October 5- World Communion Sunday

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC

God loves all people, and God rejoices that you are here.
 On this World Communion Sunday, we are blessed to be joining with Christians everywhere in the worship of God!  Together, let us come to the Table of our Living Savior.

For a link to all of the music for today please click here.  
Each song is also linked to their specific sheet music.

WELCOME

PRELUDE –  For Those Tears I Died –  Marsha J. Stevens

*CALL TO WORSHIP                                                                     

One: We gather as God’s people to celebrate the beauty of our diversity.
All: Let us love each other as God loves us, beautifully and wonderfully made in God’s image.
One: We give thanks for who we are, Beloved of God.
All: Let us open our hearts to God’s spirit of love and unity.
One: We celebrate the gifts of all gathered here today.
All: Let us worship God with all we are and celebrate the beauty of all God’s creation.

*HYMN-  In Christ There Is No East or West  #137           

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION                                                        

 Majestic God, your realm encompasses the universe, the earth, and our community. All creation declares your glory. May we unite with our kin around the world in celebrating you and the connections we share. As we gather in your name, may we remember those we join in faith, hope, and worship on every continent representing every tradition. May we declare in spirit and in truth…one bread, one body…the church striving to be one as you, Sustainer, Redeemer, and Spirit are one. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Bind Us Together  #130    

GOD’S WORD – 1 Corinthians 12:12-27                             

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE   JoAnn Moody

SPECIAL MUSIC –  In The Garden – C. Austin Miles

GOD’S WORD   John 17:21-23                           

SERMON –   Many Parts, One Body –  Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE                                                       

*COMMUNION HYMN    One Bread, One Body – Ivy worship booklet p. 72

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION [B] –  Ivy worship booklet, pp. 12-13
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament at Christ’s Table.

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

*BENEDICTION –  Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE                                     

Sept. 28 – Dreaming God’s Dream

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ!

Giving joyfully and extravagantly is our faithful response to God’s abundant gifts! May the Love of Christ fill us to overflowing as we journey toward God’s ever-new horizons… Dreaming God’s Dream

WELCOME

PRELUDE     Immortal, Invisible, God only Wise                       

*CALL TO WORSHIP (Based on Psalm 146)                                

One: Praise God! Praise the Holy One, O my soul!
All: We will sing praises to God our whole lives long!
One: Praise God in whom we may trust. Praise God in whom we may hope.
All: Happy are we whose hope is in the Maker of heaven and earth.
One: The Holy One lifts the bowed down. The Righteous One loves justice.
All: The Holy One brings the way of the wicked to ruin. Praise God who reigns forever!

*HYMN     We Praise Thee, O God, Our Redeemer  #27**               

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION                                                   

Steadfast God, all that is good rests on you; for you are the foundation of life. God of Almighty Power, teach us your way, so that we may live filled with your Spirit – richly offering compassion and grace.  Fill us to overflowing as we journey toward your ever-new horizons, dreaming Your dream.   Lead us to treasure and to continue reaching for Your dream, so that all people may enjoy your gift of life abundant.  Amen.

*PASSING OF THE PEACE     Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*RESPONSE Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord  #424**                           

GOD’S WORD   1 Timothy 6:6-19                  

SPECIAL MUSIC     Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart                                                                                  

GOD’S WORD    Luke 16:19-31

SERMON   Dreaming God’s Dream Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE     Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*HYMN    The Voice of God is Calling   Ivy Worship Booklet, page 90 **                             

*BENEDICTION       Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE            Sweet, Sweet Spirit        

* indicates a time to stand if able
** words can be found in separate link- please click on songs or here                              

September 21 – Prayerful Living

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

WELCOME

PRELUDE  — How Long Has It Been – Lister

*CALL TO WORSHIP (Inspired by Psalm 113)       
One: Praise the Holy One! From the rising of the sun until its setting, the name of God deserves our praise!
Many: Who is like our God…seated on high?
One: Praise the Most High, who observes all things and remembers the poor and those in need.
Many: God our Righteousness raises the lowly and levels the exalted.
One: Praise the Righteous One, who is just and mighty, who repairs and redeems.
Many: The Redeemer pours out love and justice, compassion and conviction, hope and salvation. Praise the Holy One!

*HYMN — Praise to the Lord, the Almighty — #10

Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is your health and salvation!
All ye who hear; now to His temple draw near,
Join me in glad adoration.

Praise to the Lord, who o’er all things so wondrously reigneth;
Shelters  thee under His wings, yea,  so gently sustaineth!
Hast thou not seen How thy desires e’er have been
Granted in what He ordaineth? 

Praise to the Lord, who doth prosper thy work and defend thee;
Surely His goodness and mercy here  daily attend thee.
Ponder anew what the Almighty can do,
If with his love He befriend thee.

 Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the Amen sound from His people again;
Gladly for aye we  adore Him.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION                  
Great God, who gathers us together in spirit and in truth, sanctify our time together. Grant us wisdom and discernment. Open our hearts to receive and to give. Be glorified in our worship and the transformation that moves us forward as your people. In your glorious and precious   name, we pray. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Sweet Hour of Prayer — #166

Sweet hour of prayer, sweet hour of prayer,
That calls me from a world of care
And bids me at my Father’s throne
Make all my wants and wishes known:
In seasons of distress and grief,
My soul has often found relief,
And oft escaped the tempter’s snare,
By they return, sweet hour of prayer.

Sweet hour of prayer, sweet hour of prayer,
Thy wings shall my petition bear,
To Him whose truth and faithfulness
Engage the waiting soul to bless;
And since He bids me seek His face,
Believe His words and trust His grace,
I’ll cast on Him my every care,
And wait for thee, sweet hour of prayer,

Sweet hour of prayer, sweet hour of prayer,
May I thy consolation bear,
Till, from Mount Pisgah’s lofty height,
I view my home, and take my flight:
This robe of flesh I’ll drop, and rise
To seize the everlasting prize;
And shout, while passing through the air,
Fare-well, fare-well, sweet hour of prayer,

GOD’S WORD — 1 Timothy 2:1-7    

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE                                                                                 

SPECIAL MUSIC –Spirit — Akers        

GOD’S WORD — Luke 16:1-13 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Prayerful Living — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*HYMN — What a Friend We Have in Jesus — #162

What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry Everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry Everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; Take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee; Thou wilt find asolace there.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE  —  How Great Thou Art — Boberg

September 14 — Reckless Love

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! Every one of us is blessed that God has gathered us together for worship. Let us worship God who offers every person grace and life eternal.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Julie McAllister
One: Let us enter the presence of our God with a renewed heart and a right spirit.
Many: Have mercy on us, O God, according to your steadfast love.
One: Let us speak, hear, and embrace truth and the wisdom of God.
Many: Strengthen and empower us, O God, according to your steadfast love.
One: Let us hear joy and gladness. Restore our crushed spirits.
Many: Revive us again, O God, according to your steadfast love.

*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. Refrain

All glory and praise To the Lamb that was slain,
Who hath borne all our sins, and hath cleansed every stain. Refrain

Revive us again; fill each heart with Thy love;
May each soul be rekindled with fire from above. Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Julie McAllister
Maker of Heaven and Earth, we rejoice in your presence. In you, we find joy and strength, comfort and courage, truth and insight. Speak to us again. Reveal your power in and through us. Show us your glory and be glorified in our worship. May your glorious light shine through hidden spaces. May your blessed darkness make space for rest. Fortify us for this journey and make us instruments of your kingdom. Amen.

*PASSING OF THE PEACE — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell
“May the peace of Christ be with you.” (Response) “And also with you.”

*RESPONSE — The Bond of Love — 123

We are one in the bond of love;
We are one in the bond of love.
We have joined our spirit with the Spirit of God;
We are one in the bond of love.

Let us sing now, everyone;
Let us feel His love begun.
Let us join our hands that the world will know
We are one in the bond of love.

GOD’S WORD — 1 Timothy 1:12-17 — Julie McAllister

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD — Luke 15:1-10 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — “Precious” — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — I Will Sing of the Mercies of the Lord Forever Ivy worship bk. p.56

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing I will sing
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord

With my mouth will I make known
Your faithfulness Your faithfulness
With my mouth will I make known
Your faithfulness to all generations

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord

All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praises
Forever for the things He has done.
All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praises, forever
All the hosts of the angels sing God’s praise.

Who can be compared to God in faithfulness, in faithfulness?
Who can be compared to God in faithfulness to all generations?

I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever
I will sing of the mercies of the Lord

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE

Sept. 7 — Estimate the Cost

God loves all people, and God rejoices that you are here! This morning is a sacred gift from God. We gather to worship God. Together, let us come to the Table of our Living Savior.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Ann Molyneaux
One: We come into your house, Divine Potter. We are your clay.
Many: We praise you, O God. Wonderful are your works. Mold us again!
One: We bring our burdens and concerns, our hopes and dreams, our doubts and our delights.
Many: We praise you, O God. Wonderful are your works. Hold us in your sure and righteous hand!
One: We seek your wisdom. Reveal your direction and our path.
Many: We praise you, O God. Wonderful are your works. Rebuild and replant us!

*HYMN — God of Grace and God of Glory — 514

God of grace and God of glory, On Thy people pour Thy pow’r;
Crown Thine ancient Church’s story, Bring her bud to glorious flow’r.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
For the facing of this hour,
For the facing of this hour.

Lo, the hosts of evil round us Scorn Thy Christ, assail His ways.
From the fears that long have bound us Free our hearts to faith and praise.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
For the living of these days,
For the living of these days.

Cure Thy children’s warring madness; Bend our pride to Thy control;
Shame our wanton, selfish gladness, Rich in things and poor in soul.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
Lest we miss Thy kingdom’s goal,
Lest we miss Thy dom’s goal.

Set our feet on lofty places, Gird our lives that they may be
Armored with all Christlike graces In the fight to set ment free.
Grant us wisdom, Grant us courage,
That we fail not man nor Thee,
That we fail not man nor Thee.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Ann Moyneaux
Sovereign God, you are the Potter who has fashioned us into being a community. Dwell in our midst. Share your wisdom and open every point of receptivity within us. You are holy, gracious, and kind. As we gather, we recommit to accept the joys and the costs of discipleship. May you be glorified in our worship, and may we be transformed as we encounter you and your way anew this day. Amen.

*RESPONSE — I’ll Go Where You Want Me to Go —538

It may not be on the mountain’s height
Or over the stormy sea,
It may not be at the battle’s front
My Lord will have need of me;
But if by a still, small voice He calls
To paths I do not know,
I’ll answer, dear Lord, with my hand in Thine,
I’ll go where You want me to go.

Refrain:
I’ll go where You want me to go, dear Lord,
O’er mountain or plain or sea;
I’ll say what you want me to say, dear Lord,
I’ll be what You want me to be.

Perhaps today there are loving words
Which Jesus would have me speak,
There may be now, in the paths of sin,
Some wand’rer whom I should seek;
O Savior, if Thou wilt be my Guide,
Tho dark and rugged the way,
My voice shall echo the message sweet,
I’ll say what You want me to say. [Refrain]

3 There’s surely somewhere a lowly place
In earth’s harvest fields so wide,
Where I may labor thru life’s short day
For Jesus the Crucified;
So, trusting my all unto Thy care–
I know Thou lovest me
I’ll do Thy will with a heart sincere,
I’ll be what You want me to be. [Refrain]

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 1 — Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD — Luke 14:25-33 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — “The Cost of Discipleship” — 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 bk. p. 72

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.

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

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

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.
The cups in the outer ring on each tray contain grape juice. The other cups contain wine.

*HYMN — Called as Partners in Christ’s Service — Ivy worship bk. 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

August 31 — Open Table

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC!  Whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey; you are welcome here. There are no barriers Today, let us join with one another in worshiping the God of kindness.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Come, Now is the Time to Worship — arr. Lebenske

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jim French
One: Together, let us sing God’s praises!
All: Sinful and righteous, thoughtful and thoughtless, young and old, wise and foolish; all are welcome here.

One: This is Holy Ground – a place where all belong.
All: Every person is a dearly loved child of God.

One: God knows us completely; and God loves us fully!
All: Our hope is in God, the Maker of heaven and earth.

One: In the ideal season, God plants.
All: In the fullness of time, God harvests.

One: God is here now.
All: Come, let us worship God!

*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 of openness and grace; we come to this gathering of your community where there are no barriers, and where everyone’s abilities are celebrated as gifts. We come to receive your extravagant hospitality, and your gentle care. We come to learn how we may offer your treasured sensitivity to a stranger, to a friend, to a family member, to those whose faces are unfamiliar to us, and to the face who meets us in the mirror. Be with us now during this sacred time of worship. We ask this in your blessed name, Christ Jesus, Amen.

PASSING THE PEACE —Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell
“May the Peace of Christ be with you.” (Response) “And also with you.”

*RESPONSE — Jesus Loves Me — 341

Jesus loves me, this I know,
for the Bible tells me so.
Little ones to him belong;
they are weak, but he is strong.

Refrain:
Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me!
Yes, Jesus loves me! The Bible tells me so.

Jesus loves me he who died
heaven’s gate to open wide.
He will wash away my sin,
let his little child come in. [Refrain]

Jesus loves me, this I know,
as he loved so long ago,
taking children on his knee,
saying, “Let them come to me.” [Refrain]

GOD’S WORD — Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16 —Jim French

SPECIAL MUSIC — You Are My All in All — arr. Lebenske

GOD’S WORD — Luke 14:1, 7-14 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Open Table — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissel
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

*HYMN — Through the Love of God, Our Savior — Ivy worship bk. page 89

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE —Forever — arr. Lebenske

August 24 — Healing Reign

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC! Whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey; you are welcome here. Today, let us join with one another in worshipping the God of kindness.

WELCOME

ORGAN PRELUDE — Chime Prelude No. 5 in F Major — Raymond H. Herbek

*CALL TO WORSHIP — John Weiland
One: We may be parched with thirst, like an unwatered garden; yet as we come into God’s presence:
All: God Most High refreshes us as a spring of living water.
One: We may be weary from worry or from work; yet as we come into God’s presence:
All: The Holy one offers us Sabbath rest.
One: We may be lost or confused; yet as we come into God’s presence:
All: The Eternal One offers us kindness.
One: We may be bent over with struggle or pain; yet as we come into God’s presence:
All: The Healing One makes us well.

*HYMN — Be Thou My Vision — 400
Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art;
Thou my best thought by or by night,
Waking and sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee  and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, and I Thy true son,
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine inheritance, now and always;
Thou and Thou only the first in my heart,
High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of heaven, my victory won,
May I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heav’n’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all. 

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — John Weiland
Kind-hearted God, we lift our praises to your sacred name.You truly care for every living being. Your goodness and mercy are remarkable! You never lose track of a single one of us. We are blessed that you are our God! Give us ears to hear the fresh word of power and grace that you speak this day. Soften our stubborn hearts and remove any barriers that keep us from serving you. Help us to continue becoming faithful imitators of you, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Have Thine Own Way, Lord — #414

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Thou art the potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still.

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Search me and try me, Master,  today!
Whiter than snow, Lord, wash me just now,
As in Thy presence humbly I bow.

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Wounded and weary, help me I pray!
Power, all power, surely is Thine!
Touch me and heal me, Savior divine!

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Hold o’er my being absolute sway!
Fill with Thy Spirit till all shall see
Christ only, always, living in me!

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — Linda Lowry

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 71:1-6 — John Weiland

SPECIAL PIANO MUSIC — I Need Thee Every Hour — Arr. Gail Smith

GOD’S WORD — Luke 13:10-17 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Set Free — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

LITANY OF WELCOME — John Weiland

*HYMN — Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us — #449

Savior, like a shepherd lead us,
Much we need Thy tender care;
In Thy pleasant pastures feed us,
For our use Thy folds prepare:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Thou hast bought us, Thine we are;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Thou hast bought us, Thine we are.

We are Thine, do Thou befriend us,
Be the guardian of our way;
Keep Thy flock, from sin defend us,
Seek us when we go astray:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Hear, O hear us when we pray;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Hear, O hear us when we pray.

Thou hast promised to receive us,
Poor and sinful though we be;
Thou hast mercy to relieve us,
Grace to cleanse, and pow’r to free:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Early let us turn to Thee;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Early let us turn to Thee.

Early let us seek Thy favor,
Early let us do Thy will;
Blessed Lord and only Savior,
With Thy love our bosoms fill:
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Thou hast loved us, love us still;
Blessed Jesus, blessed Jesus,
Thou hast loved us, love us still.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*ORGAN POSTLUDE — Come, Christians, Join to Sing — Don Schlosser

August 17 — Restore Us

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC! All are welcome here. Invite Jesus Christ into your life today. May our love for God always continue growing and may we come alive as Christ’s disciples.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — How Firm a Foundation

*CALL TO WORSHIP — (Inspired by Psalm 80) — Linda Lowry
One: Turn again, O God of hosts; look down from heaven and see; have regard for this vine, the stock that your right hand planted.
Many: The world is ablaze around us with pain and suffering, natural disasters and human schemes, injustice and brokenness.
One: Create again, O God of Fire; respond to the needs of your people and shepherd us to be good stewards of your creation.
Many: Let your Holy Fire meet the infernos that seek to consume us with refining and renewing power.
One: Redeem again, O God of hosts; ignite a flame within your kingdom that will spread as a wildfire of righteousness and love.
Many: Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved.

*HYMN — God of Grace and God of Glory — 514
God of grace and God of glory, On Thy people pour Thy pow’r;
Crown Thine ancient Church’s story, Bring her bud to glorious flow’r.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
For the facing of this hour,
For the facing of this hour.

Lo, the hosts of evil round us Scorn Thy Christ, assail His ways.
From the fears that long have bound us Free our hearts to faith and praise.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
For the living of these days,
For the living of these days.

Cure Thy children’s warring madness; Bend our pride to Thy control;
Shame our wanton, selfish gladness, Rich in things and poor in soul.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage
Lest we miss Thy kingdom’s goal,
Lest we miss Thy dom’s goal.

Set our feet on lofty places, Gird our lives that they may be
Armored with all Christlike graces In the fight to set ment free.
Grant us wisdom, Grant us courage,
That we fail not man nor Thee,
That we fail not man nor Thee.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Linda Lowry — God of Fire, we recognize the spark that you bring into our gathering. Let it ignite within us as we worship you in the company of siblings. We honor your power and remain in awe of your glory. Let it fall again as Spirit dwells among us. May the warmth of your presence give us courage for these days and the clarity of your light give us discernment toward a future with hope. Be pleased by our worship, Eternal God, and be glorified in our praise. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Lord, Be Glorified — 528

In my life, Lord be glorified, be glorified.
In my life, Lord be glorified today.

In your church, Lord, be glorified, be glorified.
In your church, Lord, be glorified today.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — JoAnn Moody

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 80:1-2,8-19 — Linda Lowry

SPECIAL MUSIC — Shine, Jesus, Shine

GOD’S WORD — Luke 12:49-56 — Rev. Susan Shumway

SERMON — Cast Fire — Rev. Susan Shumway

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

*HYMN — How Firm a Foundation — 179
How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord,
is laid for your faith in God’s excellent Word!
What more can be said than to you God hath said,
to you who for refuge to Jesus have fled?
“Fear not, I am with thee, O be not dismayed,
for I am thy God, and will still give thee aid;
I’ll strengthen thee, help thee, and cause thee to stand,
upheld by my righteous, omnipotent hand.
“When through the deep waters I call thee to go,
the rivers of sorrow shall not overflow;
for I will be near thee, thy troubles to bless,
and sanctify to thee thy deepest distress.
“When through fiery trials thy pathway shall lie,
my grace, all sufficient, shall be thy supply;
the flame shall not hurt thee; I only design
thy dross to consume, and thy gold to refine.
“The soul that on Jesus hath leaned for repose,
I will not, I will not desert to its foes;
that soul, though all hell should endeavor to shake,
I’ll never, no, never, no, never forsake.”

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Susan Shumway

*POSTLUDE — Guide Me Ever, Great Redeemer

August 3 — Clothed in Christ

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. God loves all people, and God rejoices that you are here! This morning is a sacred gift from God. We gather to worship God. Together, let us come to the Table of our Living Savior.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — As the Deer

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Kathryn Kuntzman
One: God alone is our strength and shield.
All: God does not always come as earthquake, wind or fire.
One: Sometimes, God is revealed in moments of silence.
All: In quiet expectation, we have entered this sanctuary.
One: This is a place of healing and joy.
All: As our souls thirst for Living Water, we long to worship God.

*HYMN — The Greatest Thing — 106
The greatest thing in all my life is knowing You;
The greatest thing in all my life is knowing You;
I want to know You more, I want to know you more.
The greatest thing in all my life is knowing You;

The greatest thing in all my life is loving You;
The greatest thing in all my life is loving You;
I want to love You more, I want to love you more.
The greatest thing in all my life is loving You;

The greatest thing in all my life is serving You;
The greatest thing in all my life is serving You;
I want to serve You more, I want to serve you more.
The greatest thing in all my life is serving You;

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Kathryn Kuntzman
Eternal God, you are Companion of all who seek you, and Seeker of all who turn away from you. With complete trust in you, we come to you. Draw near to us now. Renew us during this time of worship. May we live as you live within us – faithfully, joyfully, and abundantly.
Ever-present God, your Word teaches us to cast our cares on you, since we realize that you care for us. Guide each of us as we continue serving you by joyously offering our love and compassion to all people. We pray in your holy name, Jesus. Amen.
*RESPONSE — Peace Like a River — 360

I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river in my soul.
I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river in my soul.

I’ve got love like an ocean,
I’ve got love like an ocean,
I’ve got love like an ocean in my soul.
I’ve got love like an ocean,
I’ve got love like an ocean,
I’ve got love like an ocean in my soul.

I’ve got joy like a fountain,
I’ve got joy like a fountain,
I’ve got joy like a fountain in my soul.
I’ve got joy like a fountain,
I’ve got joy like a fountain,
I’ve got joy like a fountain in my soul.

GOD’S WORD — Colossians 3:1-11 — Kathryn Kuntzman

SPECIAL MUSIC — I’d Rather Have Jesus

GOD’S WORD — Luke 12:13-21— Rev. Dr. Carol Trissel

SERMON — “New Fit” — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*COMMUNION HYMN — There’s a Quiet Understanding — 144

There’s a quiet understanding
when we’re gathered in the Spirit,
It’s a promise that He gives us,
When we gather in His name.
There’s a love we feel in Jesus,
There’s a manna that He feeds us,
It’s a promise that He gives us
When we gather in His name.

And we know when we’re together,
sharing love and understanding,
That our brothers and our sisters
feel the oneness that He brings.
Thank You, thank You, thank You, Jesus,
for the way You love and feed us,
For the many ways You lead us,
Thank You, thank You, 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 — Blessed Assurance — 295

Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!
Oh, what a foretaste of glory divine!
Heir of salvation, purchase of God,
Born of his Spirit, washed in His blood

Refrain:
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long;
This is my story, this is my song,
Praising my Savior all the day long

Perfect submission, perfect delight,
Visions of rapture now burst on my sight;
Angels descending bring from above
Echoes of mercy, whispers of love. Refrain

Perfect submission, all is at rest.
I in my Savior am happy and bless’d;
Watching and waiting, looking above,
filled with His goodness, lost in His love. Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — His Eye is on the Sparrow

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

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