June 15 — Live into Hope

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

WELCOME

PRELUDE — It is Well with My Soul — arr. Suzanne Arant

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Linda Lowry
One: God delights in life!
All: Let us rejoice before the majesty of our Creator!
One: Through Christ, we are inspired to hope.
All: We gladly enter this house of worship.
One: God’s mercy is ever flowing.
All: God’s Spirit is the Spirit of life and of hope and of all things good!
One: Let us listen closely for God, so that we may hear and do what is faithful.
All: Let us open our hearts now to the astonishing Word of God.

*HYMN — The Solid Rock — 315

My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ name

Refrain:
On Christ the solid Rock I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand,
All other ground is sinking sand.

When darkness veils His lovely face, I rest on HIs unchanging grace;
In every high and stormy gale, My anchor holds within the veil. Refrain

His oath, His covenant, His blood Support me in the whelming flood;
When all around my sould gives way He then is all my hope and stay. Refrain

When He shall come with trumpet sound, O may I then in HIm be found;
Dressed in HIs righteousness alone, Faultless to stand before the throne. Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Linda Lowry
Holy, Present, Creator God. God who shapes us in the fire;
we are made new in your presence. We come seeking your wisdom, crying out our concerns, needing your steadfast love. May this worship time serve as a time that continues shaping us into a faith community who loves you above all, Dear God. Let our character reflect your goodness and grace. May we live in awe of your glory and humbled by your nearness. We pray in your holy name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

*RESPONSE — 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.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 8 — Linda Lowry

SPECIAL MUSIC — Lord, I Lift Your Name on High

GOD’S WORD — Romans 5:1-5 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER

*HYMN — God of The Ages — 51

God of the ages, History’s Maker,
Planning our pathway, Holding us fast,
Shaping in mercy All that concerns us;
Father, we praise You, Lord of the past.

God of this morning, Gladly Your children
Worship before You, Trustingly bow;
Teach us to know You Always among us,
Now and forever Kept by Your hand.

Lord of past ages, Lord of this morning,
Lord of the future, Help us, we pray;
Teach us to trust You, Love and obey You,
Crown You each moment Lord of today.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Faith of Our Fathers — arr. Dennis Alexander

June 7 — Pentecost

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

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Brethren, We Have Met to Worship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — Linda Lowry

*HYMN — Sweet, Sweet Spirit — #153

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Susan Shumway

*POSTLUDE — Every Time I Feel the Spirit

May 25 — Abiding Presence

A Blessed Memorial Day Weekend to all. We offer God’s humble thanks for the sacrifice of every person who has given their life while serving in our nation’s military. From this worship, may we go into the world to live as Christ’s servant disciples.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Amazing Grace — arr. Gordon Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Julie McAllister
One: Let the Creator be home among us.
All: In our hearts, may God be welcome.
One: May God’s love shape our every thought.
All: May our actions lead to God’s justice.
One: May our words be words of life.
All: May God’s Spirit lead us and may God’s peace dwell within us.

*HYMN — Open My Eyes — 174

Open my eyes that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me.
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see.
Open my eyes, illumine me,
Spirit divine!

Open my ears that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear,
And while the wave notes fall on my ear,
Everything false will disappear.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, thy will to see.
Open my ears, illumine me,
Spirit divine!

Open my mouth and let me bear
Gladly the warm truth ev’rywhere.
Open my heart and let me prepare
Love with thy children thus to share.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see.
Open my mouth, illumine me,
Spirit divine!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Julie McAllister
Creator God, you are mighty in love and in power. We come, seeking your presence that shakes foundations and helps build new ones. We come with our wounds, asking for healing. We come, remembering our baptism and the freeing grace that your cleansing love offers all people. We come, seeking to perceive your life-giving closeness. May all that we say, hear, and do in worship today praise you for the wonders that you are doing in Jesus Christ and in us. God of Peace, fill us with your pure love for life. Amen

*RESPONSE — Spirit Song — Ivy worship booklet pp. 84-85

Oh, let the Son of God enfold you with His Spirit and His love;
Let Him fill your heart and satisfy your soul
Oh, let Him have the things that hold you, and His Spirit, like a dove,
Will descend upon your life and make you whole.

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.

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

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 67 — Julie McAllister

SPECIAL MUSIC — Sweet, Sweet Spirit — arr. Glenda Austin

GOD’S WORD — John 14:23-29 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*HYMN — It is Well with My Soul — 453

When peace like a river attendeth my way
When sorrows like sea billows roll
Whatever my lot, Thou hast taught me to say
It is well, it is well with my soul

Refrain:
It is well (it is well)
With my soul (with my soul)
It is well, it is well with my soul

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come
Let this blest assurance control
That Christ has regarded my helpless estate
And has shed His own blood for my soul
Refrain

My sin, oh the bliss of this glorious thought
My sin, not in part, but the whole
Is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul
Refrain

And Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight
The clouds be rolled back as a scroll
The trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend
Even so, it is well with my soul
Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — God Bless America — Irving Berlin

May 18 — Limitless Love

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. We are blessed by the eternal love of God’s Son, our Savior Jesus Christ.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Praise to the Lord, the Almighty — arr. Bruce Greer

*CALL TO WORSHIP (Inspired by Psalm 148) — Linda Lowry
One: Celebrate our God, from the plains to the mountains!
Many: Celebrate our God, from the waters and hills.
One: Sing to our God who designed creation.
Many: Fill the air with song to the One who painted the world with love.
One: Let us praise our God, the author of grace.
Many: Let us worship our God, the composer of joy.

*HYMN — When Morning Gilds the Skies — #66

When morning gilds the skies, My heart awaking cries:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Alike at work or prayer To Jesus I repair:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

The night becomes as day, When from the heart we say:
May Jesus Christ be praised!
The pow’rs of darkness fear When this sweet chant they hear:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

Sing, suns and stars of space, Sing, ye that see His face,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Let all the earth around Ring joyous with the sound:
May Jesus Christ be praised!

Be this, while life is mine, My canticle divine,
May Jesus Christ be praised!
Be this th’ eternal song Through all the ages long,
May Jesus Christ be praised!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Linda Lowry
We praise you, O God, and celebrate your presence with us in this day and time. Your gifts surround us and dwell within us. Help us to embrace these realities. We are all your children, throughout this world. Come today to wipe away tears and comfort those in distress. Come to heal our divisions and overcome our prejudices. Come, Holy Spirit, that we might be loved into discipleship, to follow the Risen One, in whom we rejoice to pray and worship. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Spirit of the Living God — #150

Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me,
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.
Melt me, mold me, fill me, use me.
Spirit of the Living God,
Fall afresh on me.

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — JoAnn Moody

*HYMN — 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.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 148 — Linda Lowry

SPECIAL MUSIC — Spirit of God, Descend Upon My Heart — arr. James Koerts

GOD’S WORD — Acts 11:1-18 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — They’ll Know We Are Christians by Our Love — #119

We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord
And we pray that all unity may one day be restored:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
We will walk with each other, we will walk hand in hand
And together we’ll spread the news that God is in our land:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

We will work with each other, we will work side by side.
We will work with each other, we will work side by side.
And we’ll guard each man’s dignity and save each man’s pride:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love

All praise to the Father from whom all things come,
And all praise to Christ Jesus, His only Son,
And all praise to the Spirit who makes us one:
And they’ll know we are Christians by our love, by our love
Yes, they’ll know we are Christians by our love.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — The Heavens are Telling the Glory of God (Inspired by Psalm 19) — Benedetto Marcello

April 27 — Resurrection Witness

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

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Come, Ye Faithful, Raise the Strain

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

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

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

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

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

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

*RESPONSE — Be Still and Know — #24

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

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

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

SPECIAL MUSIC — I Want Jesus to Walk with Me

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

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Because He Lives — #275

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Lord, I Lift Your Name on High

April 13 — Palm Sunday: Into Jerusalem

We are blessed to be able gather together as we celebrate the triumphant entry “Into Jerusalem” of our Savior Jesus Christ. In celebration of Palm Sunday and Spring, the Youth of Ivy Chapel are inviting everyone to gather in Fellowship Hall to enjoy refreshments and time together following worship. All are welcome!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord — Schwartz

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Ann Molyneaux
One: Blessed is the One who comes in the name of the Lord!
All: Hosanna to the King of kings!
One: Hosanna in the highest!
All: Behold our King!

*HYMN — All Glory, Laud and Honor — #234

All glory, laud, and honor to Thee, Redeemer, King,
To whom the lips of children Made sweet hosannas ring.
Thou art the King of Israel, Thou David’s royal Son,
Who in the Lord’s name cometh, the King and Blessed One!

The company of angels Are praising Thee on high;
And mortal men and all things Created make reply.
The people of the Hebrews with palms before Thee went;
Our praise and prayer and anthems Before Thee we present.

To Thee before Thy passion, They sang their hymns of praise;
To Thee now high exalted, Our melody we raise.
Thou didst accept their praises Accept the prayers we bring,
Who in all good delightest, Thou good and gracious King!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Ann Molyneaux
God of love and majesty, you are the One who sustains us. Your faithfulness inspires us to shout your praises! We are moved by the ways that you graciously touch and change human hearts. As Jesus of Nazareth, you make people whole.

Today, we recall your joyous entry into Jerusalem. The palm branches that we wave are expressions of our love for you. Guide us as we seek you, and as we continue growing in faith. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Shout to the Lord — Ivy worship booklet, pp 80-81

My Jesus, my Saviour
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 of 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 promise I have in You

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — JoAnn Moody

*HYMN — You Are My All-in-All — Ivy 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 — Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29 — Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC — Praise to the Lord, the Almighty — Arr. Bock

GOD’S WORD — Luke 19:28-40 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Hosanna, Loud Hosanna! — #233

Hosanna, loud hosanna The little children sang;
Through pillared court and temple The lovely anthem rang.
To Jesus, who had blessed them, Close folded to his Breast,
The children sang their praises, The simplest and the best.

From Olivet they followed Mid an exultant crowd,
The victor palm branch waving, And chanting clear and loud.
The Lord of men and angels Rode on in lowly state,
Nor scorned that little children Should on his bidding wait.

“Hosanna in the highest!” That ancient song we sing,
For Christ is our Redeemer, The Lord of heaven, our King.
O may we ever praise Him With heart and life and voice,
And in His blissful presence Eternally rejoice!

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE

March 23 — Open Invitation

We are blessed by this opportunity to gather here together. May today’s worship offer you
an opportunity to quiet your soul in the loving presence of God.

Thank you to Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell for leading worship this morning.

WELCOME

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Ann Molyneaux
One: Let us call on God’s steadfast love and mercy.
All: Brokenness can be healed and wholeness restored.
One: God offers humankind the joy of salvation.
All: Let us accept the new spirit God offers.
One: Through Jesus Christ, we are God’s new creation.
All: Praise God!

*HYMN — More Love to Thee — #428

More love to Thee, O Christ, More love to Thee!
Hear Thou the prayer I make On bended knee;
This is my earnest plea:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
More love to Thee, More love to Thee!

Once earthly joy I craved, Sought peace and rest;
Now Thee alone I seek, Give what is best;
This all my prayer shall be:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
More love to Thee, More love to Thee!

Let sorrow do its work, Send grief and pain;
Sweet are Thy messengers, Sweet their refrain,
When they can sing with me:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
Moe love to Thee, More love to Thee!

Then shall my latest breath Whisper Thy praise;
This be the parting cry My heart shall raise;
This still its prayer shall be:
More love, O Christ, to Thee,
More love to Thee, More love to Thee!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Ann Molyneaux
Gentle Healer; Mighty Savior; the power to make new is yours.
This day, we come to you, Holy God, seeking relief from earthly demands. We praise you for blessing us with holy rest and healing. God of steadfast love and mercy; we come, asking for your help. At times, instead of devoting ourselves to serving you, we become absorbed with the many distractions and complexities of daily life. Forgive us, we pray. God of patience; thank you for receiving us as we are. Renew our trust in you. We seek to turn away from sin and turn toward you. When we fail, we will call on you for grace, Christ Jesus. When, by your grace, we do follow you faithfully, we will exalt your sacred name. Amen.

*RESPONSE — He is Our Peace — #454

He is our peace
Who has broken down every wall,
He is our peace, He is our peace.

Cast all your cares on Him,
For He cares for you,
He is our peace, He is our peace.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 27 — Ann Molyneaux

SPECIAL MUSIC

GOD’S WORD — Luke 13:31-35 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — 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.

RESPONSIVE BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

One: Go in the name of God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.
All: God is our home; our life; our joy.
One: Take heart!
All: Jesus Christ is our light; our hope; our all in all.
One: Be strong.
All: Blessed be God, now and forever. Amen.

*POSTLUDE

Spring Blood Drive

Mark your calendars for Thursday May 8th to join with Ivy Chapel and ImpactLife as they again partner together to SAVE LIVES! You can save a life by donating your blood. Follow this link to sign up and save a life today! Ivy Chapel UCC Spring Blood Drive

March 9 — Wilderness Companions

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

WELCOME

PRELUDE

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

*HYMN — I Need Thee Every Hour — # 169

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

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

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

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

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

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

*RESPONSE — You Are My Hiding Place — # 53

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

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — JoAnn Moody

*HYMN — People Need the Lord — # 527

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

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

SPECIAL MUSIC

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

SERMON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

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

*HYMN — Higher Ground — # 448

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

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE

March 5 — Ash Wednesday (1 p.m.)

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Ash Wednesday begins the Season of Lent, which is a 40-day spiritual journey to Resurrection Day.

SILENT REFLECTION — Christ, My Every Need — #425

Lord, Jesus Christ
You are for me medicine when I am sick;
You are my strength when I need help;
You are life itself when I fear death;
You are the way when I long for heaven;
You are the light when all is dark;
You are my food when I need nourishment.

PRELUDE — Pastorale (first movement) — J. S. Bach

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell
One: “Now” says the Holy One, “return to me with all your heart.”
All: Be still; and know that I am God.
One: Turn away from evil; and return to your God.
All: God is gracious and merciful; slow to anger and abounding in
steadfast love. Let us worship God.

*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, 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]

Oh, 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]

There are depths of love that I cannot know
Till I cross the narrow sea;
There are heights of joy that I may not reach
Till I rest in peace with Thee. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell
Holy One, have mercy upon us, according to your faithful love. Create within us a new heart; a heart for love, justice and righteousness. Replace any guilt with your promise of new life abounding in mercy and grace!
Come, Holy Spirit, be our companion in the choices we make and in the ways that we interact with one another. Let honesty, humility and kindness characterize our being. Holy One, you transform earthly dust into something marvelous! Let us honor you by living our days in community with you and with all creation. Renew us, O God. Amen.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 51:1-17 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

CALL TO CONFESSION and PRAYER OF CONFESSION
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.
One: Let us prayer together.
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, we confess that we have sinned in thought, word, and action. We confess that we have failed to live by your Gospel of goodness and grace. Forgive us, we pray. From now on, as sinners pardoned and cleansed by you, Jesus; may we faithfully follow in your footsteps of love and compassion. This we pray in your holy name. Amen.

SILENCE — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*ASSURANCE OF PARDON — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*RESPONSE — Change My Heart, O God — Ivy Worship Booklet p. 33

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

You are the potter, I am the clay,
Mold me and make me, this is what I pray.

Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true.
Change my heart Oh God, may I be like You.

GOD’S WORD — Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

HOMILY — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

THE IMPOSITION OF ASHES

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

*HYMN — Let Us Break Bread Together — #265

Let us break bread together on our knees.
Let us break bread together on our knees.

Refrain:
When I fall on my knees with my face to the rising sun,
O Lord have mercy on me.

Let us drink wine together on our knees.
Let us drink wine together on our knees. [Refrain]

Let us praise God together on our knees.
Let us praise God together on our knees. [Refrain]

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts… debtors)

*HYMN — I Want Jesus to Walk with Me — #480

I want Jesus to walk with me.
I want Jesus to walk with me.
All along my pilgrim journey,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.

In my trials, Lord, walk with me.
In my trials, Lord, walk with me.
When my heart is almost breaking,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.

When I’m in trouble, Lord, walk with me.
When I’m in trouble, Lord, walk with me.
When my head is bowed in sorrow,
Lord, I want Jesus to walk with me.

*BENEDICTION — Rev. Dr. Carol Trissell

*POSTLUDE — Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross — arr. Raluca Bojor

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