotic hymn sing during worship. If you are joining us online, please also be sure to gather elements of communion so we can celebrate as one.
Unfortunately we ran into a technical glitch on Sunday, July 4 and were unable to capture the livestream of our worship service. Please join us next week!
July 4, 2021 – Healing Powers
The Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
WELCOME
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
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
America the Beautiful – #600
The Battle Hymn of the Republic – #604
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
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.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Gloria Patri – #620
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 30 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC
Valerie Waterman, Vocalist
Julie McAllister, Piano
GOD’S WORD – Mark 5:21-43 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – We Come As Guests Invited – #258
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
*Congregational Choice Hymn
This Is My Song – worship booklet, p. 88
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE
June 27 Livestream – Joyful Giving
June 26, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
We are blessed to welcome the Rev. Brenda Booth, Executive Director, Isaiah 58 Ministries.
Thank you, Brenda, for leading worship today. May Jesus Christ be praised!
We are blessed to welcome the Rev. Brenda Booth, Executive Director, Isaiah 58 Ministries. Thank you, Brenda, for leading worship today. May Jesus Christ be praised!
WELCOME – Linda Lowry
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Linda Lowry
One: Sing praises to God; O faithful ones!
All: God hears our cries, and God knows our sorrows.
One: Where there was no way,
All: God leads us on a new path.
One: Where there was no mercy,
All: God surprises us with healing.
One: Where many tears were cried,
All: God invites us to try a new dance step!
*HYMN – Help Us Accept Each Other – #127
- Help us ac-cept each oth-er as Christ ac-cept-ed us;
Teach us as sis-ter, broth-er each per-son to em-brace.
Be pres-ent, Lord, a-mong us and bring us to be-lieve
We are our-selves ac-cept-ed and meant to love and live. - Teach us, O Lord, Your les-sons, as in our dai-ly life
We strug-gle to be hu-man and search for hope and faith.
Teach us to care for peo-ple, for all, not just for some;
To love them as we find them, or as they may be-come. - Let Your ac-cept-ance change us, so that we may be moved
In liv-ing sit-u-a-tions to do the truth in love;
To prac-tice Your ac-cept-ance un-til we know by heart
The ta-ble of for-give-ness and laugh-ter’s heal-ing art. - Lord, for to-day’s en-coun-ters with all who are in need,
Who hun-ger for ac-cept-ance, for right-eous-ness and bread
We need new eyes for see-ing, new hands for hold-ing on;
Re-new us with Your Spir-it; Lord, free us, make us one!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Linda Lowry
God of Self-giving Love; you call on us to share one another’s burdens, by allowing others to care for us in our times of need and by offering all that you enable us to give to others in their time of need. With the fullness of joy that you provide, God; we seek to offer your people food, shelter, kindness, mercy, and blessings of every kind.
Faithful Savior; you ask us to trust that you have power to bring to life new possibilities in situations where it had seemed that there was no hope.
Christ Jesus, come to us now during this time of worship.
Teach us to embrace the Way of Life which you continue inviting us to live.
May our desires become your desires;
may our work become your work;
may our community become your faith community where you above all are loved and served. We pray in your holy name, Jesus. Amen.
*RESPONSE – Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart – worship booklet, p. 42
Give thanks with a grate-ful heart,
Give thanks to the Ho-ly One,
Give thanks be-cause He’s giv-en Je-sus Christ His Son.
Give thanks with a grate-ful heart,
Give thanks to the Ho-ly One,
Give thanks be-cause He’s giv-en Je-sus Christ His Son
And now let the weak say “I am strong,â€
Let the poor say “I am rich,â€
Be-cause of what the Lord has done for us
And now let the weak say “I am strong,â€
Let the poor say “I am rich,â€
Be-cause of what the Lord has done for us.
Give thanks,
Give thanks.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Tara Lowry
GOD’S WORD – Matthew 25:31-40 – Brenda Booth
SPECIAL MUSIC – There Is a Balm in Gilead (McDonald) – Anna DiVesta and Sarah Heend
GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 58:6-12 – Brenda Booth
SERMON – Brenda Booth
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Brenda Booth
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – Reach Out and Touch – #505
- Reach out and touch a soul that is hun-gry;
Reach out and touch a spir-it in de-spair;
Reach out and touch a life torn and dirt-y,
A man who is lone-ly if you care!
Reach out and touch that neigh-bor who hates you;
Reach out and touch that stran-ger who meets you;
Reach out and touch the broth-er who needs you;
Reach out and let the smile of God touch thro’ you - Reach out and touch a friend who is wea-ry;
Reach out and touch a seek-er un-a-ware;
Reach out and touch, tho’ touch-ing means lo-sing
A part of your own self if you care!
Reach out and give your love to the love-less;
Reach out and make a home for the home-less;
Reach out and shed God’s light in the dark-ness;
Reach out and let the smile of God touch thro’ you.
*BENEDICTION – Brenda Booth
*POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
June 20 Livestream – In the Boat Together
June 19, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A Happy and Blessed Fathers Day. We hope this worship experience renews your body, mind and soul.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Over and over, Jesus comes down to the lakeshore.
All: All he’s asking is for us to follow.
One: The fullness of God is beyond us.
All: Yet, on occasion, we are given glimpses of God.
One: Jesus looks into our eyes and calls out our names.
All: God is with all people at all times.
*HYMN – Shout to the North (Martin Smith)
- Men of faith, rise up and sing Of the great and glorious King. You are strong when you feel weak
In your bro-ken-ness complete.
Shout to the north and the south; Sing to the east and the west;
Je-sus is Sav-ior to all, Lord of Heaven and earth!- Rise up, women of the truth. Stand and sing to bro-ken hearts,
Who can know the heal-ing pow’r
Of our awe-some King of love.
Shout to the north and the south; Sing to the east and the west;
Je-sus is Sav-ior to all, Lord of Heaven and earth!
We’ve been thru fire. We’ve been thru rain.
We’ve been re-fined by the pow’r of His name.
We’ve fal-len deep-er in love with you. You’ve burned the truth on our lips.
- Rise up, women of the truth. Stand and sing to bro-ken hearts,
- Rise up, Church with broken wings. Fill this place with songs again Of our God who reigns on high.
By His grace again we’ll fly!
Shout to the north and the south; Sing to the east and the west;
Je-sus is Sav-ior to all, Lord of Heaven and earth!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
We sing your praises, O God; for you are gracious to your children in the course of so many storms. When dangers threaten, you give us the strength to carry on. God of Peace, you are the One who enables us to give to the winds our fears. Because of you, we can trust and be un-afraid. You are a Compassionate God who fulfills each one of your promises.
We have come to worship you this morning, Eternal God. May we listen closely for your voice – the One True Voice, Merciful and Mighty; whom we frequently find difficult to hear. Like the wild and restless sea – may we be still; know that you are God; and obey you. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – God Will Make a Way – worship booklet, p. 44
God will make a way where there seems to be no way.
He works in ways we can not see,
He will make a way for me.
He will be my guide, hold me close-ly to His side,
With love and strength for each new day, He will make a way,
He will make a way.
GOD’S WORD – Job 38:1-7, 16-18 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Sue Wilson
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 107:1, 23-30 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – River in Judea –arr. Leavitt
Sarah Heend, Sue Wilson and Anna DiVesta, Vocalists
Aaron DiVesta, Saxophone
GOD’S WORD – Mark 4:35-41 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – Spirit – worship booklet, pp. 82-83
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You moved on the wa-ters, you called to the deep,
Then you coaxed up the moun-tains from the val-leys of sleep,
And o-ver the e-ons you called to each thing,
“A-wake from your slumbers and rise on your wings.â€
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You swept through the des-ert, you stung with the sand
And you gift-ed your peo-ple with a law and a land,
When they were con-found-ed with i-dols and lies,
Then you spoke through your proph-ets to o-pen their eyes
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You sang in a sta-ble, you cried from a hill,
Then you whis-pered in si-lence when the whole world was still
And down in the cit-y you called once a-gain
When you blew through your peo-ple on the rush of the wind.
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You call from to-mor-row, you break an-cient schemes,
From the bond-age of sor-row the cap-tives dream dreams;
Our wom-en see vi-sions, our men clear their eyes.
With bold new de-ci-sions your peo-ple a-rise
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
June 6 Virtual Worship – The Will of God
June 5, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Are you ready and willing to fulfill the will of God? Join us as we hear Jesus’ words as we look for guidance and direction from our Creator.
June 6 Virtual Worship – T h e W i l l o f G o d
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Praise God, who fills hearts with joy!
All: Glory be to God!
One: Praise God, who fills the future with promise.
All: O give thanks to God; for God’s steadfast love endures forever!
*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, Then pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruit in the garden: He made them every one.
REFRAIN
- He gave us eyes to see them, And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty, Who has made all things well.
*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
God of steadfast love, we long for a clear understanding of your will. Our hearts seek you. Our ears listen closely for your voice. Guide us. May this time of worship draw us to you, Christ Jesus – blessing us with a sense of direction for our lives as vital parts of your whole Church. Renew us from within, we pray; so that nothing we face will frighten or discourage us. With amazement, we marvel at the splendor of your works, Creator God! Fill us with an ever-growing love for you. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord; Open the eyes of my heart.
I want to see You, I want to see You, I want to see You.
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord; Open the eyes of my heart.
I want to see You, I want to see You.
To see you high and lifted up, Shining in the light of Your glory.
Pour out Your power and love As we sing holy, holy, holy.
REPEAT
Holy, Holy, Holy,
Holy, Holy, Holy,
Holy, Holy, Holy,
I want to see You.
REPEAT
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 130 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Dottie Foster
SPECIAL MUSIC – By His Grace (Tornquist) – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – Mark 3:20-35 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – One Bread, One Body – worship booklet, pp. 72-73
REFRAIN
One bread, one body, one Lord of all, one cup of blessing which we bless.
And we, though many throughout the earth,
we are one body in this one Lord.
- Gentile or Jew, servant or free, woman or man, no more.
REFRAIN
- Many the gifts, many the works, one in the Lord of all.
REFRAIN
- Grain for the fields, scattered and grown, gathered to one, for all.
REFRAIN
THE JOYFUL SACRAMENT OF COMMUNION
Responsive Invitation to Christ’s Table
One: Jesus Christ invites, “As you eat this bread, remember me.â€
All: Through the broken bread, we remember the sacrifice of Christ.
One: Jesus Christ invites, “As you drink this cup, remember me.â€
All: Through the communion cup, we remember the love of Christ.
One: The gifts of God for the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God. Our Savior welcomes everyone to this table!
*HYMN – I Then Shall Live – #133
- I then shall live as one who’s been forgiven;
I’ll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child, and I am not afraid.
So greatly pardoned, I’ll forgive my brother;
The law of love I gladly will obey. - I then shall live as one who’s learned compassion;
I’ve been so loved that I’ll risk loving, too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I dare to see another’s point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I’ll be there to care and follow through. - Your kingdom come around and thru and in me,
Your pow’r and glory, let them shine thru me;
Your Hallowed Name, O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world thru me.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
UPDATED: How to join us for worship
June 1, 2021 by Rich
Filed under What's happening
The world continues to change around us – but we want you to know you are always welcome at Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. This is the core of who we are – and even as it seems like things are pushing us apart, we want it to be easy to bring everyone together.
We gather for worship every Sunday at 10 a.m. If you know Ivy Chapel, that sometimes means 10:02 a.m. or even 10:05. Check our Facebook page for updates – we’ll post there if there is a delay.
Here’s how to join us:
In person
You can join us in the sanctuary for worship each Sunday as long as the COVID-19 numbers do not spike again in St. Louis County. Masks are required while you are in the building and you will be seated in a socially distanced manner. Reservations are no longer required. You may join us anytime you want.
Online
We have recently started using a new AV system which changed how we stream worship. Worship will stream live on the Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ YouTube channel. You will find links at the top of this site and on our Facebook page.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us. We’re ready to help you find a way to worship with us that works for you.
May 30 Virtual Worship – Trinity Sunday
May 29, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A Blessed Memorial Day Weekend to you.
Click here to join us for virtual worship, starting around 10 a.m. on Sunday.
Here’s today’s order for worship:
Mysterious Encounter
Trinity Sunday
Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. A blessed Memorial Day Weekend to all.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Abby Foehrkolb
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Be joyful! God is within us and among us.
All: God is watching over all creation.
One: God listens, and God responds.
All: God raises us up on eagles’ wings! Praise God!
*HYMN – Holy, Holy, Holy – #2
- Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee;
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity! - Holy, holy, holy! all the saints adore Thee,
Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee,
Which wert and art, and evermore shalt be. - Holy, holy, holy! though the darkness hide Thee,
Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see,
Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee,
Perfect in pow’r, in love, and purity. - Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty.
All Thy works shall praise Thy name, in earth, and sky, and sea;
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
Faithful and Loving God, you are beyond all that we can imagine. There simply are no human words that can fully describe you. We know you best as Jesus of Nazareth who offered genuine love to everyone. As Jesus, you call for our rebirth as your children, cleansed by water and the Spirit. This morning, we worship you in fulfillment of the vows made at our baptism. We want to be faithful as you are faithful. Strengthen us to live in ways that honor and please you, Holy God. May we serve you by living out the ministries which you give us to do. We pray in your name, Christ Jesus. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Gloria Patri– #620
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, Amen.
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 29:1-4 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – America – arr. C. E. Walz – Abby Foehrkolb, Piano
GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 6:1-8 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – To God Be the Glory – #79
To God be the glory, great things He hath done,
So loved He the world that He gave us His Son,
Who yielded His life an atonement for sin,
And opened the Lifegate that all may go in.
REFRAIN
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the earth hear His voice!
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the people rejoice!
O come to the Father thro’ Jesus the Son,
And give Him the glory, great things He hath done.
- O perfect redemption, the purchase of blood,
To every believer the promise of God;
The vilest offender who truly believes,
That moment from Jesus a pardon receives.
REFRAIN
- Great things He hath taught us, great things He hath done,
And great our rejoicing thro’ Jesus the Son;
But purser, and higher, and greater will be
Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.
REFRAIN
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
POSTLUDE – Abby Foehrkolb
May 1 Virtual Worship – The True Vine
May 1, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Today we are reminded that Jesus is the “true vine.†His love and his spirit nourish our world, even to this day. And even though we can’t see Him, we are still all connected to Him.
Our service will be live around 10 a.m. (which, if you know Ivy Chapel, that could mean 10:05). Join us on YouTube.
If you are worshipping from home, please take a moment to gather the elements of communion so you can celebrate at Christ’s table with us.
WELCOME – Rev. Dan Wilson, Pastor
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Come; let us worship God.
All: Let all people turn to God.
One: Come; let us re-claim our baptism.
All: Let our lives bear fruit that is pleasing to God.
One: Christ is the Vine.
All: We are the branches!
HYMN – Holy, Holy – #50
- Holy, holy, holy, holy, Holy, holy, Lord God almighty;
And we lift our hears before You as a token of our love,
Holy, holy, holy, holy. - Gracious Father, gracious Father, We’re so blest to be your children gracious Father;
And we lift our heads before You as a token of our love,
Gracious Father, gracious Father. - Precious Jesus, Precious Jesus, We’re so glad that you’ve redeemed us, precious Jesus.
And we lift our hands before You as a token of our love,
Precious Jesus, Precious Jesus. - Holy Spirit, Holy Spirit, Come and fill our hearts anew, Holy Spirit;
And we lift ur voice before You as a token of our love,
Holy Spirit, Holy Spirit. - Holy, holy, holy, holy, Holy, holy, Lord God almighty;
And we lift our hearts before ou as a token of our love,
Holy, holy, holy, holy. UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
Wondrous God, we praise you as the Creator of all life! You are the One who creates and loves all people. May we seek to love everyone the way you do. You are the Vine. We are the branches.
Faithful and Gracious God, come alive among us day by day. Come now; and fill our very souls with your unselfish, abundant love. We pray in your holy name, Christ Jesus. 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 – 1 John 4:7-21 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody
SPECIAL MUSIC – Living Water of Life (Lantz) – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – John 15:1-8 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
HYMN – Let Us Break Bread Together – #265
- Let us break bread together on our knees.
Let us break bread together on our knees.
REFRAIN
When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun,
Oh Lord, have mercy on me.
- Let us drink wine together on our knees.
Let us drink wine together on our knees.
REFRAIN
- Let us praise God together on our knees.
Let us praise God together on our knees.
REFRAIN
THE JOYFUL SACRAMENT OF COMMUNION
Responsive Invitation to Christ’s Table
One: Jesus Christ says, “As you eat this bread, remember me.â€
All: Through the broken bread, we participate in the Body of Christ.
One: Jesus Christ says, “As you drink this cup, remember me.â€
All: Through the communion cup, we participate in the Blood of Christ.
One: The gifts of God for the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God. Our Savior welcomes everyone to this table!
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 reign in majesty, we will bow before His Throne;
We will worship Him in righteousness, we will worship Him alone. - He is For 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 – Anna DiVesta
CCLI License #456361
April 25 Livestream – Enfolded By Love
April 24, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Springtime greetings to all! We are the sheep of God’s pasture, and we are grateful for God’s loving care.
If you’re having trouble hearing the service, please double check both the volume on your device and on YouTube. These settings are independent. If you’re still having trouble, please let us know.
Enfolded By Love
Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC.
Springtime greetings to all! We are the sheep of God’s pasture, and we are grateful for God’s loving care.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: The Good Shepherd invites us to green pastures.
All: We are refreshed beside still waters.
One: We have been given all that we possess.
All: God provides everything that we need. And more!
One: In every valley that we encounter – God is with us.
All: We are comforted and reassured.
One: God leads us on the path of life.
All: Our cup overflows.
One: We receive from God in abundance.
All: Let us joyfully share this abundance!
HYMN – Here, O My Lord, I See Thee – #259
- Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face;
Here would I touch and handle things unseen,
Here grasp with firmer hand th’eternal grace,
And all my weariness upon Thee lean. - Here would I feed upon the bread of God;
Here drink with Thee the royal wine of heav’n;
Here would I lay aside each earthly load,
Here taste afresh the calm of sin forgiv’n. - I have no help but Thine’ nor do I need
Another arm save Thine to lean upon;
It is enough, my Lord, enough indeed;
My strength is in Thy might, Thy might alone. - Mine is the sin, but Thine the righteousness;
Mine is the guilt, but Thine the cleansing blood.
Here is my Robe, my refuge, and my peace;
Thy blood, Thy righteousness, O Lord, my God.
UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
Good Shepherd, you have enabled us to gather this day for worship. We are deeply grateful to be known and loved by you. We praise you, O God, for your sacred gift of life! This morning, we pray that you will bless us with guidance for living as your people.
Gentle Shepherd, you tirelessly watch over all your sheep. In turn, you ask us to care for one another in life-giving ways. Help us to grow in love that displays genuine caring and self-sacrifice. May we humbly accept the roles that you give us to fulfill, Dear God. Equip us for your service everywhere you lead us. Amen.
PRAISE RESPONSE – Gentle Shepherd – #450
Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us, For we need You to help us find our way.
Gentle Shepherd, come and feed us, For we need Your strength from day to day.
There’s no other we can turn to Who can help us face another day;
Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us, For we need You to help us find our way.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Linda Lowry
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 23 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – “Held†– Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – John 10:11-18 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan – Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
HYMN – Spirit Song – worship booklet, pp. 84-85
- O let the Son of God enfold you with his Spirit and his love,
let Him fill your life and satisfy your soul.
O let him have the things that hold you and his Spirit, like a dove,
will descend upon your life and make you whole.
REFRAIN
Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs.
Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs.
- O come and sing this song with gladness as your hearts are filled with joy,
lift your hands in sweet surrender to his name.
O give him all your tears and sadness, give him all your years of pain
and you’ll enter into life in Jesus’ name.
REFRAIN
BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
POSTLUDE Anna DiVesta
April 11 Livestream – Together with Joy!
April 10, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Whether you are here with in in the sanctuary or you are worshipping with us online, we rejoice that we can be together to celebrate the Risen Savior!
WELCOME
PRELUDE– Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Jesus, we hear you say, Peace be with you.
All: People rage with contempt; the land is consumed by violence; the air of the atmosphere is polluted. How can we claim peace in a time like this?
One: Peace be with you.
One: Jesus, we hear you say, Receive the Holy Spirit
All: We are afraid of this Spirit, too disturbed by it, too overwhelmed by it. Isn’t your Spirit a gift too powerful to be entrusted to humankind?
One: Receive the Holy Spirit.
One: Jesus, we hear you say, See my hands.
All: We do not want to see the wounds of the world. There are too many to recall, too many places scarred by injury. Why won’t you let us look away?
One: See my hands.
One: Jesus, we hear you say, Reach out your hand.
All: We are so bound up in your love, Jesus, that your peace, your Spirit, even your pain will not let us go. Therefore, we remember, we marvel, and we move forward in faith.
One: Reach out your hand.
One: Jesus, we hear you say, Do not doubt but believe.
All: Our Lord and our God, you are alive!
HYMN – Crown Him with Many Crowns – #3
- Crown Him with many crowns The Lamb upon His Thrown;
Hark! how the heav’nly anthem drowns All music but its own!
Awake, my soul, and sing of Him who died for thee,
And hail Him as thy matchless King Thro’ all eternity. - Crown Him the Son of God Before the world’s began,
And ye, who tread where He hath trod, Crown Him the Son of Man;
Who every grief hath known That wrings the human breast,
And take and bears them for His own, that all in Him may rest. - Crown Him the Lord of life, Who triumphed o’er the grave,
And rose victorious in the strife For those He came to save;
His glories now we sing, Who died and rose on high,
Who died eternal life to bring, And lives that death my die. - Crown Him the Lord of love! Behold His hands and side,
Those wounds, yet visible above, In beauty glorifies:
All hail, Redeemer, hail! For Thou hast died for me:
Thy praise and glory shall not fail Thro’out eternity.
PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
God of Easter Joy; you can do anything! You are so flat-out Supreme that you frighten us, Amazing God. As we continue sharing time with you, we eventually grow somewhat more at ease in your presence, God.
Through your patient love, we learn that anyone and everyone can safely come to you – with our joys; our sorrows; our fears; our complaints; our doubts.
God of Easter Joy; we are grateful to you for teaching us your Way of life! Draw us away from the ways of this world. We praise you for the wholeness which you provide, God. Bring together the broken pieces of fragmented human lives. Help all people to accept who you are and to receive the love that you offer. Come now, and guide this time of worship, we pray. Amen.
PRAISE RESPONSE – Open Our Eyes, Lord – #132
Open our eyes, Lord, we want to see Jesus,
To reach out and touch Him, and say that we love Him.
Open our ears, Lord, and help us to listen:
Open our eyes, Lord, we want to see Jesus.
GOD’S WORD – Acts 2:43-47 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Sue Wilson
SPECIAL MUSIC – Make My Life An Alleluia! – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – John 20:19-31 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan – Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
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 – Anna DiVesta
CCLI License #456361
Easter Livestream – He is Risen!
April 3, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A tremendous discovery awaits on this Easter. Christ is not in the tomb. He is Risen!
Christ is risen! Hallelujah!
Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC!
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Rejoice! Today is Resurrection Day!
All: It’s a miracle!
One: Our Savior Jesus died on the cross.
All: He was dead. Now, he lives!
One: Christ is risen!
All: Christ is risen indeed! Hallelujah!
*HYMN – Here I Am to Worship – worship booklet, pp. 48-49
- Light of the World, You stepped down into darkness, opened my eyes, let me see.
Beauty that made this heart adore You, hope of a life spent with You.
So, here I am to worship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God,
And You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. - King of all days, O so highly exalted, glorious in heaven above,
Humbly You came to the Earth You created,
All for love’s sake became poor.
So, Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God.
And You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. And I’ll never know how much it cost to see my sin upon that cross.
And I’ll never know how much it cost to see my sin upon that cross. So, Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God.
And You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. So, Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God.
And You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION Pastor Dan
God of Resurrection, we come gather to worship you, rejoicing over the miracle of Christ’s empty tomb! We come celebrating your Gospel that announces you are with us always as the Risen Christ. Thanks to your Resurrection, we realize that you truly have the power to give all people life eternal, God. As the Risen Christ, you bless us with faith and strength – even in times of despair, sorrow, fear, or overwhelming difficulty.
The tomb may be empty, but it is not silent. This morning, Jesus, your empty tomb joyously proclaims that you have risen from the dead! Christ Jesus, you are alive forevermore! Hallelujah! Amen! PRAISE RESPONSE – He Is Exalted! – worship booklet, p. 45
He is exalted, the King is exalted on high. I will praise Him.
He is exalted, forever exalted and I will praise His name!
He is the Lord. Forever His truth shall reign.
Heaven and earth rejoice in His holy name.
He is exalted, the King is exalted on high.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – Romans 8:11, 31, 35-39 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – Agnus Dei
GOD’S WORD – Mark 16:1-8 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
THE GIFTS OF GOD FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
UNISON PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
The Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
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!
REFRAIN
Our God reigns! Our God reigns! Our God reigns! Our God reigns!
- He had no stately form, He had no majesty, The we should be drawn to Him.
He was despised and we took no account of Him,
Yet now he reigns with the Most High.
REFRAIN
- Out from the tomb He came with grace and majesty, He is alive, He is alive.
God loves us so, see here His hands, His feet, His side.
Yes, we know, He is alive.
REFRAIN
RESPONSIVE BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
One: Praise God!
All: Christ is risen!
One: Our Savior Jesus is alive!
All: Hallelujah!
POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
CCLI License #456361