March 6 Livestream – 1st Sunday of Lent – Wilderness

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. We’d like to thank Sarah Bereza for serving as our worship musician today. A reminder that we will be celebrating communion today, so be sure to gather the elements before worship begins so you can share in the experience with us.

A reminder to contribute to this year’s Lenten offering to benefit area children in need. https://www.ivychapel.org/2022/02/28/help-area-children-lenten-offering/

WELCOME

PRELUDE – My Faith Looks Up to Thee– arr. Mark C. Jones

*CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP
One: We have come to worship God.
All: Living God blesses people with limits and boundaries, with free will and choices.
One: This week, we have entered a new season.
All: As God’s Church, we have set out on a fresh, Lenten journey.
One: Today, we remember some of the temptations Jesus faced.
All: May the way Jesus conquered all temptations be our guide for
responding faithfully in our own personal wildernesses.
One: May this time of worship serve as an oasis in our desert wilderness.
All: Let us rely on God’s strength in all situations.

*HYMN – My Faith Looks Up to Thee – #462
My faith looks up to Thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine!
Now hear me while I pray, Take all my guilt away,
Oh, let me from this day Be wholly Thine!
May Thy rich grace impart strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire!
As Thou hast died for me, Oh, may my love to Thee Pure, warm, and changeless be, A living fire
While life’s dark maze I tread, And griefs around me spread,
Be Thou my guide;
Bid darkness turn to day, Wipe sorrow’s tears away,
Nor let me ever stray From Thee aside.
When ends life’s transient dream, When death’s cold, sullen stream
Shall o’er me roll;
Blest Savior, then in love, Fear and distrust remove;
Oh, bear me safe above, A ransomed soul!

*OPENING PRAYER
Life-Saving God; above all, you are our heart’s desire. You alone make our spirits soar. You have enabled us to break free from an exacting and exhausting world to come into your sanctuary.
Breathe new life into us, Faithful and Loving God. Bless us, we pray, with eyes to see earthly demands for what they truly are. Teach us. Change us. Lead us to love all people with your steadfast love, Jesus. By your grace and peace, empower our witness, Life-Saving God; for we long to serve you. Amen.

*RESPONSE – El Shaddai – #18
El Shaddai, El Shaddai,
El-elyon na Adonia,
Age to age you’re still the same,
By the power of the name.
El Shaddai, El Shaddai,
Erkamka na Adonai,
We will praise and lift you high,
El Shaddai.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 91:1-6, 9-16 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – When I Survey the Wondrous Cross – arr. Michael Burkhardt

GOD’S WORD – Luke 4:1-13 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*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

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

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

*HYMN – 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.

*SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE Toccata in B Minor – Eugène Gigout

March 2 Livestream – Ash Wednesday

Welcome

Call to Worship and Opening Prayer – Pastor Dan
One: Turn away from evil; and return to your God.
All: God is gracious and merciful;
One: God is slow to anger,
All: And abounding in steadfast love.
One: “Now,” says the Holy One, “return to me with all your heart.”
All: Be still; and know that I am God.
One: Let us pray.
All: God of ever-flowing springs; you are the eternal reservoir from whom all creation
receives life. We enter this sanctuary seeking to return to you, O God.
Bless this time of worship; in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Hymn – Lord, I Lift Your Name on High– worship booklet, p. 68
Sing through Two Times
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!

Responsive Call to Confession – Pastor Dan
One: Holy God, Maker of all;
All: Jesus Christ, Savior of all;
One: Holy Spirit, breath of life;
All: Have mercy on us. Let us confess our sins.

Prayer of Confession – Pastor Dan
One: Let us pray.
All: God of wisdom and grace; you are acquainted with all our ways.
As we take this first step on a crucial Lenten spiritual journey, we turn to you in prayer. Come, O Holy Spirit; in your cleansing power, breathe on us and fill us with life anew.
God of forgiveness, we confess that we have sinned in thought, word, and action. We confess that we have failed to live by your Gospel of goodness and grace. Forgive us, we pray. From now on, as sinners pardoned and cleansed by you, Jesus; may we faithfully follow in your footsteps of love and compassion. This we pray in your holy name. Amen.

Silence

Assurance of Pardon – Pastor Dan

Hymn – Sanctuary – worship booklet, p. 76
Lord, prepare me to be a Sanctuary,
Pure and holy, tried and true:
With thanksgiving, I’ll be a living
Sanctuary for You.

Lord, prepare me to be a testimony,
Pure and holy, tried and true:
With thanksgiving, I’ll be a living
Testimony for You.

The Imposition of Ashes – Pastor Dan

God’s Word – Psalm 51:1-4, 6-12 – Pastor Dan

The Sacrament of Holy Communion

Prayer of Thanksgiving concluding with The Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors) – Pastor Dan

Hymn – How Beautiful – worship booklet, p. 50
How beautiful the hands that served
The wine and the bread and the sons of the earth
How beautiful the feet that walked
The long dusty roads and the hill to the cross
How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful
Is the body of Christ

How beautiful the heart that bled
That took all my sin and bore it instead
How beautiful the tender eyes
That choose to forgive and never despise
How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful
Is the body of Christ

How beautiful the feet that bring
The sound of good news and the love of the King
How beautiful the hands that serve
The wine and the bread and the sons of the Earth
How beautiful, how beautiful, how beautiful
Is the body of Christ

Benediction – Pastor Dan

Feb. 27 Livestream – Loud Cloud

Thank you, Kevin Uppercue, for serving as our guest musician in worship today.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Depth of Mercy – Kevin Uppercue

*CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP
One: Bless one another; love one another; serve one another;
All: For by doing so, we bless, love, and serve Christ.
One: Forgive one another; seek peace; do justice;
All: For by doing so, we follow the way of Christ.
One: Live into hope; walk by faith; seek the eternal;
All: For by doing so, we honor Christ.
One: Enter this time of worship with joy, coming to Christ our Savior,
All: Who is, and who was, and who is to come – the Almighty.

*HYMN – Holy, Holy, Holy – #2
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee.
Holy, holy, holy, merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!

Holy, holy, holy! All the saints adore Thee,
casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee,
which wert and art and evermore shalt be.

Holy, holy, holy! Though the darkness hide Thee,
though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see,
only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee,
perfect in pow’r, in love, and purity.

Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
All Thy works shall praise thy name in earth, and sky and sea.
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!

*OPENING PRAYER
Holy God, may every aspect of our character praise you. May we lift your name on high!
Life-giving, life-changing God; wash over us this day. Shatter every narrow view of who you are. By your wisdom and strength, empower us to be living witnesses to your Gospel.
Savior of overpowering light, you reveal what mightiness is. Fill us with your Spirit of grace. We ask this in your holy name, Jesus. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Open Our Eyes, Lord – #132
Open our eyes Lord
We want to see Jesus
To reach out and touch Him
And say that we love Him
Open our ears Lord
And Help us to listen
Open our eyes Lord
We want to see Jesus

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 99 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Just a Closer Walk with Thee – Earl Kreder, Saxophone

GOD’S WORD – Luke 9:28-36 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE 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.

*SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Fanfare and Trumpet Voluntary – David Lasky

Feb. 20 Livestream – What shall I do with my enemies?

Thank you, Bob Meinz, for serving as our worship musician today!

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Amazing Grace – arr. Gordon Young

*CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP
One: In Christ, God offers the whole world a marvelous invitation!
All: We are invited to walk in Christ’s footsteps.
One: Turn to God, all the earth.
All: God is our Refuge.
One: God hears our prayers, and God responds.
All: Let all the earth exalt God together!

*HYMN – In Christ There Is No East or West – #137
In Christ there is no East or West,
In Him no South or North,
but one great fellowship of love

In Him shall true hearts everywhere
their high communion find;
His service is the golden cord
close binding humankind.

Join hands then, brothers of the faith,
whate’er your race may be!
Who serves my Father as a son
is surely kin to me.

In Christ now meet both East and West;
In Him meet South and North.
All Christly souls are one in Him
throughout the whole wide earth.

*OPENING PRAYER
God of world-wide love, we gather to offer you our praises. You are fully alive in the world this day. Open our hearts to receive you. Free us to trust your call and to follow you, Blessed Savior. Fill us so completely with your grace that we bless even people who persecute us and love even people who seem to be our enemies. You are our Refuge, O God. May your Spirit stir within our souls, Christ Jesus, leading us to join you in ‘making all things new.’ Amen.

*HYMN – 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 – Psalm 37:1-4, 39-40 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Lord, I Want to Be a Christian in My Heart – arr. John Carter

GOD’S WORD – Luke 6:27-38 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – I Then Shall Live – #133
I then shall live as one who’s been forgiven.
I’ll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child and I am not afraid.
So, greatly pardoned, I’ll forgive my brother;
The law of love I gladly will obey

I then shall live as one who’s learned compassion.
I’ve been so loved, that I’ll risk loving too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I’ll dare to see another’s point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I’ll be there to care and follow through.

Your Kingdom come around and through and in me;
Your power and glory, let them shine through me.
Your Hallowed Name, O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world through me.

*SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan
God sends us into the world to lavish Christ’s love on everyone!

*POSTLUDE – The Rejoicing – Charles Callahan

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Feb. 13 Livestream – Surprising Teaching

The Sermon on the Plain contains startling words from Jesus, who calls on his followers to love their enemies, to turn the other cheek, and bless those who curse you. These are words and teachings that are, perhaps, just as surprising and just as relevant today as they were when they were first spoken.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Meditation on “Under His Wings” – (based on #484)

*CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP
One: Rejoice, people of God!
All: We have been given this opportunity to worship God today!
One: God has gathered us here.
All: We are God’s people.
One: God joins us together as many parts of one body.
All: God shapes us into the one Body of Christ.
One: God is calling on us to bring good news to all people.
All: Let us tell everyone about the wonderful love of our Savior!

*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.

*OPENING PRAYER
God of universal love, we gather to offer you our praises. You are fully alive throughout the world! Open our hearts to receive you, we pray. Free us to trust your call and to follow you, Blessed Savior. Fill us to overflowing with your grace, so that we offer blessing and love to all people. This means everyone everywhere! You are our refuge and our strength. Christ Jesus, your Spirit is alive within us, guiding us to join you in your ministries of mercy and compassion. 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 – Jeremiah 17:5-10 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – River of Peace – arr. Maureen Howell

GOD’S WORD – Luke 6:17-26 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – It is Well with My Soul – #453
When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well with my soul

Refrain:
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come
Let this blest assurance control
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate
And has shed His own blood for my soul
Refrain

My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought
My sin, not in part, but the whole
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul
Refrain

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend
Even so, it is well with my soul
Refrain

*SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan
God sends us into the world to lavish Christ’s love on everyone!

*POSTLUDE – Grand Chœur – Théodore Salomé

Cover image © V. Gilbert & Arlisle F. Beers

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Jan. 30 Livestream – Living on the Edge

Thank you for being with us as we close out the first month of the year. Ivy Chapel members, please check your email for the Zoom link to today’s virtual annual meeting.

 WELCOME

 PRELUDE – Pastorale – Young  

*CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP                                                                   

One:  Praise God, who hears our cries and who delivers.  

All:  God cares. 

One:  Hope in God, who creates life.

All:  God brings dreams into being!

One:  Open yourself to the One who knows you completely.

All:  God offers everyone ministries that we can do!

*HYMN – Come, Thou Almighty King – #88

*OPENING PRAYER                                                        

      Caring God, we are grateful for the ways that you watch over all people.  We praise you for your loving kindness, Jesus. Fill us with your Spirit as we recall the mixed blessing of your encounter with people in Nazareth. You are a Savior who boldly lives on the edge. You continue turning the world upside down, challenging us to take on new ventures and to offer new expressions of your grace. When we feel tired or disappointed, remind us that you are able to bring change even out of disappointing situations.  Christ Jesus, we celebrate that you are an Eternal Savior who continues surprising the world with courage and compassion.  May our love for you move us to follow where you lead.  Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – The Greatest Thing (Verses 1, 2 and 3) – #106

 GOD’S WORD – Psalm 71:1-7, 12 – Pastor Dan

 SPECIAL MUSIC – Praise His Greatness – Hayes 

 GOD’S WORD – Luke 4:21-30 – Pastor Dan 

 SERMON – Pastor Dan 

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

*HYMN –  They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love – #119

*SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan

God sends us into the world to be ‘God’s people’ joyfully offering everyone Christ’s love.

*POSTLUDE – Little Postlude – Bender 

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Jan. 23 Livestream – Jesus of Nazareth, the Prophecy Powerfully Fulfilled

Today, we celebrate how the love of God brings us together to do His work, not as individuals, but as a community.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Softly and Tenderly – Hustad

CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP
One: We gather together to worship God.
All: We are God’s people. The Spirit of God is upon us.
One: God anoints us to bring good news to all people.
All: This day is holy to our Resurrecting God.
One: God binds us together as many parts of one body.
All: Together, we become the Body of Christ.
One: This day is holy to our Supreme God.
All: The joy of God is our strength.

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 lifeThat 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!

OPENING PRAYER
O God, our Creator; you bring separate lives together. You gather us to hear your Word and to respond. You bless us by inviting us to carry out your ministries. We seek your guidance and your wisdom. Above all, God, we seek you. Help us to perceive who reveal yourself to be. Guide us. With your help, we hope to become your faithful disciples. Transform us from lone individuals into one community – the Body of Christ.
O God, your Spirit is upon us. Your joy is our strength. Bind us together. Amen.

PRAISE RESPONSE – Spirit of the Living God – #150

Spirit of the living God, Fall fresh on me. Spirit of the living God, Fall fresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me. Spirit of the living God, Fall fresh on me.

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 61:1-4, 9-11 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Shout to the Lord – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – Luke 4:14-21 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
                             
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 to 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 Then gift of love once given:
O let us share each hoy and care, And live with a zeal that pleases Heav’n.

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 gift 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.

SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan
God sends us into the world to be ‘God’s people’ joyfully offering everyone Christ’s love.

POSTLUDE – A Trumpet Postlude – Hegarty

January 16 Livestream – Extravagant Sign

We are thrilled to have you with us today. We invite you to watch the world with us, as hard is it may be, so we call all discover signs of God’s strength. Find joy today!

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Night Communion – Hebble

CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP
One: Find strength in God’s power.
All: In all times and places, we can rely on God.
One: Find hope in all that God promises.
All: God in Christ Jesus sets all people free.
One: Find joy in all that God provides.
All: God’s mercies are new every morning!

HYMN – Spirit of God, Descend upon My Heart – #154

Spirit of God, descend upon my heart;
Wean it from earth, through all its pulses move;
Stoop to my weakness, mighty as Thou art,
And make me love Thee as I ought to love.

I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies,
No sudden rending of the veil of clay,
No angel visitant, no o-p’ning skies;
But take the dimness of my soul away.

Hast Thou no bid us love Thee, God and King?
All, all Thine own, soul, heart and strength and mind.
I see Thy cross there teach my heart to cling.
O let me seek Thee, and O let me find.

Teach me to feel that Thous art always nigh;
Teach me the struggles of the soul to bear,
To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh;
Teach me the patience of unanswered prayer.

Teach me to love Thee as Thine angels love,
One holy passion filling all my frame;
The baptism of the heav’n descended Dove,
My heart an altar, and Thy love the flame.

OPENING PRAYER
God of grace, we give thanks for your presence among us this morning. As we gather together this day to praise you, may your Spirit bring our worship alive! Come now, O Holy One. Speak to us through your Living Word. We pray in your blessed name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

PRAISE RESPONSE – Where the Spirit of the Lord Is – #142

Where the Spirit of the lord is, There is peace;
Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is love.
There is comfort in life’s darkest hour,
there is light and life; There is help and power
in the Spirit, in the Spirit of the Lord.

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 62:1-5 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – He Hideth My Soul – Wolaver

GOD’S WORD – John 2:1-11 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

HYMN – I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry – worship booklet,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 as 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 God, ,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 morning cry, I’ll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.

SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan
God sends us into the world to lavish Christ’s grace and love on everyone!

POSTLUDE – Frohlich soll mein Herze springe – Walacha

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Jan. 9 Livestream – A Star Appeared

Today, we reflect on the story of the wise men who followed the star to see the newborn King.

Jan. 9 Livestream – A Star Appeared

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Choral: Vom Himmel hoch – Pachelbel 

*CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP   

     One:  Let us bow down in awe before the One who created us!

     All:  God is the Mighty Creator of all life.

     One:  God speaks out and reaches out to strengthen us.

     All:  God sends light to shine in darkness.

     One:  God sends Christ to calm this world’s turbulent seas.

     All:  God takes care of us  –  calming our fears and giving us faith.

     One:  Praise God for offering us so much!

     All:  God our Maker blesses us with life. Let us sing!

*HYMN – We Three Kings – #220    

We three kings of Orient are, Bearing gifts we traverse afar
Field and fountain, for and mountain, Following yonder star.

REFRAIN

O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light.
Born a King of Bethlehem’s plain, Gold I bring to crown Him again, 
King forever, ceasing never Over us all to reign.

REFRAIN

Frankincense to offer have I, Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, all men raising, Worship Him, God on high.

REFRAIN

Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom;
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone cold tomb.

REFRAIN

Glorious now behold I’m arise, King and God and Sacrifice;
Alleluia, Alleluia! Peals through the earth and skies.

*OPENING PRAYER                                                         

       Eternal God, Spirit of life; you moved over the face of the waters at the beginning of time itself. From generation to generation, you are God. Your being is too vast for us to fathom. Your thoughts and your ways are higher than ours. We share the amazement of the psalmist who marvels, “Your thoughts, O God; how vast is the sum of them. Try to count them. They are more than the sand!” Bless us as we gather here. This is holy ground, and with you, Christ Jesus, each day is a new day to be born. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Angels We Have Heard on High (Verses 1 and 3) – #206

Angels we have heard on high, Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply Echo back their joyous strains.

REFRAIN

Gloria in excelsis Deo, Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Come to Bethlehem, and see Him whose birth the angels sing;
Come, adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King.

INSTALLATION OF 2022 IVY CHAPEL UCC OFFICERS                                                         

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 60:1-6 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Gésu Bambino (Marsha Fix and Valerie Waterman, Vocalists) – Pietro Yon    

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 2:1-12 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – What Child Is This? – #202 

What Child is this, who, laid to rest, On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, While shepherd watch are keeping?

REFRAIN

This, this is Christ the King, Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
This, this is Christ the King, The babe, the Son of Mary.

Why lies He in such mean estate Where ox and ass are feeding??
Good Cristian, fear; for sinners here The silent Word is pleading.

REFRAIN

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh, Come, peasant, king, to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings, Let loving hearts enthrone Him.

REFRAIN

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

*HYMN – As with Gladness Men of Old – #219

As with gladness men of old Did the guiding star behold;
As with joy they hailed its light, Leading onward, beaming bright,

So, most gracious Lord, may we Evermore be led to Thee.
As with joyful steps they sped To that lowly manger bed,
There to bend the knee before Him whom heav’n and earth adore,
So, may we with willing feet Ever seek the mercy seat.
As the offered gifts most rare At the manger rude and bare,
So may we with holy joy, Pure and free from sin’s alloy,
All our costliest treasures bring, Christ, to Thee our heav’nly King.
Holy Jesus, every day Keep us in the narrow way;
And when earthly things are past, Bring our ransomed souls at last
Where they need no star to guide, Where no clouds Thy glory hide.

*SENDING OUT – God sends us into the world joyously to offer Christ’s grace and love! – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Allegretto – Schmid 

CCLI License #456361

Christmas Eve Livestream – Lighting the Christ Candle

On this holy night, Christians throughout God’s world are celebrating Christ’s birth. Tonight’s offering gifts will be given to the U.C.C. Christmas Fund.

Our Christmas worship begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 24th. You can find the service on our YouTube page.

PRELUDE O Little Town of Bethlehem – Livingston

CALL TO WORSHIP
One: It’s Christmas Eve. Let’ss rejoice!
All: Emmanuel is with us.
One: Tonight is the night of our Dear Savior’s birth.
All: God appears in an astonishing way!
One: God comes to earth as a baby.
All: Christ comes to life as a human being – Jesus, born of Mary.
One: This Child is God’s Promised Messiah.
All: Glory to God in the highest!
One: Peace on earth.
All: Christ is born.

HYMN O Come, All Ye Faithful #188

O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant,
O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem!
Come and behold Him, both the King of angels;

REFRAIN
O come, let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord.

God of God, and Light of Light begotten,
Lo, He abhors not the Virgin’s womb;
Very God, begotten, not created;

REFRAIN

Sing, choirs of angels, sin in exultation!
O sing, all ye citizens of heav’n above;
Glory to God, all glory in the highest;

REFRAIN

Yea, Lord, we greet Thee, born this happy morning,
Jesus, to Thee be all glory giv’n;
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing;

REFRAIN

LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLES AND THE CHRIST CANDLE

RESPONSE When God Is a Child worship booklet, p. 95

Hope is a star that shines in the night, leading us on till the morning is bright.

REFRAIN
When God is a child there’s joy in our song.
The last shall be first and the weak shall be strong, and none shall be afraid.

Peace is a ribbon that circles the earth, giving a promise of safety and worth.

REFRAIN

Joy is a song that welcomes the dawn, telling the world that the Savior is born.

REFRAIN

Love is a flame that burns in our heart. Jesus has come and will never depart.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING FOR THE BIRTH OF CHRIST
Gracious God, tonight as we gather together to conclude this Advent journey, we celebrate that a new light has dawned! A Child is born, and this Child is our light and the source of our joy. The child brings hope into the world, and the promise of peace on earth. The child is love incarnate, love divine; and we thank you, O God, for this – the most perfect gift imaginable. Joy to the world! Christ is born! Amen.

SPECIAL MUSIC Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming – Cotter

A Glimpse of God John 1:1-4

Census Luke 2:1, 3-5

No Vacancy Luke 2:6-7

Sensing the Spectacular Luke 2:8-12

The Messiah: World Première Luke 2:13-18

Eternal Mystery

SPECIAL MUSIC Who Would Imagine a King?
Valerie Waterman, Vocalist

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
We celebrate “Open Communion” as the United Church of Christ
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to partake of this Communion.

The Breaking of the Bread and the Pouring of the Cup

The Sharing of the Bread and the Cup

*The Prayer of Thanksgiving (in unison)
God Emmanuel, you are the One whom our very souls adore. Thank you, Christ Jesus, for bringing us together tonight to celebrate your birth. You became a human being in order to get through to us, and we are astounded by your ingenuity. Jesus, we are grateful to you for welcoming us as guests at your table. Each time we accept your invitation, we are blessed. Receiving the bread and the cup from you fills us with hope eternal.
Christ Jesus, may our lives freely and joyously offer to all the world the grace which we receive from you. Amen.

SHARING THE LIGHT OF CHRIST

HYMN Silent Night #189

Silent night! Holy night! All is calm, all is bright
‘Round yon virgin mother and Child, Holy Infant so tender and mild,
Sleep in heavenly peace, Sleep in heavenly peace.

Silent night! holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight,
Glories stream from heaven afar, Heav’nly hosts sing Alleluia;
Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born.

Silent night! holy night! Son of God, love’s pure light,
Radiant beams from Thy holy face, With the dawn of redeeming grace,
Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth, Jesus, Lord, at Thy birth.

Christ is born.

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