June 15 — Live into Hope

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC All glory to God for the blessing of life! We give thanks to God for the invitation to be alive in a world full of possibility with open minds and open hearts to live with great joy until we meet again.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — It is Well with My Soul — arr. Suzanne Arant

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Linda Lowry
One: God delights in life!
All: Let us rejoice before the majesty of our Creator!
One: Through Christ, we are inspired to hope.
All: We gladly enter this house of worship.
One: God’s mercy is ever flowing.
All: God’s Spirit is the Spirit of life and of hope and of all things good!
One: Let us listen closely for God, so that we may hear and do what is faithful.
All: Let us open our hearts now to the astonishing Word of God.

*HYMN — The Solid Rock — 315

My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name

Refrain:
On Christ the solid Rock I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on HIs unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil. Refrain

His oath, His covenant, His blood Support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my sould gives way He then is all my hope and stay. Refrain

When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in HIm be found;
Dressed in HIs righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne. Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Linda Lowry
Holy, Present, Creator God. God who shapes us in the fire;
we are made new in your presence. We come seeking your wisdom, crying out our concerns, needing your steadfast love. May this worship time serve as a time that continues shaping us into a faith community who loves you above all, Dear God. Let our character reflect your goodness and grace. May we live in awe of your glory and humbled by your nearness. We pray in your holy name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE — How Majestic is Your Name — 9

O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.
O Lord, we praise your name.
O Lord, we magnify your name:
Prince of Peace, mighty God;
O Lord God Almighty.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 8 — Linda Lowry

SPECIAL MUSIC — Lord, I Lift Your Name on High

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

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

*HYMN — God of The Ages — 51

God of the ages, History’s Maker,
Planning our pathway, Holding us fast,
Shaping in mercy All that concerns us;
Father, we praise You, Lord of the past.

God of this morning, Gladly Your children
Worship before You, Trustingly bow;
Teach us to know You Always among us,
Now and forever Kept by Your hand.

Lord of past ages, Lord of this morning,
Lord of the future, Help us, we pray;
Teach us to trust You, Love and obey You,
Crown You each moment Lord of today.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Faith of Our Fathers — arr. Dennis Alexander

June 7 — Pentecost

A Blessed Pentecost Day to everyone! All glory to God for the blessing of life! We give thanks to God for the invitation to be alive in a world full of possibility with open minds and open hearts to live with great joy until we meet again.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Brethren, We Have Met to Worship

*CALL TO WORSHIP (Inspired by Acts 2:1 and Psalm 104) — JoAnn Moody
One: When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one
place.
Many: We join for worship online and onsite, in real time and sometimes days later, and yet,
One: The Holy One sends forth the Spirit.
Many: Who unites us, connects us, and forms us as a community.
One: We were created in spirit and in truth, wonderfully and fearfully, in the image of Holy Love.
Many: God renews the face of the earth and the cosmos, this faith community and the church.
One: May the glory of God the Fire endure forever!
Many: Bless the Holy One, oh my soul. Praise God!

*HYMN — Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart — #154

Spirit of God, who dwells within my heart,
Wean it from earth, through all its pulses move.
Stoop to my weakness, mighty as ,Thou art,
And make me love Thee as I ought to love.

I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies,
No sudden rending of the veil of clay,
No angel visitant, no opening skies;
But take the dimness of my soul away.

Hast Thou not bid us love , Thee God and King?
All, all Thine own, soul, heart and strength and mind.
I see Thy cross— there teach my heart to cling.
O let me seek Thee and O let me find!

Teach me to feel that Thou art always nigh;
Teach me the struggles of the soul to bear,
To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh;
Teach me the patience of unanswered prayer.

Teach me to love Thee as Thine angels love,
One holy passion filling all my frame:
The baptism of the heaven-descended Dove;
My heart an altar, and Thy love the flame.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — JoAnn Moody
Spirit of Unity, you knit us together with all of our connections and distinctions. You make us one and yet unique. We gather to hear your voice and to attune ourselves to the language of the other, to celebrate the diversity of your creation and to immerse ourselves in compassionate care, to give you glory and to recognize the gift of community. May our hearts be opened and our lips declare your praise. Inhabit our worship with your abiding presence and inflame us with your love. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place — #146

Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place;
I can feel His mighty power and His grace.

I can hear the brush of angel’s wings,
I see glory on each face;

Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — Linda Lowry

*HYMN — Sweet, Sweet Spirit — #153

There’s a sweet, sweet Spirit in this place,
And I know that it’s the Spirit of the Lord;
There are sweet expressions on each face,
And I know they feel the presence of the Lord.

Refrain:
Sweet Holy Spirit, Sweet heavenly Dove,
Stay right here with us, filling us with Your love.
And for these blessings we lift our hearts in praise;
Without a doubt we’ll know that we have been revived,
When we shall leave this place.

There are blessings you cannot receive
Till you know Him in His fullness and believe;
You’re the one to profit when you say,
“I am going to walk with Jesus all the way.”
Refrain

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 104:24-34, 35b — JoAnn Moody

SPECIAL MUSIC — Spirit Medley
Where the Spirit of the Lord Is; Breathe on Me, Breath of God;
Spirit of the Living God

GOD’S WORD — John 14:8-17, 25-27 — Rev. Susan Shumway

SERMON — Truth, Trouble, and Fear — Rev. Susan Shumway

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Rev. Susan Shumway

*HYMN — Spirit — Ivy 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 — Rev. Susan Shumway

*POSTLUDE — Every Time I Feel the Spirit

June 1 — That They May All Be One

All glory to God for the blessing of life! We give thanks to God for the invitation to be alive in a world full of possibility with open minds and open hearts to live with great joy until we meet again.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — He Is Exalted

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Ann Molyneaux
One: Come now into this hour of worship and of praise to God.
All: We enter joyfully into the sacred place of the Most High.
One: We long to encounter God as Spirit,
All: And to worship God in spirit and in truth.
One: May our every breath become a prayer,
All: And may our every heartbeat become an open door through which the Living One may enter.

*HYMN — I Sing the Almighty Power of God — 6

I sing th’almighty pow’r of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies.
I sing the wisdom that ordained
The sun to rule the day;
The moon shines full at his command,
And all the stars obey.

I sing the goodness of the Lord
That filled the earth with food;
He formed the creatures with His word
And then pronounced them good.
Lord, how wonThyders are displayed,
where’er I turn my eyes,
If I survey the ground I tread
Or gaze upon the skies.

There’s not a plant or flower below
But makes your glories known,
And clouds arise and tempests blow
By order from Thy throne;
While all that borrows life from Thee
Is ever in Thy care,
And everywhere that man can be,
Thou, God, are present there.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Ann Molyneaux
Merciful and Gracious God, we praise you as the Creator of all life. You are the One who makes and loves all people. May we love everyone as genuinely as you do, God. Come alive among us day by day. May we live – growing and responding to all that you ask of us.
With joy we join together to worship you. Come now and fill our hearts with your unselfish, exceptional love. Oh God, be with us as we live into all that is possible.
We pray in the name of our Savior Jesus Christ. men.

*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 97 — Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC — Great is the Lord

GOD’S WORD — John 17:20-26 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*COMMUNION HYMN — Come Share the Lord — #260

We gather here in Jesus’ name,
His love is burning in our hearts like living flame,
For thru the loving Son the Father makes us one.
Come take the bread, come drink the wine,
Come share the Lord.

No one is a stranger here, everyone belongs.
Finding our forgiveness here,
we in turn forgive all wrongs.

He joins us here, He breaks the bread;
The Lord who pours the cup risen from the dead.
The one we love the most is now our gracious host.
Come take the bread, come drink the wine,
Come share the Lord

We are now a family of which the Lord is head.
Though unseen, He meets us here,
In the breaking of the bread.

We’ll gather soon where angels sing,
We’ll see the glory of our lord and coming King.
Now we anticipate the feast for which we wait.
Come take the bread, come drink the wine,
Come share the Lord

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION [A] — Ivy worship booklet, pp. 10-11
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament at Christ’s Table.

*HYMN — Called as Partners in Christ’s Service — Worship booklet, 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 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Christ for the World We Sing

May 25 — Abiding Presence

A Blessed Memorial Day Weekend to all. We offer God’s humble thanks for the sacrifice of every person who has given their life while serving in our nation’s military. From this worship, may we go into the world to live as Christ’s servant disciples.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Amazing Grace — arr. Gordon Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Julie McAllister
One: Let the Creator be home among us.
All: In our hearts, may God be welcome.
One: May God’s love shape our every thought.
All: May our actions lead to God’s justice.
One: May our words be words of life.
All: May God’s Spirit lead us and may God’s peace dwell within us.

*HYMN — Open My Eyes — 174

Open my eyes that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me.
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see.
Open my eyes, illumine me,
Spirit divine!

Open my ears that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear,
And while the wave notes fall on my ear,
Everything false will disappear.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my ears, illumine me,
Spirit divine!

Open my mouth and let me bear
Gladly the warm truth ev’rywhere.
Open my heart and let me prepare
Love with thy children thus to share.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see.
Open my mouth, illumine me,
Spirit divine!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Julie McAllister
Creator God, you are mighty in love and in power. We come, seeking your presence that shakes foundations and helps build new ones. We come with our wounds, asking for healing. We come, remembering our baptism and the freeing grace that your cleansing love offers all people. We come, seeking to perceive your life-giving closeness. May all that we say, hear, and do in worship today praise you for the wonders that you are doing in Jesus Christ and in us. God of Peace, fill us with your pure love for life. Amen

*RESPONSE — Spirit Song — Ivy worship booklet pp. 84-85

Oh, let the Son of God enfold you with His Spirit and His love;
Let Him fill your heart and satisfy your soul
Oh, let Him have the things that hold you, and His Spirit, like a dove,
Will descend upon your life and make you whole.

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.

Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs
Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 67 — Julie McAllister

SPECIAL MUSIC — Sweet, Sweet Spirit — arr. Glenda Austin

GOD’S WORD — John 14:23-29 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*HYMN — It is Well with My Soul — 453

When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well with my soul

Refrain:
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come
Let this blest assurance control
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate
And has shed His own blood for my soul
Refrain

My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought
My sin, not in part, but the whole
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul
Refrain

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend
Even so, it is well with my soul
Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — God Bless America — Irving Berlin

May 18 — Limitless Love

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. We are blessed by the eternal love of God’s Son, our Savior Jesus Christ.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Praise to the Lord, the Almighty — arr. Bruce Greer

*CALL TO WORSHIP (Inspired by Psalm 148) — Linda Lowry
One: Celebrate our God, from the plains to the mountains!
Many: Celebrate our God, from the waters and hills.
One: Sing to our God who designed creation.
Many: Fill the air with song to the One who painted the world with love.
One: Let us praise our God, the author of grace.
Many: Let us worship our God, the composer of joy.

*HYMN — When Morning Gilds the Skies — #66

When morning gilds the skies, My heart awaking cries:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Alike at work or prayer To Jesus I repair:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

The night becomes as day, When from the heart we say:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
The pow’rs of darkness fear When this sweet chant they hear:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

Sing, suns and stars of space, Sing, ye that see His face,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Let all the earth around Ring joyous with the sound:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

Be this, while life is mine, My canticle divine,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this th’ eternal song Through all the ages long,
May Jesus Christ be praised!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Linda Lowry
We praise you, O God, and celebrate your presence with us in this day and time. Your gifts surround us and dwell within us. Help us to embrace these realities. We are all your children, throughout this world. Come today to wipe away tears and comfort those in distress. Come to heal our divisions and overcome our prejudices. Come, Holy Spirit, that we might be loved into discipleship, to follow the Risen One, in whom we rejoice to pray and worship. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Spirit of the Living God — #150

Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me,
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me.
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — JoAnn Moody

*HYMN — 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 148 — Linda Lowry

SPECIAL MUSIC — Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart — arr. James Koerts

GOD’S WORD — Acts 11:1-18 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love — #119

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
And together we’ll spread the news that God is in our land:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

We will work with each other, we will work side by side.
We will work with each other, we will work side by side.
And we’ll guard each man’s dignity and save each man’s pride:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

All praise to the Father from whom all things come,
And all praise to Christ Jesus, His only Son,
And all praise to the Spirit who makes us one:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — The Heavens are Telling the Glory of God (Inspired by Psalm 19) — Benedetto Marcello

May 11 — Life-Giving Acts

Happy Mother’s Day from Ivy Chapel UCC. May today’s worship fill your soul with joy!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Be Thou My Vision — arr. Paul Manz

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Diann Sheahan
One: The Good Shepherd invites us to green pastures.
All: We are refreshed beside still waters.
One: We have been given everything that we have.
All: God offers us everything we need.
One: Every valley that we walk through – God is with us.
All: We are comforted and reassured.
One: God leads us down the right path.
All: Our cup overflows.
One: We have received from God in abundance.
All: Let us joyfully share what God has given us!

*HYMN — Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us — #449

Savior, like a shepherd lead us,
Much we need Thy tender care;
In Thy pleasant pastures feed us,
For our use Thy folds prepare:
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Thou hast bought us, Thine we are;
Blessed Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Thou hast bought us, Thine we are.

We are Thine, do Thou befriend us,
Be the guardian of our way;
Keep Thy flock, from sin defend us,
Seek us when we go astray:
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Hear, O hear us when we pray;
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Hear, O hear us when we pray.

Thou hast promised to receive us,
Poor and sinful though we be;
Thou hast mercy to relieve us,
Grace to cleanse, and pow’r to free:
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Early let us turn to Thee;
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Early let us turn to Thee.

Early let us seek Thy favor,
Early let us do Thy will;
Blessed Lord and only Savior,
With Thy love our bosoms fill:
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Thou hast loved us, love us still;
Blessèd Jesus, blessèd Jesus,
Thou hast loved us, love us still.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Diann Sheahan
Good Shepherd, you have enabled us to gather this day in your sanctuary. We are deeply grateful to be known and loved by you. We marvel at the wholeness which you offer everyone. In worship, we receive 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 dare to accept the roles that you give us to fulfill, God. Equip us for your service everywhere you lead us. Amen.

*RESPONSE — In This Very Room — #125

In this very room there’s quite enough love for one like me,
And in this very room there’s quite enough joy for one like me;

And there’s quite enough hope, and quite enough pow’r
To chase away any gloom,
For Jesus, Lord Jesus,
Is in this very room.

In this very room there’s quite enough love for all of us,
And in this very room there’s quite enough joy for all of us;

And there’s quite enough hope, and quite enough pow’r
To chase away any gloom,
For Jesus, Lord Jesus,
Is in this very room.

In this very room there’s quite enough love for all the world,
And in this very room there’s quite enough joy for all the world;

And there’s quite enough hope, and quite enough pow’r
To chase away any gloom,
For Jesus, Lord Jesus,
Is in this very room.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 23 — Diann Sheahan

SPECIAL MUSIC — Sheep May Safely Graze — J. S. Bach

GOD’S WORD — John 10:22-30 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Blessed Assurance — #295

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of his Spirit, washed in His blood

Refrain:
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long;
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long

Perfect submission, perfect delight,
Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
Angels descending bring from above
Echoes of mercy, whispers of love. Refrain

Perfect submission, all is at rest.
I in my Savior am happy and bless’d;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
filled with His goodness, lost in His love. Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

POSTLUDE — Let All Things Now Living (tune: Ash Grove) — arr. Larry Shackley

May 4 — The Way Forward

We are blessed by the eternal love of God’s Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. As the UCC, we rejoice that God loves all people. Let us worship together!

Today we celebrate open communion, so if you are worshipping with us at home, please gather the elements before the service begins so we may partake together.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Fairest Lord Jesus

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jim French
One: It’s springtime; and things are coming alive!
All: As life blossoms, we rejoice in the earthly beauties of God.
One: Spring is a worldly rebirth.
All: Imagine all of the possibilities for life with God!
One: We are blessed.
All: Christ is alive!
One: God enables us to follow Christ.
All: This very moment, God is walking with us!

*HYMN — My Redeemer — #324

I will sing of my Redeemer
And his wondrous love to me;
On the cruel cross he suffered,
From the curse to set me free.

Chorus
Sing, O sing of my Redeemer!
With his blood he purchased me;
on the cross he sealed my pardon,
paid the debt, and made me free.

I will tell the wondrous story,
How my lost estate to save,
In His boundless love and mercy
He the ransom freely gave,
Chorus

I will praise my dear Redeemer,
His triumphant pow’r I’ll tell
How the victory He giveth
Over sin, and death and hell.
Chorus

I will sing of my Redeemer,
And His heav’nly love to me;
He from death to life hath bro’t me,
Son of God with Him to be
Chorus

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jim French
Loving God, you graciously spread a Sacred Table for all people to enjoy! We offer you our praises today! Risen Savior, you fill us with life! Especially when no one else can, you raise our spirit. In your uplifting, renewing way, you fill souls with lasting joy!
As we now walk into the future, we hope you will join us on the road. Come near; and walk along with us. Open the scriptures to us; nourish the sweet honey of your Word. Open our eyes, that we may recognize the depth and richness of your grace in everyday moments, such as
The meeting of eyes, the sharing of a meal, the crossing of paths, and walking side by side.
Come alive among us now, Christ Jesus. It means so much to us that you are with your people in commonplace events and situations where we are ourselves. Thank you, Risen Savior, for loving us and for staying with us. Bless us with eyes and ears, hearts and souls to recognize you, Jesus! Be made known to us and through us, we pray. Amen.

*RESPONSE — You Are My All in All — Ivy 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 — Psalm 30 — Jim French

SPECIAL MUSIC — Lord, I Want to be a Christian in My Heart — arr. John Carter

GOD’S WORD — John 21:1-19 —Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — One Bread, One Body — Ivy 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 SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION [A] — Ivy worship booklet, pp. 10-11
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament at Christ’s Table.

*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 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — What a Friend We Have in Jesus — arr. Bruce Greer

April 27 — Resurrection Witness

Peace be with you. Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. You are welcome here. God loves all people. God is still speaking…Christ is risen! Alleluia!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Come, Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain

*CALL TO WORSHIP — John Weiland
One: Children of God, come and worship.
All: We come to worship Jesus Christ, risen forever!
One: Come to receive forgiveness for your sins.
All: We come to discover hope in the face of fear.
One: Jesus Christ appears and declares, “My peace I give to you.”
All: Our Savior is here!
One: Our Savior is alive!
All: We come to rejoice in life born out of death. Alleluia!

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

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

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

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

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — John Weiland
God of all our beginnings; may this day begin with praises for you! Let every breath become a witness to your Spirit, living within us and among us. Open our hearts to receive your saving gifts. Use our voices to proclaim your unsurpassed greatness. May the sound of our celebration help people to sense your powerful presence and to claim the joy of serving you, in Christ’s name. 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 — Psalm 118:14-29 — John Weiland

SPECIAL MUSIC — I Want Jesus to Walk with Me

GOD’S WORD — John 20:19-31 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Because He Lives — #275

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal and forgive
He lived and died to buy my pardon
An empty grave is there to prove my savior lives
Refrain

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living, just because He lives
Refrain

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy He gives;
But greater still the calm assurance,
This child can face uncertain days because He lives.
Refrain

And then one day I’ll cross the river;
I’ll fight life’s final war with pain;
And then as death gives way to victory,
I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know He lives.
Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Lord, I Lift Your Name on High

April 20 — Easter Sunday — He is Risen!

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. Today is Resurrection Day! God’s Church joyously celebrates, Christ is risen! Alleluia!

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP — JoAnn Moody
One: We gather to worship Living God!
All: Today, we celebrate amazing news! Our Savior is alive!
One: Rejoice! It’s Resurrection Day!
All: The massive tombstone has been rolled out of the way!
The tomb is empty!
One: Jesus Christ is risen today!
All: Christ is risen! Alleluia!

*HYMN — Christ the Lord Is Risen Today — #268

Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!
Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Dying once, He all doth save, Alleluia!
Where’s thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!

Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids Him rise, Alleluia!
Christ has opened Paradise, Alleluia!

Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia!
Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!
Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — JoAnn Moody
Life-giving God, you are the One who sends the dawn, who relieves our fears and who fills people with hope. On that first resurrection morning, your angels appeared to women who were your followers, bringing them news more wonderful than they had dared to imagine – “Christ is risen!” In equally astonishing ways you are blessing human lives today. Your power amazes us! Christ Jesus, you so thoroughly love humankind that you sacrifice your life on our behalf. nd then you display your supreme power by rising from the dead! Christ Jesus, you have blessed the world forever through the miracle of your resurrection. Your empty tomb proclaims that you are alive! Alleluia! Amen!

*PRAISE RESPONSE — 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!

Chorus:
Our God reigns! Our God reigns!
Our God reigns! Our God reigns!

He had no stately form; He had no majesty,
That we should be drawn to Him.
He was despised, and we took no account of Him,
Yet now He reigns with the Most High. [Chorus]

Out of 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. [Chorus]

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — Linda Lowry

*HYMN — 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 — Isaiah 65:17-2 — JoAnn Moody

SPECIAL MUSIC — Rise Again

GOD’S WORD — Luke 24:1-12 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Thine is the Glory, Risen Conquering Son — #281

Thine is the glory, Risen conquering Son!
Endless is the victr’y Thou or death has won!
Angels in bright raiment Rolled the stone away,
Kept the folded grave clothes Where Thy body lay.

Refrain:
Thine is the glory, Risen Conquering Son!
Endless is the victr’y Thou o’er death hast won!

Lo! Jesus meets us. Risen from the tomb,
Lovingly He greets us, Scatters fear and gloom.
Let His church with gladness Hymns of triumph sing,
For the Lord now liveth; Death has lost its sting. [Refrain]

No more we doubt Thee, Glorious Prince of Life!
Life is naught without Thee; Aid us in our strife;
Make us more than conqu’rors, Through thy deathless love;
Bring us safe through Jordan To Thy home above. (Refrain)

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE

April 18 — Good Friday

Our Savior Jesus Christ is crucified on a cross. We remember this holy sacrifice on Good Friday; this loving act of God.

PRELUDE — What Wondrous Love is This

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Linda Lowry
One: Christ Jesus empties himself,
All: Taking the form of a servant.
One: Christ Jesus humbles himself,
All: And becomes obedient unto death—even death on a cross.
One: There is no greater love than this—to lay down one’s very life.
All: Christ Jesus died for you and me.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Linda Lowry
Merciful God, our souls ache with grief and guilt over your Crucifixion. You are aware of all our burdens. Come, Holy Spirit, we need you now. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world. Amen.

*HYMN — Beneath the Cross of Jesus — #239

Beneath the cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand,
The shadow of a mighty Rock within a weary land;
A home within the wilderness, A rest upon the way,
From the burning of the noontide heat And the burden of the day.

Upon the cross of Jesus Mine eye at times can see
The very dying form of One Who suffered there for me:
And from my smitten heart with tears Two wonders I confess,
The wonders of redeeming love And my unworthiness.

I take, O cross, thy shadow For my abiding place:
I ask no other sunshine than The sunshine of His face;
Content to let the world go by, To know no gain nor loss;
My sinful self my only shame, My glory all the cross.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION — Linda Lowry
Blessed Savior, each Good Friday invites the whole world to the foot of your cross. This is a forlorn and difficult place to be. Here we are shown our mockeries, our betrayals and our denials of you. Yes, like Simon Peter, sometimes we also draw swords in anger. We lash out at one another. We criticize; we envy; we injure one another. Worst of all, we continue pretending to serve you without making true sacrifices. Beneath your cross, Jesus, we see our own guilt. At the foot of your cross, sorrow and love mingle. Forgive us for crucifying you. Amen.

SILENCE

*ASSURANCE OF PARDON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*RESPONSE — Were You There? — #266

Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?

Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?

RESPONSIVE READING — Crucifixion of Christ — #645

*HYMN — Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone — #512

GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SPECIAL MUSIC — Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross

The Seven Sayings of Jesus on the Cross

Forgiveness
Luke 23:32-34

Acceptance
Luke 23:39-43

Love
John 19:25a-27

Anguish
Mark 15:33-34

Suffering
John 19:28-29

Fulfillment
John 19:30

Surrender
Luke 23:44-46

SPECIAL MUSIC — It Is Finished — Hartman
Valerie Waterman, Vocalist

DEPART IN SILENCE

Next Page »