August 7 Livestream – Living the Promise
August 6, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
This morning is a sacred gift from God. Together, let us come to the Table of our Living Savior. Let us live the promise as one! All are welcome at Christ’s table. If you are worshipping with us at home, be sure to gather the element of communion before worship begins.
Join us for in-person worship Sunday morning at 10 a.m. or on our YouTube channel. We will place a direct link to the service once worship begins.
Click here if you have any questions about Ivy Chapel.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Heartily I Yearn – Strungk
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Let us sing to Everlasting God
All: who nourishes life within every human being!
One: How amazing is our God
All: who creates all that is alive and beautiful in this world!
One: Let us rejoice this day!
All: Together, let us lift our voices in praise to God!
*HYMN – Morning Has Broken – #274
Morning has broken like the first morning,
Blackbird has spoken like the first bird.
Praise for the singing! Praise for the morning!
Praise for them, springing fresh from the Word!
Sweet the rain’s new fall sunlit from heaven,
Like the first dewfall on the first grass.
Praise for the sweetness of the wet garden,
Sprung in completeness where His feet pass.
Mine is the sunlight! Mine is the morning
Born of the one light Eden saw play!
Praise with elation, praise every morning,
God’s recreation of the new day!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God Eternal, Spirit of grace; you are the One who brings us here, making us ready for something we cannot fully comprehend. You offer each of us a uniquely personal place at your table. Your Communion is an expression of the sacred love that you display toward all people as the Savior of the world!
God of salvation, all the earth cries out for the beauty that is within us to rise to the surface. This beauty comes from you, O God. You are our Shepherd, Christ Jesus; and we are treasured flock of young and old, female and male, rich and poor, strong and weak. May we follow your lead. We thank you for each blessing which you provide. Let us serve you by offering your love and grace to everyone. Breathe new life into your people this day, O Holy One, as we gather to worship you; to listen for your voice; and to respond with our lives. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Shout to the Lord – worship booklet, pp. 80-81
My Jesus, my Savior
Lord there is none like You
All of my days I want to praise
The wonders of Your mighty love
My comfort, my shelter
Tower of refuge and strength
Let every breath, all that I am
Never cease to worship You
Shout to the Lord all the Earth, let us sing
Power and majesty, praise to the King
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar
At the sound of Your name
I sing for joy at the work of Your hands
Forever I’ll love You, forever I’ll stand
Nothing compares to the promise I have
In You
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 33:12-13, 20-22
SPECIAL MUSIC – A Place at the Table – Tate
GOD’S WORD – Luke 12:32-40 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – We Come As Guests Invited – #258
We come as guests invited When Jesus bids us dine,
HIs friends on earth united To share the bread and wine;
The bread of life is broken, The wine is freely poured
For us, in solemn token Of Christ our dying Lord.
We eat and drink, receiving From Christ the grace we need,
An in our hearts believing On Him by faith we feed;
With wonder and thanksgiving For love that knows no end,
We find in Jesus living Our ever present friend.
One bread is ours for sharing, One single, fruited vine,
Our fellowship declaring Renewed in bread and wine-
Renewed, sustained and given By token, sing and word,
The pledge and seal of heaven, The love of Christ our Lord.
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament here.
*HYMN – I Would Be True – #432
I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are those who care;
I would be strong, for there is much to suffer;
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be brave, for there is much to dare.
I would be friend of all—the foe, the friendless;
I would be giving, and forget the gift;
I would be humble, for I know my weakness;
I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.
I would look up, and laugh, and love, and lift.
I would be learning day by day the lessons
My heav’n-ly Father gives me in His Word;
I would be quick to hear His lightest whisper,
And prompt and glad to do the things I’ve heard;
And prompt and glad to do the things I’ve heard.
I would be prayerful through each busy moment;
I would be constantly in touch with God;
I would be tuned to hear His slightest whisper,
I would have faith to keep the path Christ trod;
I would have faith to keep the path Christ trod.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Agincourt Hymn – Dunstable
July 31 – Soul
July 29, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
All are welcome to find peace in our sanctuary. If you are unable to join us in person, we will be livestreaming worship. You can view past worship services on our YouTube channel. We will post the direct link to the service on Sunday morning.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Gigue – D. Wagner
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God alone is our strength and shield.
All: God does not always come as earthquake, wind or fire.
One: Sometimes, God is revealed in moments of silence.
All: In quiet expectation, we have entered this sanctuary.
One: This is a place of healing and joy.
All: As our souls thirst for Living Water, we long to worship God.
*HYMN – As the Deer Pants for the Water – worship booklet, p. 26
As the deer pants for the water
So my soul longs after You
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship You
Chorus:
You alone are my strength, my shield,
To You alone may my spirit yield;
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship You!
I want you more than gold or silver,
Only you can satisfy
You alone are the real joy giver
And the apple of my eye.
Chorus
You’re my friend and You are my brother
Even though You are a King
I love You more than any other
So much more than anything!
Chorus
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Eternal God, you are Companion of all who seek you, and Seeker of all who turn away from you. With complete trust in you, we come to you. Draw near to us now. Renew us during this time of worship. May we live as you live within us–faithfully, joyfully, and abundantly!
Ever-present God, your Word teaches us to cast our cares on you, since we realize that you care for us. Guide each of us as we continue serving you by joyously offering your love and compassion to all people. We pray in your holy name, Jesus. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Bless the Lord, O My Soul – #85
Bless the Lord, O My Soul;
Bless the Lord, O My Soul;
And all that is within me,
Bless His holy name.
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 107:1-9
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody
GOD’S WORD – Hosea 11:1-11
SPECIAL MUSIC – Count Your Blessings – Torrans
GOD’S WORD – Luke 12:13-21
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Amazing Grace – #299
Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see
‘Twas Grace that taught my heart to fear,
And Grace, my fears relieved;
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed!
Through many dangers, toils and snares,
We have already come;
‘Tis Grace that brought us safe thus far,
And Grace will lead us home.
When we’ve been there then thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Deposuit Potentes – Titelouze
Join us for in-person worship July 24
July 21, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Livestream Links and Order for Worship
This coming Sunday, July 24, we will not be live streaming worship at Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. You are welcome to join us for worship in our spacious sanctuary located at 620 N. Woods Mill in Chesterfield. Worship begins at 10 a.m.
We hope to be back online next Sunday, July 31.
If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with our worship team.
July 17 Livestream – Word and Work
July 16, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Today, God brings us together to find strength, hope and joy in His love. We are glad you could join us on this journey.
Join us for online worship on our YouTube page or in person in our sun-fulled sanctuary at 620 N. Woods Mill Road in Chesterfield, MO.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Reflection – D. Wagner
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Let us gather in spirit and truth to worship the Holy One.
All: We come as green olive trees, fragrant with life and vibrancy.
One: Let us praise God who reveals, who questions, and who listens.
All: We come as green olive trees, ripe with possibilities.
One: Let us give thanks for God’s abiding and faithful love.
All: We come as green olive trees, proclaiming the goodness of God!
*HYMN – For the Beauty of the Earth – #64
For the beauty of the earth,
For the glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies.
Refrain:
Lord of all, to Thee we raise
This our hymn of grateful praise.
For the beauty of each hour ,
Of the day and of the night,
Hill and vale and tree and flower,
Sun and moon and stars of light,
Refrain
For the joy of ear and eye,
For the heart and mind’s delight,
For the mystic harmony
Linking sense to sound and sight,
Refrain
For the joy of human love,
Brother, sister, parent child,
Friends on earth and and friends above,
For all gentle, thoughts and mild,
Refrain
For each perfect gift of Thine
To our race so freely giv’n,
Graces human and divine,
Flow’rs of earth and buds of heav’n,
Refrain
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Rejuvenating God, you bring us hope when we are discouraged. You bring us peace when we are anxious. You bring us joy when we are least expecting it. We gather now to receive your gift of sabbath rest.
O Divine Gardener, we need your care and nurture. Fertilize our souls. Plant seeds of wisdom, sensitivity and vision! Prune us today for abundance tomorrow. Liberally water us with your steadfast love, so that we will bear good fruit.
Giver of Life and Growth, prepare us to answer your call to ministries of grace. Increase our compassion. Help us bear each other’s burdens. Bring new power and strength for action as partners in Christ’s service. Amen.
*PRAISE 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 – Genesis 18:1-10
SPECIAL MUSIC – People Need the Lord – Nelson/Hayes
GOD’S WORD – Luke 10:38-42
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*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 – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – The Heavens Declare – Marcello
Reach out to us anytime with questions or comments.
July 10 Livestream – Caring Neighbors
July 9, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC! God loves all people. Whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here. We are all neighbors on this journey together.
We are thrilled to have you with us. You may join us any Sunday at 10 a.m. as we gather in our sanctuary, or for virtual worship on YouTube.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Prelude – J. S. Bach
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: This is the day the Lord has made!
All: We rejoice, for God is awesome!
One: God made the very foundations of the earth!
All: God’s power is beyond human understanding!
One: We do know this – God’s love and mercy are eternal gifts.
All: Praise God for all of life’s blessings!
*HYMN – All Things Bright and Beautiful – #65
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And 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.
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And all things wise and wonderful;
The Lord God made them all.
The purple-headed mountain,
The river running by,
The sunset, and the morning
That brightens up the sky.
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And all things wise and wonderful;
The Lord God made them all.
The cold wind in the winter,
The pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruits in the garden:
He made them, every one.
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And all things wise and wonderful;
The Lord God made them all.
He gave us eyes to see them,
And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty,
Who has made all things well.
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And all things wise and wonderful;
The Lord God made them all.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of all; you are among us as we celebrate this morning! We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to worship you.
We praise you, God, as the One who gathers people and who shapes us into communities of faith. Thanks to you, human hearts are filled with hope and joy. Here, in your sanctuary, we are at home. As we worship, you reassure us that wherever we are, you are with us.
Life leads us in many directions and to many different places. We are blessed that you are with us in all situations. We can always be ourselves with you; for you are a Genuine and Loving God.
During this worship, God, we ask that you draw us away from all earthly concerns and free us to exalt you. No one can compare with you. There is no God other than you. Your Living Water cleanses, and your Living Word heals. Come, Christ Jesus; wash over us. Speak to us, and bless us with ears to hear your voice. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – The Bond of Love (Verses 1 and 2) – #123We are one in the bond of love
We are one in the bond of love
We have joined our spirit with the Spirit of God
We are one in the bond of love
Let us sing now, ev’ry one,
Let us feel His love begun;
Let us join our hand that the world will know
We are one in the bond of love
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 25:1-10
*HYMN – Lonely Voices – #526
Lonely voices crying in the city,
Lonely voices sounding like a child.
Lonely voices come from busy people,
Too disturbed to stop a little while.
Lonely voices fill my dreams,
Lonely voices haunt my memory.
Lonely faces looking for the sunrise,
Just to find another busy day.
Lonely faces all around the city,
Though afraid, they’re too ashamed to pray.
Lonely faces do I see,
Lonely faces haunt my memory.
Lonely eyes, I see them in the subway,
Burdened by the worries of the day;
Lives of leisure, yet they’re so unhappy,
Tired of foolish roles they try to play.
Lonely people do I see,
Lonely people haunt my memory.
Abundant life Christ came to truly give man,
But so few His gift of grace receive.
Lonely people live in every city,
Those who face a dark and lonely grave.
Lonely faces do I see,
Lonely voices calling out to me.
GOD’S WORD – Colossians 1:1-14
SPECIAL MUSIC – What a Friend We Have in Jesus – arr. Tornquist
GOD’S WORD – Luke 10:25-37
SERMON – Pastor Dan
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 every one
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 may see.
Refrain
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Oh, Be Joyful in the Lord – Wolford
July 3 Livestream – Surprising Prophets
July 2, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
On this holiday weekend, we are happy to welcome you to Ivy Chapel. We rejoice in our freedom and pause to remember all it means to us. Join us in person Sunday at 10 a.m. or on YouTube.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Meditation – D. Wagner
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God is gracious and merciful.
All: God is abounding in steadfast love.
One: Come to the refreshing waters God provides.
All: Come, all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens.
One: The gentle Spirit of Christ invites us.
All: We have come to find rest for our souls.
*HYMN – Patriotic Hymn Sing – (verses 1 and 4 of each hymn)
America – #602
My country, ’tis of thee,
Sweet land of liberty,
Of thee I sing:
Land where my fathers died,
Land of the pilgrim’s pride,
From every mountain side
Let freedom ring.
Our fathers’ God, to Thee,
Author of liberty,
To Thee we sing:
Long may our land be bright
With freedom’s holy light;
Protect us by Thy might,
Great God, our King!
America the Beautiful – #600
O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood,
From sea to shining sea!
O beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam,
Undimmed by human tears!
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!
The Battle Hymn of the Republic – #604
Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of His terrible swift sword;
His truth is marching on.
Refrain:
Glory! glory, hallelujah!
Glory! glory, hallelujah!
Glory! glory, hallelujah!
Our God is marching on.
In the beauty of the lilies, Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free,
While God is marching on.
Refrain
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – 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
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 30 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – Once to Every Man and Nation – Williams/Hayes
GOD’S WORD – 2 Kings 5:1-16, 19 –Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – One Bread, One Body – worship booklet, pp. 72-73
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
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
Many the gifts, many the works
One in the Lord
Of all
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
We are one body in this one Lord
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to receive them here.
PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – The Old Rugged Cross – #247
1 On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
the emblem of suffering and shame;
and I love that old cross where the dearest and best
for a world of lost sinners was slain.
Refrain:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
and exchange it some day for a crown.
2 O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
has a wondrous attraction for me;
for the dear Lamb of God left his glory above
to bear it to dark Calvary. [Refrain]
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Fugue – Pachelbel
June 26 Livestream – Picking Up
June 24, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
God loves all people. No one is a stranger to God. Today, God is blessing the whole world with a sacred day of life! Let us worship God together!
Join us in person or on our YouTube channel. We’ll share a direct link to the service once worship begins at 10 a.m. Sunday morning.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Chorale Prelude – D. Wagner
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Shall those in need take refuge in God?
All: Yes! God answers all who call on God. Hope in God.
One: Where is God? Will those who seek find God?
All: Yes! All people live in God’s presence. Watch for God.
One: Is God alive among us?
All: Yes! God’s voice speaks – many times in unexpected ways. Listen closely, for God is still speaking,…
*HYMN – Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above – #45
Sing praise to God who reigns above,
the God of all creation,
the God of power, the God of love,
the God of our salvation;
with healing balm my soul he fills,
and every faithless murmur stills:
o God all praise and glory.
What God’s almighty power hath made,
his gracious mercy keepeth;
by morning glow or evening shade
his watchful eye ne’er sleepeth.
Within the kingdom of his might,
lo! all is just and all is right:
to God all praise and glory
The Lord is never far away,
But through all grief distressing
An ever present help and stay
Our peace, and joy, and blessing;
As with a mother’s tender hand,
He leads His one, HIs chosen band:
To God all praise and glory.
Then all my gladsome way along
I sing aloud thy praises,
that men may hear the grateful song
my voice unwearied raises:
be joyful in the Lord, my heart!
Both soul and body bear your part!
To God all praise and glory.
*CALLING TO GOD IN PRAYER
We call to you, Everlasting God. You are the One who calls disciples; and this day we call to you: Come now, O Holy One; Living God.
Come alive, Creator God. Breathe life within us and within all creation! O God, you are the Potter, and we are the clay. Shape and fashion us into vessels of true grace. Smooth our rough edges into your beautiful design, and then fire us into pottery blessed for serving in your name. May you be our strength, God Most High. Shape our lives for offering care and healing to others. Receive our prayers, the spoken and the unspoken; and bring your Word to life through our lives. All this we pray, in your sacred name, Christ Jesus. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Give Thanks – worship booklet, p. 42
Give thanks with a grateful heart,
Give thanks to the Holy One,
Give thanks because He’s given
Jesus Christ His Son.
Give thanks with a grateful heart,
Give thanks to the Holy One,
Give thanks because He’s given
Jesus Christ His Son.
And now let the weak say “I am strong”
Let the poor say “I am rich”
Because of what the Lord has done for us.
And now let the weak say “I am strong”
Let the poor say “I am rich”
Because of what the Lord has done for us.
Give thanks, give thanks.
GOD’S WORD – 2 Kings 2:1-2, 4, 6-15 – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – 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’ll 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 through and in me;
Your power and glory, let them shine through 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 through me.
GOD’S WORD – Galatians 5:1, 13-25 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – How Beautiful – Hayes
GOD’S WORD – Luke 9:51-62 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Help Us Accept Each Other – #127
Help us accept each other as Christ accepted us;
Teach us as sister, brother, each person to embrace.
Be present, Lord, among us and bring us to believe:
We are ourselves accepted and meant to love and live.
Teach us, O Lord, Your lessons, as in our daily life
We struggle to be human and search for hope and faith.
Teach us to care for people, for all, not just for some,
To love them as we find them, or as they may become.
Let Your acceptance change us so that we may be moved
In living situations to do the truth in love;
To practice Your acceptance until we know by heart
The table of forgiveness and laughter’s healing art.
Lord, for today’s encounters with all who are in need,
Who hunger for acceptance, for righteousness and for bread,
We need new eyes for seeing, new hands for holding on:
Renew us with Your Spirit; Lord, free us, make us one!
*GOD SENDS US INTO THE WORLD – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Exultation – Cassler
June 17 Livestream – In God’s Presence
June 17, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
June 19 Livestream – In God’s Presence
We are blessed to have Lauren Verseman as our guest preacher today.Thank you, Lauren, for your leadership this morning as we worship God together!
You can join us for virtual worship on YouTube. We’ll post a direct link to the service once it begins on Sunday. As always, you are welcome to worship with us in-person at 620 N. Woods Mill in Chesterfield, MO.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Brethren, We Have Met to Worship – Hustad
*CALL TO WORSHIP – (based on Psalms 22 and 23) – Lauren Verseman
One: When shall I behold the face of God?
All: O God, reveal to us your light and your truth.
One: My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
All: As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you.
One: Lead us to your holy hill and to your dwelling.
All: You are our refuge in the face of oppression.
One: Deep calls to deep at the thunder of your cataracts;
All: Your waves resonate within me.
One: Let us hope in our God.
All: We come again to praise our God, our hope.
*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 – Lauren Verseman
Holy one, we sense you calling to the deep within us. You call through our lives’ fires and earthquakes, disasters and distractions; you askus to show up and to pay attention in the middle of our noisy lives.
Oh God, center us, orient us, move us. Sustain us in the face of all that is troubling and disquieting – maybe even demonic – in our lives and our world. Strengthen us that we may withstand the powers of death and work instead for your justice. Amen.
*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 Kings 19:1-15a – Lauren Verseman
GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 65:1-9 – Lauren Verseman
SPECIAL MUSIC – Sing to the Lord – Sterliing/Hayes
GOD’S WORD – Luke 8:26-39 – Lauren Verseman
SERMON – “The Quiet Before” – Lauren Verseman
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND LORD’S PRAYER – Lauren Verseman
*HYMN – O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee – #542
O Master, let me walk with thee
In lowly paths of service free;
Tell me thy secret, help me bear
The strain of toil, the fret of care.
Help me the slow of heart to move
By some clear, winning word of love;
Teach me the wayward feet to stay,
And guide them in the homeward way.
Teach me thy patience; still with thee
In closer, dearer company,
In work that keeps faith sweet and strong,
In trust that triumphs over wrong.
In hope that sends a shining ray
Far down the future’s broad’ning way,
In peace that only thou canst give,
With thee, O Master, let me live.
*BENEDICTION – Lauren Verseman
*POSTLUDE – Toccata – D. Wagner
June 12 Livestream – Trinity Sunday
June 11, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Thank you for joining us on this Trinity Sunday. Today, we celebrate the three Persons of God: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. In Christian tradition, Trinity Sunday calls us to acknowledge both the breadth of our experience with God, and the limitations of our knowledge. We can’t possibly understand the scale of His creation, and we are forever in awe of His glory.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Prelude and Fugue – Zachow
*CALL TO WORSHIP
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 – 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!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God our Potter, God who becomes clay, 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 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody
GOD’S WORD – Romans 5:1-5 –Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – The Road Home – Martin
GOD’S WORD – John 16:12-15 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – O Jesus, I Have Promised – #466
O Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Be thou forever near me,
My Master and my Friend;
I shall not fear the battle
If Thou art by my side,
Nor wander from the pathway
If Thou wilt be my guide.
O let me feel thee near me!
The world is ever near:
I see the sights that dazzle,
The tempting sounds I hear.
My foes are ever near me,
Around me and within;
But, Jesus, draw Thou nearer,
And shield my soul from sin.
O Jesus,Thou hast promised
To all who follow Thee
That where Thou art in glory
There shall Thy servant be.
And, Jesus, I have promised
To serve thee to the end;
O give me grace to follow,
My Master and my Friend.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Trumpet Tune – D. Wagner
June 5 Livestream – Pentecost
June 3, 2022 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Today is Pentecost, the 50th day after Easter Sunday. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers who were celebrating the Festival of Weeks in Jerusalem. It is often celebrated as the beginning of the Christian church’s mission to the world.
You may join us at 10 a.m. in our sanctuary at 620 N. Woods Mill Road in Chesterfield, or online via YouTube.
PRELUDE – Rock of Ages – Hustad
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Receive with joy God’s gift of the Holy Spirit.
All: The winds of God are blowing among us.
One: How amazing is the power of God!
All: The breath of God fills people with life and hope!
One: God calls us to be dreamers and prophets.
All: Christ offers us a vision of a world overflowing with God’s grace.
*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.
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.”
If you say He saved you from your sin,
Now you’re weak, you’re bound and cannot enter in,
You can make it right if you will yield,
You’ll enjoy the Holy Spirit that we feel.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of wind and fire; we are grateful to you for this day, and we are thrilled to be here for worship. We are filled with joy by what we are about to celebrate.
God, you are “Mystery” with a capital “M.” You are the Creator, who gives life to all living things. You are the Christ, who loves us so deeply that you give your life for us. You are the Spirit, who ages ago moved over the waters of creation; and who forever stirs in each human heart and soul.
You are the Author and the Master of all holy mysteries. Lead us to respond faithfully as you call us into ever-new beginnings. Guide us on this life-long journey toward hope, wonder and amazement. Amen.
*RESPONSE – Spirit of the Living God – #150
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 104:24-34, 35b – Pastor Dan
MISSION MOMENT – Our Church’s Wider Mission – Bill Biedenstein, Missouri Mid-South Conference, UCC
GOD’S WORD – Romans 8:14-17 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – I’m Bound for the Kingdom – Wolaver
GOD’S WORD – Acts 2:1-21 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
*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,
O Lord have mercy on me.
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire the bread and the cup are welcome to receive the gifts of God.
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Breathe on Me, Breath of God – #139
Breathe on me, Breath of God,
fill me with life anew,
that I may love the way you love,
and do what you would do.
Breathe on me, Breath of God,
until my heart is pure,
until my will is one with yours,
to do and to endure.
Breathe on me, Breath of God,
so shall I never die,
but live with you the perfect life
for all eternity.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Recessional – Wolford