Mother’s Day-Seventh Sunday of Easter

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
A Happy Mother’s Day to one and all!

WELCOME

PRELUDE -Themes from “The Four Seasons”

*CALL TO WORSHIP                                                                  
 Let us gather in the Spirit of Christ. 
 We come in response to the One who calls us ‘friends’ 
 Remember God’s love and faithfulness.
 Let our hands reflect the life of our serving Savior.
 Let our voices echo God’s praises! 
 Together, let us sing of God who is doing marvelous things! 

*HYMN– Take Time to Be Holy- #171
Take time to be holy, Speak oft with thy Lord;
Abide in Him always, and feed on His Word.
Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak,
Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek.

Take time to be holy, The world rushes on;
Spend much time in secret, With Jesus alone.
By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be;
Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.

Take time to be holy, let Him be thy guide;
And run not before Him, whatever betide.
In joy or in sorrow, Still follow thy Lord,
And, looking to Jesus, still trust in His Word.

Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul,
Each thought and each motive Beneath His control.
Thus led by His Spirit to fountains of love,
Thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION                                                         

Creator of ‘friendships,’ your love lifts us from mindless serving to meaningful caring.  We learn so much from you, God.  Your example inspires us to risk giving of ourselves.  Come, Holy Spirit; lift us from empty routines to the fullness of joy experienced by offering your love.  Stir our voices to praise you out of sheer delight!  Open our hearts to trust that you are leading us, especially in times of difficulty or discouragement.  Calm our doubts.  Guide us through our fears.  Reveal your ways to us, so that we may bear good fruit.  Help us grow in your likeness  –  readily giving all people your love.  We are baptized in your name, Jesus.  May we faithfully follow where you lead.  Amen.

*RESPONSE-Spirit Song- worship book, pp. 84-85
Oh, let the Son of God enfold you with His Spirit and His love;
Let Him fill your heart and satisfy your soul
Oh, let Him have the things that hold you, and His Spirit, like a dove, 
Will descend upon your life and make you whole.

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

O come and sing this song with gladness as your hearts are filled with joy,
Lift your hands in sweet surrender to His name.
O give Him all your tears and sadness, give Him all your years of pain
And you’ll enter into life in Jesus’ name.

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

GOD’S WORD- Psalm 1                                    

SPECIAL MUSIC    Bist Du Bei Mir (Be Thou with Me)  – J. S. Bach

GOD’S WORD –John 17:6-19 – Pastor Dan                                                               

SERMON – Pastor Dan                                                                                                             

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan                                                                            
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

*HYMN – I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry – worship book, pp. 54-55  
I was there to hear your borning cry, I’ll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.
I was there when you were but a child, with a faith to suit you well;
In a blaze of light you wandered off to find where demons dwell. 

When you heard the wonder of the Word I was there to cheer you on;
You were raised to praise the living Lord, to whom you now belong.
If you find someone to share your time and you join your hearts as one,
I’ll be there to make your verses rhyme from dusk ‘till rising sun. 

In the middle ages of your life, not too old, no longer young,
I’ll be there to guide you through the night, complete what I’ve begun.
When the evening gently closes in, and you shut your weary eyes,
I’ll be there as I have always been with just one more surprise. 

I was there to hear your borning cry, I’ll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan                        

*POSTLUDE –Four short pieces for the Flutes – J. Hayden    

May 5 – “I have called you friends.”

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

“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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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