November 12 – Light

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. God loves all people! And we express our love for God by living in ways leading toward “A just world for all.”

Check this space once worship begins at 10 a.m. Sunday for a link to the live worshp service.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Sanctuary

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Ann Molyneaux
One: We come to this place because we want to know God,
All: who helps us to set aside the past, to walk the path to new life.
One: We come in these moments because we want to know Jesus,
All: who anoints us with the resurrection, who shares our lives with us.
One: We come with these people because we want to know the Spirit,
All: who shapes us for life with God, so we may praise God forever!

*HYMN – Praise to the Lord, the Almighty – #10

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is your health and salvation!
All ye who hear; now to His temple draw near,
Join me in glad adoration.

Praise to the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth;
Shelters thee under His wings, yea, so gently sustaineth!
Hast thou not seen How thy desires e’er have been
Granted in what He ordaineth?

Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee;
Surely His goodness and mercy here daily attend thee.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do,
If with his love He befriend thee.

Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the Amen sound from His people again;
Gladly for aye we adore Him.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Ann Molyneaux
You have done great things for us, God of great love. You make a way through our brokenness, so hope might be restored; you loosen our grip on fear, so we might take hold of the One who cradles us in the palms of grace. You are doing great things through us, Brother of the poor. You make a way through our doubt, so we may have the faith to follow, as well as to serve by your side; you gather up our tears, turning them into fountains of joy. You will do great things in us, Anointer of our hearts. You make a way through our hardened hearts, melting them into rivers of wonder for all; you touch our tongues, so they tingle with delights, and laughter tumbles out of our mouths. Continue to make a way through us, God in Community, Holy One, we pray. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Precious Lord, Take My Hand – #494

Precious Lord, take my hand,
Lead me on, let me stand,
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn;
Through the storm, through the night,
Lead me on to the light:

Take my hand, precious Lord,
Lead me home.

When my way grows drear,
Precious Lord, linger near
When my life is almost gone;
Hear my cry, Hear my call,
Hold my hand lest I fall –

Take my hand, precious Lord,
Lead me home.

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 43:16-21 ¬– Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC – Revive Us Again

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 25:1-13 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Revive Us Again – #95

We praise Thee, O God! for the Son of Thy love,
For Jesus Who died, and is now gone above.

Refrain:
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.
Hallelujah! Amen.
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.
Revive us again.

We praise Thee, O God! for Thy Spirit of light,
Who hath shown us our Savior, and scattered our night.
All glory and praise To the Lamb that was slain,
Who hath borne all our sins, and hath cleansed every stain.
Revive us again; fill each heart with Thy love;
May each soul be rekindled with fire from above.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – The Heavens Are Telling – Psalm 19 (Marcello)

Go into the world, rejoicing and giving thanks!

November 5 – Partners in Christ’s Service

A man prays in front of the setting sun.

Our Totenfest observance in worship this morning is an expression of thanks to God for loved ones who have passed on to life eternal during the past year.

Today, we will also celebrate communion. If you are worshipping with us from home, please gather the elements before you begin so you may partake with us. All are welcome at Christ’s table.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Shall We Gather at the River?

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Jn Wirtz
One: Come; marvel at the splendor of God.
All: This morning, God’s altar serves as a banquet table.
One: Come; accept your invitation.
All: Look, here’s a place card with your name on it!
One: Come; be a guest of the One who sets all people free.
All: All are welcome at the table of this Amazing Savior!

*HYMN – For All the Saints (Verses 1, 2 and 3) – #548

For all the saints who from their labors rest,
Who Thee by faith before the world confessed,
Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

Thou wast their rock, their fortress, and their might;
Thou, Lord, their captain in the well-fought fight;
Thou, in the darkness dread, their one true light.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

Oh, may Thy soldiers, faithful, true, and bold
Fight as the saints who nobly fought of old
And win with them the victor’s crown of gold.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jan Wirtz
God of grace, we struggle to trust you in all aspects of our lives. Mistakenly, we seek validation from impermanent, inadequate sources. We confess that we base our identity on human structures, plans, and schemes. We fail to be satisfied with the gifts and purposes which you are giving us.


Deliver us from our inability to depend on you, Faithful God. Lead us to appreciate the ways in which we are uniquely and wonderfully made. Help us to be in community with one another rather than in competition with one another. Guide us, so that we will perceive situations where we may offer your love and care. Move us to respond faithfully where there is real need; for then we truly will be living out your commandment to love our neighbors. Lead us to love you more than anyone or anything else. Renew a spirit of humility and peace within us, we pray. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Ye Servants of God, Your Master Proclaim (Verse 1) – #74

Ye servants of God, your Master proclaim,
And publish abroad His wonderful name;
The name all-victorious of Jesus extol;
His kingdom is glorious, He rules over all.

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 23:1-12 – Jan Wirtz

TOTENFEST – Thanksgiving for Loved Ones

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Swing Low, Sweet Chariot

GOD’S WORD – Joshua 3:1, 7-17 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Speak, Lord, in the Stillness – #157

Speak, Lord, in the stillness, While I wait on Thee;
Hushed my heart to listen In expectancy.

Speak, O blessèd Master, In this quiet hour;
Let me see Thy face, Lord, Feel Thy touch of power.

For the words Thou speakest, They are life indeed;
Living bread from heaven, Now my spirit freed!

All to Thee is yielded, I am not my own;
Blissful, glad surrender, I am Thine alone.

Fill me with the knowledge Of Thy glorious will’
All Thine own good pleasure In Thy child fulfill.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All people are invited to Christ’s Table. All who desire are welcome to receive the bread and the cup. The cups in the outer ring on the communion tray contain grape juice. The other cups contain wine.

*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 – Just a Closer Walk with Thee

Today’s featured Image by jcomp on Freepik

October 29 – The Compassionate Life 

May our worship on this Reformation Sunday inspire each person participating
to become a messenger of our Savior’s Gospel of grace.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Simple Gifts

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pat Winship
One: Rejoice, people of God!
All: We praise God for the gift of life!
One: God is gracious and merciful.
All: God is slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.
One: Our God is a Mighty Fortress.
All: Together, let us praise God!

*HYMN – A Mighty Fortress Is Our God – #1

A mighty fortress is our God, A bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe Doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

Did we in our own strength confide, Our striving would be losing,
Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God’s own choosing.
Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He;
Lord Sabaoth His name, from age to age the same;
And He must win the battle.
82ils filled, Should threaten to undo us,
We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us.
The Prince of Darkness grim, We tremble not for him;
His rage we can endure, for lo! his doom is sure;
One little word shall fell him.

That word above all earthly powers no thanks to them abideth;
The Spirit and the gifts are ours Through him who with us sideth:
Let goods and kindred go, This mortal life also;
The body they may kill: God’s truth abideth still;
His kingdom is forever!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pat Winship
God Who Leads; we have not reached the Promised Land. We have not yet seen the fulfillment of all that you have spoken down through the generations. There remains much work to be done as your disciples in pursuit of “a just world for all.”

God Who Fulfills Promises; grant that we may have the vision of Moses, who trusted that your Realm Eternal, your precious Land of Milk and Honey, steadily is drawing near. Grant that we may be blessed with the courage of your prophets to continue working on behalf of your justice, even when these efforts seem futile.

Dear God, we give you thanks for gathering us together this morning. Here in your sanctuary, we vividly sense your closeness. We praise you for guiding us toward loving as Christ loves – toward being willing to sacrifice our own lives for others. Fill us with your Spirit of unselfishness, Jesus. We come to learn from you; for we long to walk in your footsteps. Amen.

*RESPONSE – We Bow Down – worship booklet, p. 93

You are Lord of creation and Lord of my life,
Lord of the land and the sea;
you were Lord of the heavens before there was time,
and Lord of all lords you will be.
We bow down, and we worship you, Lord;
we bow down, and we worship you, Lord;
we bow down, and we worship you, Lord;
Lord of all lords you will be.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 1 – Pat Winship

SPECIAL MUSIC — Be Thou My Vision – Paul Manz

GOD’S WORD – 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8 & Matthew 22:34-46 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH & THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

UCC STATEMENT OF FAITH – worship booklet, p. 4

*HYMN – Be Thou My Vision – #400

Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art;
Thou my best thought by or by night,
Waking and sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, and I Thy true son,
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine inheritance, now and always;
Thou and Thou only the first in my heart,
High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heav’n’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Prelude in Classic Style – Gordon Young

October 22 – Living Messages

May the peace of God take root through the world and grow!

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring – Bach

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Julie McAllister
One: Morning has broken.
All: Let us worship God.
One: We are drawn to worship by the unseen.
All: In worship, we sense God’s closeness.
One: The Creator of all living things gives us life!
All: There are wonders all around us!
One: Living God is more than we can imagine.
All: Together, let us sing God’s praises!

*HYMN – O the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus – #72

O the deep, deep love of Jesus,
Vast, unmeasured, boundless, free,
Rolling as a mighty ocean
In its fullness over me.

O the deep, deep love of Jesus,
Love of every love the best;
‘Tis an ocean vast of blessing,
‘Tis a haven sweet of rest.

Underneath me, all around me,
Is the current of Thy love;
Leading onward, leading homeward
To my glorious rest above.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Julie McAllister
Come, Holy God. Come alive within us during this time of worship. O Spirit of Life, stir among us. We long to see you, even though we sense that any “god” whom we could see completely would not truly be you. Still, this longing to see you is so strong that we associate your face with a face like ours – a human face; the face of Jesus.
We praise you, God, for being with us here as we step away from worldly demands that are capable of causing us to become self-absorbed. You teach us that obsessing over ourselves is not faithful. You reveal to us that our “best moments” are actually those times when you are most fully alive within us.
God, you are the Potter; we are the clay. Change our hearts, O God. Shape us. Mold us, so that we may be like you. Bless us with your clarity of vision, and send us into the world to joyously give out your love! Amen.

*RESPONSE – Change My Heart, O God – worship booklet, p. 33

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

You are the potter, I am the clay,
Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 96:1-9 – Julie McAllister

SPECIAL MUSIC – Have Thine Own Way, Lord

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 22:15-22

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Living for Jesus – #413

Living for Jesus, a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.

Refrain:
O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee,
For Thou, in Thy atonement, didst give Thyself for me;
I own no other Master, my heart shall be Thy throne;
My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.

Living for Jesus Who died in my place,
Bearing on Calv’ry my sin and disgrace;
Such love constrains me to answer His call,
Follow His leading and give Him my all.

Living for Jesus, wherever I am,
Doing each duty in His holy Name;
Willing to suffer affliction and loss,
Deeming each trial a part of my cross.

Living for Jesus through earth’s little while,
My dearest treasure, the light of His smile;
Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem,
Bringing the weary to find rest in Him.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUD – Rondeau – Mouret

October 15 – Consecration Sunday

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
God is guiding us and God will continue guiding us on our life-long journey as growing givers. May today’s worship inspire each one here to become a living channel of God’s abundant love. You are a vital part of Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!

Everyone is invited to a Consecration Celebration in Fellowship Hall following worship.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – How Firm a Foundation

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God’s blessings are plentiful!
All: Rejoice! God knows what God is doing.
One: You and I are being invited to follow ‘The Way of Jesus.’
All: Each moment, Christ is calling us to ministry.
One: Christ teaches, “Give my people something to eat.”
All: “Why don’t you feed them, Jesus?”
One: Christ commands, “Give them something yourselves.”
All: “But we don’t have enough!”
One: Christ assures, “Yes, you do.”
All: “How far can a few measly loaves and fish go?”
One: “Give it a try. With God, there is always more than enough.”
All: God’s blessings are plentiful!

*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.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of abundant grace; we worship you with joy. You offer love and life eternal to all people. What amazing gifts these are!
Master, you are Living Water who restores our souls. We are humbled that you have chosen us and called us friends. You are with each one of us in every personal situation that we are facing.
Risen Savior, we are grateful; and we are here this day to lift our praises to you! Amen.

*RESPONSE – Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart – 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.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Pat Winship

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 57:1-3, 9-11

SPECIAL MUSIC – I Surrender All

GOD’S WORD – Mark 1:21, 29, 32-42 & Mark 5:24-30, 32-34

SERMON – Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives! – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – We Give Thee but Thine Own (Verses 1 &2) – #622
We give Thee but Thine own,
Whate’er the gift may be:
All that we have is Thine alone,
A trust, O Lord, from Thee.
May we Thy bounties thus
As stewards true receive,
And gladly, as Thou blessest us,
To Thee our first-fruits give.

PRAYER OF CONSECRATION
‘Always-Giving-Extra’ God, you extend to each of us a sacred invitation to become one of your disciples. What an amazing offer! ‘The Way that leads to Life’ can be narrow and difficult. Yet all things are possible with you.
We receive so much from you, Jesus. You are the One who generously blesses with ‘living water!’ Your life is our model for climbing higher; going farther; giving joyfully; loving beyond limit! May we receive the Spirit of love which you offer, and may we respond by giving with ‘joy beyond measure!’ Amen.

*INVITING GOD’S ACT OF CONSECRATION
We offer God our expressions of intended giving, asking God to consecrate them. All are invited to offer God your commitment supporting Christ’s ministries at Ivy Chapel UCC by placing your 2024 Estimate of Giving Card in the designated offering basket during singing of the final hymn. Be exalted, O God! Let your glory be over all the earth!

*CONSECRATION 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.

*TABLE GRACE AND BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – The Pipers – Dandrieu

October 1 – World Communion Sunday

Because of you, God’s church changes lives! Today, we join Christians around the world in celebrating World Communion Sunday. If you are worshipping with us from home, please gather the elements before the service begins so we may partake at Christ’s table together.

Watch this week’s service on YouTube.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Sue Wilson
One: Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
All: In all its fullness, the world belongs to God!
One: How astonishing is the goodness of God.
All: Watch and listen closely; for God is here.
One: God is continuously nourishing life!
All: God’s blessings abundantly overflow!

*HYMN – Christ for the World We Sing – #545

Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With loving zeal;
The poor, and them that mourn,the faint and overborne,
Sinsick and sorrow-worn, For Christ to heal.

Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With fervent prayer;
The wayward and the lost, by restless passions tossed,
Redeemed at countless cost, From dark despair.

Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With one accord,
With us the work to share, with us reproach to dare,
With us the cross to bear, For Christ our Lord.

Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With joyful song;
The newborn souls, whose days, reclaimed from error’s ways,
Inspired with hope and praise, to Christ belong.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Sue Wilson
God, you are more than merely ‘beside us.’ You are the very life within us; for we are yours. All people are your children; and all are in your care. Human beings do not create our own security. You are our security, God.
You are the Maker of life, who shapes us and re-shapes us. All that is good and faithful comes from you. It is thanks to you, Ever-Creating God, that miracles blossom; that relationships are healthy; that sorrow receives comfort; that brokenness is healed; that souls purely love one another.
We are humbled by and thankful for your tender mercies, O God. Morning by morning, we seek you. Let your beauty be seen in us, we pray. Lead us as we continue on this life-long journey toward living as your children of grace. 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.
(Sing two times)

GOD’S WORD– Exodus 17:1-7 – Sue Wilson

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16, 32, 37-39, 51-54 & Matthew 21:23-32 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

World Communion Sunday

*COMMUNION HYMN – Break Thou the Bread of Life – #175

Break Thou the Bread of Life, Dear Lord, to me,
As Thou didst break the loaves Beside the sea;
Beyond the sacred page I seek Thee, Lord;
My spirit pants for Thee, O Living Word.

Bless Thou the truth, dear Lord, To me, to me,
As Thou didst bless the bread By Galilee;
Then shall all bondage cease, All fetters fall,
And I shall find my peace My All in all.

Thou art the Bread of Life, O Lord, to me,
Thy holy Word the truth That saveth me;
Give me to eat and live With Thee above;
Teach me to love Thy truth, For Thou art Love.

Oh, send Thy Spirit, Lord, Now unto me,
That He may touch my eyes, And make me see;
Show me the truth concealed Within Thy Word,
And in Thy Book revealed I see the Lord.

INVITATION TO RECEIVE THE BREAD AND THE CUP

All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament at Christ’s Table. Cups in the outside ring on the communion tray contain grape juice. All other cups contain wine. Please come forward down the center aisle. Return to your seat by way of the West Side aisle.

*PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION
God, we are grateful. You welcome us into your Church. You welcome all people as guests at your table. We thank you, Christ Jesus, for this communion. The bread and the cup are simple yet marvelous reminders of your holy love. We pray for all people throughout your world this day. May each and every person joyously experience being fed, nourished, strengthened, and loved by you! Amen.

*HYMN – Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love – worship booklet, p. 57

Refrain:
Jesu, Jesu, fill us with your love,
show us how to serve the neighbors we have from you.

Kneels at the feet of his friends,
silently washes their feet,
Master who acts as a slave to them.
Refrain

Neighbors are wealthy and poor,
varied in color and race,
neighbors are near us and far away.
Refrain

These are the ones we should serve,
these are the ones we should love,
all these are neighbors to us and you.
Refrain

Loving puts us on our knees,
silently washing their feet,
this is the way we should live with you.
Refrain

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE

CCLI License #456361

Sept. 24 – Tensions in the Wilderness

A Warm Ivy Welcome and Thank You to Rev. Al Schon! We are grateful to you for leading us in worship this morning.

You can view today’s worship on our YouTube channel.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP – (Inspired by Psalm 145:1-8) – Rod Hertenstein
One: Bless the name of the Holy and Sovereign One forever and ever!
Many: Great is our God and greatly to be praised.
One: Bless the name of the Holy and Sovereign One forever and ever!
Many: This generation will tell the next generation so they may tell the
next generation of the Holy One’s magnificent and mighty acts.

One: Bless the name of the Holy and Sovereign One forever and ever!
Many: We declare the abundant goodness, gracious righteousness, and
holy love of our God. Praise the Holy One!

*HYMN – Blessed Quietness – #147

Joys are flowing like a river
Since the Comforter has come,
He abides with us forever,
Makes the trusting heart His home.

Refrain
Blessed quietness, holy quietness
What assurance in my soul!
On the stormy sea He speaks peace to me,
How the billows cease to roll!

Bringing life and health and gladness,
All around this heav’nly Guest,
Banished unbelief and sadness,
Changed our weariness to rest.

Like the rain that falls from heaven,
Like the sunlight from the sky,
So the Holy Ghost is given,
Coming on us from on high. [Refrain]

See, a fruitful field is growing,
Blessed fruit of righteousness,
And the streams of life are flowing
In the lonely wilderness. [Refrain]

What a wonderful salvation,
Where we always see His’s face!
What a perfect habitation,
What a quiet resting place! [Refrain]

*RESPONSIVE PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Rod Hertenstein
One: Mighty God, we enter your presence with thanksgiving and hope.
Many: You have formed us as your people.
One: You join us on the journey of life through valleys, upon mountains, and
on the plains.
Many: We set our attention and we seek your wisdom, encouragement,
and grace.

One: Reveal your will and display your glory among your people as we
worship your holy name.
Many: 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 – Exodus 16:2-15 – Rod Hertenstein

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 20:1-16 – Pastor Al Schon

SERMON – Pastor Al Schon

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Al Schon

*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 Al Schon

*POSTLUDE

September 17 – Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!

You are a vital part of this ministry. God’s Church changes lives, thanks to you. We are honored to have you with us today.

You can watch this week’s service on our YouTube channel.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Call on God with praise and thanksgiving.
All: All who seek God wind up rejoicing!
One: Celebrate God’s gifts!
All: Sing of God’s goodness!

*HYMN – We Come, O Christ, to You – #289

We come, O Christ, to You, true Son of God and man,
By Whom all things consist, in Whom all life began.
In You alone we live and move,
And have our being in Your love.

You are the Way to God, Your blood our ransom paid;
In You we face our Judge and Maker unafraid.
Before the throne absolved we stand;
Your love has met Your law’s demand.

You are the living Truth! All wisdom dwells in You,
The Source of every skill, The One Eternal True!
O great I AM! In You we rest,
Sure answer to our every quest.

You only are true Life, To know You is to live
The more abundant life That earth can never give.
O risen Lord! We live in You:
In us each day Your life renew!

We worship You, Lord Christ, Our Savior and our King;
To You our youth and strength Adoringly we bring:
So fill our hearts, that all may view
Your life in us and turn to You!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Living God, you are the One who calls us together to live as one faith community. You are the Creator who makes us uniquely individual and who also designs us for companionship. Let us journey with one another this day in your presence.
Holy God, we need your strength in our weakness. Sometimes we struggle to forgive ourselves. This can lead us to be critical of others to deflect attention away from our own failures. We withhold forgiveness, mercy, and grace from others at the same time that we need forgiveness, mercy and grace for our mistakes. But you show us a more faithful way. As Christ Jesus, you are the Way. Lead us, we pray, to display your goodness in our lives – extending forgiveness to a world deeply in need of your grace for transformation. We ask this in your name, Jesus. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – The Gift of Love – #126

Though I may speak with bravest fire,
And have the gift to all inspire,
And have not love, my words are vain,
As sounding brass, and hopeless gain

Though I may give all I possess,
And striving so my love profess,
But not be given by love within,
The profit soon turns strangely thin.

Come, Spirit, come, our hearts control,
Our spirits long to be made whole.
Let inward love guide every deed;
By this we worship, and are freed.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody

*HYMN – I Will Call Upon the Lord – #101

I will call upon the Lord
Who is worthy to be praised;
So shall I be saved from my enemies.
I will call upon the Lord (Repeat)

The lord liveth and blessed be the Rock,
And let the God of my salvation be exalted.
The lord liveth and blessed be the Rock,
And let the God of my salvation be exalted. (Repeat)

GOD’S WORD – Galatians 5:22-23 & 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, 11-14, 27, 31 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD – Micah 6:6-8 – Pastor Dan

MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody

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 everyone.

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:

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE

Sept. 10 – God’s Presence in Trial and Rejoicing

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. The steadfast love of God is from everlasting to everlasting.

Click here to view today’s service.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – O Love That Wilt Not Let Me Go – Hustad

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Ann Molyneaux
One: God’s love is eternal.
All: God’s love is joyous, and lavish, and unlimited!
One: The steadfast love of God is from everlasting to everlasting.
All: The heavens are telling of the glory of God!
One: Children of God, rejoice!
All: A new day has dawned, and we are alive to enjoy this gift!

*HYMN – Grace Greater Than Our Sin – #383

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount out-poured–
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.

Refrain:
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin!

Sin and despair, like the sea-waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater– yes, grace untold–
Points to the Refuge, the mighty Cross. [Refrain]

Dark is the stain that we cannot hide,
What can avail to wash it away?
Look! There is flowing a crimson tide;
Whiter than snow you may be today. [Refrain]

Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
All who are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive? [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Ann Molyneaux
Compassionate God; Creator of Life; Giver of Blessings; your mercy is boundless! We have come this day to worship you, O God!
As we gather here in your name, Jesus, already you are among us. May we sense your living presence in us and around us this moment.
You enable human beings to live in gentle, peaceful ways; pursuing not ‘our own’ justice, but your justice, Gracious Savior. If we become lost; guide us. If we get off track; challenge us.
Open our hearts to receive your compassion. Next, guide us to live as genuinely caring
souls; so that we may serve as your vessels of resurrection hope in this world. Lead us, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Come Holy Spirit – worship booklet, p. 35

Come as a wisdom to children,
Come as new sight to the blind,
Come, Lor, as strength to my weakness,
Take me: soul, body and mind.

Refrain
Come, Holy Spirit, I need You, Come, sweet Spirit, I pray;
Come in Your strength and Your power,
Come in Your own gentle way.

Come as a rest to the weary,
Come as a balm for the sore,
Come as a dew to my dryness:
Fill me with joy evermore, Refrain

Come like a spring in the dessert,
Come to the withered of soul:
O let Your sweet healing power
Touch me and make me whole. Refrain

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 103:8-18 – Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC – Shall We Gather at the River? – Leavitt

GOD’S WORD – Romans 12:14, 17, 19-21 & Matthew 18:15-22 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH & THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord – #424

Teach me Thy way, O Lord; teach me Thy way!
Thy guiding grace afford; teach me thy way!
Help me to walk aright, more by faith, less by sight;
Lead me with heav’nly light; teach me Thy way!

When I am sad at heart, teach me Thy way!
When earthly joys depart, teach me Thy way!
In hours of loneliness, in times of dire distress,
In failure or success, teach me Thy way!

When doubts and fears arise, teach me Thy way!
When storms o’erspread the skies, teach me Thy way!
Shine thro’ the cloud and rain, thro’ sorrow, toil, and pain;
Make Thou my pathway plain; teach me Thy way!

Long as my life shall last, teach me Thy way!
Where’er my lot be cast, teach me Thy way!
Until the race is run, until the journey’s done,
Until the crown is won, teach me Thy way!

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Postlude on ‘In Babilone’ – Young

September 3 – Spirit-Led Living

Blessings to all people on this Labor Day weekend.

Today, as is our custom on the first Sunday of every month, we will celebrate open communion. All are welcome to join us at Christ’s table. If you are worshipping with us at home, please gather the elements before worship so you may partake with us.

Click here to view today’s worship on YouTube.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Jim French
One: How majestic is God’s name in all the earth!
All: God is alive in all creation!
One: Everything which is made by God reflects God’s goodness.
All: We gather to praise our Marvelous Creator!
One: This very day is a masterpiece being created by God!
All: Let us rejoice and worship God!

*HYMN – The Light of the World Is Jesus – #373

The whole world was lost in the darkness of sin,
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Like sunshine at noonday, His glory shone in;
The Light of the world is Jesus!

Refrain:
Come to the light, ’tis shining for thee;
Sweetly the light has dawned upon me;
Once I was blind, but now I can see:
The Light of the world is Jesus!

No darkness have we who in Jesus abide;
The Light of the world is Jesus!
We walk in the light when we follow our Guide!
The Light of the world is Jesus! Refrain

Ye dwellers in darkness with sin-blinded eyes,
The Light of the world is Jesus!
Go, wash at His bidding, and light will arise;
The Light of the world is Jesus! Refrain

No need of the sunlight in Heaven we’re told;
The Light of the world is Jesus!
The Lamb is the Light in the city of gold,
The Light of the world is Jesus! Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jim French
God of love and mercy, you lavish life abundant on the world! We are grateful for all that you provide. May our gratitude come across as we joyously share your blessings with others.
God, you are always near. Your closeness is a blessing. Sensing that each moment you are close by fills us with joy! Each breath of life is a gift from you. Our every step, every word, every action can serve as an expression of your praise!
Jesus, you are our Risen Savior. Refine and soften our hearts to serve you fully. All this we pray in your name, Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE – We Have Come into His House – #36

We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him,
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him;
We have come into His house
and gathered in His name to worship Him;
O, worship HIm, Jesus Christ, the Lord.

Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him,
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him;
Let’s forget about ourselves,
and magnify His name and worship Him;
O, worship HIm, Jesus Christ, the Lord.

GOD’S WORD – Exodus 3:1-14 – Jim French

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD – Romans 12:9-18 & Matthew 16:21-28

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*COMMUNION HYMN – In the Garden – #267

I come to the garden alone,
While the dew is still on the roses;
And the voice I hear, falling on my ear,
The Son of God discloses.

Refrain:
And He walks with me, and He talks with me,
And He tells me I am His own,
And the joy we share as we tarry there,
None other has ever known

He speaks, and the sound of His voice
Is so sweet the birds hush their singing;
And the melody that He gave to me
Within my heart is ringing. [Refrain]

I’d stay in the garden with Him
Tho’ the night around me be falling;
But He bids me go; thro’ the voice of woe,
His voice to me is calling. [Refrain]

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament at Christ’s Table. The cups in the outer ring on each tray contain grape juice. The other cups contain wine.

*HYMN – We Are God’s People – #117

We are God’s people, the chosen of the Lord,
Born of His Spirit, established by His Word;
Our cornerstone is Christ alone, And strong in Him we stand:
O let us live transparently
And walk heart to heart and hand in hand.

We are God’s loved ones, the Bride of Christ our Lord,
For we have known it, the love of God outpoured;
Now let us learn how to return The gift of love once given:
O let us share each joy and care,
And live with a zeal that pleases Heaven.

We are the Body of which the Lord is Head,
Called to obey Him, now risen from the dead;
He wills us be a family, Diverse yet truly one:
O let us give our gifts to God,
And so shall His work on earth be done.

We are a Temple, the Spirit’s dwelling place,
Formed in great weakness, a cup to hold God’s grace;
We die alone, for on its own Each ember loses fire:
Yet joined in one the flame burns on
To give warmth and light, and to inspire.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE

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