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

April 20 — Easter Sunday — He is Risen!

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. Today is Resurrection Day! God’s Church joyously celebrates, Christ is risen! Alleluia!

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP — JoAnn Moody
One: We gather to worship Living God!
All: Today, we celebrate amazing news! Our Savior is alive!
One: Rejoice! It’s Resurrection Day!
All: The massive tombstone has been rolled out of the way!
The tomb is empty!
One: Jesus Christ is risen today!
All: Christ is risen! Alleluia!

*HYMN — Christ the Lord Is Risen Today — #268

Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!
Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Dying once, He all doth save, Alleluia!
Where’s thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!

Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids Him rise, Alleluia!
Christ has opened Paradise, Alleluia!

Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia!
Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!
Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — JoAnn Moody
Life-giving God, you are the One who sends the dawn, who relieves our fears and who fills people with hope. On that first resurrection morning, your angels appeared to women who were your followers, bringing them news more wonderful than they had dared to imagine – “Christ is risen!” In equally astonishing ways you are blessing human lives today. Your power amazes us! Christ Jesus, you so thoroughly love humankind that you sacrifice your life on our behalf. nd then you display your supreme power by rising from the dead! Christ Jesus, you have blessed the world forever through the miracle of your resurrection. Your empty tomb proclaims that you are alive! Alleluia! Amen!

*PRAISE RESPONSE — Our God Reigns! — #290

How lovely on the mountains are the feet of him
Who brings good news,good news
Announcing peace, proclaiming news of happiness.
Our God reigns; our God reigns!

Chorus:
Our God reigns! Our God reigns!
Our God reigns! Our God reigns!

He had no stately form; He had no majesty,
That we should be drawn to Him.
He was despised, and we took no account of Him,
Yet now He reigns with the Most High. [Chorus]

Out of the tomb He came with grace and majesty;
He is alive, He is alive.
God loves us so see here His hands, His feet, His side.
Yes, we know He is alive. [Chorus]

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — Linda Lowry

*HYMN — He is Lord — #103

He is Lord, He is Lord!
He is risen from the dead and he is Lord!
Ev’ry knee shall bow, ev’ry tongue confess
That Jesus Christ is Lord.

GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 65:17-2 — JoAnn Moody

SPECIAL MUSIC — Rise Again

GOD’S WORD — Luke 24:1-12 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Thine is the Glory, Risen Conquering Son — #281

Thine is the glory, Risen conquering Son!
Endless is the victr’y Thou or death has won!
Angels in bright raiment Rolled the stone away,
Kept the folded grave clothes Where Thy body lay.

Refrain:
Thine is the glory, Risen Conquering Son!
Endless is the victr’y Thou o’er death hast won!

Lo! Jesus meets us. Risen from the tomb,
Lovingly He greets us, Scatters fear and gloom.
Let His church with gladness Hymns of triumph sing,
For the Lord now liveth; Death has lost its sting. [Refrain]

No more we doubt Thee, Glorious Prince of Life!
Life is naught without Thee; Aid us in our strife;
Make us more than conqu’rors, Through thy deathless love;
Bring us safe through Jordan To Thy home above. (Refrain)

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE

April 18 — Good Friday

Our Savior Jesus Christ is crucified on a cross. We remember this holy sacrifice on Good Friday; this loving act of God.

PRELUDE — What Wondrous Love is This

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Linda Lowry
One: Christ Jesus empties himself,
All: Taking the form of a servant.
One: Christ Jesus humbles himself,
All: And becomes obedient unto death—even death on a cross.
One: There is no greater love than this—to lay down one’s very life.
All: Christ Jesus died for you and me.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Linda Lowry
Merciful God, our souls ache with grief and guilt over your Crucifixion. You are aware of all our burdens. Come, Holy Spirit, we need you now. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world. Amen.

*HYMN — Beneath the Cross of Jesus — #239

Beneath the cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand,
The shadow of a mighty Rock within a weary land;
A home within the wilderness, A rest upon the way,
From the burning of the noontide heat And the burden of the day.

Upon the cross of Jesus Mine eye at times can see
The very dying form of One Who suffered there for me:
And from my smitten heart with tears Two wonders I confess,
The wonders of redeeming love And my unworthiness.

I take, O cross, thy shadow For my abiding place:
I ask no other sunshine than The sunshine of His face;
Content to let the world go by, To know no gain nor loss;
My sinful self my only shame, My glory all the cross.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION — Linda Lowry
Blessed Savior, each Good Friday invites the whole world to the foot of your cross. This is a forlorn and difficult place to be. Here we are shown our mockeries, our betrayals and our denials of you. Yes, like Simon Peter, sometimes we also draw swords in anger. We lash out at one another. We criticize; we envy; we injure one another. Worst of all, we continue pretending to serve you without making true sacrifices. Beneath your cross, Jesus, we see our own guilt. At the foot of your cross, sorrow and love mingle. Forgive us for crucifying you. Amen.

SILENCE

*ASSURANCE OF PARDON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*RESPONSE — Were You There? — #266

Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?

Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?

RESPONSIVE READING — Crucifixion of Christ — #645

*HYMN — Must Jesus Bear the Cross Alone — #512

GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SPECIAL MUSIC — Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross

The Seven Sayings of Jesus on the Cross

Forgiveness
Luke 23:32-34

Acceptance
Luke 23:39-43

Love
John 19:25a-27

Anguish
Mark 15:33-34

Suffering
John 19:28-29

Fulfillment
John 19:30

Surrender
Luke 23:44-46

SPECIAL MUSIC — It Is Finished — Hartman
Valerie Waterman, Vocalist

DEPART IN SILENCE

April 13 — Palm Sunday: Into Jerusalem

We are blessed to be able gather together as we celebrate the triumphant entry “Into Jerusalem” of our Savior Jesus Christ. In celebration of Palm Sunday and Spring, the Youth of Ivy Chapel are inviting everyone to gather in Fellowship Hall to enjoy refreshments and time together following worship. All are welcome!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord — Schwartz

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Ann Molyneaux
One: Blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord!
All: Hosanna to the King of kings!
One: Hosanna in the highest!
All: Behold our King!

*HYMN — All Glory, Laud and Honor — #234

All glory, laud, and honor to Thee, Redeemer, King,
To whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring.
Thou art the King of Israel, Thou David’s royal Son,
Who in the Lord’s name cometh, the King and Blessed One!

The company of angels Are praising Thee on high;
And mortal men and all things Created make reply.
The people of the Hebrews with palms before Thee went;
Our praise and prayer and anthems Before Thee we present.

To Thee before Thy passion, They sang their hymns of praise;
To Thee now high exalted, Our melody we raise.
Thou didst accept their praises Accept the prayers we bring,
Who in all good delightest, Thou good and gracious King!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Ann Molyneaux
God of love and majesty, you are the One who sustains us. Your faithfulness inspires us to shout your praises! We are moved by the ways that you graciously touch and change human hearts. As Jesus of Nazareth, you make people whole.

Today, we recall your joyous entry into Jerusalem. The palm branches that we wave are expressions of our love for you. Guide us as we seek you, and as we continue growing in faith. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Shout to the Lord — Ivy worship booklet, pp 80-81

My Jesus, my Saviour
Lord there is none like You
All of my days I want to praise
The wonders of Your mighty love

My comfort, my shelter
Tower of refuge and strength
Let every breath, all that I am
Never cease to worship You

Shout to the Lord all the Earth, let us sing
Power and majesty, praise to the King
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar
At the sound of Your name

I sing for joy at the work of Your hands
Forever I’ll love You, forever I’ll stand
Nothing compares to the promise I have in You

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — JoAnn Moody

*HYMN — You Are My All-in-All — Ivy worship booklet, p 99

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

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

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

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

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 — Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC — Praise to the Lord, the Almighty — Arr. Bock

GOD’S WORD — Luke 19:28-40 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Hosanna, Loud Hosanna! — #233

Hosanna, loud hosanna The little children sang;
Through pillared court and temple The lovely anthem rang.
To Jesus, who had blessed them, Close folded to his Breast,
The children sang their praises, The simplest and the best.

From Olivet they followed Mid an exultant crowd,
The victor palm branch waving, And chanting clear and loud.
The Lord of men and angels Rode on in lowly state,
Nor scorned that little children Should on his bidding wait.

“Hosanna in the highest!” That ancient song we sing,
For Christ is our Redeemer, The Lord of heaven, our King.
O may we ever praise Him With heart and life and voice,
And in His blissful presence Eternally rejoice!

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE

April 6 — Something New

We are blessed by the eternal love of God’s Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. As the UCC, we rejoice that God loves all people. Let us worship together!

As is our custom at Ivy Chapel, on this first Sunday of April we celebrate communion. All are welcome at God’s table. Please gather the elements before worship so we may partake as one.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jan Wirtz
One: We gather in the presence of God.
All: We gather to worship God.
One: We are not meeting by ourselves.
All: We gather with many ancestors.
One: With Moses and Aaron;
All: With Sarah and Abraham;
One: With Mary and Joseph;
All: With women of faith, and with fishermen;
One: With tax collectors – Zacchaeus and Matthew;
All: With converts – Nathaniel, Nicodemus and Paul;
One: With saints of every persuasion, from every generation;
All: Let us declare God’s praises together!

*HYMN — Just As I Am — #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 — Jan Wirtz
Life-Saving God; above all, you make our spirits soar like no one else! You give us sanctuary from a frightening and exhausting outside world. As Mary did long ago in Bethany, we come to worship you, Blessed Jesus. Our joy in response to all that you gives moves us to offer you our praises.
God, your abundant love changes everything. That’s what happened back when Mary anointed you. Like her, we are grateful beyond words for a chance to be close to you, Jesus. Come alive within us now. Cleanse us; change us; lead us, we pray. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Holy Ground — #83

We are standing on holy ground,
And I know that there are angels all around;
Let us praise Jesus now
We are standing in His presence on holy ground.

GOD’S WORD — Philippians 3:4b – 14 — Jan Wirtz

SPECIAL MUSIC — Let Us Break Bread — Arr. Kogut

GOD’S WORD — John 12:1 – 8 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — We Come as Guests Invited — #258

We come as guests invited When Jesus bids us dine,
HIs friends on earth united To share the bread and wine;
The bread of life is broken, The wine is freely poured
For us, in solemn token Of Christ our dying Lord.

We eat and drink, receiving From Christ the grace we need,
An in our hearts believing On Him by faith we feed;
With wonder and thanksgiving For love that knows no end,
We find in Jesus living Our ever-present friend.

One bread is ours for sharing, One single, fruited vine,
Our fellowship declaring Renewed in bread and wine-
Renewed, sustained and given By token, sing and word,
The pledge and seal of heaven, The love of Christ our Lord.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION [A] — Ivy worship booklet, pp. 10-11

*HYMN — Jesus Paid It All — #255

I hear the Savior say, “Thy strength indeed is small,
Child of weakness, watch and pray, Find in Me thine all in all.

Refrain:
Jesus paid it all, All to Him I owe;
Sin had left a crimson stain,
He washed it white as snow.

Lord, now indeed I find Thy pow’r and Thine alone,
Can change the leper’s spots And melt the heart of stone. [Refrain]

For nothing good have I Where-by Thy grace to claim;
I’ll wash my garments white In the blood of Calv’ry’s Lamb. [Refrain]

And when, before the throne, I stand in Him complete,
“Jesus died my soul to save,” My lips shall still repeat. [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE

March 30 — Embracing Love

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Our 40-day soul-searching journey continues. Thanks to Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell for leading our worship services during our Lenten journey.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Selections from Une Barque Sur L’Ocean — Ravel

*CALL TO WORSHIP — JoAnn Moody
One: By God’s mercy,
All: We are delivered from distress.
One: By God’s mercy,
All: We are extravagantly welcomed home!
One: By God’s mercy,
All: We are cleansed, healed, made whole.
One: We are amazed by God’s unconditional, steadfast love.
All: As God’s people, let us rejoice and praise God together!

*HYMN — Softly and Tenderly Jesus is Calling — #389

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,
You who are weary, come home;
Earnestly, tenderly, Jesus is calling,
Calling, O sinner, come home!

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.

Time is now fleeting, the moments are passing,
Passing from you and from me;
Shadows are gathering, deathbeds are coming,
Coming for you and for me. Refrain.

Oh, 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.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — JoAnn Moody
Welcoming God, we need you. Apart from you, life lacks meaning. We come seeking what money cannot buy. We come seeking what you alone provide – nourishment for our souls.
Welcoming God, your love for your children endures forever. Even if we squander all that you have given, still your eyes light up as soon as you see us approaching. Immediately, you rejoice! You embrace us, celebrating nothing more than that we are alive. Crying tears of joy, you throw your arms around us; joyfully giving thanks, “O my child, you’re home! Welcome home!”
Welcoming God, we are astonished by your boundless love. Come now; teach us to love as you love – spontaneously and extravagantly. May we throw our arms open wide, joyously offering your love. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Lamb of God — Ivy worship booklet, p. 59

Your only Son, no sin to hide,
But you have sent him from your side,
To walk upon this guilty sod,
And to become the lamb of God

Refrain:
O Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God,
I love the holy Lamb of God!
O wash me in his precious blood
My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

Your gift of love, the crucified,
They laughed and scorned him as He died,
The humble King they named a fraud
And sacrificed the Lamb of God. Refrain

I was so lost, I should have died,
But You have brought me to your side,
To be led by your staff and rod,
And to be called a Lamb of God. Refrain

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 32 — JoAnn Moody

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD — Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Grace Greater Than Our Sin — #383

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount out-poured–
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.

Refrain:
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin!

Sin and despair, like the sea-waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater– yes, grace untold–
Points to the Refuge, the mighty Cross. Refrain

Dark is the stain that we cannot hide,
What can avail to wash it away?
Look! There is flowing a crimson tide;
Whiter than snow you may be today. Refrain

Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
All who are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive? Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Selections from Une Barque Sur L’Ocean — Ravel

March 23 — Open Invitation

We are blessed by this opportunity to gather here together. May today’s worship offer you
an opportunity to quiet your soul in the loving presence of God.

Thank you to Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell for leading worship this morning.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Ann Molyneaux
One: Let us call on God’s steadfast love and mercy.
All: Brokenness can be healed and wholeness restored.
One: God offers humankind the joy of salvation.
All: Let us accept the new spirit God offers.
One: Through Jesus Christ, we are God’s new creation.
All: Praise God!

*HYMN — More Love to Thee — #428

More love to Thee, O Christ, More love to Thee!
Hear Thou the prayer I make On bended knee;
This is my earnest plea:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
More love to Thee, More love to Thee!

Once earthly joy I craved, Sought peace and rest;
Now Thee alone I seek, Give what is best;
This all my prayer shall be:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
More love to Thee, More love to Thee!

Let sorrow do its work, Send grief and pain;
Sweet are Thy messengers, Sweet their refrain,
When they can sing with me:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
Moe love to Thee, More love to Thee!

Then shall my latest breath Whisper Thy praise;
This be the parting cry My heart shall raise;
This still its prayer shall be:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
More love to Thee, More love to Thee!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Ann Molyneaux
Gentle Healer; Mighty Savior; the power to make new is yours.
This day, we come to you, Holy God, seeking relief from earthly demands. We praise you for blessing us with holy rest and healing. God of steadfast love and mercy; we come, asking for your help. At times, instead of devoting ourselves to serving you, we become absorbed with the many distractions and complexities of daily life. Forgive us, we pray. God of patience; thank you for receiving us as we are. Renew our trust in you. We seek to turn away from sin and turn toward you. When we fail, we will call on you for grace, Christ Jesus. When, by your grace, we do follow you faithfully, we will exalt your sacred name. Amen.

*RESPONSE — He is Our Peace — #454

He is our peace
Who has broken down every wall,
He is our peace, He is our peace.

Cast all your cares on Him,
For He cares for you,
He is our peace, He is our peace.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 27 — Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD — Luke 13:31-35 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — I Have Decided to Follow Jesus — #427

I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.

The world behind me, the cross before me,
The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
No turning back, no turning back.

Tho’ none go with me, I still will follow,
Tho’ none go with me I still will follow,
Tho’ none go with me, I still will follow;
No turning back, no turning back.

Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
No turning back, no turning back.

RESPONSIVE BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

One: Go in the name of God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
All: God is our home; our life; our joy.
One: Take heart!
All: Jesus Christ is our light; our hope; our all in all.
One: Be strong.
All: Blessed be God, now and forever. Amen.

*POSTLUDE

March 16 — Strong and Tender

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. By grace alone, we live. God brings us together this day. May today’s worship offer you an opportunity to quiet your soul in the loving presence of God. Thanks be to our Savior Jesus Christ, all are blessed.

NOTE:
Due to a power outage following severe storms on Friday, the worship service for Sunday, March 16 was canceled.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Be Thou My Vision — Kathryn Kuntzman, cello

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Everyone is a welcome guest in God’s house.
All: God welcomes you and me today.
One: God’s design for the universe includes all people.
All: God shapes all creation into one lovely, grand mosaic!
One: Here in this sacred place all is calm and beautiful.
All: God is our light and our salvation.
One: Come into God’s presence now.
ALL: Let us worship God together.

*HYMN — My Faith Looks Up — #462

My faith looks up to Thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine!
Now hear me while I pray, Take all my guilt away,
Oh, let me from this day Be wholly Thine!

May Thy rich grace impart Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire!
As Thou hast died for me, Oh, may my love to Thee
Pure, warm, and changeless be, A living fire!

While life’s dark maze I tread, And griefs around me spread,
Be Thou my guide;
Bid darkness turn to day, Wipe sorrow’s tears away,
Nor let me ever stray From Thee aside.

When ends life’s transient dream, When death’s cold, sullen stream
Shall o’er me roll;
Blest Savior, then in love, Fear and distrust remove;
Oh, bear me safe above, A ransomed soul.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God, we understand that human life can bring doubts and fears, pain and uncertainty. Humankind has always experienced struggles and challenges. We remember that even Abraham was troubled by questions, and the Early Church was surrounded by threats. Jesus himself was opposed by fearful powerful figures of his day.
Out of this awareness, we turn to you. Remember your people, Eternal God. We are fragile and we seek safety from the dangers of this world. You are our Everlasting Refuge. Come, Holy One. Come, Spirit of Life. Come to us, in this place, at this holy hour. Reassure us of your grace. We pray in your name, Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE — In the Name of the Lord — #19

There is strength in the name of the Lord;
There is pow’r in the name of the Lord:
There is hope in the name of the Lord!
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 27 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SPECIAL MUSIC — Tune from Londonderry, an Irish tune — Kathryn Kuntzman, cello

GOD’S WORD — Luke 13:31-35 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*HYMN — Live Into Hope — Ivy worship book, p. 65

Of sight regained, the end of greed.
Th’ oppressed shall be the first to see
The year of God’s own jubilee!

Live into hope! The blind shall see
With insight and with clarity,
Removing shades of pride and fear,
A vision of our God brought near.

Live into hope of liberty,
The right to speak, the right to be,
The right to have one’s daily bread,
To hear God’s word and thus be fed.

Live into hope of captives freed,
From chains of fear or want or greed.
God now proclaims our full release
To faith and hope and joy and peace.

*RESPONSIVE BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell
One: Go in the name of God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
All: God is our home; our life; our joy.
One: Take heart!
All: Jesus Christ is our light; our hope; our all in all.
One: Be strong.
All: Blessed be God, now and forever. Amen.

*POSTLUDE

Spring Blood Drive

Mark your calendars for Thursday May 8th to join with Ivy Chapel and ImpactLife as they again partner together to SAVE LIVES! You can save a life by donating your blood. Follow this link to sign up and save a life today! Ivy Chapel UCC Spring Blood Drive

March 5 — Ash Wednesday (1 p.m.)

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Ash Wednesday begins the Season of Lent, which is a 40-day spiritual journey to Resurrection Day.

SILENT REFLECTION — Christ, My Every Need — #425

Lord, Jesus Christ
You are for me medicine when I am sick;
You are my strength when I need help;
You are life itself when I fear death;
You are the way when I long for heaven;
You are the light when all is dark;
You are my food when I need nourishment.

PRELUDE — Pastorale (first movement) — J. S. Bach

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell
One: “Now” says the Holy One, “return to me with all your heart.”
All: Be still; and know that I am God.
One: Turn away from evil; and return to your God.
All: God is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and abounding in
steadfast love. Let us worship God.

*HYMN — Draw Me Nearer — #412

I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice,
And it told Thy love to me;
But I long to rise in the arms of faith,
And be closer drawn to Thee.

Refrain:
Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,
To the cross where Thou hast died;
Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,
To Thy precious, bleeding side.

Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord,
By the pow’r of grace divine;
Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope,
And my will be lost in Thine. [Refrain]

Oh, the pure delight of a single hour
That before Thy throne I spend,
When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God,
I commune as friend with friend! [Refrain]

There are depths of love that I cannot know
Till I cross the narrow sea;
There are heights of joy that I may not reach
Till I rest in peace with Thee. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell
Holy One, have mercy upon us, according to your faithful love. Create within us a new heart; a heart for love, justice and righteousness. Replace any guilt with your promise of new life abounding in mercy and grace!
Come, Holy Spirit, be our companion in the choices we make and in the ways that we interact with one another. Let honesty, humility and kindness characterize our being. Holy One, you transform earthly dust into something marvelous! Let us honor you by living our days in community with you and with all creation. Renew us, O God. Amen.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 51:1-17 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

SILENCE — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*ASSURANCE OF PARDON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*RESPONSE — Change My Heart, O God — Ivy Worship Booklet p. 33

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

You are the potter, I am the clay,
Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

GOD’S WORD — Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

HOMILY — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

THE IMPOSITION OF ASHES

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

*HYMN — Let Us Break Bread Together — #265

Let us break bread together on our knees.
Let us break bread together on our knees.

Refrain:
When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun,
O Lord have mercy on me.

Let us drink wine together on our knees.
Let us drink wine together on our knees. [Refrain]

Let us praise God together on our knees.
Let us praise God together on our knees. [Refrain]

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts… debtors)

*HYMN — I Want Jesus to Walk with Me — #480

I want Jesus to walk with me.
I want Jesus to walk with me.
All along my pilgrim journey,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.

In my trials, Lord, walk with me.
In my trials, Lord, walk with me.
When my heart is almost breaking,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.

When I’m in trouble, Lord, walk with me.
When I’m in trouble, Lord, walk with me.
When my head is bowed in sorrow,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross — arr. Raluca Bojor

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