July 13 — Disciples Together

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

WELCOME

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

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

*HYMN — Help Us Accept Each Other — 127

Help us accept each other as Christ accepted us;
Teach us as sister, brother, each person to embrace.
Be present, Lord, among us and bring us to believe:
We are ourselves accepted and meant to love and live.

Teach us, O Lord, Your lessons, as in our daily life
We struggle to be human and search for hope and faith.
Teach us to care for people, for all, not just for some,
To love them as we find them, or as they may become.

Let Your acceptance change us so that we may be moved
In living situations to do the truth in love;
To practice Your acceptance until we know by heart
The table of forgiveness and laughter’s healing art.

Lord, for today’s encounters with all who are in need,
Who hunger for acceptance, for righteousness and for bread,
We need new eyes for seeing, new hands for holding on:
Renew us with Your Spirit; Lord, free us, make us one!

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

*RESPONSE — Open Our Eyes, Lord — #132

Open our eyes Lord
We want to see Jesus
To reach out and touch Him
And say that we love Him
Open our ears Lord
And Help us to listen
Open our eyes Lord
We want to see Jesus

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 25:1-10 — Linda Lowry

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

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

SERMON —Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

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

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

June 22 — In God’s Presence

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

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Be Thou My Vision — arr. Paul Manz

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 43 — Kathryn Kuntzman

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

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

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

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

*HYMN — Higher Ground — #448

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

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Susan Shumway

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

June 7 — Pentecost

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

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Brethren, We Have Met to Worship

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

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

Spirit of God, who dwells within my heart,
Wean it from earth, through all its pulses move.
Stoop to my weakness, mighty as ,Thou art,
And make me love Thee as I ought to love.

I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies,
No sudden rending of the veil of clay,
No angel visitant, no opening skies;
But take the dimness of my soul away.

Hast Thou not bid us love , Thee God and King?
All, all Thine own, soul, heart and strength and mind.
I see Thy cross— there teach my heart to cling.
O let me seek Thee and O let me find!

Teach me to feel that Thou art always nigh;
Teach me the struggles of the soul to bear,
To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh;
Teach me the patience of unanswered prayer.

Teach me to love Thee as Thine angels love,
One holy passion filling all my frame:
The baptism of the heaven-descended Dove;
My heart an altar, and Thy love the flame.

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

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

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

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

Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — Linda Lowry

*HYMN — Sweet, Sweet Spirit — #153

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*HYMN — Spirit — Ivy worship booklet pp. 82-83

Refrain:
Spirit, Spirit of gentleness, blow through the wilderness calling and free,
Spirit, Spirit of restlessness, stir me from placidness, wind, wind on the sea.

You moved on the waters, you called to the deep,
then you coaxed up the mountains from the valleys of sleep;
and over the eons you called to each thing:
“Awake from your slumbers and rise on your wings.” Refrain

You swept through the desert, you stung with the sand,
and you goaded your people with a law and a land;
and when they were blinded with idols and lies,
then you spoke through your prophets to open their eyes. Refrain

You sang in a stable, you cried from a hill,
then you whispered in silence when the whole world was still;
and down in the city you called once again,
when you blew through your people on the rush of the wind. Refrain

You call from tomorrow, you break ancient schemes.
From the bondage of sorrow all the captives dream dreams;
our women see visions, our men clear their eyes.
With bold new decisions your people arise. Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Susan Shumway

*POSTLUDE — Every Time I Feel the Spirit

June 1 — That They May All Be One

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

WELCOME

PRELUDE — He Is Exalted

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

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

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

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

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

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

*RESPONSE — Thy Word — #178

Chorus:
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path.

When I feel afraid, think I’ve lost my way,
Still You’re there right beside me.
And nothing will I fear as long as You are near.
Please be near me to the end.
Chorus:

I will not forget Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering.
Jesus be my guide and hold me to your side;
And I will love You to the end.
Chorus:

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 97 — Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC — Great is the Lord

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

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*COMMUNION HYMN — Come Share the Lord — #260

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Christ for the World We Sing

April 27 — Resurrection Witness

Peace be with you. Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. You are welcome here. God loves all people. God is still speaking…Christ is risen! Alleluia!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Come, Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain

*CALL TO WORSHIP — John Weiland
One: Children of God, come and worship.
All: We come to worship Jesus Christ, risen forever!
One: Come to receive forgiveness for your sins.
All: We come to discover hope in the face of fear.
One: Jesus Christ appears and declares, “My peace I give to you.”
All: Our Savior is here!
One: Our Savior is alive!
All: We come to rejoice in life born out of death. Alleluia!

*HYMN — Come Christians, Join to Sing — #70

Come, Christians, join to sing Alleluia! Amen!
Loud praise to Christ our King; Alleluia! Amen!
Let all, with heart and voice, Before his throne rejoice;
Praise is His gracious choice: Alleluia! Amen!

Come, lift your hearts on high, Alleluia! Amen!
Let praises fill the sky; Alleluia! Amen!
He is our Guide and Friend, To us He’ll condescend;
His love shall never end: Alleluia! Amen!

Praise yet our Christ again; Alleluia! Amen!
Life shall not end the strain; Alleluia! Amen!
On heaven’s blissful shore, His goodness we’ll adore,
Singing forevermore, “Alleluia! Amen!”

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — John Weiland
God of all our beginnings; may this day begin with praises for you! Let every breath become a witness to your Spirit, living within us and among us. Open our hearts to receive your saving gifts. Use our voices to proclaim your unsurpassed greatness. May the sound of our celebration help people to sense your powerful presence and to claim the joy of serving you, in Christ’s name. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Be Still and Know — #24

Be still and know that I am God.
Be still and know that I am God.
Be still and know that I am God.

I am the Lord that heal-eth thee.
I am the Lord that heal-eth thee.
I am the Lord that heal-eth thee.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 118:14-29 — John Weiland

SPECIAL MUSIC — I Want Jesus to Walk with Me

GOD’S WORD — John 20:19-31 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Because He Lives — #275

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus
He came to love, heal and forgive
He lived and died to buy my pardon
An empty grave is there to prove my savior lives
Refrain

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow
Because He lives, all fear is gone
Because I know He holds the future
And life is worth the living, just because He lives
Refrain

How sweet to hold a newborn baby,
And feel the pride and joy He gives;
But greater still the calm assurance,
This child can face uncertain days because He lives.
Refrain

And then one day I’ll cross the river;
I’ll fight life’s final war with pain;
And then as death gives way to victory,
I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know He lives.
Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Lord, I Lift Your Name on High

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

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

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 9 — Wilderness Companions

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ on this, the first Sunday of Lent.
God loves all people. You are welcome here. All people are welcome and affirmed here.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Julie McAllister
One: We have come to worship God.
All: Living God blesses people with limits and boundaries, with freewill and choices.
One: This week, we have entered a new season.
All: As God’s Church, we have set out on a fresh, Lenten journey.
One: Today, we remember some of the temptations Jesus faced.
All: May the way Jesus conquered all temptations be our guide for responding faithfully in our own personal wildernesses.
One: May this time of worship serve as an oasis in our desert wilderness.
ALL: Let us rely on God’s strength in all situations.

*HYMN — I Need Thee Every Hour — # 169

I need Thee every hour, Most gracious Lord
No tender voice like Thine Can peace afford

Refrain:
I need Thee oh I need Thee
Every hour I need Thee
Oh bless me now, my Savior,
I come to Thee

I need Thee every hour, Stay Thou nearby
Temptations lose their power When Thou art nigh

I need Thee every hour In joy or pain
Come quickly and abide Or life is vain

I need Thee every hour, Most Holy One
Oh make me Thine indeed, Thou blessed Son

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Julie McAllister
Life-Saving God; above all, you are our heart’s desire. You alone make our spirits soar. You have enabled us to break free from an exacting and exhausting world to come to your sanctuary. Breathe new life into us, Faithful and Loving God. Bless us, we pray with eyes to see earthly demands for what they truly are. Teach us. Change us. Lead us to love all people with your steadfast love, Jesus. By your grace and peace, empower our witness, God; for we long to serve you. Amen.

*RESPONSE — You Are My Hiding Place — # 53

You are my hiding place, You always fill my heart
with songs of deliverance whenever I am afraid,
I will trust in You. I will trust in You;
Let the weak say, “I am strong in the strength of the Lord”

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — JoAnn Moody

*HYMN — People Need the Lord — # 527

People need the Lord, people need the Lord
At the end of broken dreams, He’s the open door
People need the Lord, people need the Lord
When will we realize people need the Lord?

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16 — Julie McAllister

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD — Luke 4:1-13 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Higher Ground — # 448

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

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE

March 2 — Astounding Glory

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. God loves all people. You are welcome here. All people are welcome and affirmed here. We are blessed to have Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell leading worship today.

As is our custom on the first Sunday of every month, today we celebrate Holy Communion. Please collect the elements before worship begins so we may gather at the table as one.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jim French
One: Bless one another; love one another; serve one another;
All: For by doing so, we bless, love and serve Christ.
One: Forgive one another; seek peace, do justice;
All: For by doing so, we follow the way of Christ.
One: Live into hope; walk by faith; seek the eternal;
All: For by doing so, we honor Christ.
One: Enter this time of worship with joy, coming to Christ our Savior.
ALL: Who is, and who was, and who is to come – the Almighty.

*HYMN — Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken — #116

Glorious things of thee are spoken,
Zion, city of our God;
He whose word cannot be broken
Formed thee for his own abode;
On the Rock of Ages founded,
What can shake thy sure repose?
With salvation’s walls surrounded,
Thou mayst smile at all thy foes.

See the streams of living waters,
Springing from eternal love,
Well supply thy sons and daughters,
And all fear of want remove;
Who can faint, while such a river
Ever will their thirst assuage?
Grace which, like the Lord, the Giver,
Never fails from age to age.

Round each habitation hovering,
See the cloud and fire appear
For a glory and a covering,
Showing that the Lord is near!
Thus deriving from their banner
Light by night and shade by day,
Safe they feed upon the manna
Which He gives them when they pray.

Saviour, if of Zion’s city
I through grace a member am,
Let the world deride or pity,
I will glory in Thy name;
Fading is the world’s best pleasure,
All its boasted pomp and show;
Solid joys and lasting treasure
None but Zion’s children know.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jim French
Holy God, may every aspect of our character praise you. May we lift your name on high! Live-giving, life-changing God; wash over us this day. Shatter every narrow view of who you are. By your wisdom and strength empower us to be living witnesses to your Gospel. Savior of overpowering light, you reveal what mightiness is. Fill us with your Spirit of grace. We ask this in your holy name, Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Surely the Presence of the Lord — #146

Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place,
I can feel His mighty power and His grace.
I can hear the brush of angel’s wings
I see glory on each face;
Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.

In the midst of His children, the Lord said He would be.
It doesn’t take very many, it can be just two or three.
And I feel the same sweet Spirit that I’ve felt oft times before.
Oh, surely I can say I have been with the Lord.

There’s a holy hush around us as God’s glory fills this place.
I’ve touched the hem of his garment and I can almost see His face.
And my heart is overflowing with the fullness of His joy.
I know without a doubt that I have been with the Lord.

GOD’S WORD — Exodus 34:29-35 — Jim French

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD — Luke 9:28-43a — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — 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)

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 — Shine, Jesus, Shine — Ivy worship booklet pp.78-79

Lord the light of your love is shining.
In the midst of the darkness shining.
Jesus light of the world, shine upon us.
Set us free by the truth you now bring us.
Shine on me. Shine on me.

Refrain:
Shine Jesus shine,
Fill this land with the Fathers Glory
Blaze Spirit blaze, set our hearts on fire.
Flow river flow
Flood the nation with grace and mercy.
Send forth your word.
Lord and let there be light.

Lord I come to your awesome presence
From the shadows into your radiance,
By your blood I may enter your brightness,
Search me, try me, consume all my darkness.
Shine on me. Shine on me.

As we gaze on Your Kingly brightness
So our faces display your likeness,
Ever changing from Glory to Glory,
Nearer here may our lives tell Your story.
Shine on me. Shine on me.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE

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