February 25 – Always Close

Today, we ask for God’s guidance as we come together on this second Sunday of Lent, moving ever closer to Resurrection Day.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — He Leadeth Me

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jan Wirtz
One: In Christ, God has given us a holy invitation.
All: We are invited to walk with God.
One: Turn to God, all the earth.
All: God not only speaks, but God also listens.
One: God hears our prayers, and God answers.
All: Let us exalt God with our praises!

*HYMN — Have Thine Own Way, Lord — #414

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Thou art the potter, I am the clay.
Mold me and make me after Thy will,
While I am waiting, yielded and still.

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Search me and try me, Master, today!
Whiter than snow, Lord, wash me just now,
As in Thy presence humbly I bow.

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Wounded and weary, help me I pray!
Power, all power, surely is Thine!
Touch me and heal me, Savior divine!

Have thine own way, Lord! Have thine own way!
Hold o’er my being absolute sway!
Fill with Thy Spirit till all shall see
Christ only, always, living in me!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jan Wirtz
God, we turn to you in prayer this morning. Come, Holy Spirit, be with us in worship today. You alone are our Creator and our Savior, Dear God. We are hungry to know you more fully and to serve you more completely. We treasure the astounding promises which you fulfilled in the lives of our ancestors and which you are fulfilling in our lives.
God, we praise you for gathering us together here. We come, seeking your guidance and your blessing. Fill us with your Spirit. Make us instruments of your love and grace.
God, full of compassion; lead us and be our peace on the journey. Amen.

*RESPONSE — O How He Loves You and Me — #254

Oh, how He loves you and me,
Oh, how He loves you and me.
He gave His life, what more could He give;
Oh, how He loves you,
Oh, how He loves me,
Oh, how He loves you and me.

Jesus to Calv’ry did go,
His love for mankind to show.
What He did there, brought hope from despair.
Oh, how He loves you,
Oh, how He loves me,
Oh, how He loves you and me.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 22:23-31 — Jan Wirtz

SPECIAL MUSIC — The Old Rugged Cross

GOD’S WORD — Mark 8:31-35 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — Wherever He Leads I’ll Go — #543

“Take up thy cross and follow Me, ”I heard my Master say;
“I gave My life to ransom thee, Surrender your all today”

Refrain:
Wherever He leads I’ll go, Wherever He leads I’ll go,
I’ll follow my Christ who loves me so, Wherever He leads, I’ll go.

He drew me closer to His side, I sought His will to know,
And in that will, I now abide, Wherever He leads, I’ll go [Refrain]

It may be through the shadows dim, Or o’er the stormy sea,
I take my cross and follow Him, Wherever He leadeth me. [Refrain]

My heart, my life, my all I bring To Christ who loves me so;
He is my Master, Lord, and King, Wherever He leads I’ll go. [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross

Feb 18 – God’s Loving Paths

WELCOME

PRELUDE– Spirit of the Living God

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God has blessed us with the gift of this precious morning.
All: This blessing raises our spirits!
One: Today, we praise our Ever-Faithful God.
All: This week, we have entered into a new season.
One: Our 40-day spiritual journey to Resurrection Day has begun.
All: As we navigate this wilderness, Eternal God is our compass.
One: Let us return to God our Savior.
All: God will put a new and right spirit within us.

*HYMN–My Faith Looks Up to Thee –#462

My faith looks up to Thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine!
Now hear me while I pray, Take all my guilt away,
Oh, let me from this day Be wholly Thine!
May Thy rich grace impart Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire!
As Thou hast died for me, Oh, may my love toThee
Pure, warm, and changeless be, A living fire!
While life’s dark maze I tread, And griefs around me spread,
Be Thou my guide;
Bid darkness turn to day, Wipe sorrow’s tears away,
Nor let me ever stray From Thee aside.
When ends life’s transient dream, When death’s cold, sullen stream
Shall o’er me roll;
Blest Savior, then in love, Fear and distrust remove;
Oh, bear me safe above, A ransomed soul!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of Quiet Strength, we cannot resist evil completely by ourselves. Earthly temptations are around us everywhere. How can we deal with these temptations? We rely on you for help, Great God. You are always present; living among us; living within us. We are deeply grateful to be in your care.
God of Quiet Strength, help us to be still before you – – putting aside our cares and our distresses. In the stillness and in the beauty of this morning, may we be reminded that you are God. You repeatedly invite us to follow you. So then, Christ Jesus; come now, and fill us with the faith to receive your remarkable gift of life eternal. Amen.

*RESPONSE –Teach Me Thy Way, O Lord — #424

Teach me Thy way, O Lord; teach me thy way!
Thy guiding grace afford; teach me thy way!
Help me to walk aright, more by faith, less by sight;
Lead me with heav’nly light; teach me Thy way!

When I am sad at heart, teach me Thy way!
When earthly joys depart, teach me Thy way!
In hours of loneliness, in times of dire distress,
In failure or success, teach me Thy way!

When doubts and fears arise, teach me Thy way!
When storms o’erspread the skies, teach me Thy way!
Shine thro’ the cloud and rain, thro’ sorrow, toil, and pain;
Make Thou my pathway plain; teach me Thy way!

Long as my life shall last, teach me Thy way!
Where’er my lot be cast, teach me Thy way!
Until the race is run, until the journey’s done,
Until the crown is won, teach me Thy way!

GOD’S WORD— Psalm 25:1-10

SPECIAL MUSIC –Great Is Thy Faithfulness

GOD’S WORD — Mark 1:9-15

SERMON -Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN –Grace Greater Than Our Sin– #383

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount out-poured–
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.

Refrain:
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin!

Sin and despair, like the sea-waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater– yes, grace untold–
Points to the Refuge, the mighty Cross. [Refrain]

Dark is the stain that we cannot hide,
What can avail to wash it away?
Look! There is flowing a crimson tide;
Whiter than snow you may be today. [Refrain]

Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
All who are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive? [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION–Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — O Master, Let Me Walk with Thee

 

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  


                    

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 2 – Holy Welcome

Praise God for Christ’s gifts of astonishing grace and love! Thank you for joining us on this joyful holiday weekend.

Today we will celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion. All are welcome at God’s table. Please gather the elements as worship begins so you may partake with us.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude on an American Folk Medley – Hebble

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Rod Hertenstein
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

My country, ’tis of thee, Sweet land of liberty,
Of thee I sing;
Land where my fathers died, Land of the pilgrims’ pride,
From ev’ry mountainside Let freedom ring!

Our fathers’ God to Thee, Author of liberty,
To Thee we sing.
Long may our land be bright, With freedom’s holy light,
Protect us by Thy might, Great God our King.

America the Beautiful – #600

O beautiful for spacious skies, For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties Above the fruited plain!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for patriot dream That sees beyond the years,
Thine alabaster cities gleam Undimmed by human tears!
America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea! Oh beautiful for halcyon skies

The Battle Hymn of the Republic – #604

Mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord;
He is trampling out the vintage where the grapes of wrath are stored;
He hath loosed the fateful lightning of his terrible swift sword:
His truth is marching on.

Refrain:
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Glory! Glory! Hallelujah!
Our God is marching on.

In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea,
With a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me;
As He died to make men holy, let us live to make men free!
While God is marching on. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Rod Hertenstein
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.

*RESPONSE – You Are My All in All – worship booklet, p. 99

You are my strength when I am weak
You are the treasure that I seek
You are my all in all
Seeking You as a precious jewel
Lord, to give up I’d be a fool
You are my all in all

Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name

Taking my sin, my cross, my shame
Rising again I bless Your name
You are my all in all
When I fall down You pick me up
When I am dry You fill my cup
You are my all in all

Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name
Jesus, Lamb of God
Worthy is Your name

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 10:39-42 – Rod Hertenstein

SPECIAL MUSIC – America the Beautiful
Earl Kreder, Saxophone & Mike Waller, Piano

GOD’S WORD – Genesis 22:1-14 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*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.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to receive them here.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING – Pastor Dan
Pastoral Prayer and the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

*HYMN – Help Us Accept Each Other – #127

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Hymn of Gladness – Wolford

April 7 – Good Friday

Good Friday Worship is a sacred remembrance of the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

A link to this service will be added once worship begins on Friday at 1 p.m. You can view all of our worship services on our YouTube channel.

PRELUDE – Aus tiefer Not schrei ich zu dir – Zachau

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Christ Jesus empties himself,
All: Taking the form of a servant.
One: Christ Jesus humbles himself,
All: And becomes obedient unto death – even death on a cross.
One: There is no greater love than this – to lay down one’s own life.
All: Christ Jesus died for you and me.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Merciful Savior, our souls are weighed down with grief and guilt over your Crucifixion. You are aware of all our burdens. Come, Christ Jesus, we need you now. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world. Amen.

*HYMN – Beneath the Cross of Jesus – #239

Beneath the cross of Jesus I fain would take my stand,
The shadow of a mighty Rock within a weary land;
A home within the wilderness, A rest upon the way,
From the burning of the noontide heat And the burden of the day.

Upon the cross of Jesus Mine eye at times can see
The very dying form of One Who suffered there for me:
And from my smitten heart with tears Two wonders I confess,
The wonders of redeeming love And my unworthiness.

I take, O cross, thy shadow For my abiding place:
I ask no other sunshine than The sunshine of His face;
Content to let the world go by, To know no gain nor loss;
My sinful self my only shame, My glory all the cross.

PRAYER OF CONFESSION
Blessed Savior, each Good Friday invites the whole world to the foot of your cross. This is a forlorn and difficult place to be. Here, we discover ourselves pretending to follow you while not making true sacrifices. Here, we observe our mockeries, our betrayals and our denials of you. Beneath your cross, Jesus, we see our own guilt. Forgive us for crucifying you.
We cannot rewrite the story, but we can add new chapters. We can learn from this day. We must accept Good Friday as part of what we have done, if we are going to move on to new life. Jesus, lead us to become people who would plead with the authorities for your release and who value your teachings as the guide for living with compassion. In your time of trial, no one spoke up for you, Jesus. Now, in our time, we must listen to and speak on behalf of everyone who is being oppressed or crucified. Christ Jesus, your holy love is revealed on the cross as the amazing power to forgive all people. In your mercy, Dear Savior; hear our prayer. Amen.

SILENCE

*ASSURANCE OF PARDON

*RESPONSE – O How He Loves You and Me (Verses 1 and 2) – #254

Oh, how He loves you and me,
Oh, how He loves you and me.
He gave His life, what more could He give;
Oh, how He loves you,
Oh, how He loves me,
Oh, how He loves you and me.

Jesus to Calv’ry did go,
His love for mankind to show.
What He did there, brought hope from despair.
Oh, how He loves you,
Oh, how He loves me,
Oh, how He loves you and me.

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12

THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts… debtors)

SPECIAL MUSIC – Were You There? – Kathryn Kuntzman, Cello

C h r i s t J e s u s S p e a k s f r o m t h e C r o s s

The third hour
Luke 23:34

The fourth hour
John 19:26-27

The fifth hour
Luke 23:43

The sixth hour
John 19:28

The seventh hour
Mark 15:34

The eighth hour
Luke 23:46

The ninth hour
John 19:30

SPECIAL MUSIC – It Is Finished (Hartman) – Valerie Waterman, Vocalist

DEPART IN SILENCE

February 19 – Changing before their very eyes

Let us open our hearts; let us allow Christ Jesus to take the lead; and let us follow.

Join us for worship anytime. A link to today’s live worship will appear here once service begins, at 10 a.m. Sunday.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude on the First Tone – Jullien

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: It is a blessing to gather together in God’s house of prayer.
All: In a moment,
One: In the twinkling of an eye,
All: We will all be changed.
One: Through saints and sinners alike,
All: God’s mercy flows.
One: Through all who receive Christ,
All: God’s mercy flows. Let us praise God!

*HYMN – Praise Him! Praise Him! – #73

Praise him, praise him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
Sing, O earth, His wonderful love proclaim!
Hail Him, hail Him! Highest archangels in glory!
Strength and honor give to His holy name!
Like a shepherd, Jesus will guard His children.
In His arms He carries them all day long.

Refrain:
Praise Him! Praise Him! tell of His excellent greatness.
Praise Him! Praise Him! ever in joyful song.

Praise Him, praise Him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
For our sins, He suffered, and bled, and died.
He our rock, our hope of eternal salvation,
Hail Him, Hail Him! Jesus, the crucified.
Sound His praises, Jesus who bore our sorrows,
Love unbounded, wonderful, deep, and strong. [Refrain]

Praise Him, praise Him! Jesus, our blessed redeemer!
Heav’nly portals loud with hosannas ring!
Jesus, Savior, reigneth forever and ever!
Crown Him, crown Him! Prophet, and Priest, and King!
Christ is coming, over the world victorious.
Pow’r and glory unto the Lord belong. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of all time and space; compared to the rest of your creation, Earth is quite small. Yet you lavish great energy and love on this planet we call home. With differing gifts, with a wide array of abilities and resources; we come to worship you. We are here to be made one in you, Christ Jesus. Bless our differences, so that the unique gifts, strengths and perspectives of each one may contribute to the splendor of your creation, Almighty God! Drawn together by your Spirit, we offer you our praises. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Holy Ground – #83

We are standing on holy ground,
And I know that there are angels all around;
Let us praise Jesus now
We are standing in His presence on holy ground.

GOD’S WORD – Exodus 24:12-18

SPECIAL MUSIC – Get All Excited – Gaither/Bock

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 17:1-9

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – We Will Glorify – #35

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Prelude, F – J. S. Bach

November 6 – Totenfest – Hold on to Faith 

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. All are welcome here.
As our love for God grows, we become more and more fully alive as Christ’s disciples!

Today we observe Totenfest (the “Festival of the Dead”) in connection with All Saints’ Day. Worship will include our congregation’s ritual honoring loved ones who have passed on to life eternal during the past year. We also will be celebrating the Sacrament of Holy Communion as our life-long journey “From Bread and Cup Toward Faith and Giving” continues. Please gather the elements before worship so you can celebrate communion with us.

Join us in person every Sunday at 10 a.m., or you can watch our services anytime on our YouTube page.

We are still having trouble with our main sanctuary camera, but were able to capture this week’s special service on Facebook Live. You do not need to be a member of Facebook to watch this video–click on the link and you should be able to watch. If you have trouble, let us know.

Click here to watch on Facebook.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley – Lachenauer

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God’s energy fills this place.
All: In this sanctuary, we feel God’s presence.
One: God brings people together.
All: God is bringing us together here.
One: Have you looked closely at God’s invitation?
All: God invites all people to come together with one another
around Christ’s Table.

*HYMN – For All the Saints – #548

For all the saints who from their labors rest,
Who Thee by faith before the world confessed,
Thy name, O Jesus, be forever blest.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

Thou wast their rock, their fortress, and their might;
Thou, Lord, their captain in the well-fought fight;
Thou, in the darkness dread, their one true light.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

Oh, blest communion, fellowship divine!
We feebly struggle, they in glory shine;
Yet all are one in Thee, for all are Thine.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

But, lo! there breaks a yet more glorious day;
The saints triumphant rise in bright array;
The King of glory passes on his way.
Alleluia! Alleluia!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Still-Speaking God, throughout history you have gathered people around your Word to instruct and to inspire. We give thanks for people who have embraced your Vision and who have given of themselves supporting communities that follow your Way. Reveal your Vision in this house today, Amazing God, so that we may be transformed by your renewing grace. Lead us to continue growing in our love for you and for one another.
Watchful and Caring God, nourish within us pure hearts and souls. Every breath that we breathe is a gift from you. Encourage us and guide us as we continue striving to be channels of your astonishing compassion, Christ Jesus. May our lives serve you and praise you. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Gloria Patri – #620

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son
And to the Holy Ghost;
As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be,
World without end. Amen, Amen

GOD’S WORD – 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5, 13-17

TOTENFEST – Thanksgiving for Loved Ones

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

SPECIAL MUSIC – Pie Jesu, Andrew Lloyd Webber – Marsha Fix and Valerie Waterman, Vocalists

Merciful Jesus, who takest away the sins of the world, grant them rest.
O Lamb of God, who takest away the sins of the world, grant them eternal rest.

GOD’S WORD – Luke 20:20, 27-38

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Here, O My Lord, I See Thee Face to Face – #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
All people are invited to Christ’s Table. All who desire are welcome to receive the bread and the cup.

*HYMN – I Sing a Song of the Saints of God – worship booklet, pp. 52-53

I sing a song of the saints of God,
patient and brave and true,
who toiled and fought and lived and died
for the Lord they loved and knew.
And one was a doctor, and one was a queen,
and one was a shepherdess on the green:
they were all of them saints of God, and I mean,
God helping, to be one too.

They loved their Lord so dear, so dear,
and God’s love made them strong;
and they followed the right, for Jesus’ sake,
the whole of their good lives long.
And one was a soldier, and one was a priest,
and one was slain by a fierce wild beast:
and there’s not any reason, no, not the least,
why I shouldn’t be one too.

They lived not only in ages past;
there are hundreds of thousands still;
the world is bright with the joyous saints
who love to do Jesus’ will.
You can meet them in school, or in lanes, or at sea,
in church, or in trains, or in shops, or at tea;
for the saints of God are just folk like me,
and I mean to be one too.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Toccata – Speth

September 4 Livestream – A New Identity

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! As is our custom on this, the first Sunday of the month, we will be celebrating communion today. All are welcome at the table. If you are worshipping with us at home, please be sure to gather the elements before worship begins so we may experience communion together.

Join us in person at 620 N. Woods Mill Road in Chesterfield, or, as always, on our YouTube channel. If you worship with us online, please drop a note in the chat to let us know you’re there.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude in C – J. S. Bach

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God brings lives together.
All: Every time we are brought together is a blessing!
One: God is the Giver of life.
All: God gives earthly life.
One: And God gives eternal life.
All: With God, there is always life!

*HYMN – Cleanse Me – #398

Search me, O God, and know my heart today;
Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray.
See if there be some wicked way in me;
Cleanse me from ev’ry sin and set me free.

I praise thee, Lord, for cleansing me from sin;
Fulfill Thy Word, and make me pure within.
Fill me with fire where once I burned with shame;
Grant my desire to magnify Thy name.

Lord, take my life and make it wholly Thine;
Fill my poor heart with Thy great love divine.
Take all my will, my passion, self, and pride;
I now surrender; Lord, in me abide.

O Holy Ghost, revival comes from Thee;
Send a revival, Start the work in me.
Thy Word declares Thou wilt supply our need;
For blessings now, O Lor, I humbly plead.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Creator God, Maker of everything good; you have gathered us together this morning here on holy ground.

Creator God, Sculptor of masterpieces; we are in your hands. You are the Potter; we are the clay. You imaginatively shape us into earthen vessels of your design. You give life to us, Artistic God; and so we freely offer you our lives in joyful, loving service! Be with us, as we seek your wisdom and as we strive to become the people you would have us be. We pray in your name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Into My Heart – #391

Into my heart, into my heart,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus;
Come in today, come in to stay,
Come into my heart, Lord Jesus.

RESPONSIVE READING – Psalm 139:1-12, 14, 23-24 – #631

SPECIAL MUSIC – Give Thanks – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – Luke 14:25-33

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – Come, Share the Lord – #260

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

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

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

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

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

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome to share in the Sacrament here.

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Dan

*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.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Carillon – Wolford

August 21 Livestream – The ABCs of Kindness

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! Today we mark the beginning of the new school year with children in worship and a special children’s message. Whoever you are, you are welcome here! Today we come to worship together the God of kindness.

All are welcome to join us in Fellowship Hall to enjoy ice cream sundaes following worship.

You may also join us on YouTube or watch past weeks’ online worship services. Click here if you are having trouble accessing our online worship.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Suscepit Israel – Titelouze

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: We may be parched with thirst, like an unwatered garden; yet as we come into God’s presence:
All: God Most High refreshes us as a spring of living water.

One: We may be weary from worry or from work; yet as we come into God’s presence:
All: The Holy One offers us Sabbath rest.

One: We may be lost or confused; yet as we come into God’s presence:
All: The Eternal One offers us kindness.

One: We may be bent over with struggle or pain; yet as we come into God’s presence:
All: The Healing One makes us well.

*HYMN – Draw Me Nearer – #412

I am Thine, O Lord, I have heard Thy voice,
And it told Thy love to me;
But I long to rise in the arms of faith,
And be closer drawn to Thee.

Refrain:
Draw me nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,
To the cross where Thou hast died;
Draw me nearer, nearer, nearer, blessed Lord,
To Thy precious, bleeding side.

Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord,
By the pow’r of grace divine;
Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope,
And my will be lost in Thine.
(Refrain)

O, the pure delight of a single hour
That before Thy throne I spend,
When I kneel in prayer, and with Thee, my God,
I commune as friend with friend!
(Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Kind-hearted God, we lift our praises to your sacred name. You truly care for every living being. Your goodness and mercy are remarkable! You never lose track of a single one of us. We are blessed that you are our God! Give us ears to hear the fresh word of power and grace that you speak this day. Soften our stubborn hearts and remove any barriers that keep us from serving you. Help us to continue becoming faithful imitators of you, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE – This Is the Day – #84

This is the day, this is the day
that the Lord has made,
that the Lord has made;
we will rejoice,
we will rejoice and be glad in it,
and be glad in it.
This is the day that the Lord has made;
we will rejoice and be glad in it.
This is the day,
this is the day that the Lord has made.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Dottie Foster

*HYMN – There Is a Balm in Gilead – #141

Refrain:
There is a balm in Gilead
to make the wounded whole,
there is a balm in Gilead
to heal the sin-sick soul.

Sometimes I feel discouraged
and think my work’s in vain,
but then the Holy Spirit
revives my soul again.
Refrain

If you cannot preach like Peter,
if you cannot pray like Paul,
You can tell the love of Jesus
and say, “He died for all.”
Refrain

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 103:1-8 & Isaiah 58:1, 6-14

SPECIAL MUSIC – Wonderful Words of Life – Hamilton

GOD’S WORD – Luke 13:10-17

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy – #379

There’s a wideness in God’s mercy,
Like the wideness of the sea.
There’s a kindness in His justice,
Which is more than liberty.

There is welcome for the sinner,
And more graces for the good.
There is mercy with the Savior,
There is healing in His blood.

For the love of God is broader
Than the measures of the mind,
And the heart of the Eternal
Is most wonderfully kind.

If our love were but more simple,
We should take Him at His word,
And our lives would be all sunshine
In the sweetness of our Lord.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Ricercare on “St. Anne” – Young

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