May 26 — Trinity Sunday
May 24, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
The first Sunday after Pentecost is Trinity Sunday, a celebration of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. On this Memorial Day weekend, we also take a moment to remember those who have lost their lives in service to our country.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Sanctuary
*CALL TO WORSHIP — Julie McAllister
One: We come here looking, all of us carrying our small lamps of hope.
People: We come here calling out; listening to one another; and
retelling the story of promise.
One: In this sanctuary, as we approach Living God, we are transformed into
the Body of Christ – breathing together in rhythm with the Holy Spirit.
People: Let us celebrate as a faith community, gathered in the love of
our God.
*HYMN — Spirit — worship booklet, pp. 82-83
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
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Julie McAllister
Gracious God, we praise you for your goodness and mercy! Again and again, you bless us with astonishing compassion. Your presence among us is a holy gift.
Spirit of the Living God, fall afresh on us this day. Renew us, we pray. Guide us to live with joyful abandon in pursuit of the abundant future which you envision for all. May your transformative power come alive among us and within us.
Loving God and Savior, we joyfully turn toward you with wonder and with deep gratitude as you continue leading all creation to fullness of life! In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE — Lord, Speak to Me — #535
Lord, speak to me, that I may speak In living echoes of Thy tone;
As Thou has sought, so let me seek Thy erring children lost and lone.
O teach me, Lord, that I may teach The precious things Thou dost Impart;
And wing my words, that they may reach The hidden depths of many a heart.
O fill me with Thy fullness, Lord, Until my very heart o’er flow;
In kindling thoughts and glowing word Thy love to tell, Thy praise to show.
O use me, Lord, use even me, Just as Thou wilt and when and where;Until Thy blessed face I see, Thy rest, Thy joy, Thy glory share.
GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 6:1-8 — Julie McAllister
SPECIAL MUSIC — God So Loved the World
GOD’S WORD — John 3:1-17 — Pastor Dan
SERMON — Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Pastor Dan
*HYMN — Give to the Winds Your Fears — #458
Give to the winds your fears, Hope and be undismayed;
God hears thy sighs and counts thy tears; God shall lift up thy head.
Through waves and clouds and storms,He gently clears the way;
Wait for His time, so shall this night Soon end in joyous day.
Still heavy is your heart? Still sink your spirits down?
Cast off the weight, let fear depart, And every care be gone.
He everywhere has sway And all things serve His mind;
His every act pure blessing is, His path unsullied light.
Far, far above your thought His counsel shall appear,
When fully He the work hath wrought, That caused thy needless fear.
Leave to His sovereign will To choose and to command;
With wonder filled, you then shall own How wise, how strong His hand.
*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE — Sweet, Sweet Spirit
May 5 – “I have called you friends.”
May 4, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A warm welcome and a special thank you to the Rev. Mary Albert who is leading us in worship today.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – My Jesus, I Love Thee
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Diann Sheahan
One: Friends, we gather this morning knowing God is with us.
All: We gather in the love of God which holds us close.
One: Let us welcome one another, remembering that Jesus never turned anyone away.
All: May God move among us, and surprise us with signs of the Holy Spirit.
One: Let us be drawn into communion with God and with one another.
All: May our worship reflect our gratitude and praise. Amen.
*HYMN – What a Friend We Have in Jesus – #162
What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry Everything to God in prayer.
Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee; Thou wilt find asolace there.
*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Diann Sheahan
O Holy One, you know us through and through. You call each of us by name, and you call us your friends. In awe and wonder, we marvel at the depth of your love and compassion. In this sacred moment, let us lay aside our distractions, our worries, and our preoccupations. Help us to turn all of our attention to you. Forgive our shortcomings and cleanse our hearts. Heal us, restore us, and inspire us, we pray. Gather us together and fill us with the power to be your beloved community. This we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Rejoice in the Lord Always – #113
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
GOD’S WORD – Acts 10:44-48 – Diann Sheahan
SPECIAL MUSIC – Jesus Loves Me – based on Clair de Lune by Debussy
GOD’S WORD – John 15:9-17 – Pastor Mary Albert
SERMON – Pastor Mary Albert
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Mary Albert
*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.
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
The Sacrament of Holy Communion [A] worship book, pp. 10-11
As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate Open Communion.
All who desire the bread and the cup are welcome to receive.
*HYMN – They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love – #119
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Mary Albert
*POSTLUDE – What a Friend
April 28 – Abiding in Love
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! May this worship renew us body, mind and soul. Praise God for abiding with all people in steadfast love.
WELCOME
PRELUDE — Abide with Me — Piano setting
*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jo Ann Moody
One: Come; let us worship God.
All: Let all the ends of the earth turn to God.
One: Come; let us remember and re-claim our baptism.
All: Let the love of God be seen in our lives.
One: Christ is the Vine.
All: We are the branches.
*HYMN — Abide with Me — #577
Abide with me: fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.
Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day;
Earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away.
Change and decay in all around I see.
O thou who changest not, abide with me.
I need Thy presence every passing hour.
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s power?
Who like Thyself my guide and strength can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord abide with me.
I fear no foe with Thee at hand to bless,
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness.
Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.
Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes.
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies.
Heaven’s morning breaks and earth’s vain shadows flee;
In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jo Ann Moody
Wondrous God, we praise you as the Creator of all life! You are the One who creates and loves all people. Shape us into your living witnesses who bless others as you always do.
Foot-washing Savior, guide us to follow your humble example. Come now; and fill us with your unselfish, exceptional love. You are the Vine. We are the branches. Through Christ’s love, we are all connected. Amen.
*RESPONSE — 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 then may see.
Refrain
MISSION MOMENT — Every Child’s Hope — Kathryn Kuntzman
GOD’S WORD — 1 John 4:7-21 — Jo Ann Moody
GOD’S WORD — John 15:1-9 — Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC — Abide with Me — Organ setting
SERMON — Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Pastor Dan
*HYMN — Love Lifted Me — #317
Far from the peaceful shore,
Very deeply stained within,
Sinking to rise no more;
But the Master of the sea
Heard my despairing cry,
From the waters lifted me–
Now safe am I.
Refrain:
Love lifted me, Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me;
Love lifted me, Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me.
All my heart to Him I give,
Ever to Him I’ll cling,
In His blessed presence live,
Ever His praises sing.
Love so mighty and so true
Merits my soul’s best songs;
Faithful, loving service, too,
To Him belongs. [Refrain]
Souls in danger, look above,
Jesus completely saves;
He will lift you by His love
Out of the angry waves.
He’s the Master of the sea,
Billows His will obey;
He your Savior wants to be–
Be saved today. [Refrain]
*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE — Abide with Me — Gospel setting
April 21 – Enfolded by Love
April 20, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
“I am the good shepherd. I know my own, and my own know me.”
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. We are blessed that God has given another day of life!
WELCOME
PRELUDE — Jesus Shall Reign
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: The Good Shepherd accompanies us to green pastures.
All: We are refreshed beside still waters.
One: We have been given all that we have.
All: God provides us with everything that we need.
One: Every valley that we walk through; God comforts us.
All: Step by step, God is with us.
One: God leads us along God’s path of goodness and righteousness.
All: Our cup overflows.
One: We receive abundantly from God.
All: Let us joyfully share this abundance!
*HYMN — We Will Glorify — #35
We will glorify the King of kings
We will glorify the Lamb
We will glorify the Lord of lords
Who is the great I Am
Lord Jehovah reigns in majesty
We will bow before His throne
We will worship Him in righteousness
We will worship Him alone
He is Lord of heaven Lord of earth
He is Lord of all who live
He is Lord above the universe
All praise to Him we give
Hallelujah to the King of kings
Hallelujah to the Lamb
Hallelujah to the Lord of lords
Who is the great I Am
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God our Maker, and Creator of all the earth; 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.
Good 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 take on the roles that you give us to fulfill, O God. Help us to be your loving disciples everywhere you lead us. Amen.
*RESPONSE — We Are the Reason — #245
We are the reason that He gave His life,
We are the reason that He suffered and died.
To a world that was lost He gave all He could give,
To show us the reason to live.
We were the reason that He gave His life
We were the reason that He suffered and died
To a world that was lost, He gave all He could give
To show us the reason to live
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE
*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
GOD’S WORD — Psalm 23
SPECIAL MUSIC — Sheep May Safely Graze — J. S. Bach
GOD’S WORD — John 10:11-18
SERMON — Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Pastor Dan
*HYMN — Lift High the Cross — #523
(Refrain)
Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim,
Till all the world adore His sacred name.
Come, brethren, follow where our Saviour trod,
Our King victorious, Christ the Son of God. (Refrain)
Led on their way by this triumphant sign,
The hosts of God in conquering ranks combine. (Refrain)
O Lord, once lifted on the glorious Tree,
As Thou hast promised, draw men unto Thee. (Refrain)
Set up Thy throne, that earth’s despair may cease
Beneath the shadow of its healing peace. (Refrain)
For Thy blest Cross which doth for all atone,
Creation’s praises rise before Thy Throne. (Refrain)
*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE — Lift High the Cross
April 14 – Christ Among Us
April 13, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! A warm welcome and a special thank you to Judy Lindquist for serving as worship musician today.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Lamb of God – Paris
*CALL TO WORSHIP — Sue Wilson
One: It’s springtime; and things are coming alive!
All: As life blossoms, we rejoice over the earthly beauties of God.
One: Spring is a worldly rebirth.
All: Imagine all of the possibilities there are for life with God!
One: Jesus of Nazareth once walked upon the earth.
All: God became a human being.
One: Jesus died on the Cross to bless all people with forgiveness and hope.
All: Jesus rose to walk with his disciples.
One: Christ is living among us.
All: This very moment, God is walking with us.
*HYMN – The Day of Resurrection – #276
The day of resurrection! Earth, tell it out abroad;
The Passover of gladness, The Passover of God.
From death to life eternal, From earth unto the sky,
Our Christ hath brought us over, With hymns of victory.
Our hearts be pure from evil, That we may see aright
The Lord in rays eternal Of resurrection light;
And listening to His accents, May hear, so calm and plain,
His own “All hail!” and, hearing, May raise the victor strain.
Now let the heavens be joyful! Let earth her song begin!
The world resound in triumph, And all that is therein!
Let all things seen and unseen Their notes in gladness blend,
For Christ the Lord hath risen, Our joy that hath no end.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Sue Wilson
Risen Savior, you fill us with life! When no one else can, you raise our spirits. Especially during times when it feels that our lives are dominated by disappointment or despair; O God, you transform us. In your miraculous, uplifting way, you provide resurrection. You fill empty souls with life!
Christ Jesus, you are the Lamb who takes away the sins of the world. You invite us to live and to love boldly as your followers. This is challenging! Still we are empowered to give your invitation a try, for we know that you do not expect perfection out of us. When we fail, you are the One who helps us, who picks us up, and who encourages us to try again. This is a wondrous blessing of Christian discipleship! With you, it is never too late to make a new start. Thank you, Jesus. You give us hope. Amen.
*RESPONSE – I Want Jesus to Walk with Me – #480
I want Jesus to walk with me.
I want Jesus to walk with me.
All along my pilgrim journey,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.
In my trials, Lord, walk with me.
In my trials, Lord, walk with me.
When my heart is almost breaking,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.
When I’m in trouble, Lord, walk with me.
When I’m in trouble, Lord, walk with me.
When my head is bowed in sorrow,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.
GOD’S WORD — Psalm 81:1-3, 6-10, 16 — Sue Wilson
SPECIAL MUSIC — I Will Rise — Tomlin
GOD’S WORD — Luke 24:13-48 — Pastor Dan
SERMON — Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Pastor Dan
*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
And life is worth the living, just because He lives
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
Refrain:
Because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
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 – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE — Be Thou My Vision — Irish tune
April 8 – Second Sunday of Easter
April 5, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
All are welcome at the table today. If you are worshipping with us from home, please gather the elements for communion before we begin so we can celebrate together.
WELCOME
SILENT REFLECTION — The Risen Lord — #646
PRELUDE — Easter Medley:
Come, Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain
He Is Lord
He Lives!
*CALL TO WORSHIP Rod Hertenstein
One: A new day has dawned:
All: Christ is risen!
One: In our hearts and all over the world:
All: Christ is alive!
One: As we care for God’s creation:
All: Christ is alive!
One: In the face of an unexpected neighbor:
All: Christ is alive!
One: As we share God’s abundance:
All: Christ is alive!
*HYMN — Crown Him with Many Crowns — #3
Crown him with many crowns, The Lamb upon His throne.
Hark! how the heavenly 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 worlds 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 takes 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 may die.
Crown him the Lord of love; Behold His hands and side,
Those wounds, yet visible above, In beauty glorified;
All hail, Redeemer, hail! For Thou hast died for me;
Thy praise and glory shall not fail Thro’out eternity.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Rod Hertenstein
God of Easter Joy; you can do anything! You are Supreme; and yet you do not threaten people. With care, you gently lead us to be at ease around you, Holy God. You reveal that anyone can safely come to you — bringing our joys; our sorrows; our fears; our questions; our doubts.
God of astonishing love; we thank you for patiently teaching us your Way. You draw us away from harmful ways of this world. You empty us of all that would hurt or condemn. You mend broken pieces of fragmented lives. You help people to accept who you are and to receive the wholeness which you offer. We praise you for your self-giving love, Jesus. Amen.
*RESPONSE — He Is Our Peace — #454
He is our peace
Who has broken down every wall,
He is our peace, He is our peace.
Cast all your cares on Him,
For He cares for you,
He is our peace, He is our peace.
GOD’S WORD — Acts 4:32-35 — Rod Hertenstein
SPECIAL MUSIC — Ask Me What Great Thing I Know
GOD’S WORD — John 20:19-31 — Pastor Dan
SERMON — Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*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
Our church celebrates Open Communion. All who desire are welcome to receive the bread and the cup.
The cups in the outer circle of the communion tray contain grape juice. The other cups contain wine.
*HYMN — I Will Sing of My Redeemer — #237
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.
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.
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 praise my dear Redeemer, His triumphant power I’ll tell,
How the victory He giveth Over sin and death and hell.
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 sing of my Redeemer And his heavenly love for me;
He from death to life has brought me, Son of God, with Him to be.
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.
*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE — Christ Arose!
March 31 – Easter Sunday
March 30, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A blessed Easter to all!
SILENT REFLECTION — The Risen Lord #646
WELCOME
PRELUDE — Thine Is the Glory
*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jim French
One: The tomb is empty!
All: Our Savior lives!
One: Christ himself told us, “On the third day, the Son will rise.”
All: Christ is risen!
One: Christ is risen indeed!
All: 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 – Jim French
O God, the things you do! For generations, you have been doing “new things.” And now, Holy Week! Jesus is alive?! He is! This is the awesome joy that fills our hearts and raises our spirits. God, you rule! Christ Jesus, you are alive! You raise us beyond our fears, our doubts and our sins. You can conquer anything, including death. O God of Resurrection, the things you do! Amen!
*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?
Were you there when He rose up from the dead?
Were you there when He rose up from the dead?
Oh, sometimes I feel like shouting, glory, glory, glory!
Were you there when He rose up from the dead?
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Pat Winship
*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 – Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 – im French
SPECIAL MUSIC – Was It a Morning Like This? – Croegaert
Valerie Waterman, Vocalist
GOD’S WORD – Mark 16:1-8 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
*HYMN – Thine Is the Glory – #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 – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Hallelujah! (from Messiah) – G. F. Handel
March 29 — Good Friday
March 28, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Our worship is in memory of the sacrificial, self-giving love offered to all on the cross by Jesus Christ.
SILENT REFLECTION — Crucifixion of Christ — #645
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: We come now to the hill at Calvary.
All: The love of God leads to the Cross.
One: The Servant Messiah summons us.
All: Despised and rejected; Jesus is a man of sorrows, acquainted with all our griefs.
One: The Anointed One of God, whom we have grown to love dearly, is being crucified.
All: We are in disbelief.
One: How can Jesus be dying?
All: Truly, Jesus is the Son of God.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Everlasting God, we need you. You respond to the cries of your children from all walks of life. This day, though; Christ Jesus, you are the One crying out. Help us to hear your cries; to see what you see; to feel what you feel. We are saved by your sacrifice. On this unforgettable Friday, may we be moved by the sorrows of betrayal, denial, cruelty, and condemnation that you endure for us. Your suffering and death are agony. On this day, we remember your excruciating pain, dying on the cross for all people. Our souls ache with grief and guilt over your crucifixion, Jesus.
You are aware of our need for your grace. We worship you. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world. Amen.
*HYMN — I Need Thee Every Hour — #169
I need Thee every hour, Most gracious Lord
No tender voice like Thine Can peace afford
Refrain:
I need Thee oh I need Thee
Every hour I need Thee
Oh bless me now, my Savior,
I come to Thee
I need Thee every hour, Stay Thou nearby
Temptations lose their power When Thou art nigh
I need Thee every hour In joy or pain
Come quickly and abide Or life is vain
I need Thee every hour, Most Holy One
Oh make me Thine indeed, Thou blessed son
CALL TO CONFESSION
One: God longs for us to come to God; to be truthful; and to confess our sin. God desires to free us from guilt and fear. Let us pray together.
All: God of steadfast love, we keep ourselves busy with pursuits that do not satisfy. We exhaust ourselves trying to fill our emptiness with activities and possessions that drain our energies rather than give life. Before you now, O God, we confess that we do not know how to live; and we are afraid to die. We readily excuse our own sin, but, at the same time, we are quick to condemn wrongdoing we see in others. Help us to own up to our sin and to repent. Forgive us when we do not do what you ask of us. Eternal God, we are sorry for failing you. Forgive us, Christ Jesus; we pray in your name. Amen.
SILENCE
*ASSURANCE OF GOD’S FORGIVENESS
*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.
GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 52:13-53:12
*HYMN — 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?
Christ on the Cross
The third hour
Luke 23:34
“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they are doing.”
The fourth hour
John 19:26-27
“Woman, behold your son… Behold your mother.”
The fifth hour
Luke 23:43
“Truly, truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”
The sixth hour
John 19:28
“I thirst.”
The seventh hour
Matthew 27:46
“My God! My God! Why have you forsaken me?”
The eighth hour
Luke 23:46
“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”
The ninth hour
John 19:30
“It is finished.”
SOLO — Tis Finished — Valerie Waterman, Soloist
+ Depart in silence +
March 24 — Palm Sunday
March 23, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest!
WELCOME
PRELUDE — He Is Exalted
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Hosanna to the King of kings!
All: Let all who follow Christ sing God’s praises!
One: John the Baptist says, “One is coming who is greater than me.”
All: Blessed is the One who comes in the name of God!
One: Look, he’s riding on a donkey. Here comes the Savior!
All: Let every knee bow before Jesus.
One: Let every tongue welcome him,
All: “Hosanna in the highest!”
*HYMN — Hosanna, Loud Hosanna — #233
Hosanna, loud hosanna The little children sang;
Through pillared court and temple The lovely anthem rang.
To Jesus, who had blessed them, Close folded to his Breast,
The children sang their praises, The simplest and the best.
From Olivet they followed Mid an exultant crowd,
The victor palm branch waving, And chanting clear and loud.
The Lord of men and angels Rode on in lowly state,
Nor scorned that little children Should on his bidding wait.
“Hosanna in the highest!” That ancient song we sing,
For Christ is our Redeemer, The Lord of heaven, our King.
O may we ever praise Him With heart and life and voice,
And in His blissful presence Eternally rejoice!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of joyful moments; this morning, we recall the excitement felt by people welcoming Jesus along the road to Jerusalem. What a moment! Today, we find ourselves swept up in the party atmosphere of that wonderful parade. Even now, we can feel your mighty grace and love. We want to cut loose in ways that honor and praise you, Jesus. Your amazing love reaches out and includes everyone.
Your goodness challenges all people to rise up and walk in your ways. Hosanna! Reign over us, Holy Jesus. Come; and live among us. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE — Lord, Be Glorified — #528
In my life, Lord be glorified, be glorified.
In my life, Lord be glorified today.
In your church, Lord, be glorified, be glorified.
In your church, Lord, be glorified today.
GOD’S WORD — Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29
*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.
GOD’S WORD — Philippians 2:5-11
SPECIAL MUSIC — Lord, I Lift Your Name on High
GOD’S WORD — Mark 11:1-11
SERMON — Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LOR’DS PRAYER — Pastor Dan
*HYMN — All Glory, Laud and Honor — #234
All glory, laud, and honor to Thee, Redeemer, King,
To whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring.
Thou art the King of Israel, Thou David’s royal Son,
Who in the Lord’s name cometh, the King and Blessed One!
The company of angels Are praising Thee on high;
And mortal men and all things Created make reply.
The people of the Hebrews with palms before Thee went;
Our praise and prayer and anthems Before Thee we present.
To Thee before Thy passion, They sang their hymns of praise;
To Thee now high exalted, Our melody we raise.
Thou didst accept their praises Accept the prayers we bring,
Who in all good delightest, Thou good and gracious King!
*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE — Majesty, Worship His Majesty
March 17 –Fifth Sunday of Lent – Deep in our Hearts
March 16, 2024 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Let us worship and praise Living God with all our being!
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Be Thou My Vision – Kathryn Kuntzman, cello
*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Let us call on God’s steadfast love and mercy.
All: Our brokenness can be healed.
One: And our wholeness can be restored.
All: God offers humankind salvation.
One: Through Jesus Christ, we are God’s new creation.
All: Praise God!
*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.
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of mercy; we call on you this day. Come, now, O Holy One. Shape us and lead us, we pray. May we be truly merciful, in the manner of our Savior, Christ Jesus.May we love as you love—without limit! God, we treasure that you know each of us by name. You call us to follow you by serving others. With faith in you, O God; may our lives display your tender mercies. Amen.
*RESPONSE — Jesus Paid It All — #255
I hear the Savior say, “Thy strength indeed is small,
Child of weakness, watch and pray, Find in Me thine all in all.
Refrain:
Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.
Lord, now indeed I find Thy pow’r and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots And melt the heart of stone. [Refrain]
For nothing good have I Where-by Thy grace to claim;
I’ll wash my garments white In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb. [Refrain]
And when, before the throne, I stand in Him complete,
“Jesus died my soul to save,” My lips shall still repeat. [Refrain]
MISSION MOMENT — Caring for Kids, Inc. — Bet Stapleton, Program Director
GOD’S WORD — Psalm 119:9-16
SPECIAL MUSIC — Traditional Irish Melody — Kathryn Kuntzman, cello
GOD’S WORD — Jeremiah 31:31-34 — John 12
SERMON — Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER –Pastor Dan
*HYMN — God of Grace and God of Glory — #514
God of grace and God of glory, On Thy people pour Thy pow’r;
Crown Thine ancient Church’s story, Bring her bud to glorious flow’r.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
For the facing of this hour,
For the facing of this hour.
Lo, the hosts of evil round us Scorn Thy Christ, assail His ways.
From the fears that long have bound us Free our hearts to faith and praise.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
For the living of these days,
For the living of these days.
Cure Thy children’s warring madness; Bend our pride to Thy control;
Shame our wanton, selfish gladness, Rich in things and poor in soul.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
Lest we miss Thy kingdom’s goal,
Lest we miss Thy dom’s goal.
Set our feet on lofty places, Gird our lives that they may be
Armored with all Christlike graces In the fight to set ment free.
Grant us wisdom, Grant us courage,
That we fail not man nor Thee,
That we fail not man nor Thee.
*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE — Londonderry Air