Dec. 27 Livestream

On the First Sunday after Christmas, we have traditionally invited members to request their favorite carols to sing in church.

Watch the service and the requested hymns here:

Here’s this week’s order for worship:

Prelude – Abby Foehrkolb

Responsive Call to Worship – Pastor Dan Wilson
One: Sing of God’s glory!
All: Shout to God, all the earth!
One: Rejoice!
All: Christ is born!

Hymn – “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing” – #191

Prayer of Invocation – Pastor Dan
One: Let us pray.
All: God of steadfast love, you are with us! We have heard the promise
of the prophets. We have rejoiced at the melody of angels’ songs. We have seen
your star in the heavens. We have followed your star to a humble birthplace.
Christ Jesus, we have come to be with you, because you have come to be with us. This morning, may hope and joy fill our lives, as we echo your angels, proclaiming,
“Glory to God in the highest! Peace to God’s people on earth.” Amen.

Lighting the Advent Wreath – Pastor Dan
– The Advent Candles and the Christ Candle

Response – “Angels We Have Heard on High” – #206
Verse 1 ONLY

Children’s Message – Ashton Wilson

Scripture Readings – Psalm 148, Isaiah 61:10-62:3 – Pastor Dan

Special Music – O Holy Night (arr. Dan Coates) – Abby Foehrkolb

Responsive Reading – “The Savior’s Advent” Luke 2:8-20 – #639

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified.

But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you goodness of great joy that will be for all the people.

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.

This will be a sign toy: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with he angel, praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another,

“Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened which the lord has told us about.”

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger.

When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child.

And all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherd said to them.

But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for al the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Prayers of God’s Church concluding with the Lord’s Prayer – Pastor Dan

Virtual Hymn Sing

Benediction – Pastor Dan

Postlude – Abby Foehrkolb

Christmas Eve Livestream

Merry Christmas from Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ!

In almost every way, Christmas 2020 looks and feels very different. We may be separated from family and friends and the traditions that make this time of year so special. While we are not together in this building, however, we are still united by God’s love, a love so strong He sent His Son to save us. A Son who arrived on this day.

We hope you find comfort in this familiar story.

A special Christmas prelude, by our Minister of Music, Anna DiVesta:

https://fb.watch/2APF_1s39Y/

Here’s today’s order for worship:
Prelude – Anna DiVesta

Responsive Call to Worship – Pastor Dan Wilson
One: It’s Christmas Eve. Let’s 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 Little Town of Bethlehem” – #200

1. O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie!
   Above thy deep and dreamless sleep The silent stars go by.
   Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting Light;
   The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in thee tonight.
2. For Christ is born of Mary, and gathered all above,
   While mortals sleep, the angels keep Their watch of wondering love.
   O morning stars, together Proclaim the holy birth!
   And praises sing to God the King, and peace to men on earth.
3. How silently, how silently The wondrous gift is given!
   So God imparts to human hearst The blessings of His heav’n.
   No ear may hear His coming, But in this world of sin,
   Where meek souls will receive Him still The dear Christ enters in.
4. O holy Child of Bethlehem! descend to us, we pray,
   Cast out or sin, and enter in; Be born in us today.
   We hear the Christmas angels The great glad tidings tell;
   O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Emmanuel.

Prayer of Invocation – Pastor Dan
One: Let us pray.
All: Tonight, we marvel over you, God Emmanuel. Life has been especially uncertain and frightening the past several months. Yet, above this world’s fears, the songs of your angels still resound. Above this world’s frenzy, the night sky remains tranquil. Your stars serenely shine. Your gifts continue to astonish the world. This time it’s a newborn child. While we tend to focus on flashiness, you appear in out-of-the-way places among ordinary people. Just as you calmed the stormy Sea of Galilee, you are the One who calms any and all turmoil in our lives. God Emmanuel, help us not to be afraid.
O God, so tender and mild; two thousand years ago, you gave yourself to the world by coming to life as a human being – Jesus, our brother, kind and good. What a touching act of holy love! O Lord Emmanuel, you are True Light. We pray in response to your call, seeking to follow you and to walk in your love, Christ Jesus. Amen.

Lighting the Advent Wreath – Pastor Dan
The Christ Candle

Christmas Prayer of Thanksgiving – Pastor Dan
One: Let us pray.
All: God Emmanuel, candlelight is an ideal symbol of your love. You are as reliable as a steadily burning candle flame. Your light overcomes darkness, God. As a candle gives light in the darkness, you offer light to all people. You are the Savior of the whole world! You do this by becoming a human being, Jesus of Nazareth. People all over the world rejoice this night, celebrating your birth as the Christ Child. For generations, people have marveled at this miracle, and your birth always will continue to amaze people. We give you thanks, Christ Jesus, for coming to life and for bringing joy to all on earth. Amen.

Praise Response – “When God Is a Child” – p. 95, worship booklet

1. 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 join in our Song. The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong, and none shall be afraid.

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

REFRAIN

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

REFRAIN

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

REFRAIN

Prophecies

Enhanced Expectations

Gabriel’s Visits

Holy Childbirth

Gifts of God Eternal

Special Music – “O Holy Night” – Valerie Waterman, Vocalist

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

The Breaking of the Bread and the Pouring of the Cup

The Sharing of the Bread and the Cup

Prayer of Thanksgiving for Holy Communion
God Emmanuel, you are the One whom our souls adore. Thank you, Christ Jesus, for the gift of this worship 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 inviting us to be guests at your table. Receiving the bread and the cup from you fills us with hope eternal.
Christ Jesus, may our lives freely and joyously offer to everyone the grace which we receive from you. Amen.

SHARING THE LIGHT OF CHRIST

HYMN – “Silent Night” – #189

1. Silent night! holy night! Al 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.
2. Silent night! holy night! Shepherds quake at the sight,
   Glories stream from heaven afar, heavenly hosts sing Alleluia,
   Christ the Savior is born, Christ the Savior is born.
3. 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. Peace on Earth

All-Church Virtual Christmas Pageant

Sunday, December 20 is the date of the annual Ivy Chapel Christmas Pageant. Of course, like everything else this year, things are going to look just a little different. A little? Nah. A lot.

Join us a 10 a.m. on Facebook Live as Pastor Dan Wilson leads us in prayer and reflection, and the lighting of the Advent wreath, the candle of love.

https://fb.watch/2vb_DcZVrS/

And… may we present… the Ivy Chapel Virtual Christmas Pageant, The Attic Christmas:

Thanks to Tara Lowry for spending so much time adapting the story, assigning the parts, editing the videos and coordinating the entire production.Merry Christmas from the youth, and all the families of Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.

Here’s this week’s order for worship:

Prelude – Anna DiVesta

Call to Worship and Prayer of Invocation/ Pastor Dan
One: Listen up, everybody! God gives the world such a marvelous gift.
All: Christ is born!
One: Glory to God in the highest!
All: And peace to all people on earth.
One: Let us pray.
All: O Wondrous God, send your Messenger to us this day with a word of grace.
If we are fearful, guide us to become Calm.
If we are tired, offer us Rest.
If we are empty, fill us with Grace.
God Emmanuel, we have been searching high and low for you.
We have presumed that you are far away.
How miraculous then it is
that we discover
you are close by,
changing hearts and minds.
Let us respond faithfully as you continue inviting us to follow you and
to join you in your work of Love.
We pray in your holy name, Coming Savior –
Son of God; Love’s pure Light. Amen.

Hymn – “Come, Thou Long-Expected Jesus”– #187

1. Come, Thou long expected Jesus, Born to set Thy people free;
   From our fears and sins release us; Let us find our rest in Thee.
   Israel’s strength and consolation, Hope of all the earth Thou art;
   Dear Desire of every nation, Joy of every longing heart.
2. Born Thy people to deliver, Born a child and yet a king.
   Born to reign in us forever, Now Thy gracious kingdom bring.
   By Thine own eternal Spirit Ryle in all our hearts alone;
   By Thine all sufficient merit, Raise us to Thy glorious throne.

Lighting the Advent Wreath – Pastor Dan – The Candle of Love

Praise Response – “When God Is a Child”
p. 95, worship booklet Verse 4 ONLY

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

Prayers of the People concluding with the Lord’s Prayer – Pastor Dan

Special Music – “Welcome to Our World”
Tara Lowry, Vocalist
Anna DiVesta, Piano

Ivy Chapel presents
The Attic Christmas Pageant
Based on the book “The Attic Christmas” by B.G. Hennessy
Illustrated by Dan Andreason
Adapted by Tara Lowry

O CHRISTMAS TREE #221 (Verse 1)

O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, your branches are uplifted.
You seem to say that on this day our world’s supremely gifted.
The shining of your candles bright, reminds us Light has come tonight.
O Christmas tree, O Christmas tree, you lift our eyes to heaven.

ANGELS WE HAVE HEARD ON HIGH #206 (Verses 1 and 2)

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

Shepherds, why this jubilee? Why your joyous strains prolong?
Say what may the tidings be, Which inspire your heav’nly song?
Gloria in excelsis Deo
Gloria in excelsis Deo

WE THREE KINGS OF ORIENT ARE #220 (Verses 1 and 5)

We three kings of Orient are, Bearing gifts we traverse afar.
Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star.
O star of wonder, star of night,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light.

Glorious now behold Him arise, King and God and Sacrifice
Alleluia, Alleluia! Peals through the earth and skies.
O star of wonder, star of night,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light.

O LITTLE TOWN OF BETHLEHEM #200 (Verses 1 and 4)

O little town of Bethlehem, How still we see thee lie!
Above thy deep and dreamless sleep The silent stars go by.
Yet in thy dark streets shineth The everlasting Light;
The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in thee tonight.

O holy Child of Bethlehem! Descend to us, we pray;
Cast out our sin, and enter in; Be born in us today.
We hear the Christmas angels The great glad tidings tell;
O come to us, abide with us, Our Lord Emmanuel.

JOY TO THE WORLD #194 (Verses 1, 2, and 4)

Joy to the world! the Lord is come; Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And heav’n and nature sing, And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n, and heav’n and nature sing.

Joy to the earth! the Savior reigns; Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains
Repeat the sounding joy, Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love, And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders of His love.

Shouts of Joy! Dec. 13 Cantata Livestream

2020 has been quite a year. Let’s pause for a moment during this Season of Advent and find the joy! Our 2020 Christmas Cantata features treasured memories from our congregation.

Prelude: “He Is Lord” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful” – Aaron DiVesta and Anna DiVesta 

Responsive Call to Worship & Prayer of Invocation – Pastor Dan                                                                                                                   

     One:  The Savior of the world is Jesus Christ! 

     All:  Make a joyful noise to God!

     One:  Our God is a God of great joy!

     All:  Rely on God, who is our refuge and strength.

     One:  Give thanks to God, who is our salvation.   

     All:  We will sing praises to God’s name!

     One:  Let us pray.

     All:  God of great joy, we rejoice with anticipation as we look forward to future ways that you will reveal yourself among us.  May all people perceive your Spirit living within us, and may all people celebrate this blessing!  Strengthen us for your loving service.  We give thanks that you are calling us to be your followers and to live in ways that make life-giving differences in your world.  Lead us to carry out the caring ministries that you are inviting us to offer, Christ Jesus.  Amen.

 HYMN:  â€œJoyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee”– #13

1.         Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee, God of glory Lord of love;

            Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, Opening to the sun above.

            Melt the clouds of sin and sadness; Drive the dark of doubt away;

            Giver of immortal gladness, Fill us with the light of day.

2.         All Thy works with joy surround Thee, Earth and heav’n reflect Thy rays

            Stars and angels sing around Thee, Center of unbroken praise.

            Field and forest, vale and mountain, Flowery meadow, flashing sea,

            Chanting bird and flowing fountain Call us to rejoice in Thee.

3.         Thou art giving and forgiving, Ever Blessing, ever blest,

            Wellspring of the joy of living, Ocean depth of happy rest!

            Thou our Father, Christ our Brother – All who live in love are Thine,

            Teach us how to love each other, Lift us to the joy divine.

4.         Mortals join the mighty chorus Which the morning stars began;

            Father love is reigning o’er us, Brother love binds man to man.

            Ever singing, march we onward, Victors in the midst of strife,

            Joyful music leads us sunward In the triumph song of life.

Children’s Message – Liz Schurwan 

Prayers of the People concluding with the Lord’s Prayer (debts/debtors) –  Pastor Dan

Lighting the Advent Wreath – Pastor Dan: The Candle of Joy

 Praise Response – â€œWhen God Is a Child”  p. 95, worship booklet

 Verse 3 ONLY

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

            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.

“Shouts of Joy:  A Christmas Concert for 2020”

        A Treasured Memory

        Holy Scripture – Psalm 98:1, 4

        HYMN – “Joy to the World” #194 

1.       Joy to the world the Lord is come; Let earth receive her King;

            Let every heart prepare him room, and heav’n and nature sing, 

            and heav’n and nature sing. And heav’n, and heav’n and nature sing.

2.         Joy to the earth! the Savior reigns; Let men their songs employ;

            While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains repeat the sounding joy,

            repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.

3.         No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground; 

            He comes to make HIs blessings flow Far as the curse is found,

            far as the curse is found, Far as, far as the curse is found.

4.         He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove

            The glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love,

            And wonders of HIs love, and wonders, and wonders, of His love.

        A Treasured Memory

        Holy Scripture –  John 3:16-17 – Galatians 4:4-5

       â€œHe Is Born” – Julie McAllister and Anna DiVesta, Piano and Organ  

        A Treasured Memory

        Holy Scripture – Psalm 125:1-2 – Isaiah 40:9 – Isaiah 52:7      

       â€œGo, Tell It on the Mountain” –  Anna DiVesta, Piano       

        A Treasured Memory

        Holy Scripture – Isaiah 7:13-14 – Luke 2:16-19      

       â€œBreath of Heaven” –  Sue Wilson, Vocalist   

        A Treasured Memory

        Holy Scripture – Isaiah 9:6                               

       â€œMary, Did You Know?” – Aaron DiVesta and Anna DiVesta, Saxophone and Piano

        A Treasured Memory

        Holy Scripture – Isaiah 60:4-6 – Matthew 2:1, 9-11 

        HYMN –  â€œWe Three Kings” #220   

1.         We three kings of Orient are, Bearing gifts we travers afar

            Field and fountain, moor 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.

2.         Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain, Gold I bring to crown Him again,

            King forever, ceasing never Over us all to reign.

REFRAIN

3.         Frankincense to offer have I, Incense owns a Deity nigh;

            Prayer and praising, all men raising, Worship Him, God on high.

REFRAIN

4.         Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom

            Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone cold tomb.

REFRAIN

5.         Glorious now behold Him arise, King and God and Sacrifice;

            Alleluia, Alleluia, Peals through the earth and skies.

REFRAIN

        A Treasured Memory

        Holy Scripture – Isaiah 11:1-2, 6-7, 9

       â€œCarol of the Drum” (The Little Drummer Boy) – Anna DiVesta, Piano         

        A Treasured Memory

        Holy Scripture – Amos 5:24 – Revelation 19:5-7a, 11, 16

       â€œO Holy Night” – Marsha Fix, Vocalist 

        A Treasured Memory

        Holy Scripture – John 1:3-5 – Luke 2:9-11

       â€œSilent Night”                                                                                    

 Benediction – Anna DiVesta

 Postlude – Anna DiVesta

Nov. 29 Livestream – First Sunday of Advent

On this first Sunday of Advent, we light the candle of peace. Join us as we pray for peace in our community, peace in our world and peace in our hearts.

This week’s order for worship:

Prelude/ Anna DiVesta

Responsive Call to Worship/ Pastor Dan
One: Faith in God gives us chances to begin all over again.
All: God’s love is a love that releases us from the past.
One: It is freeing to make a fresh start!
All: As our Savior, God gives all people a new lease on life!
One: We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
All: As Jesus Christ, God offers forgiveness, salvation and life.

Hymn/ “Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing” #82

1. Come, Thou Fount of every blessing, Tune my heart to sing Thy grace:
   Streams of mercy, never ceasing, Call for songs of loudest praise.
   Teach me some melodious sonnet, Sung by flaming tongues above;
   Praise His name I’m fixed upon it – Name of God’s redeeming love.
2. Here I raise mine Ebenezer, Hither by Thy help I’m come;
   And I hope by Thy good pleasure, Safely to arrive at home.
   Jesus sought me when a stranger, Wandering form the fold of God;
   He, to rescue me from danger, Bought me with HIs precious blood.
3. O to grace how great a debtor, Daily I’m constrained to be!
   Let Thy goodness, like a fetter, Bind my wandering heart to Thee::
   Prone to wander, Lord, I feel it, Prone to leave the God I love;
   Here’s my heart O take and seal it; Seal it for Thy courts above.

Prayer of Invocation / Pastor Dan
One: Let us pray.
All: Tender-Hearted God, this morning you have awakened us to a new day of life! We praise you, for you have blessed us.
Always-Loving God, you are the One who faithfully loves all people. May we sense your loving presence as we share in this time of worship. Wake us up all over again. As we begin this new Church Year, we remember your unexpected advent in Bethlehem. Your birth among us; your human birth as a little, newborn baby was a defining moment. In that moment, you made yourself known as never before, God. Forevermore, you continue making yourself known to your children. May we grow to know you more deeply this Advent Season; Tender-Hearted and Always-Loving Savior. Amen.

Lighting the Advent Wreath / Pastor Dan
The Candle of Peace

Response “When God Is a Child” p. 95, worship booklet
Verse 2 ONLY

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

Children’s Message/ Sue Wilson

Special Music/ “Soon and Very Soon” Mike Neu, Tenor Saxophone
Aaron DiVesta, Baritone Saxophone

Scripture Reading/ Pastor Dan Psalm 80:1-9, 14-19 and Mark 13:24-37

Sermon/ Pastor Dan

Prayers of God’s Church concluding with the Lord’s Prayer/ Pastor Dan

Hymn/ “Let There Be Peace on Earth” pp. 62-63, worship booklet
Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me;
let there be peace on earth, the peace that was meant to be.
With God our Creator, children all are we.
Let us walk with each other in perfect harmony.
Let peace begin with me; let this be the moment now.
With every step I take, let this be my solemn vow:
to take each moment and live each moment in peace eternally.
Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.

Benediction/ Pastor Dan

Postlude/ Anna DiVesta

Thanksgiving message from the United Church of Christ

Thank you to Rev. Damien Lake, associate conference minister from the Missouri Mid-South Conference of the United Church of Christ, for this inspiring Thanksgiving message.

During this Thanksgiving season, let’s pause for a moment and remember one of the most important messages of all: to love your neighbor as yourself. To accept all. To welcome all. To love all.

Nov. 22 Livestream – Give Thanks!

Thank you for joining us during this very different Thanksgiving week. We hope you are able to find some joy, even as gatherings with friends and family may be limited. Please be safe and healthy, and enjoy this week’s program.

Responsive Call to Worship/ Pastor Dan
One: Let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
All: God cares for everyone.
One: Like a shepherd, searching for lost sheep, God calls to us.
All: God calls out to us by name.
One: God reaches out to rescue all who have strayed.
All: Scattered, weak and injured ones are cared for by God.
One: We are the sheep of God’s pasture.
All: O come, let us kneel before God our Maker.

Hymn/ “The Gift of Love” #126

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

Prayer of Invocation / Pastor Dan
One: Let us pray.
All: God of Life and Breath, we come this morning, seeking guidance that you alone can provide. You are a God of astounding faithfulness! Fill us with your holy love and lead us, we pray. O Breath of Life; you are with us in our going out and our coming in. Wherever we are, you are steadily leading us.
God of love, we praise you for the abundance of blessings which you provide. We give thanks with grateful hearts. We want to share our faith in you with the world! May we always live joyfully in the spirit of our Living Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.
Praise Response/ “Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart” p. 42, worship booklet

Children’s Message/ Linda Lowry

Special Music/ “On Eagle’s Wings”
Marsha Fix, Vocalist
Anna DiVesta, Pianist

Scripture Reading/ Pastor Dan Psalm 95:1-2 and Matthew 25:31-46

Sermon/ Pastor Dan

Prayers of God’s Church concluding with the Lord’s Prayer/ Pastor Dan

Hymn/ “For the Fruit of All Creation” #591

1. For the fruit of all creation, Thanks be to God.
   For His gifts to every nation, Thanks be to God.
   For the plowing, sowing, reaping, Silent Growth while we are sleeping,
   Future needs in earth’s safekeeping, Thanks be to God.
2. In the just reward of labor, God’s will is done.
   In the help we give our neighbor, God’s will is done.
   In our worldwide task of caring For the hungry and despairing,
   In the harvests we are sharing, God’s will is done.
3. For the harvests of the Spirit, Thanks be to God.
   For the good we all inherit, Thanks be to God.
   For the wonders that astound us, For then truths that still confound us,
   ost of all, that love has found us, Thanks be to God.

Benediction/ Pastor Dan

Postlude/ Anna DiVesta

Nov. 8 Livestream

We had originally hoped to take the first steps toward in-person worship today. However, with the increase in COVID-19 cases, it’s best to put these plans on hold for the health of our members and the community. Please continue to stay safe as we all work together to find the healthiest way forward.

Responsive Call to Worship/ Pastor Dan
One: We come to worship, because we want to know God,
All: who helps us to leave behind the past, and to walk ahead on a path to new life.
One: We pause on this Sabbath day, because we want to know Jesus,
All: who offer us grace, and who inspires us to be givers.
One: We share in joyful acts of praise, because we want to know the Spirit,
All: who guides us to serve God with gladness!

Prayer of Invocation / Pastor Dan
One: Let us pray together.
All: God of this new day; we rejoice that you are God of all the earth! We worship you, Christ Jesus. Singing your praises fills us with joy, and blesses us beyond words. In you, Jesus, we find a treasure. In you, we experience a pure goodness that cares for and affirms everyone. In you, we receive a comfort that delivers us from all our fears.
In you, we come in contact with an exceptional love that surrounds and encourages, reassures and calms.
You are a true refuge, O God, in time of trouble. Your faithful support strengthens us in our weakness, fills us in our hunger, and finds us when we are lost. During every sacred time of worship, you bless us anew. Here and now, we are found.
Thank you, Gentle Shepherd, for watching over us and for leading us. Amen.

Hymn/ “Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling” #389

1. Softly and tenderly Jesus is calling, Calling for you and for me;
   See, on the portals He’s waiting and watching, Watching for you and for me.

REFRAIN
Come home, come home, Ye who are weary, come home;
Earnestly tenderly, Jesus is calling. Calling, O sinner, come home!

2. Why should we tarry when Jesus is pleading, Pleading for you and for me?
   Why should we linger and heed not His mercies, Mercies for you and for me?

REFRAIN

3. Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing, Passing from you and from me;
   Shadows are gathering, death’s night is coming, Coming for you and for me.

REFRAIN

4. O for the wonderful love He has promised, Promised for you and for me!
   Though we have sinned, He has mercy and pardon, Pardon for you and for me.

REFRAIN

Children’s Message/ Ashton

Prayers of the Church concluding with the Lord’s Prayer/ Pastor Dan

Special Music/ “Keep Your Lamps” Anna and Aaron DiVesta

Scripture Reading/ Pastor Dan Matthew 25:1-13

Sermon/ Pastor Dan

Prayers of God’s Church concluding with the Lord’s Prayer/ Pastor Dan

Hymn/ “Hymn of Promise” #277

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

Benediction/ Pastor Dan

Postlude/ Anna

Nov. 1 Livestream – Totenfest

Today, on All Saint’s Day, we pause to remember those we have lost in the last year. Join us for prayers and a celebration of life.

As is our custom here at Ivy Chapel, we start each worship with announcements. Here’s what’s going on this week.

Prelude / Anna diVesta

Responsive Call to Worship/ Pastor Dan Wilson
One: What a joy! What a comfort to know Loving God hears our borning cry
and Loving God sees our lives unfold.
All: We marvel at the unending grace of God!
One: We praise the One who is with us every moment of our lives!
All: Let us worship Christ our Savior!

Prayer of Invocation / Pastor Dan
One: I invite you to bow with me, and let us pray together.
All: God of wonder, God of grace; let your Spirit fill our souls. Remind us this day that you are the Creator of all life. Through terrors of night, among arrows flying by day; we need to sense your power,… your guidance,… your higher purpose.
Living God, we gather to praise you. We are grateful for any earthly glimpse of eternity which you give us. All that we already have received whets our appetite for more. And so it is that we come now seeking still more glimpses of you, O Holy One. Who knows? Maybe your closeness to us will be revealed through the breaking of bread or the filling of a cup.
On this Sabbath day, lead us away from this world’s distractions, we pray. Draw us toward a clearer vision of who you are, Faithful God. This will help us to see more clearly who you would like us to be.
Eternal Savior; in every age, you call people to follow you and to love you. It is you, Living God, who we were raised to praise! To you, we now belong! Amen!

Hymn / “I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry“ worship booklet, pp. 54-55

Children’s Message / Sarah Heend

Totenfest All Saints’ Day Thanksgiving for Loved Ones / Pastor Dan

Prayers of the Church concluding with the Lord’s Praye r/ Pastor Dan

Special Music / “Come to Jesus” Anna

Scripture Reading / Pastor Dan Matthew 23:1-12

Sermon / Pastor Dan

Celebrating Communion / Pastor Dan

Hymn / “We Are a New Creation” worship booklet, p. 91

We Are a New Creation

1. We are a new creation Of Christ, the living Word,
   Our songs of jubilation Shall everywhere be heard.
   New life blooms fresh and glorious For those who heed the call
   Of Christ, who reigns victorious O’er sin and death and all.
2. We are a new creation Of God for this new day.
   As partners let us follow The life, the truth, the way.
   Christ bids us work to gather As colleagues, old and young,
   As women, men, and nations, God’s folk of every tongue.
3. We are a new creation For service here on earth.
   We live our faith in action To tell our Savior’s worth.
   Let love and justice blending Now show for all to see
   God’s grace is never ending It reaches you and me.
4. We are a new creation By God’s own gracious hand,
   Old burdens cast behind us, A daring future planned.
   In ministry and mission, United let us live,
   In Christ a shining vision To God’s wide world to give.

Benediction / Pastor Dan

Postlude / Anna

Oct. 25 Livestream

Be a force for positivity in the world! Embrace the good, even when it’s a challenge. Focus on the can-dos, rather than the do-nots. Love your neighbor. Be kind to all.

The order for Sunday, October 25 Worship:

Prelude / Anna diVesta

Responsive Call to Worship / Rev. Dan Wilson
One: Morning has broken!
All: Let us worship God.
One: We are drawn to worship by the unseen.
All: In worship, we sense God’s closeness.
One: The Creator of all living things gives us life!
All: There are wonders all around us!
One: Holy God is more than we can imagine.
All: Together, let us sing God’s praises!

Prayer of Invocation / Pastor Dan
One: I invite you to bow with me, and let us pray together.
All: God Who Leads; we know that we have not reached your Promised Land. We know that we have not yet seen the fulfillment of all that you have spoken across the generations. We know that there remains much to be done as your disciples in pursuit of “a just world for all.”
God Who Fulfills Promises; grant that we may have the faith of Moses, who trusts fully in you. Moses trusts ‘sight unseen’ that your Promised Land of Milk and Honey steadily is drawing near. Grant that we may display such trust to continue working on behalf of your justice, especially when we are tempted to despair that our efforts may be futile.
“Sometimes Unseen, but Always Faithful God,” we praise you
for guiding us toward loving as Christ loves;
for guiding us toward being willing to sacrifice our lives on behalf of others.
Fill us with your Spirit of unselfishness, Christ Jesus. We pray for your blessing on the whole world this day. Lead us to love you and to follow you, Jesus. Amen.

Hymn/ “With My Whole Heart” worship booklet, p. 98

Children’s Message / Sue Wilson

Special Music/ “Toccata in D” / Anna

Scripture Reading / Pastor Dan Matthew 22:34-46

Sermon/Prayer / Pastor Dan

Hymn / “They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love” # 119

Benediction / Pastor Dan

Postlude / Anna

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