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.

*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

August 27 – Be Transformed!

Welcome to Ivy Chapel! We are glad you have been called to be with us today. We invite you to be transformed by the connections you find here, be they in-person or virtual.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=PioR6EBWMmE%3Fsi%3DRAzeETCmAPtJ2C0n

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Musette – Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God visits the earth and softens dry ground with rainwater.
All: God gives life!
One: God heats us up. God cools us down.
All: Yes, we can “smell” rain, and we can “taste” grace!
One: God shapes us into instruments of peace.
All: We are many. We are one. This is God’s doing. And it is
marvelous!

*HYMN – Blessed Be the Name – #59

All praise to Him who reigns on high, In majesty supreme,
Who gave His Son for man to die, That He might man redeem.

Refrain:
Blessed be the name, Blessed be the name,
Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Blessed be the name, Blessed be the name,
Blessed be the name of the Lord.

His name above all names shall stand, Exalted more and more,
At God the Father’s own right hand, Where angel hosts adore. Refrain

Redeemer, Savior, Friend of man Once ruined by the fall,
Thou hast devised salvation’s plan, For Thou hast died for all. Refrain

His name shall be the Counsellor, The mighty Prince of Peace,
Of all earth’s kingdoms, Conqueror, Whose reign shall never cease. Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Creator God, we gather as people formed by you. At the moment of our birth, you drew us out of gestational waters. To this day, you are the One who gives us life and breath. You meet us in the sanctuary and on the sofa. You call each of us by name with purpose, care, and love. May our time together in this space, online or onsite, remind us of our connectedness to you, to each other, and to all creation.
Merciful God, may you be glorified, honored, and worshiped in spirit and in truth. May we be rooted, challenged, and encouraged during this time of worship. We welcome your presence among us now, Christ Jesus. We place our trust in you forever. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Jesus, Name Above All Names – #57

Jesus, name above all names:
Beautiful Savior, glorious Lord,
Emanuel, God is with us,
Blessed Redeemer, Living Word.

GOD’S WORD – Exodus 1:8-2:10

SPECIAL MUSIC – Deep River – Wolaver

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 124

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – Take My Life and Let It Be – #436

Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in endless praise,
let them flow in endless praise.

Take my feet and let them be Swift and beautiful for Thee;
Take my voice and let me sing,
Always only, for my King,
Always, only, for my King.

Take my lips and let them be Filled with messages for Thee;
Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold,
Not a mite would I withhold.

Take my love, my God I pour At Thy feet its treasure store;
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Bachiana on an Ancient Chorale – Young

August 20 – Bold Moves

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! We glad to have you worshipping with us today. We hope you are able to stay cool this week. You can join us in person on 10 a.m. every Sunday, or on our YouTube channel.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Classic Trio – Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP (based on Psalm 67)
One: How beautiful it is when people live together in harmony!
All: It is like a summer rain which restores the parched earth.
One: This day is a Sabbath dedicated to God.
All: Let this gathering place be a home to all people.
One: God is gracious.
All: The earth yields blessings in abundance!
One: Together, let us give thanks!
All: Let all the ends of the earth praise God!

*HYMN – For the Beauty of the Earth – #64

For the beauty of the earth,
For the glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies.
Refrain:
Lord of all, to Thee we raise
This our hymn of grateful praise.

For the beauty of each hour ,
Of the day and of the night,
Hill and vale and tree and flower,
Sun and moon and stars of light,
Refrain

For the joy of ear and eye,
For the heart and mind’s delight,
For the mystic harmony
Linking sense to sound and sight,
Refrain

For the joy of human love,
Brother, sister, parent child,
Friends on earth and and friends above,
For all gentle, thoughts and mild,
Refrain

For each perfect gift of Thine
To our race so freely giv’n,
Graces human and divine,
Flow’rs of earth and buds of heav’n,
Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God, on this precious morning, we lift our hearts to you in praise! For always offering the world your love, we are grateful to you beyond words. During even the most difficult moments, you provide people with grace and strength. You never stop loving.
God our Savior, you call us to become your disciples, and you send us on missions of mercy. All that we are and have is a gift which we have received from you. We are blessed to be your servants.
God, you are our starting place and our ultimate destination. As each faith journey unfolds, we encounter you, Christ Jesus. From your life, we learn the way which you envision every human being will live. Following you changes us! It means losing our lives; denying ourselves; looking out for others; feeding; praying; caring; foot-washing; serving. In all that we do, may you be seen in us, Jesus. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – People Need the Lord – #527

People need the Lord, people need the Lord
At the end of broken dreams, He’s the open door
People need the Lord, people need the Lord
When will we realize people need the Lord?

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody

*HYMN – Be Still, My Soul – #457

Be still, my soul! the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In ev’ry change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul! thy best, thy heav’nly Friend
Thro’ thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul! thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul! the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.

Be still, my soul! the hour is hast’ning on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul! when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 67:1-2 & Isaiah 56:1, 3-7

SPECIAL MUSIC – Discipleship Medley – Tate

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 15:21-28

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – O God, Our Help in Ages Past – #67

O God, our help in ages past, Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal Home!

Under the shadow of Thy throne Still may we dwell secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone, And our defense is sure.

Before the hills in order stood, Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God, To endless years the same.

A thousand ages in Thy sight Are like an evening gone,
Short as the watch that ends the night, before the rising sun.

O God, our Help in ages past, our hope for years to come,
Be Thou our guide while life shall last, And our eternal home!

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Cathedral Fanfare – Young

August 13 – When All Seems Lost

We are glad you were called to worship with us today. We hope you find the order, peace and calm you need in your life among us.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude #15 – Chopin

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: You call us, O God.
All: Out of the order and the disorder of our lives,
One: out of the joy and the pain of being human;
All: you call us to sing your praises, and to become your people.
One: We hear you calling to us now.
All: We come to worship you, O God.

*HYMN – Jesus Calls Us – #533

Jesus calls us; o’er the tumult of our life’s wild, restless sea;
Day by day His sweet voice soundeth, saying, “Christian, follow me.”

Jesus calls us from the worship of the vain world’s golden store,
From each idol that would keep us, saying, “Christian, love me more.”

In our joys and in our sorrows, days of toil and hours of ease,
Still He calls, in cares and pleasures, “Christian, love Me more than these.”

Jesus calls us– by Thy mercies, Savior, may we hear Thy call;
Give our hearts to Thine obedience, serve and love Thee best of all.

*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Living and Holy God, we have come this morning to praise you, and we have come to re-dedicate our lives to serving you. Following you is a huge challenge. But we are here to proclaim that we’re going to try! When we fail, we will call on you for grace. When we follow faithfully, we will exalt your holy name! Fill us with your love. Be our Inspiration; be our Guide; be our Leader. Your life, Christ Jesus, is the life we want to live! Amen!

*RESPONSE – 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 – Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28

SPECIAL MUSIC – There Is a Balm – Leafitt

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 85:8-13 & Matthew 14:22-33

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

*HYMN – Love Lifted Me – #317

I was sinking deep in sin,
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 – Fugue – Pachelbel

August 6 – Face to Face

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Voluntary – Stanley

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Jan Wirtz
One: It only takes a spark to get a fire going.
All: That’s how it is with God’s love.
One: Once you’ve experienced it,
All: It’s fresh like spring.
One: You want to sing!
All: You want to pass it on!

*HYMN – The Old Rugged Cross – #247

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.

Refrain:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.

O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary. [Refrain]

In the old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me. [Refrain]

To the old rugged cross I will ever be true,
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me some day to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share. [Refrain]

*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jan Wirtz
God of Many Names; you command us to come to you. Regrettably, there are times when we are doubtful of our ability to make this journey. At times, we are unsteady and our steps are uncertain. We long to have the faith in ourselves that you have in us, O Holy One. We give you thanks for blessing us with the faith to rise to each occasion when you invite us to serve you by joyfully giving away your love. Guide us as we continue seeking to live as your children; walking in your ways. We praise you for your eternal presence, Faithful God, accompanying us as we journey ahead into your future. We pray in your name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Great Is the Lord – #7
Great is the Lord, He is holy and just;
By His power we trust In His love.
Great is the Lord, He is faithful and true;
By His mercy He proves He is love.

Great is the Lord And worthy of glory!
Great is the Lord And worthy of praise.
Great is the Lord;
Now lift up your voice, Now lift up your voice:
Great is the Lord! Great is the Lord!

Great is the Lord, He is holy and just;
By His power we trust In His love.
Great is the Lord, He is faithful and true;
By His mercy He proves He is love.

Great are you Lord And worthy of glory!
Great are you Lord, And worthy of praise.
Great are you Lord:
I lift up my voice, I lift up my voice:
Great are you Lord! Great are you Lord!

GOD’S WORD – Genesis 32:22-31 – Jan Wirtz

SPECIAL MUSIC – Eucharistic Suite – Tate

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 55:1-9 & Matthew 14:13-21 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Here, O My Lord, I See Thee – #259

Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face;
Here would I touch and handle things unseen;
Here grasp with firmer hand th’eternal grace,
And all my weariness upon Thee lean.

Here would I feed upon the Bread of God;
Here drink with Thee the royal wine of heav’n;
Here would I lay aside each earthly load;
Here taste afresh the calm of sin forgiv’n.

I have no help but Thine; nor do I need
Another arm save Thine to lean upon;
It is enough, my Lord, enough indeed;
My strength is in Thy might, Thy might alone.

Mine is the sin, but Thine the righteousness;
Mine is the guilt, but Thine the cleansing blood.
Here is my robe, my refuge, and my peace;
They blood, Thy righteousness, O Lord, my God.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate Christ’s Extravagant Welcome through “open” Communion.
All who desire to receive are welcome to receive the bread and the cup.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Pass It On – #503

It only takes a spark to get a fire going,
And soon all those around can warm up in its glowing.
That’s how it is with God’s love once you’ve experienced it;
You spread His love to everyone; You want to pass it on.

What a wondrous time is spring when all the trees are budding,
The birds begin to sing, the flowers start their blooming.
That’s how it is with God’s love once you’ve experienced it;
You want to sing, it’s fresh like spring, You want to pass it on.

I wish for you, my friend, this happiness that I’ve found,
You can depend on Him, it matters not where you’re bound.
I’ll shout it from the mountain top – I want my world to know;
The Lord of love has come to me, I want to pass it on.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Right Now – Skillings/Bock

July 16 – Good Soil

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ!
What great joy God offers all people as our Savior Jesus Christ!

WELCOME – Duo – Clerambault

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP (Based on Psalm 65:9-13)
One: God visits the earth and waters it
All: Greatly enriching the earth.
One: God waters the earth, softening it with showers,
All: And blessing the earth.
One: Along with the hills, the meadows, and the valleys,
All: Let us shout and sing together for joy!

*HYMN – The Church’s One Foundation – #115

The Church’s one foundation is Jesus Christ, her Lord;
She is his new creation by water and the Word.
From heav’n He came and sought her to be His holy bride;
With His own blood He bought her, and for her life He died.

Elect from ev’ry nation, yet one o’er all the earth;
Her charter of salvation: one Lord, one faith, one birth.
One holy name she blesses, partakes one holy food,
And to one hope she presses, with ev’ry grace endued.

Tho’ with a scornful wonder men see her sore oppressed,
By schisms rent asunder, by heresies distressed,
Yet saints their watch are keeping; their cry goes up, “How long?”
And soon the night of weeping shall be the morn of song.

Mid toil and tribulation and tumult of her war
She waits the consummation of peace forevermore
Till with the vision glorious her longing eyes are blest,
And the great Church victorious shall be the Church at rest.

Yet she on earth hath union with God, the Three in One
And mystic sweet communion with those whose rest is won;
O happy ones and holy! Lord, give us grace that we,
Like them, the meek and lowly, On high may dwell with Thee.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Loving God, you create life in us and all around us. Open us to receive the manifold gifts of your Holy Word — that we may be not just hearers of the word, but doers also. We have come to your sanctuary this morning. Here on holy ground we feel especially close to you, God. Fill us with your Spirit, we pray. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Thy Word – #178

Chorus:
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path.

When I feel afraid, think I’ve lost my way,
Still You’re there right beside me.
And nothing will I fear as long as You are near.
Please be near me to the end.
Chorus:

I will not forget Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering.
Jesus be my guide and hold me to your side;
And I will love You to the end.
Chorus:

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 119:105-112 & Romans 8:1-11

SPECIAL MUSIC – Interlude No. 9 – Tate

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – Spirit – worship booklet, pp. 82-83

Refrain:
Spirit, Spirit of gentleness, blow through the wilderness calling and free,
Spirit, Spirit of restlessness, stir me from placidness, wind, wind on the sea.

You moved on the waters, you called to the deep,
then you coaxed up the mountains from the valleys of sleep;
and over the eons you called to each thing:
“Awake from your slumbers and rise on your wings.” Refrain

You swept through the desert, you stung with the sand,
and you goaded your people with a law and a land;
and when they were blinded with idols and lies,
then you spoke through your prophets to open their eyes. Refrain

You sang in a stable, you cried from a hill,
then you whispered in silence when the whole world was still;
and down in the city you called once again,
when you blew through your people on the rush of the wind. Refrain

You call from tomorrow, you break ancient schemes.
From the bondage of sorrow all the captives dream dreams;
our women see visions, our men clear their eyes.
With bold new decisions your people arise. Refrain

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Eternal Life Suite – Tate

July 9 – Chosen Journeys

July 9 – Chosen Journeys

Welcome to Ivy Chapel on the sixth Sunday after Pentecost. God desires every sanctuary to be a house of prayer where everyone is welcomed and valued and loved.

Click here to view today’s worship service.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude – Walther

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Ann Molyneaux
One: Come to the refreshing waters God provides!
All: We come with gladness!
One: Come, all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens.
All: As Christ invites us, we come to find rest for our souls.

*HYMN – When Morning Gilds the Skies – #66

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

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

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

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

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Ann Molyneaux
God of our ancestors, we come to you this morning. We are thankful for this occasion to receive your Word and your Communion, Christ Jesus. As we worship you here, may we grow and learn to serve you in all places.
God of Clear Vision and True Wisdom, we turn to you today. Lead us. Through every twist and turn, lead us as you have always led your people.
God of every nation, pondering your grandeur fills us with awe. Who are we to approach you? Can we live up to all that you ask of us? Will we genuinely accept all that you offer? What if we do?
God, stir within us now. Reveal the paths that you want us to follow. Open our hearts to you, God. To know you is to live. Bring us alive! Amen.

*RESPONSE – Lord, I Lift Your Name on High – worship booklet, p. 68

Lord, I lift your name on high:
Lord, I love to sing Your praises.
I’m so glad You’re in my life;
I’m so glad You came to save us.
You came from heaven to earth to show the way,
From the earth to the cross, my debt to pay.
From the cross to the grave, from the grave to the sky;
Lord, I lift Your name on high!

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 145:8-18 – Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC – The Journey with He Leadeth Me – Sorenson

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 11:7-11, 16-19, 25-30 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – The Peace of Mind That Christ Can Bring – worship booklet, p.74

The peace of mind that Christ can bring Is peace in knowing how to sing
In spite of doubts of why or how, In spite of fears of the here and now.

The peace that strengthens faithful souls Can not be built on self made goals,
But rather comes to those who heed A call for help in time of need.

So one finds peace within the heart When each with others bears a part.
When peace for me is peace for you, Then Christ is present, peace is true.

So Christ, invade our life and will Until we see your justice still
Defining best all human worth, Reshaping dreams of peace on earth.

*BENEDICTION

*POSTLUDE – The Majestic Trumpet – Hebble

July 2 – Holy Welcome

Praise God for Christ’s gifts of astonishing grace and love! Thank you for joining us on this joyful holiday weekend.

Today we will celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion. All are welcome at God’s table. Please gather the elements as worship begins so you may partake with us.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude on an American Folk Medley – Hebble

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Rod Hertenstein
One: God is gracious and merciful.
All: God is abounding in steadfast love.
One: Come to the refreshing waters God provides.
All: Come, all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens.
One: The gentle Spirit of Christ invites us.
All: We have come to find rest for our souls.

*HYMN – Patriotic Hymn Sing (verses 1 and 4 of each hymn)

America – #602

My country, ’tis of thee, Sweet land of liberty,
Of thee I sing;
Land where my fathers died, Land of the pilgrims’ pride,
From ev’ry mountainside Let freedom ring!

Our fathers’ God to Thee, Author of liberty,
To Thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright, With freedom’s holy light,
Protect us by Thy might, Great God our King.

America the Beautiful – #600

O beautiful for spacious skies, For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties Above the fruited plain!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for patriot dream That sees beyond the years,
Thine alabaster cities gleam Undimmed by human tears!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea! Oh beautiful for halcyon skies

The Battle Hymn of the Republic – #604

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword:
His truth is marching on.

Refrain:
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Our God is marching on.

In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free!
While God is marching on. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Rod Hertenstein
God of our ancestors, we worship you. We thank you for our precious homeland. Help us, Dear God, to continue moving toward a time when freedom truly will ring for all people. You are the One who clothes us with joy and fills us with hope. Yours is a love mightier than any danger or fear.
We praise you for our nation. We praise you for this church. Fill us with life in this place so that we may learn to serve you in all places.
You are God of the past and of the future. Lead us as you always have led your people, O God of Wisdom and Promise. Amen.

*RESPONSE – You Are My All in All – worship booklet, p. 99

You are my strength when I am weak
You are the treasure that I seek
You are my all in all
Seeking You as a precious jewel
Lord, to give up I’d be a fool
You are my all in all

Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name

Taking my sin, my cross, my shame
Rising again I bless Your name
You are my all in all
When I fall down You pick me up
When I am dry You fill my cup
You are my all in all

Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 10:39-42 – Rod Hertenstein

SPECIAL MUSIC – America the Beautiful
Earl Kreder, Saxophone & Mike Waller, Piano

GOD’S WORD – Genesis 22:1-14 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*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.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to receive them here.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

*HYMN – Help Us Accept Each Other – #127

Help us accept each other as Christ accepted us;
Teach us as sister, brother, each person to embrace.
Be present, Lord, among us and bring us to believe:
We are ourselves accepted and meant to love and live.

Teach us, O Lord, Your lessons, as in our daily life
We struggle to be human and search for hope and faith.
Teach us to care for people, for all, not just for some,
To love them as we find them, or as they may become.

Let Your acceptance change us so that we may be moved
In living situations to do the truth in love;
To practice Your acceptance until we know by heart
The table of forgiveness and laughter’s healing art.

Lord, for today’s encounters with all who are in need,
Who hunger for acceptance, for righteousness and for bread,
We need new eyes for seeing, new hands for holding on:
Renew us with Your Spirit; Lord, free us, make us one!

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Hymn of Gladness – Wolford

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