July 18 Livestream – Wherever You Are
July 17, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
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.
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
CCLI License #456361
July 4 Livestream – Healing Powers
July 3, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Happy Independence Day! We invite you to join us today for a patriotic hymn sing during worship. If you are joining us online, please also be sure to gather elements of communion so we can celebrate as one.
Unfortunately we ran into a technical glitch on Sunday, July 4 and were unable to capture the livestream of our worship service. Please join us next week!
July 4, 2021 – Healing Powers
The Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
WELCOME
PRELUDE
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: God is gracious and merciful.
All: God is abounding in steadfast love.
One: Come to the refreshing waters God provides.
All: Come, all who are weary and carrying heavy burdens.
One: The gentle Spirit of Christ invites us.
All: We have come to find rest for our souls.
*HYMN – Patriotic Hymn Sing
(verses 1 and 4 of each hymn)
America – #602
America the Beautiful – #600
The Battle Hymn of the Republic – #604
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
God of our ancestors, we worship you. We thank you for our precious homeland. Help us, Dear God, to continue moving toward a time when freedom truly will ring for all people. You are the One who clothes us with joy and fills us with hope. Yours is a love mightier than any danger or fear. We praise you for our nation. We praise you for this church. Fill us with life in this place so that we may learn to serve you in all places. You are God of the past and of the future. Lead us as you always have led your people, O God of Wisdom and Promise. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Gloria Patri – #620
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 30 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC
Valerie Waterman, Vocalist
Julie McAllister, Piano
GOD’S WORD – Mark 5:21-43 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – We Come As Guests Invited – #258
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
*Congregational Choice Hymn
This Is My Song – worship booklet, p. 88
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE
June 20 Livestream – In the Boat Together
June 19, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A Happy and Blessed Fathers Day. We hope this worship experience renews your body, mind and soul.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Over and over, Jesus comes down to the lakeshore.
All: All he’s asking is for us to follow.
One: The fullness of God is beyond us.
All: Yet, on occasion, we are given glimpses of God.
One: Jesus looks into our eyes and calls out our names.
All: God is with all people at all times.
*HYMN – Shout to the North (Martin Smith)
- Men of faith, rise up and sing Of the great and glorious King. You are strong when you feel weak
In your bro-ken-ness complete.
Shout to the north and the south; Sing to the east and the west;
Je-sus is Sav-ior to all, Lord of Heaven and earth!- Rise up, women of the truth. Stand and sing to bro-ken hearts,
Who can know the heal-ing pow’r
Of our awe-some King of love.
Shout to the north and the south; Sing to the east and the west;
Je-sus is Sav-ior to all, Lord of Heaven and earth!
We’ve been thru fire. We’ve been thru rain.
We’ve been re-fined by the pow’r of His name.
We’ve fal-len deep-er in love with you. You’ve burned the truth on our lips.
- Rise up, women of the truth. Stand and sing to bro-ken hearts,
- Rise up, Church with broken wings. Fill this place with songs again Of our God who reigns on high.
By His grace again we’ll fly!
Shout to the north and the south; Sing to the east and the west;
Je-sus is Sav-ior to all, Lord of Heaven and earth!
*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
We sing your praises, O God; for you are gracious to your children in the course of so many storms. When dangers threaten, you give us the strength to carry on. God of Peace, you are the One who enables us to give to the winds our fears. Because of you, we can trust and be un-afraid. You are a Compassionate God who fulfills each one of your promises.
We have come to worship you this morning, Eternal God. May we listen closely for your voice – the One True Voice, Merciful and Mighty; whom we frequently find difficult to hear. Like the wild and restless sea – may we be still; know that you are God; and obey you. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – God Will Make a Way – worship booklet, p. 44
God will make a way where there seems to be no way.
He works in ways we can not see,
He will make a way for me.
He will be my guide, hold me close-ly to His side,
With love and strength for each new day, He will make a way,
He will make a way.
GOD’S WORD – Job 38:1-7, 16-18 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Sue Wilson
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 107:1, 23-30 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – River in Judea –arr. Leavitt
Sarah Heend, Sue Wilson and Anna DiVesta, Vocalists
Aaron DiVesta, Saxophone
GOD’S WORD – Mark 4:35-41 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – Spirit – worship booklet, pp. 82-83
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You moved on the wa-ters, you called to the deep,
Then you coaxed up the moun-tains from the val-leys of sleep,
And o-ver the e-ons you called to each thing,
“A-wake from your slumbers and rise on your wings.â€
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You swept through the des-ert, you stung with the sand
And you gift-ed your peo-ple with a law and a land,
When they were con-found-ed with i-dols and lies,
Then you spoke through your proph-ets to o-pen their eyes
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You sang in a sta-ble, you cried from a hill,
Then you whis-pered in si-lence when the whole world was still
And down in the cit-y you called once a-gain
When you blew through your peo-ple on the rush of the wind.
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
You call from to-mor-row, you break an-cient schemes,
From the bond-age of sor-row the cap-tives dream dreams;
Our wom-en see vi-sions, our men clear their eyes.
With bold new de-ci-sions your peo-ple a-rise
Chorus: Spirit, Spirit of gen-tle-ness,
Blow through with wil-der-ness, call-ing and free,
Spirit, Spirit of rest-less-ness,
Stir me from plac-id-ness, wind, wind on the sea
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
June 6 Virtual Worship – The Will of God
June 5, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Are you ready and willing to fulfill the will of God? Join us as we hear Jesus’ words as we look for guidance and direction from our Creator.
June 6 Virtual Worship – T h e W i l l o f G o d
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Praise God, who fills hearts with joy!
All: Glory be to God!
One: Praise God, who fills the future with promise.
All: O give thanks to God; for God’s steadfast love endures forever!
*HYMN – All Things Bright and Beautiful – #65
REFRAIN
All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful; the Lord God made them all.
- Each little flow’r that opens, Each little bird that sings,
He made their glowing colors, He made their tiny wings.
REFRAIN
- The purple-headed mountain, The river running by,
The sunset, and the morning That brightens up the sky.
REFRAIN
- The cold wind in the winter, Then pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruit in the garden: He made them every one.
REFRAIN
- He gave us eyes to see them, And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty, Who has made all things well.
*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
God of steadfast love, we long for a clear understanding of your will. Our hearts seek you. Our ears listen closely for your voice. Guide us. May this time of worship draw us to you, Christ Jesus – blessing us with a sense of direction for our lives as vital parts of your whole Church. Renew us from within, we pray; so that nothing we face will frighten or discourage us. With amazement, we marvel at the splendor of your works, Creator God! Fill us with an ever-growing love for you. Amen.
*PRAISE RESPONSE – Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord; Open the eyes of my heart.
I want to see You, I want to see You, I want to see You.
Open the eyes of my heart, Lord; Open the eyes of my heart.
I want to see You, I want to see You.
To see you high and lifted up, Shining in the light of Your glory.
Pour out Your power and love As we sing holy, holy, holy.
REPEAT
Holy, Holy, Holy,
Holy, Holy, Holy,
Holy, Holy, Holy,
I want to see You.
REPEAT
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 130 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Dottie Foster
SPECIAL MUSIC – By His Grace (Tornquist) – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – Mark 3:20-35 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
*HYMN – One Bread, One Body – worship booklet, pp. 72-73
REFRAIN
One bread, one body, one Lord of all, one cup of blessing which we bless.
And we, though many throughout the earth,
we are one body in this one Lord.
- Gentile or Jew, servant or free, woman or man, no more.
REFRAIN
- Many the gifts, many the works, one in the Lord of all.
REFRAIN
- Grain for the fields, scattered and grown, gathered to one, for all.
REFRAIN
THE JOYFUL SACRAMENT OF COMMUNION
Responsive Invitation to Christ’s Table
One: Jesus Christ invites, “As you eat this bread, remember me.â€
All: Through the broken bread, we remember the sacrifice of Christ.
One: Jesus Christ invites, “As you drink this cup, remember me.â€
All: Through the communion cup, we remember the love of Christ.
One: The gifts of God for the people of God.
All: Thanks be to God. Our Savior welcomes everyone to this table!
*HYMN – I Then Shall Live – #133
- I then shall live as one who’s been forgiven;
I’ll walk with joy to know my debts are paid.
I know my name is clear before my Father;
I am His child, and I am not afraid.
So greatly pardoned, I’ll forgive my brother;
The law of love I gladly will obey. - I then shall live as one who’s learned compassion;
I’ve been so loved that I’ll risk loving, too.
I know how fear builds walls instead of bridges;
I dare to see another’s point of view.
And when relationships demand commitment,
Then I’ll be there to care and follow through. - Your kingdom come around and thru and in me,
Your pow’r and glory, let them shine thru me;
Your Hallowed Name, O may I bear with honor,
And may Your living Kingdom come in me.
The Bread of Life, O may I share with honor,
And may You feed a hungry world thru me.
*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
*POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
May 9 Livestream – “I have called you friends”
May 8, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
“I have called you friends,” Jesus says in today’s reading. Continue to hear Jesus’ words as He shares his love with us.
Special blessings this day to all of the mothers in this world.
“I have called you friends,†says Jesus.
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Let us gather in the Spirit of Christ.
All: We come in response to the One who calls us ‘friends’
One: Remember God’s love and faithfulness.
All: Let our hands reflect the life of our serving Savior.
One: Let our voices echo God’s praises!
All: Together, let us sing of God who is doing marvelous things!
HYMN – Shout to the Lord – worship booklet, pp. 80-81
My Jesus, My Savior, Lord, there is none like You;
All of my days I want to praise the wonders of Your mighty love.
My comfort, my Shelter, Tower of refuge and strength;
Let every breath, all that I am, never cease to worship You.
Shout to the Lord, all the earth, let us sing
Power and majesty, praise to the King;
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar
at the sound Your name.
I sing for joy at the work of Your hands,
Forever I’ll love You, forever I’ll stand;
Nothing compares to the promos I have in You.
UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
Faithful God, we worship you with joy! Even in the toughest times, your love holds us up. You bless all people. God of grace, you are the One who empowers us to care for one another with kindness. You watch over each one of your children throughout our lives. You have watched over us in the past. You are with each one of us now in the particular situations that we are facing.
Amazing God, we are grateful for your gifts. Come, Holy One, lift us. Raise us above taking so much for granted. Stir our voices to praise you out of sheer delight! Open our hearts to trust that you are leading us, especially in moments of difficulty or discouragement. In our doubts and in our fears, grant us your peace. Calm us. Reassure us that you are near. Christ Jesus, we rejoice that you are continuing to shape us into people who offer your grace and love to all. Amen.
PRAISE RESPONSE – O How He Loves You and Me – #254
- O how He loves you and Me, O how He loves you and me;
He gave HIs life – what more could He give?
O how He loves you, O how He loves me, O how He loves you and me! - Jesus to Calvary did go, His love for making to show;
What He did there bro’t hope from despair;
O how He loves you, O how He loves me, O how He loves you and me!
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 98 – Pastor Dan
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Linda Lowry
SPECIAL MUSIC – 10,000 Reasons – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – John 15:9-17 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE –Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors) – Pastor Dan
HYMN – What a Friend We Have in Jesus – #162
What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry Everything to God in Prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry Everything to God in prayer!
- Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged, Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows ur every weakness, Take it to the Lord in Prayer. - Are we weak and heavy laden, Cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge – Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee! Take it to the Lord in prayer,
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee, Thou wilt find a solace there.
POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
CCLI License #456361
April 25 Livestream – Enfolded By Love
April 24, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
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
- 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;
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
- 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.
- 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
Easter Livestream – He is Risen!
April 3, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
A tremendous discovery awaits on this Easter. Christ is not in the tomb. He is Risen!
Christ is risen! Hallelujah!
Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC!
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP – Pastor Dan
One: Rejoice! Today is Resurrection Day!
All: It’s a miracle!
One: Our Savior Jesus died on the cross.
All: He was dead. Now, he lives!
One: Christ is risen!
All: Christ is risen indeed! Hallelujah!
*HYMN – Here I Am to Worship – worship booklet, pp. 48-49
- Light of the World, You stepped down into darkness, opened my eyes, let me see.
Beauty that made this heart adore You, hope of a life spent with You.
So, here I am to worship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God,
And You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. - King of all days, O so highly exalted, glorious in heaven above,
Humbly You came to the Earth You created,
All for love’s sake became poor.
So, Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God.
And You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. And I’ll never know how much it cost to see my sin upon that cross.
And I’ll never know how much it cost to see my sin upon that cross. So, Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God.
And You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. So, Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down,
Here I am to say that You’re my God.
And You’re altogether lovely, altogether worthy, altogether wonderful to me. UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION Pastor Dan
God of Resurrection, we come gather to worship you, rejoicing over the miracle of Christ’s empty tomb! We come celebrating your Gospel that announces you are with us always as the Risen Christ. Thanks to your Resurrection, we realize that you truly have the power to give all people life eternal, God. As the Risen Christ, you bless us with faith and strength – even in times of despair, sorrow, fear, or overwhelming difficulty.
The tomb may be empty, but it is not silent. This morning, Jesus, your empty tomb joyously proclaims that you have risen from the dead! Christ Jesus, you are alive forevermore! Hallelujah! Amen! PRAISE RESPONSE – He Is Exalted! – worship booklet, p. 45
He is exalted, the King is exalted on high. I will praise Him.
He is exalted, forever exalted and I will praise His name!
He is the Lord. Forever His truth shall reign.
Heaven and earth rejoice in His holy name.
He is exalted, the King is exalted on high.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Anna DiVesta
GOD’S WORD – Romans 8:11, 31, 35-39 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – Agnus Dei
GOD’S WORD – Mark 16:1-8 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan
THE GIFTS OF GOD FOR THE PEOPLE OF GOD
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
UNISON PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING
The Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
HYMN – Our God Reigns – #290
- How lovely on the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, good news
Announcing peace, proclaiming news of happiness, Our God reigns, Our God reigns!
REFRAIN
Our God reigns! Our God reigns! Our God reigns! Our God reigns!
- He had no stately form, He had no majesty, The we should be drawn to Him.
He was despised and we took no account of Him,
Yet now he reigns with the Most High.
REFRAIN
- Out from the tomb He came with grace and majesty, He is alive, He is alive.
God loves us so, see here His hands, His feet, His side.
Yes, we know, He is alive.
REFRAIN
RESPONSIVE BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
One: Praise God!
All: Christ is risen!
One: Our Savior Jesus is alive!
All: Hallelujah!
POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
CCLI License #456361
March 28 Virtual Worship – Palm Sunday
March 27, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Join us to hear to hear the good word! Jesus is near! Hosanna! Hosanna in the Highest! Raise and wave your palms!
Here is today’s order for worship:
WELCOME
PRELUDE – Anna DiVesta
*CALL TO WORSHIP (adapted Isaiah 50:4-9) – Pastor Dan
One: Come to worship! Come; join in this chorus of Hosannas!
All: Come to let your tongue shout God’s praises!
One: Come to find your voice.
All: Come to hear the response.
One: Come to open your ears.
All: Come to listen.
One: Come to be healed by the silence.
All: Come to stand together.
One: Come to experience what words cannot express!
All: Come to find God.
HYMN – Make Way – worship booklet, p. 69
- Make way, make way, for Christ the King in splendor arrives.
Fling wide the gates and welcome him into your lives.
CHORUS
Make way, make way for the King of kings.
Make way, make way and let his kingdom in.
- He comes the broken hearts to heal the prisoners to free.
The deaf shall hear, the lame shall dance, the blind shall see.
CHORUS
- And those who mourn with heavy hearts, who weep and sigh;
with laughter, joy and royal crown he’ll beautify.
CHORUS
- We call you now to worship him as Lord of all,
to have no gods before him – their thrones must fall.
UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Pastor Dan
God of exceptional moments; this morning, we recall the electric celebration of people enthusiastically welcoming Jesus along the road to Jerusalem. What a moment! We can imagine ourselves swept up in the party atmosphere of that lively parade! We can feel your great power! We want to cut loose ourselves in ways that faithfully offer you praise! Your holy love reaches out and blesses everyone. Come close now. Ride down Kingshighway here in our fair city, Jesus. Enter Metro St. Louis this day. Hosanna! Come on, Jesus! We choose you to be the grand marshal of our next big parade. Save us, we beg you. Hosanna in the highest! Amen.
PRAISE RESPONSE – In the Name of the Lord – #19
- Ride on, ride on, O Savior King, To set the sinner free!
To sin cursed souls salvation bring And peace eternally!
Ride on to dark Gethsemane, To untold agony,
And on the cross of Calvary Procure our victory! - Ride on, ride on, O Savior King, To claim the hearts of men!
Now death has lost its dreadful sting And hope is born again.
O come, in human hearts to reign Suppress the pow’r of sin!
Our own endeavor is in vain; Lord, You must help us win! - Ride on, ride on, O Savior King! Ride on o’er land and sea,
For You alone to man can bring Eternal liberty.
Ride on to sinbound nations, Lord, Until each heart shall own
Your saving, sanctifying word and bow before Your throne!
There is strength in the name of the Lord;
There is pow’r in the name of the Lord;
There is hope in the name of the lLord!
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord.
CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Jo Ann Moody
GOD’S WORD – Psalm 118:1, 21-29 – Pastor Dan
SPECIAL MUSIC – Holy City – Marsha Fix, Vocalist
GOD’S WORD – Mark 11:1-11 – Pastor Dan
SERMON – Pastor Dan
PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH – Pastor Dan – Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)
HYMN – Ride On, Ride On, O Savior King – #236
BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
POSTLUDE – Anna DiVesta
CCLI License #456361​​
Feb. 17 Livestream – Ash Wednesday
February 17, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
Join us as we begin the Lenten journey together.
Prelude – Anna DiVesta
Call to Worship and Prayer of Invocation – Pastor Dan
One: Turn away from evil; and return to your God.
All: God is gracious and merciful;
One: God is slow to anger,
All: And abounding in steadfast love.
One: “Now,†says the Holy One, “return to me with all your heart.â€
All: Be still; and know that I am God.
One: Let us pray.
All: God of wisdom and grace; you are the reservoir from whom all people receive life.
We come this night seeking to return to you, O God.
Bless this Ash Wednesday worship; we pray, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Hymn – Jesus, I Come – #369
Responsive Call to Confession – Pastor Dan
One: Holy God, Maker of all;
All: Jesus Christ, Savior of all;
One: Holy Spirit, breath of life;
All: Have mercy on us. Let us confess our sins.
Prayer of Confession – Pastor Dan
One: Let us pray.
All: God of wisdom and grace; you are acquainted with all our ways.
As we take this first step on a crucial Lenten spiritual journey, we turn to you in prayer. Come, O Holy Spirit; in your cleansing power, breathe on us and fill us with life anew. God of forgiveness and grace, we confess that we have sinned in thought, word, and action. We admit that we have failed to live by your Gospel of joy and lovingkindness. Forgive us, we pray.
Lead us to honor you, Jesus, by walking in your way of goodness and compassion. We call on you now, Dear Savior, asking for these blessings:
mend us, fill us,
send us, use us.
This we pray in your holy name, Christ Jesus. Amen.
Silence
Assurance of Pardon – Pastor Dan
We are tempted often to hold on to the past.
But God calls us to leave it behind.
By the grace of our Risen Savior, the past is dead and gone.
The future is open! Let us live in the freedom which God offers.
Through our Savior Jesus Christ, we are forgiven. Thanks be to God! Amen!
Response – Change My Heart, O God – worship booklet, p. 33
Scripture Reading – Joel 2:1-5, 10, 12-13 – Pastor Dan
The Imposition of Ashes – Pastor Dan
Special Music– The Old Rugged Cross – Anna DiVesta and Aaron DiVesta
Scripture Reading – Psalm 51:1-4, 6-12 – Pastor Dan
The Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors) – Pastor Dan
Hymn – More Love to Thee – #428
Benediction – Pastor Dan
Postlude – Anna DiVesta
Jan. 31 Livestream – Power
January 31, 2021 by Rich
Filed under Featured, Livestream Links and Order for Worship
As we pray for the health and safety of our world, we reflect on the peace we can find through God, and how His leadership will show us the way forward.
The Ivy Chapel Board of Deacons, working with the virtual worship team, is continuing to watch case numbers, hospitalizations and vaccination rates across our area to create a strategy for returning to in-person worship. We hope to make an announcement soon with more details.
Here’s this week’s order for worship:
Prelude – Anna DiVesta
Responsive Call to Worship – Pastor Dan Wilson
One: Come to Christ, the Living One,
All: Rejected by the world, but in God’s sight chosen and precious.
One: The Messiah that God promised has arrived!
All: Be glad, and celebrate!
One: New life is rising among us!
All: We rejoice at the miraculous ways God brings creation alive!
One: Come! And hear God’s Word for our day.
All: How majestic is God’s name in all the earth!
Prayer of Invocation – Pastor Dan
One: Let us pray.
All: God of Power and Might; your wisdom is beyond ours. Your patience surpasses ours. Your compassion exceeds ours. We continue finding ourselves amazed by you, Living God. This morning, we join together to praise you.
Christ Jesus, your life, death and resurrection are our model for faithful discipleship. Strengthen us, we pray, as we seek to walk in your ways: living wisely, patiently, and compassionately. Fill us, we pray, with your Spirit of unselfishness and love. Amen.
Hymn – “Holy, Holy, Holy†– #2
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
Early in the morning our song shall rise to Thee;
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and might!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
Holy, holy, holy! all the saints adore Thee,
Casting down their golden crowns around the glassy sea;
Cherubim and seraphim falling down before Thee,
Which wert and art, and evermore shalt be.
Holy, holy, holy! though the darkness hide Thee,
Though the eye of sinful man Thy glory may not see,
Only Thou art holy; there is none beside Thee,
Perfect in pow’r, in love, and purity.
Holy, holy, holy! Lord God Almighty!
All Thy works shall praise Thy name, in earth and sky, and sea;
Holy, holy, holy! merciful and mighty!
God in three persons, blessed Trinity!
Children’s Message – Anna DiVesta Scripture Reading – Psalm – Pastor Dan
Special Music – “All Hail King Jesus with Majestyâ€
Scripture Reading – Mark 1:21-28 – Pastor Dan
Sermon – Pastor Dan
Prayers of God’s Church concluding with the Lord’s Prayer – Pastor Dan
Hymn – “How Majestic Is Your Name†– #9
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth.
O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is Your name in all the earth.
O Lord, we praise Your name. O Lord, we magnify Your name,
Prince of peace, Mighty God’ O Lord God Almighty.
Benediction – Pastor Dan
Postlude – Anna DiVesta