October 15 – Consecration Sunday

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
God is guiding us and God will continue guiding us on our life-long journey as growing givers. May today’s worship inspire each one here to become a living channel of God’s abundant love. You are a vital part of Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!

Everyone is invited to a Consecration Celebration in Fellowship Hall following worship.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – How Firm a Foundation

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God’s blessings are plentiful!
All: Rejoice! God knows what God is doing.
One: You and I are being invited to follow ‘The Way of Jesus.’
All: Each moment, Christ is calling us to ministry.
One: Christ teaches, “Give my people something to eat.”
All: “Why don’t you feed them, Jesus?”
One: Christ commands, “Give them something yourselves.”
All: “But we don’t have enough!”
One: Christ assures, “Yes, you do.”
All: “How far can a few measly loaves and fish go?”
One: “Give it a try. With God, there is always more than enough.”
All: God’s blessings are plentiful!

*HYMN – Sing Praise to God Who Reigns Above – #45

Sing praise to God who reigns above,
the God of all creation,
the God of power, the God of love,
the God of our salvation;
with healing balm my soul he fills,
and every faithless murmur stills:
o God all praise and glory.

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

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

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

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of abundant grace; we worship you with joy. You offer love and life eternal to all people. What amazing gifts these are!
Master, you are Living Water who restores our souls. We are humbled that you have chosen us and called us friends. You are with each one of us in every personal situation that we are facing.
Risen Savior, we are grateful; and we are here this day to lift our praises to you! Amen.

*RESPONSE – Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart – worship booklet, p. 42

Give thanks with a grateful heart,
Give thanks to the Holy One,
Give thanks because He’s given
Jesus Christ His Son.

Give thanks with a grateful heart,
Give thanks to the Holy One,
Give thanks because He’s given
Jesus Christ His Son.

And now let the weak say “I am strong”
Let the poor say “I am rich”
Because of what the Lord has done for us.

And now let the weak say “I am strong”
Let the poor say “I am rich”
Because of what the Lord has done for us.
Give thanks, give thanks.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Pat Winship

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 57:1-3, 9-11

SPECIAL MUSIC – I Surrender All

GOD’S WORD – Mark 1:21, 29, 32-42 & Mark 5:24-30, 32-34

SERMON – Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives! – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – We Give Thee but Thine Own (Verses 1 &2) – #622
We give Thee but Thine own,
Whate’er the gift may be:
All that we have is Thine alone,
A trust, O Lord, from Thee.
May we Thy bounties thus
As stewards true receive,
And gladly, as Thou blessest us,
To Thee our first-fruits give.

PRAYER OF CONSECRATION
‘Always-Giving-Extra’ God, you extend to each of us a sacred invitation to become one of your disciples. What an amazing offer! ‘The Way that leads to Life’ can be narrow and difficult. Yet all things are possible with you.
We receive so much from you, Jesus. You are the One who generously blesses with ‘living water!’ Your life is our model for climbing higher; going farther; giving joyfully; loving beyond limit! May we receive the Spirit of love which you offer, and may we respond by giving with ‘joy beyond measure!’ Amen.

*INVITING GOD’S ACT OF CONSECRATION
We offer God our expressions of intended giving, asking God to consecrate them. All are invited to offer God your commitment supporting Christ’s ministries at Ivy Chapel UCC by placing your 2024 Estimate of Giving Card in the designated offering basket during singing of the final hymn. Be exalted, O God! Let your glory be over all the earth!

*CONSECRATION HYMN – Amazing Grace – #299

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind but now I see

‘Twas Grace that taught my heart to fear,
And Grace, my fears relieved;
How precious did that Grace appear
The hour I first believed!

Through many dangers, toils and snares,
We have already come;
‘Tis Grace that brought us safe thus far,
And Grace will lead us home.

When we’ve been there then thousand years,
Bright shining as the sun,
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we first begun.

*TABLE GRACE AND BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – The Pipers – Dandrieu

Oct 8-Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!

Please join us here on Youtube.

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ 

We welcome a dear friend and sibling in Christ, Rev. Mary Albert, as our guest faith witness this morning!  Thank you, Mary, for offering your personal words of testimony in worship among us today.
Christ is leading this journey toward higher ground:  Because of You, God’s Church Changes Lives!

WELCOME 


PRELUDE -- Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us
 
*CALL TO WORSHIP -- Jo Ann Moody 
One:  Look, do you see that?
All:  Jesus is in the midst of the people!
One:  Listen, do you hear that?
All:  Jesus is calling our names!
One:  Come, all who are lost and searching.
        Come, all who are sick and tired.              
        Come, all who are afraid and alone.
        Come, all who are ready for a change.
All:  The Holy One is here to heal and set us free!
One:  Let us worship God who gives us new life!

*HYMN -- Standing on the Promises -- #181 

Standing on the promises of Christ, my King,
Through eternal ages let his praises ring;
Glory in the highest, I will shout and sing,
Standing on the promises of God.

Refrain:
Standing, standing,
Standing on the promises of God, my Savior;
Standing, standing,
I'm standing on the promises of God.

Standing on the promises that cannot fail.
When the howling storms of doubt and fear assail,
By the living Word of God I shall prevail,
Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]

Standing on the promises of Christ, the Lord,
Bound to him eternally by love's strong cord,
Overcoming daily with the Spirit's sword,
Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]

Standing on the promises I cannot fall,
List'ning ev'ry moment to the Spirit's call,
Resting in my Savior as my all in all,
Standing on the promises of God. [Refrain]


*PRAYER OF INVOCATION -- Jo Ann Moody  
 O God, we come to worship today hoping for a sign, a glimpse of your presence, or a nudge in the right direction.  Meet us today where we are.     In our places of pain, meet us with comfort and healing.  In our apathy and resignation, meet us with hope and conviction.  And where we are stuck, open our eyes to see the path to new life.  This we pray, trusting in your presence and your power.  Amen.  


*PRAISE RESPONSE --I Will Sing of the Mercies -- worship booklet, p. 56

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

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

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

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

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

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

GOD’S WORD -- Psalm 8  -- Jo Ann Moody                                    


PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER-- Pastor Dan                    


SPECIAL MUSIC -He Leadeth Me                      


GOD’S WORD -- Luke 19:1-10 --  Rev. Mary Albert   


SERMON --  “My Journey to ‘Yes’!”    --  Rev. Mary Albert   


*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. Mary Albert  


*POSTLUDE -- Every Time I Feel the Spirit    

CCLI License #456361  


                    


October 1 – World Communion Sunday

Because of you, God’s church changes lives! Today, we join Christians around the world in celebrating World Communion Sunday. If you are worshipping with us from home, please gather the elements before the service begins so we may partake at Christ’s table together.

Watch this week’s service on YouTube.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Sue Wilson
One: Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
All: In all its fullness, the world belongs to God!
One: How astonishing is the goodness of God.
All: Watch and listen closely; for God is here.
One: God is continuously nourishing life!
All: God’s blessings abundantly overflow!

*HYMN – Christ for the World We Sing – #545

Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With loving zeal;
The poor, and them that mourn,the faint and overborne,
Sinsick and sorrow-worn, For Christ to heal.

Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With fervent prayer;
The wayward and the lost, by restless passions tossed,
Redeemed at countless cost, From dark despair.

Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With one accord,
With us the work to share, with us reproach to dare,
With us the cross to bear, For Christ our Lord.

Christ for the world we sing, the world to Christ we bring,
With joyful song;
The newborn souls, whose days, reclaimed from error’s ways,
Inspired with hope and praise, to Christ belong.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Sue Wilson
God, you are more than merely ‘beside us.’ You are the very life within us; for we are yours. All people are your children; and all are in your care. Human beings do not create our own security. You are our security, God.
You are the Maker of life, who shapes us and re-shapes us. All that is good and faithful comes from you. It is thanks to you, Ever-Creating God, that miracles blossom; that relationships are healthy; that sorrow receives comfort; that brokenness is healed; that souls purely love one another.
We are humbled by and thankful for your tender mercies, O God. Morning by morning, we seek you. Let your beauty be seen in us, we pray. Lead us as we continue on this life-long journey toward living as your children of grace. Amen.

*RESPONSE – We Are the Reason – #245

We are the reason that He gave His life,
We are the reason that He suffered and died.
To a world that was lost He gave all He could give,
To show us the reason to live.
(Sing two times)

GOD’S WORD– Exodus 17:1-7 – Sue Wilson

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 78:1-4, 12-16, 32, 37-39, 51-54 & Matthew 21:23-32 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

World Communion Sunday

*COMMUNION HYMN – Break Thou the Bread of Life – #175

Break Thou the Bread of Life, Dear Lord, to me,
As Thou didst break the loaves Beside the sea;
Beyond the sacred page I seek Thee, Lord;
My spirit pants for Thee, O Living Word.

Bless Thou the truth, dear Lord, To me, to me,
As Thou didst bless the bread By Galilee;
Then shall all bondage cease, All fetters fall,
And I shall find my peace My All in all.

Thou art the Bread of Life, O Lord, to me,
Thy holy Word the truth That saveth me;
Give me to eat and live With Thee above;
Teach me to love Thy truth, For Thou art Love.

Oh, send Thy Spirit, Lord, Now unto me,
That He may touch my eyes, And make me see;
Show me the truth concealed Within Thy Word,
And in Thy Book revealed I see the Lord.

INVITATION TO RECEIVE THE BREAD AND THE CUP

All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament at Christ’s Table. Cups in the outside ring on the communion tray contain grape juice. All other cups contain wine. Please come forward down the center aisle. Return to your seat by way of the West Side aisle.

*PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING AFTER COMMUNION
God, we are grateful. You welcome us into your Church. You welcome all people as guests at your table. We thank you, Christ Jesus, for this communion. The bread and the cup are simple yet marvelous reminders of your holy love. We pray for all people throughout your world this day. May each and every person joyously experience being fed, nourished, strengthened, and loved by you! Amen.

*HYMN – Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love – worship booklet, p. 57

Refrain:
Jesu, Jesu, fill us with your love,
show us how to serve the neighbors we have from you.

Kneels at the feet of his friends,
silently washes their feet,
Master who acts as a slave to them.
Refrain

Neighbors are wealthy and poor,
varied in color and race,
neighbors are near us and far away.
Refrain

These are the ones we should serve,
these are the ones we should love,
all these are neighbors to us and you.
Refrain

Loving puts us on our knees,
silently washing their feet,
this is the way we should live with you.
Refrain

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE

CCLI License #456361

Sept. 24 – Tensions in the Wilderness

A Warm Ivy Welcome and Thank You to Rev. Al Schon! We are grateful to you for leading us in worship this morning.

You can view today’s worship on our YouTube channel.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP – (Inspired by Psalm 145:1-8) – Rod Hertenstein
One: Bless the name of the Holy and Sovereign One forever and ever!
Many: Great is our God and greatly to be praised.
One: Bless the name of the Holy and Sovereign One forever and ever!
Many: This generation will tell the next generation so they may tell the
next generation of the Holy One’s magnificent and mighty acts.

One: Bless the name of the Holy and Sovereign One forever and ever!
Many: We declare the abundant goodness, gracious righteousness, and
holy love of our God. Praise the Holy One!

*HYMN – Blessed Quietness – #147

Joys are flowing like a river
Since the Comforter has come,
He abides with us forever,
Makes the trusting heart His home.

Refrain
Blessed quietness, holy quietness
What assurance in my soul!
On the stormy sea He speaks peace to me,
How the billows cease to roll!

Bringing life and health and gladness,
All around this heav’nly Guest,
Banished unbelief and sadness,
Changed our weariness to rest.

Like the rain that falls from heaven,
Like the sunlight from the sky,
So the Holy Ghost is given,
Coming on us from on high. [Refrain]

See, a fruitful field is growing,
Blessed fruit of righteousness,
And the streams of life are flowing
In the lonely wilderness. [Refrain]

What a wonderful salvation,
Where we always see His’s face!
What a perfect habitation,
What a quiet resting place! [Refrain]

*RESPONSIVE PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Rod Hertenstein
One: Mighty God, we enter your presence with thanksgiving and hope.
Many: You have formed us as your people.
One: You join us on the journey of life through valleys, upon mountains, and
on the plains.
Many: We set our attention and we seek your wisdom, encouragement,
and grace.

One: Reveal your will and display your glory among your people as we
worship your holy name.
Many: 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 – Exodus 16:2-15 – Rod Hertenstein

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 20:1-16 – Pastor Al Schon

SERMON – Pastor Al Schon

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Al Schon

*HYMN – Give to the Winds Your Fears – #458

Give to the winds your fears, Hope and be undismayed;
God hears thy sighs and counts thy tears; God shall lift up thy head.
Through waves and clouds and storms,He gently clears the way;
Wait for His time, so shall this night Soon end in joyous day.

Still heavy is your heart? Still sink your spirits down?
Cast off the weight, let fear depart, And every care be gone.
He everywhere has sway And all things serve His mind;
His every act pure blessing is, His path unsullied light.

Far, far above your thought His counsel shall appear,
When fully He the work hath wrought, That caused thy needless fear.
Leave to His sovereign will To choose and to command;
With wonder filled, you then shall own How wise, how strong His hand.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Al Schon

*POSTLUDE

August 27 – Be Transformed!

Welcome to Ivy Chapel! We are glad you have been called to be with us today. We invite you to be transformed by the connections you find here, be they in-person or virtual.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=PioR6EBWMmE%3Fsi%3DRAzeETCmAPtJ2C0n

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Musette – Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God visits the earth and softens dry ground with rainwater.
All: God gives life!
One: God heats us up. God cools us down.
All: Yes, we can “smell” rain, and we can “taste” grace!
One: God shapes us into instruments of peace.
All: We are many. We are one. This is God’s doing. And it is
marvelous!

*HYMN – Blessed Be the Name – #59

All praise to Him who reigns on high, In majesty supreme,
Who gave His Son for man to die, That He might man redeem.

Refrain:
Blessed be the name, Blessed be the name,
Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Blessed be the name, Blessed be the name,
Blessed be the name of the Lord.

His name above all names shall stand, Exalted more and more,
At God the Father’s own right hand, Where angel hosts adore. Refrain

Redeemer, Savior, Friend of man Once ruined by the fall,
Thou hast devised salvation’s plan, For Thou hast died for all. Refrain

His name shall be the Counsellor, The mighty Prince of Peace,
Of all earth’s kingdoms, Conqueror, Whose reign shall never cease. Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Creator God, we gather as people formed by you. At the moment of our birth, you drew us out of gestational waters. To this day, you are the One who gives us life and breath. You meet us in the sanctuary and on the sofa. You call each of us by name with purpose, care, and love. May our time together in this space, online or onsite, remind us of our connectedness to you, to each other, and to all creation.
Merciful God, may you be glorified, honored, and worshiped in spirit and in truth. May we be rooted, challenged, and encouraged during this time of worship. We welcome your presence among us now, Christ Jesus. We place our trust in you forever. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Jesus, Name Above All Names – #57

Jesus, name above all names:
Beautiful Savior, glorious Lord,
Emanuel, God is with us,
Blessed Redeemer, Living Word.

GOD’S WORD – Exodus 1:8-2:10

SPECIAL MUSIC – Deep River – Wolaver

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 124

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Take My Life and Let It Be – #436

Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in endless praise,
let them flow in endless praise.

Take my feet and let them be Swift and beautiful for Thee;
Take my voice and let me sing,
Always only, for my King,
Always, only, for my King.

Take my lips and let them be Filled with messages for Thee;
Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold,
Not a mite would I withhold.

Take my love, my God I pour At Thy feet its treasure store;
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Bachiana on an Ancient Chorale – Young

August 20 – Bold Moves

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! We glad to have you worshipping with us today. We hope you are able to stay cool this week. You can join us in person on 10 a.m. every Sunday, or on our YouTube channel.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Classic Trio – Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP (based on Psalm 67)
One: How beautiful it is when people live together in harmony!
All: It is like a summer rain which restores the parched earth.
One: This day is a Sabbath dedicated to God.
All: Let this gathering place be a home to all people.
One: God is gracious.
All: The earth yields blessings in abundance!
One: Together, let us give thanks!
All: Let all the ends of the earth praise God!

*HYMN – For the Beauty of the Earth – #64

For the beauty of the earth,
For the glory of the skies,
For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies.
Refrain:
Lord of all, to Thee we raise
This our hymn of grateful praise.

For the beauty of each hour ,
Of the day and of the night,
Hill and vale and tree and flower,
Sun and moon and stars of light,
Refrain

For the joy of ear and eye,
For the heart and mind’s delight,
For the mystic harmony
Linking sense to sound and sight,
Refrain

For the joy of human love,
Brother, sister, parent child,
Friends on earth and and friends above,
For all gentle, thoughts and mild,
Refrain

For each perfect gift of Thine
To our race so freely giv’n,
Graces human and divine,
Flow’rs of earth and buds of heav’n,
Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God, on this precious morning, we lift our hearts to you in praise! For always offering the world your love, we are grateful to you beyond words. During even the most difficult moments, you provide people with grace and strength. You never stop loving.
God our Savior, you call us to become your disciples, and you send us on missions of mercy. All that we are and have is a gift which we have received from you. We are blessed to be your servants.
God, you are our starting place and our ultimate destination. As each faith journey unfolds, we encounter you, Christ Jesus. From your life, we learn the way which you envision every human being will live. Following you changes us! It means losing our lives; denying ourselves; looking out for others; feeding; praying; caring; foot-washing; serving. In all that we do, may you be seen in us, Jesus. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – 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?

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody

*HYMN – Be Still, My Soul – #457

Be still, my soul! the Lord is on thy side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In ev’ry change He faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul! thy best, thy heav’nly Friend
Thro’ thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul! thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as He has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul! the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while He dwelt below.

Be still, my soul! the hour is hast’ning on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love’s purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul! when change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 67:1-2 & Isaiah 56:1, 3-7

SPECIAL MUSIC – Discipleship Medley – Tate

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 15:21-28

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE & THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – O God, Our Help in Ages Past – #67

O God, our help in ages past, Our hope for years to come,
Our shelter from the stormy blast, And our eternal Home!

Under the shadow of Thy throne Still may we dwell secure;
Sufficient is Thine arm alone, And our defense is sure.

Before the hills in order stood, Or earth received her frame,
From everlasting Thou art God, To endless years the same.

A thousand ages in Thy sight Are like an evening gone,
Short as the watch that ends the night, before the rising sun.

O God, our Help in ages past, our hope for years to come,
Be Thou our guide while life shall last, And our eternal home!

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Cathedral Fanfare – Young

August 13 – When All Seems Lost

We are glad you were called to worship with us today. We hope you find the order, peace and calm you need in your life among us.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude #15 – Chopin

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: You call us, O God.
All: Out of the order and the disorder of our lives,
One: out of the joy and the pain of being human;
All: you call us to sing your praises, and to become your people.
One: We hear you calling to us now.
All: We come to worship you, O God.

*HYMN – Jesus Calls Us – #533

Jesus calls us; o’er the tumult of our life’s wild, restless sea;
Day by day His sweet voice soundeth, saying, “Christian, follow me.”

Jesus calls us from the worship of the vain world’s golden store,
From each idol that would keep us, saying, “Christian, love me more.”

In our joys and in our sorrows, days of toil and hours of ease,
Still He calls, in cares and pleasures, “Christian, love Me more than these.”

Jesus calls us– by Thy mercies, Savior, may we hear Thy call;
Give our hearts to Thine obedience, serve and love Thee best of all.

*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Living and Holy God, we have come this morning to praise you, and we have come to re-dedicate our lives to serving you. Following you is a huge challenge. But we are here to proclaim that we’re going to try! When we fail, we will call on you for grace. When we follow faithfully, we will exalt your holy name! Fill us with your love. Be our Inspiration; be our Guide; be our Leader. Your life, Christ Jesus, is the life we want to live! Amen!

*RESPONSE – 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 – Genesis 37:1-4, 12-28

SPECIAL MUSIC – There Is a Balm – Leafitt

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 85:8-13 & Matthew 14:22-33

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

*HYMN – Love Lifted Me – #317

I was sinking deep in sin,
Far from the peaceful shore,
Very deeply stained within,
Sinking to rise no more;
But the Master of the sea
Heard my despairing cry,
From the waters lifted me–
Now safe am I.

Refrain:
Love lifted me, Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me;
Love lifted me, Love lifted me,
When nothing else could help,
Love lifted me.

All my heart to Him I give,
Ever to Him I’ll cling,
In His blessed presence live,
Ever His praises sing.
Love so mighty and so true
Merits my soul’s best songs;
Faithful, loving service, too,
To Him belongs. [Refrain]

Souls in danger, look above,
Jesus completely saves;
He will lift you by His love
Out of the angry waves.
He’s the Master of the sea,
Billows His will obey;
He your Savior wants to be–
Be saved today. [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Fugue – Pachelbel

August 6 – Face to Face

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Voluntary – Stanley

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Jan Wirtz
One: It only takes a spark to get a fire going.
All: That’s how it is with God’s love.
One: Once you’ve experienced it,
All: It’s fresh like spring.
One: You want to sing!
All: You want to pass it on!

*HYMN – The Old Rugged Cross – #247

On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suffering and shame;
And I love that old cross where the dearest and best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.

Refrain:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it some day for a crown.

O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary. [Refrain]

In the old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me. [Refrain]

To the old rugged cross I will ever be true,
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me some day to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share. [Refrain]

*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jan Wirtz
God of Many Names; you command us to come to you. Regrettably, there are times when we are doubtful of our ability to make this journey. At times, we are unsteady and our steps are uncertain. We long to have the faith in ourselves that you have in us, O Holy One. We give you thanks for blessing us with the faith to rise to each occasion when you invite us to serve you by joyfully giving away your love. Guide us as we continue seeking to live as your children; walking in your ways. We praise you for your eternal presence, Faithful God, accompanying us as we journey ahead into your future. We pray in your name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Great Is the Lord – #7
Great is the Lord, He is holy and just;
By His power we trust In His love.
Great is the Lord, He is faithful and true;
By His mercy He proves He is love.

Great is the Lord And worthy of glory!
Great is the Lord And worthy of praise.
Great is the Lord;
Now lift up your voice, Now lift up your voice:
Great is the Lord! Great is the Lord!

Great is the Lord, He is holy and just;
By His power we trust In His love.
Great is the Lord, He is faithful and true;
By His mercy He proves He is love.

Great are you Lord And worthy of glory!
Great are you Lord, And worthy of praise.
Great are you Lord:
I lift up my voice, I lift up my voice:
Great are you Lord! Great are you Lord!

GOD’S WORD – Genesis 32:22-31 – Jan Wirtz

SPECIAL MUSIC – Eucharistic Suite – Tate

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 55:1-9 & Matthew 14:13-21 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Here, O My Lord, I See Thee – #259

Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face;
Here would I touch and handle things unseen;
Here grasp with firmer hand th’eternal grace,
And all my weariness upon Thee lean.

Here would I feed upon the Bread of God;
Here drink with Thee the royal wine of heav’n;
Here would I lay aside each earthly load;
Here taste afresh the calm of sin forgiv’n.

I have no help but Thine; nor do I need
Another arm save Thine to lean upon;
It is enough, my Lord, enough indeed;
My strength is in Thy might, Thy might alone.

Mine is the sin, but Thine the righteousness;
Mine is the guilt, but Thine the cleansing blood.
Here is my robe, my refuge, and my peace;
They blood, Thy righteousness, O Lord, my God.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate Christ’s Extravagant Welcome through “open” Communion.
All who desire to receive are welcome to receive the bread and the cup.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Pass It On – #503

It only takes a spark to get a fire going,
And soon all those around can warm up in its glowing.
That’s how it is with God’s love once you’ve experienced it;
You spread His love to everyone; You want to pass it on.

What a wondrous time is spring when all the trees are budding,
The birds begin to sing, the flowers start their blooming.
That’s how it is with God’s love once you’ve experienced it;
You want to sing, it’s fresh like spring, You want to pass it on.

I wish for you, my friend, this happiness that I’ve found,
You can depend on Him, it matters not where you’re bound.
I’ll shout it from the mountain top – I want my world to know;
The Lord of love has come to me, I want to pass it on.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Right Now – Skillings/Bock

July 30 — Weaving the Future

View today’s Worship Here

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. 
Can’t make it to Ivy Chapel in person? 
You can join us online every week on our YouTube channel.”
Thank you to Bob Meinz for serving as our worship musician this morning!

 WELCOME                                                

 PRELUDE --  Just As I Am            

*CALL TO WORSHIP    
One:  Christ is near.
All:  Will we welcome him?
One:  When God shows up, surprising things happen!
All:  Let’s open wide our hearts.
One:  Let’s put down our burdens.
All:  Let’s set aside our distractions.
One:  Let’s simply delight in Christ’s presence!
All:  Nothing is too wonderful for God!

*HYMN-- Praise to the Lord, the Almighty #10 
Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, the King of creation!
O my soul, praise Him, for He is your health and salvation!
All ye who hear; now to His temple draw near,
Join me in glad adoration.

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

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

 Praise to the Lord! O let all that is in me adore Him!
All that hath life and breath, come now with praises before Him.
Let the Amen sound from His people again;
Gladly for aye we  adore Him.
                                 
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
     O Spirit, who accompanies us and who helps us in all of our struggles; we call on you in prayer.  You truly are our health and salvation!  In this experience of being together, during this time set apart for gathering side by side in community; we are reminded of how closely connected we are.  For this blessing, we praise you, O God!  You know us completely.  Teach us and guide us to keep growing in our relationship with you, God.  Lead us to rely on your astonishing promises.  Fill us with your grace.  May our dreams and visions be your dreams and visions, Faithful God.  Amen.

*RESPONSE -- 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

 GOD’S WORD -- Psalm 119:129-136

 CHILDREN’S MESSAGE-- Diann Sheahan

 GOD’S WORD -- Romans 8:26-39                              

 SPECIAL MUSIC  -- Lord, I Want to Be a Christian in My Heart   

 GOD’S WORD -- Matthew 13:31-33, 44-52                              

 SERMON   Pastor Dan               

 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE and THE LORD’S PRAYER

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION AND TABLE GRACE                                                    

*POSTLUDE --He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands  

July 23- Wheat and Weeds Together

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

View today’s worship.





Thank you to Bob Meinz for serving as our worship musician this morning!

 WELCOME   
                                             
 PRELUDE   
          
*CALL TO WORSHIP                                                                   
 One:  Come, sisters and brothers, everyone is welcome here!
 All:  God's people are many   –    of every land and every race; 
          of every age and every condition.
 One:  We gather to celebrate God's unbounded love.
 All:  God joins all people together into one community.  
                All people are God’s people!  Let us worship God together!

*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,
The pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruits in the garden,
He made them, ev’ry one. [Refrain]

He gave us eyes to them,
And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty,
Who has made all things well. [Refrain]
                                    


*PRAYER OF INVOCATION                                                          
        Living God, Maker and Caretaker of all life; the whole universe shouts with joy, praising you!  You have made us and we are yours.  We are blessed each time we are able to serve as your instruments.
        You fill the world with stunning beauty.  We are blown away by your artistry and your power, God.  The most exquisite works on earth shout your praises. 
        What a Kind and Gracious Savior you are!  Thank you, God, for gathering us today.  We are ready for action.  Teach us your ways, and lead us in living them!  Amen. 
  

*PRAISE RESPONSE  -- El Shaddai   -- #18 
El Shaddai, El Shaddai,
El-elyon na Adonia,
Age to age you're still the same,
By the power of the name.
El Shaddai, El Shaddai,
Erkamka na Adonai,
We will praise and lift you high,
El Shaddai.
  
 GOD’S WORD                               Psalm 86:11-17      
                            
 SPECIAL MUSIC                                                                                                        
 GOD’S WORD -- Romans 8:12-25; Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43

 SERMON -- Pastor Dan        
       
 PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

*HYMN -- Hymn of Promise   -- #277 
In the bulb, there is a flower
In the seed, an apple tree
In cocoons, a hidden promise
Butterflies will soon be free

In the cold and snow of winter
There's a spring that waits to be
Unrevealed until its season
Something God alone can see

There's a song in every silence
Seeking word and melody
There's a dawn in every darkness
Bringing hope to you and me

From the past will come the future
What it holds, a mystery
Unrevealed until its season
Something God alone can see

In our end is our beginning
In our time, infinity
In our doubt, there is believing
In our life, eternity
In our death, a resurrection
At the last, a victory

Unrevealed until its season
Something God alone can see

*BENEDICTION -- Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE                              

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