Jan. 23 Livestream – Jesus of Nazareth, the Prophecy Powerfully Fulfilled

Today, we celebrate how the love of God brings us together to do His work, not as individuals, but as a community.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Softly and Tenderly – Hustad

CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP
One: We gather together to worship God.
All: We are God’s people. The Spirit of God is upon us.
One: God anoints us to bring good news to all people.
All: This day is holy to our Resurrecting God.
One: God binds us together as many parts of one body.
All: Together, we become the Body of Christ.
One: This day is holy to our Supreme God.
All: The joy of God is our strength.

HYMN – We Come, O Christ, to You – #289
We come, O Christ, to You, True Son of God and man,
By Whom all things consist, In Whom all life began;
In You alone we live and move, And have our being in Your love.

You are the Way to God, Your blood our ransom paid;
In You we face our Judge And Maker unafraid.
Before the throne absolved we stand, Your love has met Your law’s demand.

You are the living Truth! All wisdom dwells in You,
The Source of every skill The One Eternal True!
O great I AM! In You we rest, Sure answer to our every quest.

You only are true Life, To know You is to live
The more abundant lifeThat earth can never give;
O risen Lord! We live in You, in us each day Your life renew!

We worship You, Lord Christ, Our Savior and our King,
To You our youth and strength Adoringly we bring;
So fill our hearts, that all may view Your life in us, and turn to You!

OPENING PRAYER
O God, our Creator; you bring separate lives together. You gather us to hear your Word and to respond. You bless us by inviting us to carry out your ministries. We seek your guidance and your wisdom. Above all, God, we seek you. Help us to perceive who reveal yourself to be. Guide us. With your help, we hope to become your faithful disciples. Transform us from lone individuals into one community – the Body of Christ.
O God, your Spirit is upon us. Your joy is our strength. Bind us together. Amen.

PRAISE RESPONSE – Spirit of the Living God – #150

Spirit of the living God, Fall fresh on me. Spirit of the living God, Fall fresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me. Spirit of the living God, Fall fresh on me.

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 61:1-4, 9-11 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Shout to the Lord – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – Luke 4:14-21 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan
                             
HYMN – We Are God’s People – #117

We are God’s people, the chosen of the Lord,
Born of HIs Spirit, established by His word;
Our cornerstone is Christ alone, And strong in Him we stand:
O let us live transparently, And walk heart to heart and hand to hand.

We are God’s loved ones, the Bride of Christ our Lord,
For we have known it, the love of God outpoured;
Now let us learn how to return Then gift of love once given:
O let us share each hoy and care, And live with a zeal that pleases Heav’n.

We are the Body of which the Lord is Head,
Called to obey Him, now risen from the dead;
He wills us be a family diverse yet truly one:
O let us give our gift to God, and so shall His work on earth be done.

We are a Temple, the Spirit’s dwelling place.
Formed in great weakness, a cup to hold God’s grace;
We die alone, for on its own Each ember loses fire:
Yet joined in one the flame burns on To give warmth and light, and to inspire.

SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan
God sends us into the world to be ‘God’s people’ joyfully offering everyone Christ’s love.

POSTLUDE – A Trumpet Postlude – Hegarty

Jan. 9 Livestream – A Star Appeared

Today, we reflect on the story of the wise men who followed the star to see the newborn King.

Jan. 9 Livestream – A Star Appeared

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Choral: Vom Himmel hoch – Pachelbel 

*CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP   

     One:  Let us bow down in awe before the One who created us!

     All:  God is the Mighty Creator of all life.

     One:  God speaks out and reaches out to strengthen us.

     All:  God sends light to shine in darkness.

     One:  God sends Christ to calm this world’s turbulent seas.

     All:  God takes care of us  –  calming our fears and giving us faith.

     One:  Praise God for offering us so much!

     All:  God our Maker blesses us with life. Let us sing!

*HYMN – We Three Kings – #220    

We three kings of Orient are, Bearing gifts we traverse afar
Field and fountain, for 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.
Born a King of Bethlehem’s plain, Gold I bring to crown Him again, 
King forever, ceasing never Over us all to reign.

REFRAIN

Frankincense to offer have I, Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, all men raising, Worship Him, God on high.

REFRAIN

Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume Breathes a life of gathering gloom;
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, Sealed in the stone cold tomb.

REFRAIN

Glorious now behold I’m arise, King and God and Sacrifice;
Alleluia, Alleluia! Peals through the earth and skies.

*OPENING PRAYER                                                         

       Eternal God, Spirit of life; you moved over the face of the waters at the beginning of time itself. From generation to generation, you are God. Your being is too vast for us to fathom. Your thoughts and your ways are higher than ours. We share the amazement of the psalmist who marvels, “Your thoughts, O God; how vast is the sum of them. Try to count them. They are more than the sand!” Bless us as we gather here. This is holy ground, and with you, Christ Jesus, each day is a new day to be born. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Angels We Have Heard on High (Verses 1 and 3) – #206

Angels we have heard on high, Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply Echo back their joyous strains.

REFRAIN

Gloria in excelsis Deo, Gloria in excelsis Deo.
Come to Bethlehem, and see Him whose birth the angels sing;
Come, adore on bended knee Christ the Lord, the newborn King.

INSTALLATION OF 2022 IVY CHAPEL UCC OFFICERS                                                         

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 60:1-6 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Gésu Bambino (Marsha Fix and Valerie Waterman, Vocalists) – Pietro Yon    

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 2:1-12 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – What Child Is This? – #202 

What Child is this, who, laid to rest, On Mary’s lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, While shepherd watch are keeping?

REFRAIN

This, this is Christ the King, Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
This, this is Christ the King, The babe, the Son of Mary.

Why lies He in such mean estate Where ox and ass are feeding??
Good Cristian, fear; for sinners here The silent Word is pleading.

REFRAIN

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh, Come, peasant, king, to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings, Let loving hearts enthrone Him.

REFRAIN

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

*HYMN – As with Gladness Men of Old – #219

As with gladness men of old Did the guiding star behold;
As with joy they hailed its light, Leading onward, beaming bright,

So, most gracious Lord, may we Evermore be led to Thee.
As with joyful steps they sped To that lowly manger bed,
There to bend the knee before Him whom heav’n and earth adore,
So, may we with willing feet Ever seek the mercy seat.
As the offered gifts most rare At the manger rude and bare,
So may we with holy joy, Pure and free from sin’s alloy,
All our costliest treasures bring, Christ, to Thee our heav’nly King.
Holy Jesus, every day Keep us in the narrow way;
And when earthly things are past, Bring our ransomed souls at last
Where they need no star to guide, Where no clouds Thy glory hide.

*SENDING OUT – God sends us into the world joyously to offer Christ’s grace and love! – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Allegretto – Schmid 

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July 25 Livestream – God’s Abundant Presence!

With God, anything is possible! Join us and hear how God’s abundant presence can have meaning in your life.

This week’s order for worship:

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth!
All: O sing a new song; for God has done marvelous things!
One: Sing God’s praises!
All: We rejoice! Christ is our Guide and our Savior!
One: Let’s praise God with our words, our actions, our whole lives.
All: Let’s start by singing together!

*HYMN – Great Is Thy Faithfulness – #17

1. Great is Thy faith-ful-ness, O God my Fa-ther,
   There is no shad-ow of turn-ing with Thee;
   Thou chang-est not, Thy com-pas-sions they fail not;
   As Thou hast been Thou for-ev-er wilt be.

Refrain
Great is Thy faith-ful-ness!
Great is Thy faith-ful-ness!
Morn-ing by morn-ing new mer-cies I see;
All I have need-ed Thy hand hath pro-vid-ed
Great is Thy faith-ful-ness, Lord, un-to me!

2. Sum-mer and win-ter, and springtime and har-vest,
   Sun, moon and stars in their cours-es a-bove
   Join with all na-ture in man-i-fold wit-ness
   To Thy great faith-ful-ness, mer-cy and love.

Refrain

3. Par-don for sin and a peace that en-dur-eth,
   Thy own dear pres-ence to cheer and to guide;
   Strength for to-day and bright hope for to-mor-row,
   Bless-ings all mine, with ten thou-sand be-side!

Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
God, you are the Creator of the whole universe. In astonishing fashion, you carefully watch over everything that you make. We value all that we learn from you. May we continue growing to trust you more. Through your life, Christ Jesus; we see that you share your love with everyone. Each person is precious to you. May we respond by following your path – the way of self-giving love. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Give Thanks – worship booklet, p.42

Give thanks with a grate-ful heart,
Give thanks to the Ho-ly One,
Give thanks be-cause He’s giv-en Je-sus Christ His Son
Give thanks with a grate-ful heart,
Give thanks to the Ho-ly One,
Give thanks be-cause He’s giv-en 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,”
Be-cause of what the Lord has done for us.
Give thanks, give thanks.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody

HYMN – Be Not Afraid – worship booklet, pp. 30-31

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 145:10-18 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Everlasting – Colton Burton, Vocalist

GOD’S WORD – John 6:1-21 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ – worship booklet, p. 64

1. Let us tal-ents and tongues em-ploy,
   Reach-ing out with a shout of joy:
   Bread is bro-ken, the win is poured,
   Christ is spo-ken and seen and heard.

Refrain:
Je-sus lives a-gain, earth can breathe a-gain,
Pass the Word a-round: loaves a-bound!
Je-sus lives a-gain, earth can breathe a-gain,
Pass the Word a-round: loaves a-bound!

2. Christ is a-ble to make us one,
   At his ta-ble he set the tone,
   Teach-ing peo-ple to live to bless,
   Love in word and in deed ex-press.

Refrain

3. Je-sus calls us in, sends us out
   Bear-ing fruit in a world of doubt,
   Gives us love to tell, bread to share:
   God (Im-man-u-el) ev-ery-where!

Refrain

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta

July 18 Livestream – Wherever You Are

Do not be afraid! Wherever you are, no matter how stormy the seas, God is with you.

You are welcome to join us in person at 10 a.m., or during our virtual worship beginning around 10 a.m. on Sunday.

You can watch this week’s worship or previous week’s services on our YouTube channel. A link to this week’s livestream will be added once worship begins.

PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Where do you belong? Think about a place where you belong.
All: Love is patient. Love is kind.
One: What do you love about that place?
All: Love is not envious, or boastful, or arrogant, or rude.
One: How do you feel when you go there and you are welcomed?
All: Love is not irritable. Love does not seek its own advantage.
One: Love bears all things, believes all things,
hopes all things, endures all things.
All: We are each a part of God’s creation.
One: All people are treasured parts of God’s creation.
All: With God, all belong and all are welcomed as we are!

HYMN – Here I Am to Worship – worship booklet, pp. 48-49

Light of the World, You stepped down in-to dark-ness
O-pened my eyes, let me see.
Beau-ty that made this heart a-dore You,
Hope of a life spent with You.

So, here I am to wor-ship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God.
And You’re al-to-geth-er love-ly, al-to-geth-er wor-thy,
Al-to-geth-er won-der-ful to me.

King of all days, oh so high-ly ex-al-ted,
Glo-rious in heav-en a-bove.
Hum-bly You came to the Earth You cre-a-ted,
All for love’s sake be-came poor.

So, here I am to wor-ship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God.
And You’re al-to-geth-er love-ly, al-to-geth-er wor-thy,
Al-to-geth-er won-der-ful to me.

And I’ll nev-er know how much it cost
To see my sin up-on that cross
And I’ll nev-er know how much it cost
To see my sin up-on that cross.

So here I am to wor-ship,
Here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God.
And You’re al-to-geth-er love-ly, al-to-geth-er wor-thy,
Al-to-geth-er wonderful to me.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
Living God, we come to you now. We are here to worship you. We need your grace and guidance. There are times when we stray from you. Too often, we fail to embrace the rhythms of life which you provide, God. We allow ourselves to be thrown off stride from the pace that you would have us walk, and we race on ahead at full speed. Being in a hurry has led us and others to become lost on paths that do not follow your way.
God of steadfast love, may we use all of our senses to learn from you. Help us take the risks that go along with letting you lead, Eternal God. Guide us to live in rhythm with you, Christ Jesus; so that we may love extravagantly and give joyfully as you do. 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

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Anna DiVesta

*HYMN – I Sing the Almighty Power of God – #6

I sing th’al-might-y pow’r of God That made the mountains rise,
That spread the flow-ing seas a-broad And built the loft-y skies
I sing the wis-dom that or-dained The sun to rule the day;
The moon shines full at His com-mand And all the stars o-bey.

I sing the good-ness of the Lord That filled the earth with food;
He formed the crea-tures with His word And then pro-nounced them good.
Lord, how Thy won-ders are dis-played Where-e’er I turn my eye,
If I sur-vey the ground I tread Or gaze up-on the sky!

There’s not a plant or flow’r be-low But makes Thy glo-ries known;
And clouds a-rise and tem-pests blow By or-der from Thy throne;
While all that bor-rows life from Thee Is ev-er in Thy care,
And ev-ery-where that man can be, Thou, God, art pres-ent there.

GOD’S WORD – 2 Samuel 7:1-13, 16-17 & Psalm 89:1-2, 19-29 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Forever – Anna DiVesta

GOD’S WORD – Mark 6:45, 53-56 Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS – Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors) – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Hymn of Promise – #277
In the bulb there is a flow-er; In the seed, an ap-ple tree;
In co-coons, a hid-den prom-ise; But-ter-flies will soon be free!
In the cold and snow of win-ter There’s a spring that waits to be,
Un-re-vealed un-til its sea-son, Some-thing God a-lone can see

There’s a song in ev-ery si-lence, Seek-ing word and mel-o-dy;
There’s a dawn in ev-ery dark-ness, Bring-ing hope to you and me.
From the past will come the fu-ture; What it holds, a mys-ter-y.
Un-re-vealed un-til its sea-son, Some-thing God a-lone can see.

In our end is our be-gin-ning; In our time, in-fin-i-ty.
In our doubt there is be-liev-ing; In our life, e-ter-ni-ty.
In our death a res-ur-rec-tion; At the last, a vic-to-ry.
Un-re-vealed un-til its sea-son, Some-thing God a-lone can see.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta

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July 4 Livestream – Healing Powers

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

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)

1. 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!
   2. 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.
2. 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.”

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

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.

1. Each little flow’r that opens, Each little bird that sings,
   He made their glowing colors, He made their tiny wings.

REFRAIN

2. The purple-headed mountain, The river running by,
   The sunset, and the morning That brightens up the sky.

REFRAIN

3. The cold wind in the winter, Then pleasant summer sun,
   The ripe fruit in the garden: He made them every one.

REFRAIN

4. 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.

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

REFRAIN

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

REFRAIN

3. 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.”
All: Through the broken bread, we remember the sacrifice of Christ.
One: Jesus Christ invites, “As you drink this cup, remember me.”
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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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

UPDATED: How to join us for worship

The world continues to change around us – but we want you to know you are always welcome at Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. This is the core of who we are – and even as it seems like things are pushing us apart, we want it to be easy to bring everyone together.

We gather for worship every Sunday at 10 a.m. If you know Ivy Chapel, that sometimes means 10:02 a.m. or even 10:05. Check our Facebook page for updates – we’ll post there if there is a delay.

Here’s how to join us:

In person
You can join us in the sanctuary for worship each Sunday as long as the COVID-19 numbers do not spike again in St. Louis County. Masks are required while you are in the building and you will be seated in a socially distanced manner. Reservations are no longer required. You may join us anytime you want.

Online
We have recently started using a new AV system which changed how we stream worship. Worship will stream live on the Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ YouTube channel. You will find links at the top of this site and on our Facebook page.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us. We’re ready to help you find a way to worship with us that works for you.

May 9 Livestream – “I have called you friends”

“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

1. 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!
2. 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!

2. 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.
3. 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

April 25 Livestream – Enfolded By Love

Springtime greetings to all! We are the sheep of God’s pasture, and we are grateful for God’s loving care.

If you’re having trouble hearing the service, please double check both the volume on your device and on YouTube. These settings are independent. If you’re still having trouble, please let us know.

Enfolded By Love

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC.
Springtime greetings to all! We are the sheep of God’s pasture, and we are grateful for God’s loving care.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: The Good Shepherd invites us to green pastures.
All: We are refreshed beside still waters.
One: We have been given all that we possess.
All: God provides everything that we need. And more!
One: In every valley that we encounter – God is with us.
All: We are comforted and reassured.
One: God leads us on the path of life.
All: Our cup overflows.
One: We receive from God in abundance.
All: Let us joyfully share this abundance!

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

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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;
   Thy blood, Thy righteousness, O Lord, my God.
   
   UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
   Good Shepherd, you have enabled us to gather this day for worship. We are deeply grateful to be known and loved by you. We praise you, O God, for your sacred gift of life! This morning, we pray that you will bless us with guidance for living as your people.
   Gentle Shepherd, you tirelessly watch over all your sheep. In turn, you ask us to care for one another in life-giving ways. Help us to grow in love that displays genuine caring and self-sacrifice. May we humbly accept the roles that you give us to fulfill, Dear God. Equip us for your service everywhere you lead us. Amen.
   
   PRAISE RESPONSE – Gentle Shepherd – #450

Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us, For we need You to help us find our way.
Gentle Shepherd, come and feed us, For we need Your strength from day to day.
There’s no other we can turn to Who can help us face another day;
Gentle Shepherd, come and lead us, For we need You to help us find our way.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Linda Lowry

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 23 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – “Held” – Anna DiVesta

GOD’S WORD – John 10:11-18 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan – Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

HYMN – Spirit Song – worship booklet, pp. 84-85

1. O let the Son of God enfold you with his Spirit and his love,
   let Him fill your life and satisfy your soul.
   O let him have the things that hold you and his Spirit, like a dove,
   will descend upon your life and make you whole.

REFRAIN
Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs.
Jesus, O Jesus, come and fill your lambs.

2. O come and sing this song with gladness as your hearts are filled with joy,
   lift your hands in sweet surrender to his name.
   O give him all your tears and sadness, give him all your years of pain
   and you’ll enter into life in Jesus’ name.

REFRAIN

BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

POSTLUDE Anna DiVesta

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