April 19 – Earth Day

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” Psalm 24:1
God loves God’s creation! As we celebrate this Earth Day, we remember that God calls us to be good stewards of the wonderful world God has given us.

WELCOME

PRELUDE  —This is My Father’s World  — arr., Penny Rodriguez         

CALL TO WORSHIP   —  Kathryn Kuntzman     

RESPONSIVE READING —  “God the Creator”      Hymnal No.630  
The liturgist will read the parts in regular type and the congregation will respond with the words in bold print.

HYMN —  All Creatures of Our God and King –No.33
Verses 1,2,3

PRAYER OF INVOCATION —  Kathryn Kuntzman
Creator God, we come before you with grateful hearts on this Earth Day, thanking you for the beauty and wonder of your creation.  We ask for your guidance and wisdom as we strive to be better stewards of this precious planet.  Help us to make choices that honor and protect the environment, ensuring that future generations can also experience its splendor.  Gracious Lord, fill our hearts with compassion for all living beings.  Help us to see the interconnectedness of life and to act with kindness and respect towards one another and the Earth. May our actions reflect your love for all creation.  Amen.

RESPONSE— All Creatures of Our God and King – No.33
Verses 4,5

A READING FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT — Genesis 1  — Kathryn Kuntzman     

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE                                                                           

SPECIAL MUSIC — He’sGot the Whole World in His Hands

A READING FROM THE PSALMS  — Psalm 8 —  Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON   —   “And God Saw That It Was Good”    —  Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE  — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

OFFERING

Invitation to Generosity:  Kathryn Kuntzman     
One: God commissioned us as human beings to care for all of God’s creation.  Our ministry includes caring for the plants, trees, water, birds, animals, and people that enter our grounds and buildings.  Let us give as God has enabled us to do so in order that all of God’s creation may be treated with respect and care.  Will the ushers bring forward our gifts?

DOXOLOGY  — No.623

Prayer of Dedication:  Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell
O Creator God, we ask that you enable us to see all of creation as our brothers and sisters.  Bless these gifts and multiply them so that we may meet the needs of our community.  May our stewardship of the resources you have entrusted to us be pleasing in your sight.  Amen. 

HYMN   —  All Things Bright and Beautiful – No.65                         

BENEDICTION    —  Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

POSTLUDE    —  Fairest Lord Jesus — arr., Penny Rodriguez