July 27 — Shaped by Prayer

Today, God is blessing the whole world with a sacred day of life! Let us worship God together. We welcome Rev. David Arndt, who will be leading us in worship today. God loves all people. No one is a stranger to God.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — This is My Father’s World

CALL TO WORSHIP — Psalm 138 — Diann Sheahan
One: I thank you, Yahweh, with all my soul.
All: I sing praise to you before the gods.
One: I face your holy Temple, bow down, and praise your name because of your constant love and faithfulness, because you have shown that your name and your commands are supreme.
All: You answered me when I called to you. With your strength you strengthened me.
One: All the kings in the world will praise you, Yahweh, because they have heard your promises.
All: They will sing about what you have done and about your great glory.
One: Even though you are so high above, you care for the lowly. The proud cannot hide from you.
All: When I am surrounded by troubles, you keep me safe.
One: You oppose my angry enemies and save me by your power.
All: You will do everything you have promised. Yahweh, your love is eternal.
One: Please complete the work which you have begun.

HYMN — How Great Thou Art — 16

O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder
Consider all the worlds Thy hands have made,
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy pow’r thro’out the universe displayed.

Refrain
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee;
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!
Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to Thee;
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

When thro’ the woods and forest glades I wander
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees,
When I look down from lofty mountains grandeur,
And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze. Refrain

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing.
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in,
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin. Refrain

When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow in humble adoration,
And there proclaim, my God, go great Thou art. Refrain

PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Diann Sheahan
Eternal God, eternally loving us, eternally present in our lives, eternally keeping us safe, Ivy Chapel joins the great chorus thanking you, praising you, and serving you.

RESPONSE — Thou Art Worthy — 11

Thou art worthy,
Thou art worthy,
Thou art worthy, O Lord,
To receive glory,
Glory and honor,
Glory and honor and pow’r
For Thou hast created,
hast all things created,
Thou hast created all things;
And for Thy pleasure
they are created –
Thou art worthy, O Lord.

OLD TESTAMENT READING — Genesis 18:20-32 —Diann Sheahan

CHILDREN’S SERMON — Arguing with God — Rev. David Arndt

HYMN — I Will Sing of the Mercies of the Lord — Ivy worship booklet p. 56

EPISTLE READING — Colossians 2:6-15 — Rev. David Arndt

HYMN — God is So Good — 616

God is so good,
God is so good,
God is so good,
He’s so good to me!

He cares for me,
He cares for me,
He cares for me,
He’s so good to me!

I love Him so,
I love Him so,
I love Him so,
He’s so good to me!

I praise His name,
I praise His name,
I praise His name,
He’s so good to me!

GOSPEL READING — Luke 11:1-13 — Rev. David Arndt

ADULT SERMON — Ask, seek, knock — Rev. David Arndt

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE — Rev. David Arndt

OUR LORD’S PRAYER

HYMN — Here I Am, Lord — Ivy worship booklet pp. 46-47

I, the Lord of sea and sky I have heard my people cry.
All who dwell in dark and sin My hand will save.
I have made the stars of night, I will make their darkness bright.
Who will bear my light to them? Whom shall I send?

Refrain:
Here I am, Lord Is it I, Lord?
I have heard You calling in the night.
I will go, Lord, If You lead me.
I will hold Your people in my heart.

I, the Lord of snow and rain, I have borne my people’s pain.
I have wept for love of them, they turn away.
I will break their hearts of stone, give them hearts for love alone.
I will speak my word to them. Whom shall I send? Refrain

I, the Lord of wind and flame I will tend the poor and lame.
I will set a feast for them My hand will save.
Finest bread I will provide ‘Til their hearts be satisfied.
I will give my life to them. Whom shall I send? Refrain

BENEDICTION — II Corinthians, adapted — Rev. David Arndt

POSTLUDE —Rigaudon — by Andre Campra

July 20 — Welcome!

This is the day that the Lord has made! Let us rejoice and celebrate together. We welcome Rev. David Arndt, who will be leading us in worship today. David Arndt is a retired United Church of Christ who worshipped with us a few Sundays ago. He says he is delighted to return today.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Take My Life and Let it be Consecrated, Lord, to Thee

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Inspired by Psalm 15 — Ann Molyneaux
One: Yahweh, who may enter your Temple? Who may worship on Zion, your sacred hill?
All: A person who obeys God in everything, always does what is right, and does not slander others.
One: Such a person does no wrong to friends and does not spread rumors about neighbors.
All: Such a person makes loans without charging interest and cannot be bribed to testify against the innocent. Whoever does these things will always be secure.

COMMENT — Welcome to Ivy Chapel — David Arndt

HYMN — Just As I Am, Without One Plea — 387

Just as I am, without one plea,
But that thy blood was shed for me,
And that thou biddest me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot.
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!

Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind;
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need in Thee I find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Ann Molyneaux
Holy Spirit, alive among these children of God, thank you for abiding with us, for welcoming us, and for inspiring us to live as fully in the faith as we are humanly able.

RESPONSE — Into My Heart — 391

Into my heart, into my heart,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus;
Come in today, come in to stay,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus.

Into my heart, into my heart,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus;
Come in today, come in to stay,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus.

OLD TESTAMENT READING — Genesis 18:1-10a — Ann Molyneaux

CHILDREN’S SERMON — How to welcome angels — Rev. David Arndt

EPISTLE READING — Colossians 1:15-28 — Rev. David Arndt

SPECIAL MUSIC — Sweet Hour of Prayer

GOSPEL READING — Luke 10:38-42 — Rev. David Arndt

ADULT SERMON — How to welcome Christ — Rev. David Arndt

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE — Rev. David Arndt

OUR LORD’S PRAYER

HYMN — I Sing a Song of the Saints of God — Ivy worship booklet. p. 52-53

I sing a song of the saints of God,
patient and brave and true,
who toiled and fought and lived and died
for the Lord they loved and knew.
And one was a doctor, and one was a queen,
and one was a shepherdess on the green:
they were all of them saints of God, and I mean,
God helping, to be one too.

They loved their Lord so dear, so dear,
and God’s love made them strong;
and they followed the right, for Jesus’ sake,
the whole of their good lives long.
And one was a soldier, and one was a priest,
and one was slain by a fierce wild beast:
and there’s not any reason, no, not the least,
why I shouldn’t be one too.

They lived not only in ages past;
there are hundreds of thousands still;
the world is bright with the joyous saints
who love to do Jesus’ will.
You can meet them in school, or in lanes, or at sea,
in church, or in trains, or in shops, or at tea;
for the saints of God are just folk like me,
and I mean to be one too.

BENEDICTION — II Corinthians 13:13, adapted — Rev. David Arndt

POSTLUDE — Rondeau — Joseph Mouret

July 13 — Disciples Together

God loves all people. No one is a stranger to God. Wherever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here at Ivy Chapel.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — I Have Decided to Follow Jesus — arr. James Koerts

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Linda Lowry
One: Let us gather to worship.
All: O God, we wish to see Jesus! We come to worship, to pray, and learn.
One: We come looking for Jesus in Scripture lessons, in our own life experiences, in helping our world, in prayers for each other.
All: We seek to follow in the way of Jesus.
One: We lay bare before God and one another our own journey filled with gladness and hope, with reluctance and sorrow, with fear and confusion.
All: God, speak to us, show us, touch us with your presence! Let our journey lead us to Jesus, so that we may show Jesus forth in our lives, our faith community, and our world. Amen.

*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!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Linda Lowry
God of the journey, you invite us, the church, “to accept the cost and joy of discipleship” and “to be your servants in the service of others.” In so doing, may your presence be our guide and Jesus our model. May we respond to you in loving faithfulness. Amen

*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 25:1-10 — Linda Lowry

SPECIAL MUSIC — Have Thine Own Way, Lord — arr. Gary Prim

GOD’S WORD — Colossians 1:1-14 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON —Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*HYMN — Jesu, Jesu — Ivy worship booklet, p. 57

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE —Let All Things Now Living — arr.Larry Schackley

July 6 — Do Good!

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC! This is the day that the Lord has made! Let us rejoice and celebrate this gift together! On this holiday weekend, let us all take a moment to do good — for ourselves, for our families, and for each other.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — In His Presence (Valerie Waterman, soloist) — Dick and Melodie Tunney

*CALL TO WORSHIP (Inspired by Psalms 30) — Jim French
One: Sing praises to the Holy One, O you faithful, and give thanks to God’s holy name
Many: Shepherd and Source, you guide us in wisdom. You cover us in love.
One: Sing praises to the Holy One, O you faithful, and give thanks to God’s holy name
Many: Comforter and Spirit, you encourage us in times of trouble. You strengthen us for the journey.
One: Sing praises to the Holy One, O you faithful, and give thanks to God’s holy name
Many: Redeemer and Friend, you hear our cry, redeem the years of struggle, and restore our joy. Praise the Holy One!

*HYMN — Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above — #45
Sing praise to God who reigns above,
the God of all creation,
the God of power, the God of love,
the God of our salvation;
with healing balm my soul he fills,
and every faithless murmur stills:
o God all praise and glory.

What God’s almighty power hath made,
his gracious mercy keepeth;
by morning glow or evening shade
his watchful eye ne’er sleepeth.
Within the kingdom of his might,
lo! all is just and all is right:
to God all praise and glory

The Lord is never far away,
But through all grief distressing
An ever present help and stay
Our peace, and joy, and blessing;
As with a mother’s tender hand,
He leads His one, HIs chosen band:
To God all praise and glory.

Then all my gladsome way along
I sing aloud thy praises,
that men may hear the grateful song
my voice unwearied raises:
be joyful in the Lord, my heart!
Both soul and body bear your part!
To God all praise and glory.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jim French
God our Good Shepherd, we come to worship you, to tell of the story of your marvelous deeds, to lament the horrors and suffering in the world, to find strength to be your witnesses, and to remind ourselves of the truth of what is possible. May our prayers rise to your heart, and your heart infiltrate our prayers. May we sing songs that move you with delight and compassion. May we recognize and ponder the wisdom you impart to us. And may peace rest upon us as we gather in your name. Amen.
*RESPONSE — Glorify Thy Name — #61

Father, we love You
We worship and adore You

Glorify Thy Name in all the earth
Glorify Thy Name
Glorify Thy Name
Glorify Thy Name in all the earth

Jesus, we love You
We worship and adore You

Glorify Thy Name in all the earth
Glorify Thy Name
Glorify Thy Name
Glorify Thy Name in all the earth

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 30 — Jim French

SPECIAL MUSIC — Revive us Again — arr. Sharon Wilson

GOD’S WORD — Galatians 6:1-16 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER —Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*COMMUNION HYMN — One Bread, One Body — Ivy worship booklet, pp. 72-73

Refrain
One bread, one body, one Lord of all;
one cup of blessing which we bless,
and we, though many throughout the earth,
we are one body in this one Lord.

1 Gentile or Jew, servant or free,
woman or man, no more. Refrain

2 Many the gifts, many the works,
one in the Lord of all. Refrain

3 Grain for the fields, scattered and grown,
gathered to one for all. Refrain

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION [A] — Ivy worship booklet, pp. 10-11
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament at Christ’s Table.

*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!

My native country, thee, Land of the noble free,
Thy name I love;
I love thy rocks and rills, Thy woods and templed hills;
My heart with rapture thrills, Like that above.

Let music swell the breeze, And ring from all the trees
Sweet freedom’s song;
Let mortal tongues awake; Let all that breathe partake;
Let rocks their silence break,The sound prolong.

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.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — America, the Beautiful (Earl Kreder, saxophone) — arr. Rich Heffler

June 29 — Rejoice and Celebrate!

June 29 — Rejoice and Celebrate

We welcome Rev. David Arndt, who will be leading us in worship today.
This is the day that the Lord has made!  Let us rejoice and celebrate together.

WELCOME 

PRELUDE — Praise to the Lord, the Almighty — arr. Bruce Greer                      

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Inspired by Psalm 16 — Julie McAllister    
One: Please protect me, O God. I trust in you for safety.
All: I say to Yahweh, “You are my God. All the good things I have come from you.”
One: How excellent are Yahweh’s faithful people. My greatest pleasure is to be with them.
All: Those who rush to other gods bring many troubles on themselves. I will not take part in their sacrifices. I will
not worship their gods.
One: You, Yahweh, are all that I have. You give me all which I need.
My future is in your hands.
All: How wonderful are your gifts to me. How good they are.
One: I praise Yahweh because God guides me. In the night my conscience warns me.
All: I am always aware of Yahweh’s presence. God is near. Nothing can shake me.
One: I am thankful and glad. I feel completely secure,
All: because you protect me from the power of death. I have served
you faithfully. You will not abandon me to the world of the dead.
One: You show me the path which leads to life.
All: Your presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever.

*HYMN — Day by Day — #486  

Day by day and with each passing moment,

Strength I find to meet my trials here;

Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment,

I’ve no cause for worry or for fear.

He whose heart is kind beyond all measure

Gives unto each day what he deems best–

Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,

Mingling toil with peace and rest.

Ev’ry day the Lord himself is near me,

With a special mercy for each hour;

All my cares He fain would bear, and cheer me,

He whose name is Counselor and Pow’r.

The protection of His child and treasure

Is a charge that on Himself He laid:

“As your days, your strength shall be in measure”–

This the pledge to me He made.

Help me then in ev’ry tribulation

So to trust Thy promises, O Lord,

That I lose not faith’s sweet consolation

Offered me within Thy holy Word.

Help me, Lord, when, toil and trouble meeting,

E’er to take, as from a father’s hand,

One by one, the days, the moments fleeting,

Till I reach the promised land.        

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Julie McAllister          

I am always aware of God’s presence. God is near. God’s presence fills me with joy and brings me pleasure forever.

*RESPONSE — Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place — #146

Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place;

I can feel His mighty power and His grace.

I can hear the brush of angel’s wings, 

I see glory on each face;

Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.   

OLD TESTAMENT READING — I Kings 19:15-16, 19-21 — Julie McAllister                    

CHILDREN’S SERMON — That Cloak — Rev. David Arndt

SPECIAL MUSIC — Give Me Jesus — arr. Michael Ware

EPISTLE READING — Galatians 5:1, 13-25 — Rev. David Arndt                

COMMENT — Fruits of the Spirit                          

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.

SERMON — Well, er, um — Rev. David Arndt

 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Rev. David Arndt

*HYMN — Wherever He Leads I’ll Go — #543  

“Take up thy cross and follow Me, ”I heard my Master say;

“I gave My life to ransom thee,  Surrender your all today”

Refrain:

Wherever He leads  I’ll go, Wherever He leads I’ll go,

I’ll follow my Christ who loves me so, Wherever He leads, I’ll go.

He drew me closer to His side, I sought His will to know,

And in that will, I now abide, Wherever He leads, I’ll go [Refrain]

It may be through the shadows dim, Or o’er the stormy sea, 

I take my cross and follow Him, Wherever He leadeth me. [Refrain]

My heart, my life, my all I bring To Christ who loves me so;

He is my Master, Lord, and King, Wherever He leads I’ll go. [Refrain]   

*BENEDICTION — Rev. David Arndt

*POSTLUDE — Little Prelude and Fugue in F — J.S. Bach

*When Moses asked the burning bush, “Who are you?” a voice answered, “Yahweh”. Yahweh is a Hebrew word which means something like “Having Been, Being, and Becoming”. Germans transliterate it as “Jehovah”. English Bibles often substitute “Lord” rather than translate it. *

June 22 — In God’s Presence

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. This is the day that the Lord has made! Let us rejoice and celebrate this gift together! May today’s worship fill your soul with joy and strength.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Be Thou My Vision — arr. Paul Manz

*CALL TO WORSHIP (Inspired by Psalms 42 & 43) — Kathryn Kuntzman
One: As a deer longs for flowing streams, so we long for you, O God. As the plants turn toward the sun, so we turn to you, O God. As the tide ebbs and flows, so we move with you, O God.
Many: Hope in God! Again, we worship the Holy One, our help and our God.
One: When tears are our constant companion, when our souls become weary, when we feel forgotten or alone, we may ask the question, “Where is God?”
Many: Trust in God! Again, we honor the Present One, our strength and our God.
One: Deep calls to deep. The steadfast love of God surrounds us. The Spirit of Truth leads us to everlasting joy.
Many: Rejoice in God. Again, we praise the Living One, our source and our God.

*HYMN — As the Deer Pants for Water — Ivy worship booklet p. 26

As the deer pants for the water
So my soul longs after You
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship You

Chorus:
You alone are my strength, my shield,
To You alone may my spirit yield;
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship You!

I want you more than gold or silver,
Only you can satisfy
You alone are the real joy giver
And the apple of my eye.
Chorus

You’re my friend and You are my brother
Even though You are a King
I love You more than any other
So much more than anything!
Chorus

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Kathryn Kuntzman
God in whom we take refuge, we seek you as the calm in the storm, the path in the wilderness, and the order in the chaos. Renew our strength with a vision of your kingdom made real and expanding before us. Encourage us with a word of possibility and an encounter with your presence. Enliven us as we pray, sing, laugh, cry, witness, listen, ponder, and imagine in your midst and in our own way. We come to you with our full selves knowing you offer us the fullness of your being. May we find hope and challenge, joy and rest, peace and power as we immerse ourselves in you and glorify your name. Amen.

*RESPONSE — We Will Glorify the King of Kings — 35

We will glorify the King of kings
We will glorify the Lamb
We will glorify the Lord of lords
Who is the great I Am

Lord Jehovah reigns in majesty
We will bow before His throne
We will worship Him in righteousness
We will worship Him alone

He is Lord of heaven Lord of earth
He is Lord of all who live
He is Lord above the universe
All praise to Him we give

Hallelujah to the King of kings
Hallelujah to the Lamb
Hallelujah to the Lord of lords
Who is the great I Am

STIRRING WORSHIP — Children’s Time — Rev. Susan Shumway

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 43 — Kathryn Kuntzman

SPECIAL MUSIC — Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing — arr. Paul Manz

GOD’S WORD — Luke 8:26-39 — Rev. Susan Shumway

SERMON — “From the Tombs” — Rev. Susan Shumway

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Rev. Susan Shumway

*HYMN — Higher Ground — #448

I’m pressing on the upward way,
New heights I’m gaining ev’ry day;
Still praying as I’m onward bound,
“Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.”

Refrain:
Lord, lift me up, and let me stand
By faith, on heaven’s tableland;
A higher plane than I have found,
Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.

My heart has no desire to stay
Where doubts arise and fears dismay;
Though some may dwell where these abound,
My prayer, my aim, is higher ground.
Refrain

I want to live above the world,
Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled;
For faith has caught a joyful sound,
The song of saints on higher ground.
Refrain

I want to scale the utmost height,
And catch a gleam of glory bright;
But still I’ll pray till heav’n I’ve found,
“Lord, lead me on to higher ground.”
Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Susan Shumway

*POSTLUDE — The Rejoicing (from Suite in D) — Charles Callahan

June 15 — Live into Hope

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC All glory to God for the blessing of life! We give thanks to God for the invitation to be alive in a world full of possibility with open minds and open hearts to live with great joy until we meet again.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — It is Well with My Soul — arr. Suzanne Arant

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Linda Lowry
One: God delights in life!
All: Let us rejoice before the majesty of our Creator!
One: Through Christ, we are inspired to hope.
All: We gladly enter this house of worship.
One: God’s mercy is ever flowing.
All: God’s Spirit is the Spirit of life and of hope and of all things good!
One: Let us listen closely for God, so that we may hear and do what is faithful.
All: Let us open our hearts now to the astonishing Word of God.

*HYMN — The Solid Rock — 315

My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name

Refrain:
On Christ the solid Rock I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on HIs unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil. Refrain

His oath, His covenant, His blood Support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my sould gives way He then is all my hope and stay. Refrain

When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in HIm be found;
Dressed in HIs righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne. Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Linda Lowry
Holy, Present, Creator God. God who shapes us in the fire;
we are made new in your presence. We come seeking your wisdom, crying out our concerns, needing your steadfast love. May this worship time serve as a time that continues shaping us into a faith community who loves you above all, Dear God. Let our character reflect your goodness and grace. May we live in awe of your glory and humbled by your nearness. We pray in your holy name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE — How Majestic is Your Name — 9

O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth.
O Lord, we praise your name.
O Lord, we magnify your name:
Prince of Peace, mighty God;
O Lord God Almighty.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 8 — Linda Lowry

SPECIAL MUSIC — Lord, I Lift Your Name on High

GOD’S WORD — Romans 5:1-5 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

*HYMN — God of The Ages — 51

God of the ages, History’s Maker,
Planning our pathway, Holding us fast,
Shaping in mercy All that concerns us;
Father, we praise You, Lord of the past.

God of this morning, Gladly Your children
Worship before You, Trustingly bow;
Teach us to know You Always among us,
Now and forever Kept by Your hand.

Lord of past ages, Lord of this morning,
Lord of the future, Help us, we pray;
Teach us to trust You, Love and obey You,
Crown You each moment Lord of today.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Faith of Our Fathers — arr. Dennis Alexander

June 7 — Pentecost

A Blessed Pentecost Day to everyone! All glory to God for the blessing of life! We give thanks to God for the invitation to be alive in a world full of possibility with open minds and open hearts to live with great joy until we meet again.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Brethren, We Have Met to Worship

*CALL TO WORSHIP (Inspired by Acts 2:1 and Psalm 104) — JoAnn Moody
One: When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one
place.
Many: We join for worship online and onsite, in real time and sometimes days later, and yet,
One: The Holy One sends forth the Spirit.
Many: Who unites us, connects us, and forms us as a community.
One: We were created in spirit and in truth, wonderfully and fearfully, in the image of Holy Love.
Many: God renews the face of the earth and the cosmos, this faith community and the church.
One: May the glory of God the Fire endure forever!
Many: Bless the Holy One, oh my soul. Praise God!

*HYMN — Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart — #154

Spirit of God, who dwells within 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 opening skies;
But take the dimness of my soul away.

Hast Thou not 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 Thou 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 heaven-descended Dove;
My heart an altar, and Thy love the flame.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — JoAnn Moody
Spirit of Unity, you knit us together with all of our connections and distinctions. You make us one and yet unique. We gather to hear your voice and to attune ourselves to the language of the other, to celebrate the diversity of your creation and to immerse ourselves in compassionate care, to give you glory and to recognize the gift of community. May our hearts be opened and our lips declare your praise. Inhabit our worship with your abiding presence and inflame us with your love. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Surely the Presence of the Lord is in This Place — #146

Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place;
I can feel His mighty power and His grace.

I can hear the brush of angel’s wings,
I see glory on each face;

Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — Linda Lowry

*HYMN — Sweet, Sweet Spirit — #153

There’s a sweet, sweet Spirit in this place,
And I know that it’s the Spirit of the Lord;
There are sweet expressions on each face,
And I know they feel the presence of the Lord.

Refrain:
Sweet Holy Spirit, Sweet heavenly Dove,
Stay right here with us, filling us with Your love.
And for these blessings we lift our hearts in praise;
Without a doubt we’ll know that we have been revived,
When we shall leave this place.

There are blessings you cannot receive
Till you know Him in His fullness and believe;
You’re the one to profit when you say,
“I am going to walk with Jesus all the way.”
Refrain

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 104:24-34, 35b — JoAnn Moody

SPECIAL MUSIC — Spirit Medley
Where the Spirit of the Lord Is; Breathe on Me, Breath of God;
Spirit of the Living God

GOD’S WORD — John 14:8-17, 25-27 — Rev. Susan Shumway

SERMON — Truth, Trouble, and Fear — Rev. Susan Shumway

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Rev. Susan Shumway

*HYMN — Spirit — Ivy 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 — Rev. Susan Shumway

*POSTLUDE — Every Time I Feel the Spirit

June 1 — That They May All Be One

All glory to God for the blessing of life! We give thanks to God for the invitation to be alive in a world full of possibility with open minds and open hearts to live with great joy until we meet again.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — He Is Exalted

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Ann Molyneaux
One: Come now into this hour of worship and of praise to God.
All: We enter joyfully into the sacred place of the Most High.
One: We long to encounter God as Spirit,
All: And to worship God in spirit and in truth.
One: May our every breath become a prayer,
All: And may our every heartbeat become an open door through which the Living One may enter.

*HYMN — I Sing the Almighty Power of God — 6

I sing th’almighty pow’r of God
That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flowing seas abroad
And built the lofty skies.
I sing the wisdom that ordained
The sun to rule the day;
The moon shines full at his command,
And all the stars obey.

I sing the goodness of the Lord
That filled the earth with food;
He formed the creatures with His word
And then pronounced them good.
Lord, how wonThyders are displayed,
where’er I turn my eyes,
If I survey the ground I tread
Or gaze upon the skies.

There’s not a plant or flower below
But makes your glories known,
And clouds arise and tempests blow
By order from Thy throne;
While all that borrows life from Thee
Is ever in Thy care,
And everywhere that man can be,
Thou, God, are present there.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Ann Molyneaux
Merciful and Gracious God, we praise you as the Creator of all life. You are the One who makes and loves all people. May we love everyone as genuinely as you do, God. Come alive among us day by day. May we live – growing and responding to all that you ask of us.
With joy we join together to worship you. Come now and fill our hearts with your unselfish, exceptional love. Oh God, be with us as we live into all that is possible.
We pray in the name of our Savior Jesus Christ. men.

*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 97 — Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC — Great is the Lord

GOD’S WORD — John 17:20-26 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*COMMUNION HYMN — Come Share the Lord — #260

We gather here in Jesus’ name,
His love is burning in our hearts like living flame,
For thru the loving Son the Father makes us one.
Come take the bread, come drink the wine,
Come share the Lord.

No one is a stranger here, everyone belongs.
Finding our forgiveness here,
we in turn forgive all wrongs.

He joins us here, He breaks the bread;
The Lord who pours the cup risen from the dead.
The one we love the most is now our gracious host.
Come take the bread, come drink the wine,
Come share the Lord

We are now a family of which the Lord is head.
Though unseen, He meets us here,
In the breaking of the bread.

We’ll gather soon where angels sing,
We’ll see the glory of our lord and coming King.
Now we anticipate the feast for which we wait.
Come take the bread, come drink the wine,
Come share the Lord

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION [A] — Ivy worship booklet, pp. 10-11
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament at Christ’s Table.

*HYMN — Called as Partners in Christ’s Service — Worship booklet, p.32

Called as partners in Christ’s service
Called to ministries of grace
We respond with deep commitment
Fresh new lines of faith to trace
May we learn the art of sharing
Side by side and friend with friend
Equal partners in our caring
To fulfil God’s chosen end

Christ’s example Christ’s inspiring
Christ’s clear call to work and worth
Let us follow never faltering
Reconciling folk on earth
Men and women richer poorer
All God’s people young and old
Blending human skills together
Gracious gifts from God unfold

Thus new patterns for Christ’s mission
In a small or global sense
Help us bear each other’s burdens
Breaking down each wall or fence
Words of comfort words of vision
Words of challenge said with care
Bring new power and strength for action
Make us colleagues free and fair

So God grant us for tomorrow
Ways to order human life
That surround each person’s sorrow
With a calm that conquers strife
Make us partners in our living
Our compassion to increase
Messengers of faith thus giving
Hope and confidence and peace

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Christ for the World We Sing

May 25 — Abiding Presence

A Blessed Memorial Day Weekend to all. We offer God’s humble thanks for the sacrifice of every person who has given their life while serving in our nation’s military. From this worship, may we go into the world to live as Christ’s servant disciples.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Amazing Grace — arr. Gordon Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Julie McAllister
One: Let the Creator be home among us.
All: In our hearts, may God be welcome.
One: May God’s love shape our every thought.
All: May our actions lead to God’s justice.
One: May our words be words of life.
All: May God’s Spirit lead us and may God’s peace dwell within us.

*HYMN — Open My Eyes — 174

Open my eyes that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me.
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see.
Open my eyes, illumine me,
Spirit divine!

Open my ears that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear,
And while the wave notes fall on my ear,
Everything false will disappear.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my ears, illumine me,
Spirit divine!

Open my mouth and let me bear
Gladly the warm truth ev’rywhere.
Open my heart and let me prepare
Love with thy children thus to share.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see.
Open my mouth, illumine me,
Spirit divine!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Julie McAllister
Creator God, you are mighty in love and in power. We come, seeking your presence that shakes foundations and helps build new ones. We come with our wounds, asking for healing. We come, remembering our baptism and the freeing grace that your cleansing love offers all people. We come, seeking to perceive your life-giving closeness. May all that we say, hear, and do in worship today praise you for the wonders that you are doing in Jesus Christ and in us. God of Peace, fill us with your pure love for life. Amen

*RESPONSE — Spirit Song — Ivy worship booklet pp. 84-85

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

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

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

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

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 67 — Julie McAllister

SPECIAL MUSIC — Sweet, Sweet Spirit — arr. Glenda Austin

GOD’S WORD — John 14:23-29 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*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

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — God Bless America — Irving Berlin

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