July 4 Livestream – Healing Powers
July 3, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Happy Independence Day! We invite you to join us today for a patriotic hymn sing during worship. If you are joining us online, please also be sure to gather elements of communion so we can celebrate as one.
Unfortunately we ran into a technical glitch on Sunday, July 4 and were unable to capture the livestream of our worship service. Please join us next week!
July 4, 2021 – Healing Powers
The Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
WELCOME
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: God is gracious and merciful.
All: God is abounding in steadfast love.
One: Come to the refreshing waters God provides.
All: Come, all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens.
One: The gentle Spirit of Christ invites us.
All: We have come to find rest for our souls.
*HYMN – Patriotic Hymn Sing
(verses 1 and 4 of each hymn)
America – #602
America the Beautiful – #600
The Battle Hymn of the Republic – #604
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
God of our ancestors, we worship you. We thank you for our precious homeland. Help us, Dear God, to continue moving toward a time when freedom truly will ring for all people. You are the One who clothes us with joy and fills us with hope. Yours is a love mightier than any danger or fear. We praise you for our nation. We praise you for this church. Fill us with life in this place so that we may learn to serve you in all places. You are God of the past and of the future. Lead us as you always have led your people, O God of Wisdom and Promise. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Gloria Patri – #620
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 30 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC
Valerie Waterman, Vocalist
Julie McAllister, Piano
GOD’S WORD – Mark 5:21-43 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – We Come As Guests Invited – #258
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
*Congregational Choice Hymn
This Is My Song – worship booklet, p. 88
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE
June 20 Livestream – In the Boat Together
June 19, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A Happy and Blessed Fathers Day. We hope this worship experience renews your body, mind and soul.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Over and over, Jesus comes down to the lakeshore.
All: All he’s asking is for us to follow.
One: The fullness of God is beyond us.
All: Yet, on occasion, we are given glimpses of God.
One: Jesus looks into our eyes and calls out our names.
All: God is with all people at all times.
*HYMN – Shout to the North (Martin Smith)
- Men of faith, rise up and sing Of the great and glorious King. You are strong when you feel weak
In your bro-ken-ness complete.
Shout to the north and the south; Sing to the east and the west;
Je-sus is Sav-ior to all, Lord of Heaven and earth!- Rise up, women of the truth. Stand and sing to bro-ken hearts,
Who can know the heal-ing pow’r
Of our awe-some King of love.
Shout to the north and the south; Sing to the east and the west;
Je-sus is Sav-ior to all, Lord of Heaven and earth!
We’ve been thru fire. We’ve been thru rain.
We’ve been re-fined by the pow’r of His name.
We’ve fal-len deep-er in love with you. You’ve burned the truth on our lips.
- Rise up, women of the truth. Stand and sing to bro-ken hearts,
- Rise up, Church with broken wings. Fill this place with songs again Of our God who reigns on high.
By His grace again we’ll fly!
Shout to the north and the south; Sing to the east and the west;
Je-sus is Sav-ior to all, Lord of Heaven and earth!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
We sing your praises, O God; for you are gracious to your children in the course of so many storms. When dangers threaten, you give us the strength to carry on. God of Peace, you are the One who enables us to give to the winds our fears. Because of you, we can trust and be un-afraid. You are a Compassionate God who fulfills each one of your promises.
We have come to worship you this morning, Eternal God. May we listen closely for your voice – the One True Voice, Merciful and Mighty; whom we frequently find difficult to hear. Like the wild and restless sea – may we be still; know that you are God; and obey you. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – God Will Make a Way – worship booklet, p. 44
God will make a way where there seems to be no way.
He works in ways we can not see,
He will make a way for me.
He will be my guide, hold me close-ly to His side,
With love and strength for each new day, He will make a way,
He will make a way.
GOD’S WORD – Job 38:1-7, 16-18 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Sue Wilson
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 107:1, 23-30 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – River in Judea –arr. Leavitt
Sarah Heend, Sue Wilson and Anna DiVesta, Vocalists
Aaron DiVesta, Saxophone
GOD’S WORD – Mark 4:35-41 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – Spirit – worship booklet, pp. 82-83
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You moved on the wa-ters, you called to the deep,
Then you coaxed up the moun-tains from the val-leys of sleep,
And o-ver the e-ons you called to each thing,
“A-wake from your slumbers and rise on your wings.â€
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You swept through the des-ert, you stung with the sand
And you gift-ed your peo-ple with a law and a land,
When they were con-found-ed with i-dols and lies,
Then you spoke through your proph-ets to o-pen their eyes
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You sang in a sta-ble, you cried from a hill,
Then you whis-pered in si-lence when the whole world was still
And down in the cit-y you called once a-gain
When you blew through your peo-ple on the rush of the wind.
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You call from to-mor-row, you break an-cient schemes,
From the bond-age of sor-row the cap-tives dream dreams;
Our wom-en see vi-sions, our men clear their eyes.
With bold new de-ci-sions your peo-ple a-rise
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
June 6 Virtual Worship – The Will of God
June 5, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Are you ready and willing to fulfill the will of God? Join us as we hear Jesus’ words as we look for guidance and direction from our Creator.
June 6 Virtual Worship – T h e W i l l o f G o d
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Praise God, who fills hearts with joy!
All: Glory be to God!
One: Praise God, who fills the future with promise.
All: O give thanks to God; for God’s steadfast love endures forever!
*HYMN – All Things Bright and Beautiful – #65
REFRAIN
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful; the Lord God made them all.
- Each little flow’r that opens, Each little bird that sings,
He made their glowing colors, He made their tiny wings.
REFRAIN
- The purple-headed mountain, The river running by,
The sunset, and the morning That brightens up the sky.
REFRAIN
- The cold wind in the winter, Then pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruit in the garden: He made them every one.
REFRAIN
- He gave us eyes to see them, And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty, Who has made all things well.
*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
God of steadfast love, we long for a clear understanding of your will. Our hearts seek you. Our ears listen closely for your voice. Guide us. May this time of worship draw us to you, Christ Jesus – blessing us with a sense of direction for our lives as vital parts of your whole Church. Renew us from within, we pray; so that nothing we face will frighten or discourage us. With amazement, we marvel at the splendor of your works, Creator God! Fill us with an ever-growing love for you. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord; Open the eyes of my heart.
I want to see You, I want to see You, I want to see You.
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord; Open the eyes of my heart.
I want to see You, I want to see You.
To see you high and lifted up, Shining in the light of Your glory.
Pour out Your power and love As we sing holy, holy, holy.
REPEAT
Holy, Holy, Holy,
Holy, Holy, Holy,
Holy, Holy, Holy,
I want to see You.
REPEAT
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 130 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Dottie Foster
SPECIAL MUSIC – By His Grace (Tornquist) – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – Mark 3:20-35 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – One Bread, One Body – 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.
- 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 JOYFUL SACRAMENT OF COMMUNION
Responsive Invitation to Christ’s Table
One: Jesus Christ invites, “As you eat this bread, remember me.â€
All: Through the broken bread, we remember the sacrifice of Christ.
One: Jesus Christ invites, “As you drink this cup, remember me.â€
All: Through the communion cup, we remember the love of Christ.
One: The gifts of God for the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God. Our Savior welcomes everyone to this table!
*HYMN – I Then Shall Live – #133
- I then shall live as one who’s been forgiven;
I’ll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child, and I am not afraid.
So greatly pardoned, I’ll forgive my brother;
The law of love I gladly will obey. - I then shall live as one who’s learned compassion;
I’ve been so loved that I’ll risk loving, too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I dare to see another’s point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I’ll be there to care and follow through. - Your kingdom come around and thru and in me,
Your pow’r and glory, let them shine thru me;
Your Hallowed Name, O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world thru me.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
May 30 Virtual Worship – Trinity Sunday
May 29, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A Blessed Memorial Day Weekend to you.
Click here to join us for virtual worship, starting around 10 a.m. on Sunday.
Here’s today’s order for worship:
Mysterious Encounter
Trinity Sunday
Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. A blessed Memorial Day Weekend to all.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Abby Foehrkolb
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Be joyful! God is within us and among us.
All: God is watching over all creation.
One: God listens, and God responds.
All: God raises us up on eagles’ wings! Praise God!
*HYMN – Holy, Holy, Holy – #2
- Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee;
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity! - Holy, holy, holy! all the saints adore Thee,
Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee,
Which wert and art, and evermore shalt be. - Holy, holy, holy! though the darkness hide Thee,
Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see,
Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee,
Perfect in pow’r, in love, and purity. - Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty.
All Thy works shall praise Thy name, in earth, and sky, and sea;
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
Faithful and Loving God, you are beyond all that we can imagine. There simply are no human words that can fully describe you. We know you best as Jesus of Nazareth who offered genuine love to everyone. As Jesus, you call for our rebirth as your children, cleansed by water and the Spirit. This morning, we worship you in fulfillment of the vows made at our baptism. We want to be faithful as you are faithful. Strengthen us to live in ways that honor and please you, Holy God. May we serve you by living out the ministries which you give us to do. We pray in your name, Christ Jesus. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Gloria Patri– #620
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Ghost;
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
world without end. Amen, Amen.
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 29:1-4 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – America – arr. C. E. Walz – Abby Foehrkolb, Piano
GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 6:1-8 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – To God Be the Glory – #79
To God be the glory, great things He hath done,
So loved He the world that He gave us His Son,
Who yielded His life an atonement for sin,
And opened the Lifegate that all may go in.
REFRAIN
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the earth hear His voice!
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, let the people rejoice!
O come to the Father thro’ Jesus the Son,
And give Him the glory, great things He hath done.
- O perfect redemption, the purchase of blood,
To every believer the promise of God;
The vilest offender who truly believes,
That moment from Jesus a pardon receives.
REFRAIN
- Great things He hath taught us, great things He hath done,
And great our rejoicing thro’ Jesus the Son;
But purser, and higher, and greater will be
Our wonder, our transport, when Jesus we see.
REFRAIN
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
POSTLUDE – Abby Foehrkolb
May 9 Livestream – “I have called you friends”
May 8, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
“I have called you friends,” Jesus says in today’s reading. Continue to hear Jesus’ words as He shares his love with us.
Special blessings this day to all of the mothers in this world.
“I have called you friends,†says Jesus.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Let us gather in the Spirit of Christ.
All: We come in response to the One who calls us ‘friends’
One: Remember God’s love and faithfulness.
All: Let our hands reflect the life of our serving Savior.
One: Let our voices echo God’s praises!
All: Together, let us sing of God who is doing marvelous things!
HYMN – Shout to the Lord – worship booklet, pp. 80-81
My Jesus, My Savior, 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 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 promos I have in You.
UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
Faithful God, we worship you with joy! Even in the toughest times, your love holds us up. You bless all people. God of grace, you are the One who empowers us to care for one another with kindness. You watch over each one of your children throughout our lives. You have watched over us in the past. You are with each one of us now in the particular situations that we are facing.
Amazing God, we are grateful for your gifts. Come, Holy One, lift us. Raise us above taking so much for granted. Stir our voices to praise you out of sheer delight! Open our hearts to trust that you are leading us, especially in moments of difficulty or discouragement. In our doubts and in our fears, grant us your peace. Calm us. Reassure us that you are near. Christ Jesus, we rejoice that you are continuing to shape us into people who offer your grace and love to all. Amen.
PRAISE RESPONSE – O How He Loves You and Me – #254
- O how He loves you and Me, O how He loves you and me;
He gave HIs life – what more could He give?
O how He loves you, O how He loves me, O how He loves you and me! - Jesus to Calvary did go, His love for making to show;
What He did there bro’t hope from despair;
O how He loves you, O how He loves me, O how He loves you and me!
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 98 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Linda Lowry
SPECIAL MUSIC – 10,000 Reasons – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – John 15:9-17 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE –Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors) – Pastor Dan
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 ur 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 thy friends despise, forsake thee! Take it to the Lord in prayer,
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee, Thou wilt find a solace there.
POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
CCLI License #456361
May 1 Virtual Worship – The True Vine
May 1, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Today we are reminded that Jesus is the “true vine.†His love and his spirit nourish our world, even to this day. And even though we can’t see Him, we are still all connected to Him.
Our service will be live around 10 a.m. (which, if you know Ivy Chapel, that could mean 10:05). Join us on YouTube.
If you are worshipping from home, please take a moment to gather the elements of communion so you can celebrate at Christ’s table with us.
WELCOME – Rev. Dan Wilson, Pastor
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Come; let us worship God.
All: Let all people turn to God.
One: Come; let us re-claim our baptism.
All: Let our lives bear fruit that is pleasing to God.
One: Christ is the Vine.
All: We are the branches!
HYMN – Holy, Holy – #50
- Holy, holy, holy, holy, Holy, holy, Lord God almighty;
And we lift our hears before You as a token of our love,
Holy, holy, holy, holy. - Gracious Father, gracious Father, We’re so blest to be your children gracious Father;
And we lift our heads before You as a token of our love,
Gracious Father, gracious Father. - Precious Jesus, Precious Jesus, We’re so glad that you’ve redeemed us, precious Jesus.
And we lift our hands before You as a token of our love,
Precious Jesus, Precious Jesus. - Holy Spirit, Holy Spirit, Come and fill our hearts anew, Holy Spirit;
And we lift ur voice before You as a token of our love,
Holy Spirit, Holy Spirit. - Holy, holy, holy, holy, Holy, holy, Lord God almighty;
And we lift our hearts before ou as a token of our love,
Holy, holy, holy, holy. UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
Wondrous God, we praise you as the Creator of all life! You are the One who creates and loves all people. May we seek to love everyone the way you do. You are the Vine. We are the branches.
Faithful and Gracious God, come alive among us day by day. Come now; and fill our very souls with your unselfish, abundant love. We pray in your holy name, Christ Jesus. Amen. PRAISE 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 – 1 John 4:7-21 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody
SPECIAL MUSIC – Living Water of Life (Lantz) – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – John 15:1-8 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
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,
Oh 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 JOYFUL SACRAMENT OF COMMUNION
Responsive Invitation to Christ’s Table
One: Jesus Christ says, “As you eat this bread, remember me.â€
All: Through the broken bread, we participate in the Body of Christ.
One: Jesus Christ says, “As you drink this cup, remember me.â€
All: Through the communion cup, we participate in the Blood of Christ.
One: The gifts of God for the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God. Our Savior welcomes everyone to this table!
HYMN – We Will Glorify – #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 reign in majesty, we will bow before His Throne;
We will worship Him in righteousness, we will worship Him alone. - He is For 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.
BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
CCLI License #456361
Good Friday Virtual Worship
April 2, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
We glorify God our Savior for this extraordinary act of love; this holy sacrifice.
SILENT REFLECTION IN PREPARATION FOR WORSHIP
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: This night, we remember
All: Christ betrayed.
One: This night, we remember
All: Christ arrested.
One: This night, we remember
All: Christ denied.
One: This night, we remember
All: Christ abused, and beaten, and sentenced to die.
One: This night, we remember
All: Christ crucified.
*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
Everlasting God, we need you. You respond to the cries of your children from all walks of life. From the cross, Christ Jesus, you are the One crying out. Help us to hear your cries. Fill us with compassion for your pain and suffering. We are saved by your sacrifice. On this unforgettable night, may we be moved by the sorrows of betrayal, denial, cruelty, and condemnation that you endure for us. Your death is agony. This night, we remember you. Although we cannot fully imagine your excruciating pain, our souls ache as we recall you dying on the cross, Jesus.
You know our need for your grace. We worship and love you. 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 that 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. CALL TO CONFESSION – Pastor Dan
One: God longs for us to come to God; to be truthful; and to confess our sin.
God wants to free us from all guilt and fear. Let us pray together.
All: O Holy One, God Eternal; we frequently keep ourselves busy with things that do not satisfy. We try to fill our emptiness with activities and possessions that drain our energies rather than give life meaning. We get things all mixed up. We excuse our own sin at the same time that we condemn wrongdoing we see in others. Help us to own up to our sin and to repent. Have mercy on us, Dear God. We are sorry for failing you. Forgive us, we pray. Into your hands, we commend our souls. Amen. SILENCE ASSURANCE OF GOD’S FORGIVENESS – Pastor Dan THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
Our Father, who art in heaven; hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done. On earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil; for thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 52:13-53:12 HYMN – Were You There? – #266 – Verses 1, 2 and 3 only - Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble!
Were you there when they crucified my Lord? - Were your there when they nailed Him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed Him to the tree?
O! 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?
O! Sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble!
Were you there when they laid Him in the tomb?
Christ on the Cross
The third hour
Luke 23:34
“Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.â€
The fourth hour
John 19:26-27
“Woman, behold your son… Behold your mother.â€
The fifth hour
Luke 23:43
“Truly, truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.â€
The sixth hour
John 19:28
“I thirst.â€
The seventh hour
Matthew 27:46
“My God! My God! Why have you forsaken me?â€
The eighth hour
Luke 23:46
“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.â€
The ninth hour
John 19:30
“It is finished.â€
SPECIAL – ‘Tis Finished – Hartman –Marsha Fix, Vocalist
- Depart in silence +
March 28 Virtual Worship – Palm Sunday
March 27, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Join us to hear to hear the good word! Jesus is near! Hosanna! Hosanna in the Highest! Raise and wave your palms!
Here is today’s order for worship:
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP (adapted Isaiah 50:4-9) – Pastor Dan
One: Come to worship! Come; join in this chorus of Hosannas!
All: Come to let your tongue shout God’s praises!
One: Come to find your voice.
All: Come to hear the response.
One: Come to open your ears.
All: Come to listen.
One: Come to be healed by the silence.
All: Come to stand together.
One: Come to experience what words cannot express!
All: Come to find God.
HYMN – Make Way – worship booklet, p. 69
- Make way, make way, for Christ the King in splendor arrives.
Fling wide the gates and welcome him into your lives.
CHORUS
Make way, make way for the King of kings.
Make way, make way and let his kingdom in.
- He comes the broken hearts to heal the prisoners to free.
The deaf shall hear, the lame shall dance, the blind shall see.
CHORUS
- And those who mourn with heavy hearts, who weep and sigh;
with laughter, joy and royal crown he’ll beautify.
CHORUS
- We call you now to worship him as Lord of all,
to have no gods before him – their thrones must fall.
UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
God of exceptional moments; this morning, we recall the electric celebration of people enthusiastically welcoming Jesus along the road to Jerusalem. What a moment! We can imagine ourselves swept up in the party atmosphere of that lively parade! We can feel your great power! We want to cut loose ourselves in ways that faithfully offer you praise! Your holy love reaches out and blesses everyone. Come close now. Ride down Kingshighway here in our fair city, Jesus. Enter Metro St. Louis this day. Hosanna! Come on, Jesus! We choose you to be the grand marshal of our next big parade. Save us, we beg you. Hosanna in the highest! Amen.
PRAISE RESPONSE – In the Name of the Lord – #19
- Ride on, ride on, O Savior King, To set the sinner free!
To sin cursed souls salvation bring And peace eternally!
Ride on to dark Gethsemane, To untold agony,
And on the cross of Calvary Procure our victory! - Ride on, ride on, O Savior King, To claim the hearts of men!
Now death has lost its dreadful sting And hope is born again.
O come, in human hearts to reign Suppress the pow’r of sin!
Our own endeavor is in vain; Lord, You must help us win! - Ride on, ride on, O Savior King! Ride on o’er land and sea,
For You alone to man can bring Eternal liberty.
Ride on to sinbound nations, Lord, Until each heart shall own
Your saving, sanctifying word and bow before Your throne!
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 lLord!
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 118:1, 21-29 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – Holy City – Marsha Fix, Vocalist
GOD’S WORD – Mark 11:1-11 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH – Pastor Dan – Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
HYMN – Ride On, Ride On, O Savior King – #236
BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
CCLI License #456361​​
Shouts of Joy! Dec. 13 Cantata Livestream
December 13, 2020 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
2020 has been quite a year. Let’s pause for a moment during this Season of Advent and find the joy! Our 2020 Christmas Cantata features treasured memories from our congregation.
Prelude: “He Is Lord†and “O Come, All Ye Faithful†– Aaron DiVesta and Anna DiVesta
Responsive Call to Worship & Prayer of Invocation – Pastor Dan
One: The Savior of the world is Jesus Christ!
All: Make a joyful noise to God!
One: Our God is a God of great joy!
All: Rely on God, who is our refuge and strength.
One: Give thanks to God, who is our salvation.
All: We will sing praises to God’s name!
One: Let us pray.
All: God of great joy, we rejoice with anticipation as we look forward to future ways that you will reveal yourself among us. May all people perceive your Spirit living within us, and may all people celebrate this blessing! Strengthen us for your loving service. We give thanks that you are calling us to be your followers and to live in ways that make life-giving differences in your world. Lead us to carry out the caring ministries that you are inviting us to offer, Christ Jesus. Amen.
HYMN: “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee‖ #13
1. Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee, God of glory Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flowers before Thee, Opening to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness; Drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness, Fill us with the light of day.
2. All Thy works with joy surround Thee, Earth and heav’n reflect Thy rays
Stars and angels sing around Thee, Center of unbroken praise.
Field and forest, vale and mountain, Flowery meadow, flashing sea,
Chanting bird and flowing fountain Call us to rejoice in Thee.
3. Thou art giving and forgiving, Ever Blessing, ever blest,
Wellspring of the joy of living, Ocean depth of happy rest!
Thou our Father, Christ our Brother – All who live in love are Thine,
Teach us how to love each other, Lift us to the joy divine.
4. Mortals join the mighty chorus Which the morning stars began;
Father love is reigning o’er us, Brother love binds man to man.
Ever singing, march we onward, Victors in the midst of strife,
Joyful music leads us sunward In the triumph song of life.
Children’s Message – Liz Schurwan
Prayers of the People concluding with the Lord’s Prayer (debts/debtors) – Pastor Dan
Lighting the Advent Wreath – Pastor Dan: The Candle of Joy
Praise Response – “When God Is a Child†p. 95, worship booklet
Verse 3 ONLY
3. Joy is a song that welcomes the dawn, Telling the world that the Savior is born
When God is a child there’s joy in our song. The last shall be first
and the weak shall be strong, and none shall be afraid.
“Shouts of Joy: A Christmas Concert for 2020â€
A Treasured Memory
Holy Scripture – Psalm 98:1, 4
HYMN – “Joy to the World†#194
- Joy to the world the Lord is come; Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare him room, and heav’n and nature sing,
and heav’n and nature sing. And heav’n, and heav’n and nature sing.
2. Joy to the earth! the Savior reigns; Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains repeat the sounding joy,
repeat the sounding joy, Repeat, repeat, the sounding joy.
3. No more let sins and sorrows grow, Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make HIs blessings flow Far as the curse is found,
far as the curse is found, Far as, far as the curse is found.
4. He rules the world with truth and grace, And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness, And wonders of His love,
And wonders of HIs love, and wonders, and wonders, of His love.
A Treasured Memory
Holy Scripture – John 3:16-17 – Galatians 4:4-5
“He Is Born†– Julie McAllister and Anna DiVesta, Piano and Organ
A Treasured Memory
Holy Scripture – Psalm 125:1-2 – Isaiah 40:9 – Isaiah 52:7
“Go, Tell It on the Mountain†– Anna DiVesta, Piano
A Treasured Memory
Holy Scripture – Isaiah 7:13-14 – Luke 2:16-19
“Breath of Heaven†– Sue Wilson, Vocalist
A Treasured Memory
Holy Scripture – Isaiah 9:6
“Mary, Did You Know?†– Aaron DiVesta and Anna DiVesta, Saxophone and Piano
A Treasured Memory
Holy Scripture – Isaiah 60:4-6 – Matthew 2:1, 9-11
HYMN – “We Three Kings†#220
1. We three kings of Orient are, Bearing gifts we travers afar
Field and fountain, moor and mountain, Following yonder star.
REFRAIN
O star of wonder, star of night, Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding, Guide us to thy perfect light.
2. Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain, Gold I bring to crown Him again,
King forever, ceasing never Over us all to reign.
REFRAIN
3. Frankincense to offer have I, Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, all men raising, Worship Him, God on high.
REFRAIN
4. Myrrh is mine, its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone cold tomb.
REFRAIN
5. Glorious now behold Him arise, King and God and Sacrifice;
Alleluia, Alleluia, Peals through the earth and skies.
REFRAIN
A Treasured Memory
Holy Scripture – Isaiah 11:1-2, 6-7, 9
“Carol of the Drum†(The Little Drummer Boy) – Anna DiVesta, Piano
A Treasured Memory
Holy Scripture – Amos 5:24 – Revelation 19:5-7a, 11, 16
“O Holy Night†– Marsha Fix, Vocalist
A Treasured Memory
Holy Scripture – John 1:3-5 – Luke 2:9-11
“Silent Nightâ€
Benediction – Anna DiVesta
Postlude – Anna DiVesta
Oct. 25 Livestream
October 25, 2020 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Be a force for positivity in the world! Embrace the good, even when it’s a challenge. Focus on the can-dos, rather than the do-nots. Love your neighbor. Be kind to all.
The order for Sunday, October 25 Worship:
Prelude / Anna diVesta
Responsive Call to Worship / Rev. Dan Wilson
One: Morning has broken!
All: Let us worship God.
One: We are drawn to worship by the unseen.
All: In worship, we sense God’s closeness.
One: The Creator of all living things gives us life!
All: There are wonders all around us!
One: Holy God is more than we can imagine.
All: Together, let us sing God’s praises!
Prayer of Invocation / Pastor Dan
One: I invite you to bow with me, and let us pray together.
All: God Who Leads; we know that we have not reached your Promised Land. We know that we have not yet seen the fulfillment of all that you have spoken across the generations. We know that there remains much to be done as your disciples in pursuit of “a just world for all.â€
God Who Fulfills Promises; grant that we may have the faith of Moses, who trusts fully in you. Moses trusts ‘sight unseen’ that your Promised Land of Milk and Honey steadily is drawing near. Grant that we may display such trust to continue working on behalf of your justice, especially when we are tempted to despair that our efforts may be futile.
“Sometimes Unseen, but Always Faithful God,” we praise you
for guiding us toward loving as Christ loves;
for guiding us toward being willing to sacrifice our lives on behalf of others.
Fill us with your Spirit of unselfishness, Christ Jesus. We pray for your blessing on the whole world this day. Lead us to love you and to follow you, Jesus. Amen.
Hymn/ “With My Whole Heart” worship booklet, p. 98
Children’s Message / Sue Wilson
Special Music/ “Toccata in D” / Anna
Scripture Reading / Pastor Dan Matthew 22:34-46
Sermon/Prayer / Pastor Dan
Hymn / “They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love” # 119
Benediction / Pastor Dan
Postlude / Anna
