August 25 — At Home With God

We are glad to welcome you to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ, and we hope you will feel right at home with us here.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Prelude and Fugue — Zachow

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Sue Wilson
One: Come, let us lift our praises to the Creator of the heavens!
All: God’s promises deliver fullness of joy!
One: God’s works delight us and lead us to dream!
All: Let us worship God, who loves all people
and who rejoices in life everywhere!

*HYMN — Trusting Jesus — #498

Simply trusting every day, Trusting through a stormy way;
Even when my faith is small, Trusting Jesus, that is all.

Refrain:
Trusting as the moments fly,
Trusting as the days go by;
Trusting Him whate’er befall,
Trusting Jesus, that is all.

Brightly doth His Spirit shine Into this poor heart of mine;
While He leads I cannot fall; Trusting Jesus, that is all. Refrain

Singing if my way is clear, Praying if the path be drear;
If in danger for Him call; Trusting Jesus, that is all. Refrain

Trusting Him while life shall last, Trusting Him till earth be past;
Till within the jasper wall, Trusting Jesus, that is all. Refrain

*CALLING ON GOD IN PRAYER — Sue Wilson
Gentle and Kind God; Giver of all life; hear our prayers of praise for summertime beauty, for graceful birds, for fragrant flowers, for the fruit of the earth, for rain, for sunshine, for moonlight, and for much, much more. Send the cooling breath of your Spirit to surround us and inspire our faith journeys. May we be nourished by your life-giving words and ways, Christ Jesus; and may we live as your faithful disciples, to the glory of your holy name. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — In the Name of the Lord — #19

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 Lord!
Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 84 — Sue Wilson

SPECIAL MUSIC — On Eagle’s Wings — Hayes

GOD’S WORD — Joshua 24:1-5, 13-15 & John 6:56-69 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*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

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Laudes Domini — Young

August 18 – Seek Peace

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! Today, as all days, we pray that we can bring the peace that the world so desperately needs.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Praise Medley
How Majestic Is Your Name – We Have Come into His House – Thou Art Worthy

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: God is the source of all that is alive!
All: God gives birth to every living thing!
One: In certain ways, we are all thirsty.
All: At times, we seek things that do not satisfy.
One: We crave earthly things.
All: But the things of this world do not take care of our thirst.
One: Jesus Christ is the Living Water.
All: Whoever drinks this water will never thirst.

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

Light of the World, You stepped down in the darkness,
Opened my eyes, let me see.
Beauty that made this heart adore You, hope of a life spent with You.

Refrain:
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, oh so highly exalted,
Glorious in heaven above.
Humbly You came to the Earth You created,
all for love’s sake became poor. Refrain

Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of amazing power and almighty love, breathe upon us. We treasure the image of you coming to your disciples on the evening of the first day of the week. That was the evening of your Resurrection. You came to your followers and you breathed upon them. Today, may e realize that you stand among us – risen, alive, and bearing your blessing, ‘Peace be with you.’ Christ Jesus, already you have entered this room. Show us your hands and your side. Jesus, your wounds take away every reason people may come up with not to believe. Help us to see that you are God! Your disciples are believers who live striving to love, to serve and to give as you do. Breathe upon us now. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — Great Is the Lord — #7

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

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

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

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

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE — Jo Ann Moody

*HYMN — Where the Spirit of the Lord Is — #142

Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is peace;
Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is love.
There is comfort in life’s darkest hour,
There is light and life; There is help and power
In the Spirit, in the Spirit of the Lord.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 34:9-14

SPECIAL MUSIC — I’d Rather Have Jesus

GOD’S WORD — Ephesians 5:15-20 & John 6:51-58

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — Fill My Cup, Lord — #367

For things that could not satisfy.
And then I heard my Savior speaking—
“Draw from My well that never shall run dry.”

Refrain:
Fill my cup, Lord;
I lift it up Lord;
Come and quench this thirsting of my soul.
Bread of Heaven, feed me till I want no more.
Fill my cup, fill it up and make me whole.

There are millions in this world who are seeking
For pleasures earthly goods afford.
But none can match the wondrous treasure
That I find in Jesus Christ my Lord.
Refrain

So my brother if the things that this world gives you
Leave hungers that won’t pass away,
My blessed Lord will come and save you
If you kneel to Him and humbly pray—
Refrain

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Sweet, Sweet Spirit

August 11 — Shaping Community

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ on this, the twelfth Sunday after Pentecost. We’re honored to have you part of our community.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Lied — Young

*CALL TO WORSHIP Jan Wirtz
One: Give praise to the Holy One at all times and bless God’s name.
All: Hope in the Holy One! For with God, there is steadfast love
and sacred power.
One: Let God’s radiance wash over you and lead you to shine brightly
through the presence of the Most High.
All: Hope in the Holy One! For with God, there is steadfast love
and sacred power.

*HYMN — Love Divine, All Loves Excelling — #71

Love divine, all loves excelling,
Joy of heav’n, to earth come down,
Fix in us Thy humble dwelling,
All Thy faithful mercies crown.
Jesus, Thou art all compassion,
Pure, unbounded love Thou art.
Visit us with Thy salvation;
Enter every trembling heart.

Breathe, O breathe Thy loving Spirit
Into every troubled breast.
Let us all in Thee inherit,
Let us find the promised rest.
Take away the love of sinning;
Alpha and Omega be.
End of faith, as its beginning,
Set our hearts at liberty.

Come, Almighty, to deliver,
Let us all Thy life receive.
Suddenly return, and never,
Nevermore Thy temples leave.
Thee we would be always blessing,
Serve Thee as Thy hosts above,
Pray, and praise Thee without ceasing,
Glory in Thy perfect love.

Finish, then, Thy new creation;
Pure and spotless let us be.
Let us see Thy great salvation
Perfectly restored in Thee.
Changed from glory into glory,
Till in heav’n we take our place,
Till we cast our crowns before Thee,
Lost in wonder, love and praise.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jan Wirtz
God of love, we come to you now. We come to praise you and to learn from you. We approach you with a mixture of emotions. We bring our concerns and our burdens, as well as our thanksgivings and our hopes, which are founded upon your promises. All people are your people, God. Sometimes we are people in need, and sometimes people with abundance. Sometimes we are people overcome by despair, and sometimes people overwhelmed with joy! We are grateful for your dynamic, lively Spirit!
God of love, you promise that wherever we are on life’s journey, you are present to guide and to bless. We gather in your name, Jesus; so that we may continue learning to follow in your way of love and grace. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — The Bond of Love — #123

We are one in the bond of love;
We are one in the bond of love.
We have joined our spirit with the Spirit of God;
We are one in the bond of love.

Let us sing now, everyone;
Let us feel His love begun.
Let us join our hands that the world will know
We are one in the bond of love.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 34:1-8 — Jan Wirtz

SPECIAL MUSIC —Softly and Tenderly — arr. Goss

GOD’S WORD —John 6:35, 41-51 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*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 — Fughetta — Muffat

June 30 — Healing Powers

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! Today is UCC Open and Affirming Sunday. We are honored to be an Open and Affirming congregation.

Read our Open and Affirming Covenant.

Read more about Healing Powers in this week’s blog post.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Prelude in G — Couperin

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Diann Sheahan
One: For rebirth and resilience,
All: Blessed be God;
One: For the spiritually humble,
All: Glory to God, hallelujah;
One: For all who are hungry and thirsty for justice,
All: Praise God and magnify God forever;
One: For all who are banned because of speaking the truth,
All: Blessed be God;
One: For all who triumph over their bitter circumstance,
All: Glory to God, hallelujah;
One: For all who risk reputation, livelihood, and life itself
for Christ’s sake and the Gospel;
All: All praise and all glory; this is God’s Realm;
praise God and love God forever!

*HYMN — Revive Us Again — #95

We praise Thee, O God! for the Son of Thy love,
For Jesus Who died, and is now gone above.

Refrain:
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.
Hallelujah! Amen.
Hallelujah! Thine the glory.

Revive us again.
We praise Thee, O God! for Thy Spirit of light,
Who hath shown us our Savior, and scattered our night.
Refrain

All glory and praise To the Lamb that was slain,
Who hath borne all our sins, and hath cleansed every stain.
Refrain

Revive us again; fill each heart with Thy love;
May each soul be rekindled with fire from above.
Refrain

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Diann Sheahan
O Faithful God, you yearn to be close to us
so that we can know you
in every breath, in every hope, in every relationship.
O Faithful God, you long for us to trust in your power
to bring to life new possibilities
where there has been no hope.
Meet us here today, Christ Jesus,
and teach us to recognize the ways of life and hope
in which you are leading us.
May our desires become your desires;
may our work become your work;
may this community become your faith community
where you above all are loved and served. Amen.

*RESPONSE — Shout to the Lord — 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

Shout to the Lord
My Jesus, my Saviour, Lord, there is none like You;
All of my days I want to praise the wonder of Your mighty love.

My comfort, my Shelter, Tower of refuge and strength;
Let ev’ry 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.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 30:2-5, 11-12 — Diann Sheahan

SPECIAL MUSIC — Give Thanks — Hayes

GOD’S WORD — Mark 5:21-43 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

OPEN AND AFFIRMING COVENANT — Unison Reading

Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ celebrates God’s boundless and unconditional love by intentionally welcoming and celebrating all of God’s people.  We commit ourselves to:

• addressing issues of faith openly and honestly
• nourishing the Spirit of God within all people
• creating a caring community that celebrates human diversity
• respecting the faithfulness and the wisdom of other faith traditions
• working with all others to create a just world for all

Called by God to love one another, Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ commits to being an Open and Affirming community of faith.  We invite everyone into full participation in the life and leadership of this congregation, celebrating that each unique human being is a child of God. We love and affirm every person of any age, race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, faith tradition, physical ability, mental ability, sexual orientation,  gender identity, and gender expression. We joyfully invite everyone to join in this ministry of ongoing commitment to live as an actively Open and Affirming community of God. 

We celebrate our diversity as we journey in faith together.

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE — Pastor Dan

*HYMN — ‘Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus — #358

Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to take Him at His word;
Just to rest upon His promise,
Just to know, “Thus saith the Lord.”

Refrain:
Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him!
How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er!
Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!
O for grace to trust Him more!

O how sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just to trust His cleansing blood;
Just in simple faith to plunge me
‘Neath the healing, cleansing flood! [Refrain]

Yes, ’tis sweet to trust in Jesus,
Just from sin and self to cease;
Just from Jesus simply taking
Life and rest, and joy and peace. [Refrain]

I’m so glad I learned to trust Thee,
Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend;
And I know that Thou art with me,
Wilt be with me to the end. [Refrain]

*BENEDICTION Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE Fugue – Dandrieu

June 9 — The Will of God

This is the third Sunday after Pentecost. Let us praise God together!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Praise Medley
He Is Exalted ~ Holy Ground ~ Majesty

*CALL TO WORSHIP — John Weiland
One: God reigns! Let the earth be glad!
All: We come in awe before the Holy One whose love is everlasting.
One: God’s Word is truth; let all people rejoice!
All: We come to be renewed and empowered by God’s love.

*HYMN — All Creatures of Our God and King — #33

All creatures of our God and King,
Lift up your voice and with us sing,
Alleluia, Alleluia!
Thou burning sun with golden beam,
Thou silver moon with softer gleam,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Thou rushing wind that art so strong,
Ye clouds that sail in heav’n along,
O praise Him, Alleluia!
Thou rising morn in praise rejoice,
Ye lights of evening, find a voice,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Thou flowing water, pure and clear,
Make music for thy Lord to hear,
Alleluia, Alleluia!
Thou fire so masterful and bright,
That givest man both warmth and light,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

And all ye men of tender heart,
Forgiving others, take your part,
O sing ye, Alleluia!
Ye who long pain and sorrow bear,
Praise God and on HIm cast your care,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

Let all things their Creator bless,
And worship Him in humbleness,
O Praise Him, Alleluia!
Praise, praise the Father and the Son,
And praise the spirit, three in one,
O praise Him, O praise Him, Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia!

*GATHERING PRAYER — John Weiland
Let the light of your Word shine into the darkness of this world, O God; illuminating our decisions, enlightening our thoughts, and empowering our actions. Living God, we are grateful that you are with us as we gather here this morning. Fill us with your wisdom and compassion as we sing praises to your holy name. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — I Will Call Upon the Lord — #101

I will call upon the Lord
Who is worthy to be praised;
So shall I be saved from my enemies.
I will call upon the Lord (Repeat)

The lord liveth and blessed be the Rock,
And let the God of my salvation be exalted.
The lord liveth and blessed be the Rock,
And let the God of my salvation be exalted. (Repeat)

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 130 — John Weiland

SPECIAL MUSIC — Sweet Hour of Prayer

GOD’S WORD — Mark 3:20-35 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — I Love to Tell the Story — #322

I love to tell the story of unseen things above,
Of Jesus and his glory, Of Jesus and his love.
I love to tell the story Because I know it’s true;
It satisfies my longings As nothing else can do.

Refrain:
I love to tell the story; ’twill be my theme in glory,
To tell the old, old story of Jesus and his love.

I love to tell the story, More wonderful it seems
Than all the golden fancies Of all our golden dreams.
I love to tell the story, It did so much for me;
And that is just the reason I tell it now to thee. {Refrain}

I love to tell the story, ‘Tis pleasant to repeat
What seems each time I tell it, More wonderfully sweet.
I love to tell the story For some have never heard
The message of salvation From God’s own Holy Word {Refrain}

I love to tell the story, For those who know it best
Seem hungering and thirsting to hear it like the rest.
And when, in scenes of glory, I sing the new, new song,
‘Twill be the old, old story That I have loved so long {Refrain}

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Psalm 19, “The Heavens are Telling the Glory of God” — Benedetto Marcello

June 2 — Stretch Out Your Hand

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. May God bless all people with love and joy! We celebrate open communion on the first Sunday of every month. If you are worshipping with us from home, please gather the elements before worship begins so you may gather at the table with us. All are welcome here.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Praise to the Lord, the Almighty

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Pat Winship
One: O come now into this time of worship and praise to God!
All: We enter joyfully into “the sacred place of the Most High.”
One: We long to encounter God as Spirit,
All: And to worship God in spirit and in truth.
One: Let every breath become a prayer,
All: And every heartbeat become an open door through whic the Living One may enter.

*HYMN — Sing Praise to God — #45

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

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

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

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

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Pat Winship
Holy Spirit Fire; Wind of God; you are beyond all that we can imagine. There are no words that can fully describe your majesty and power. Dear God, we know you best through your life among us as the Messiah. As Jesus of Nazareth, you showered your love on everyone you met. Still today, Jesus, you call for our re-birth as your children, through the cleansing waters of baptism. We long to be like you, Christ Jesus. May we be faithful and fruitful in the ministries which you give us to do.
Wind of God, blowing among crowds, sweeping across generations to claim us; may we be born anew to your sacred lifestyle of giving. Hear us, Holy God, as we pray together, asking you to shape us into the human beings you intend us to be. Come, help us to live as you have created us to live. Amen.

*RESPONSE — There’s a Quiet Understanding — #144

There’s a quiet understanding
when we’re gathered in the Spirit,
It’s a promise that He gives us,
When we gather in His name.
There’s a love we feel in Jesus,
There’s a manna that He feeds us,
It’s a promise that He gives us
When we gather in His name.

And we know when we’re together,
sharing love and understanding,
That our brothers and our sisters
feel the oneness that He brings.
Thank You, thank You, thank You, Jesus,
for the way You love and feed us,
For the many ways You lead us,
Thank You, thank You, Lord.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 81:1-10 — Pat Winship

SPECIAL MUSIC — Here I Am to Worship

GOD’S WORD — Mark 2:23-3:6 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — One Bread, One Body — worship booklet, pp. 72-73

Refrain
One bread, one body, one Lord of all;
one cup of blessing which we bless,
and we, though many throughout the earth,
we are one body in this one Lord.

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

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

3 Grain for the fields, scattered and grown,
gathered to one for all. Refrain

THE JOYFUL FEAST
The Sacrament of Holy Communion [A] worship book, pp. 10-11

As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate ‘Open’ Communion.
All who desire the bread and the cup are welcome to receive.

*HYMN — We Are a New Creation — worship booklet, p. 91

We are a new creation Of Christ the Living Word.
Our songs of jubilation Shall everywhere be heard.
New life blooms fresh and glorious For those who heed the call
Of Christ Who reigns victorious O’er sin and death and all.

We are a new creation of God For this new day.
As partners let us follow The life, the truth, the way.
Christ bids us work together As colleagues old and young.
As women, men, and nations, God’s folk of every tongue.

We are a new creation For service here on earth.
We live our faith in action To tell our Savior’s worth,
Let love and justice blending Now show for all to see
God’s grace is never ending. It reaches you and me

We are a new creation By God’s own gracious hand,
Old burdens cast behind us, A daring future planned
In ministry and mission, United let us live,
In Christ a shining vision To God’s wide world to give.

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — “Little” Prelude and Fugue in F — J. S. Bach

Mother’s Day-Seventh Sunday of Easter

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
A Happy Mother’s Day to one and all!

WELCOME

PRELUDE -Themes from “The Four Seasons”

*CALL TO WORSHIP                                                                  
 Let us gather in the Spirit of Christ. 
 We come in response to the One who calls us ‘friends’ 
 Remember God’s love and faithfulness.
 Let our hands reflect the life of our serving Savior.
 Let our voices echo God’s praises! 
 Together, let us sing of God who is doing marvelous things! 

*HYMN– Take Time to Be Holy- #171
Take time to be holy, Speak oft with thy Lord;
Abide in Him always, and feed on His Word.
Make friends of God’s children, help those who are weak,
Forgetting in nothing His blessing to seek.

Take time to be holy, The world rushes on;
Spend much time in secret, With Jesus alone.
By looking to Jesus, like Him thou shalt be;
Thy friends in thy conduct His likeness shall see.

Take time to be holy, let Him be thy guide;
And run not before Him, whatever betide.
In joy or in sorrow, Still follow thy Lord,
And, looking to Jesus, still trust in His Word.

Take time to be holy, be calm in thy soul,
Each thought and each motive Beneath His control.
Thus led by His Spirit to fountains of love,
Thou soon shalt be fitted for service above.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION                                                         

Creator of ‘friendships,’ your love lifts us from mindless serving to meaningful caring.  We learn so much from you, God.  Your example inspires us to risk giving of ourselves.  Come, Holy Spirit; lift us from empty routines to the fullness of joy experienced by offering your love.  Stir our voices to praise you out of sheer delight!  Open our hearts to trust that you are leading us, especially in times of difficulty or discouragement.  Calm our doubts.  Guide us through our fears.  Reveal your ways to us, so that we may bear good fruit.  Help us grow in your likeness  –  readily giving all people your love.  We are baptized in your name, Jesus.  May we faithfully follow where you lead.  Amen.

*RESPONSE-Spirit Song- worship book, 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 1                                    

SPECIAL MUSIC    Bist Du Bei Mir (Be Thou with Me)  – J. S. Bach

GOD’S WORD –John 17:6-19 – Pastor Dan                                                               

SERMON – Pastor Dan                                                                                                             

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

*HYMN – I Was There to Hear Your Borning Cry – worship book, pp. 54-55  
I was there to hear your borning cry, I’ll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.
I was there when you were but a child, with a faith to suit you well;
In a blaze of light you wandered off to find where demons dwell. 

When you heard the wonder of the Word I was there to cheer you on;
You were raised to praise the living Lord, to whom you now belong.
If you find someone to share your time and you join your hearts as one,
I’ll be there to make your verses rhyme from dusk ‘till rising sun. 

In the middle ages of your life, not too old, no longer young,
I’ll be there to guide you through the night, complete what I’ve begun.
When the evening gently closes in, and you shut your weary eyes,
I’ll be there as I have always been with just one more surprise. 

I was there to hear your borning cry, I’ll be there when you are old.
I rejoiced the day you were baptized, to see your life unfold.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan                        

*POSTLUDE –Four short pieces for the Flutes – J. Hayden    

May 5 – “I have called you friends.”

A warm welcome and a special thank you to the Rev. Mary Albert who is leading us in worship today.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – My Jesus, I Love Thee

*CALL TO WORSHIP – Diann Sheahan
One: Friends, we gather this morning knowing God is with us.
All: We gather in the love of God which holds us close.
One: Let us welcome one another, remembering that Jesus never turned anyone away.
All: May God move among us, and surprise us with signs of the Holy Spirit.
One: Let us be drawn into communion with God and with one another.
All: May our worship reflect our gratitude and praise. Amen.

*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 our 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 your friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield thee; Thou wilt find asolace there.

*UNISON PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Diann Sheahan
O Holy One, you know us through and through. You call each of us by name, and you call us your friends. In awe and wonder, we marvel at the depth of your love and compassion. In this sacred moment, let us lay aside our distractions, our worries, and our preoccupations. Help us to turn all of our attention to you. Forgive our shortcomings and cleanse our hearts. Heal us, restore us, and inspire us, we pray. Gather us together and fill us with the power to be your beloved community. This we pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Rejoice in the Lord Always – #113

Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice in the Lord always, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!
Rejoice, rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

GOD’S WORD – Acts 10:44-48 – Diann Sheahan

SPECIAL MUSIC – Jesus Loves Me – based on Clair de Lune by Debussy

GOD’S WORD – John 15:9-17 – Pastor Mary Albert

SERMON – Pastor Mary Albert

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LORD’S PRAYER – Pastor Mary Albert

*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 JOYFUL SACRAMENT OF COMMUNION
The Sacrament of Holy Communion [A] worship book, pp. 10-11
As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate Open Communion.
All who desire the bread and the cup are welcome to receive.

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

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Mary Albert

*POSTLUDE – What a Friend

April 28 – Abiding in Love

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! May this worship renew us body, mind and soul. Praise God for abiding with all people in steadfast love.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Abide with Me — Piano setting

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jo Ann Moody
One: Come; let us worship God.
All: Let all the ends of the earth turn to God.
One: Come; let us remember and re-claim our baptism.
All: Let the love of God be seen in our lives.
One: Christ is the Vine.
All: We are the branches.

*HYMN — Abide with Me — #577

Abide with me: fast falls the eventide;
The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.
When other helpers fail and comforts flee,
Help of the helpless, O abide with me.

Swift to its close ebbs out life’s little day;
Earth’s joys grow dim, its glories pass away.
Change and decay in all around I see.
O thou who changest not, abide with me.

I need Thy presence every passing hour.
What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s power?
Who like Thyself my guide and strength can be?
Through cloud and sunshine, Lord abide with me.

I fear no foe with Thee at hand to bless,
Ills have no weight, and tears no bitterness.
Where is death’s sting? Where, grave, thy victory?
I triumph still, if Thou abide with me.

Hold Thou Thy cross before my closing eyes.
Shine through the gloom and point me to the skies.
Heaven’s morning breaks and earth’s vain shadows flee;
In life, in death, O Lord, abide with me.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION — Jo Ann Moody
Wondrous God, we praise you as the Creator of all life! You are the One who creates and loves all people. Shape us into your living witnesses who bless others as you always do.
Foot-washing Savior, guide us to follow your humble example. Come now; and fill us with your unselfish, exceptional love. You are the Vine. We are the branches. Through Christ’s love, we are all connected. Amen.

*RESPONSE — To Be God’s People — #121

Almighty Father give us a vision
of a dying world that needs Your love and care.
We see the need, the yearning for a Savior,
In Jesus’ name, grant this our prayer.

Refrain:
To be God’s people in this place,
live His goodness, share His grace,
Proclaim God’s mercy through His Son
be His love, to every one.

And when we falter, be Thou our comfort.
Guide us as Your children that our lives may be
A beacon in this darkness that surrounds us,
A light that others then may see.
Refrain

MISSION MOMENT — Every Child’s Hope — Kathryn Kuntzman

GOD’S WORD — 1 John 4:7-21 — Jo Ann Moody

GOD’S WORD — John 15:1-9 — Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC — Abide with Me — Organ setting

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — Love Lifted Me — #317

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Abide with Me — Gospel setting

March 31 – Easter Sunday

A blessed Easter to all!

SILENT REFLECTION — The Risen Lord #646

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Thine Is the Glory

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Jim French
One: The tomb is empty!
All: Our Savior lives!
One: Christ himself told us, “On the third day, the Son will rise.”
All: Christ is risen!
One: Christ is risen indeed!
All: Alleluia!

*HYMN – Christ the Lord Is Risen Today – #268

Christ the Lord is risen today, Alleluia!
Sons of men and angels say, Alleluia!
Raise your joys and triumphs high, Alleluia!
Sing, ye heavens, and earth reply, Alleluia!

Lives again our glorious King, Alleluia!
Where, O death, is now thy sting? Alleluia!
Dying once, He all doth save, Alleluia!
Where’s thy victory, O grave? Alleluia!

Love’s redeeming work is done, Alleluia!
Fought the fight, the battle won, Alleluia!
Death in vain forbids Him rise, Alleluia!
Christ has opened Paradise, Alleluia!

Soar we now where Christ has led, Alleluia!
Following our exalted Head, Alleluia!
Made like Him, like Him we rise, Alleluia!
Ours the cross, the grave, the skies, Alleluia!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION – Jim French
O God, the things you do! For generations, you have been doing “new things.” And now, Holy Week! Jesus is alive?! He is! This is the awesome joy that fills our hearts and raises our spirits. God, you rule! Christ Jesus, you are alive! You raise us beyond our fears, our doubts and our sins. You can conquer anything, including death. O God of Resurrection, the things you do! Amen!

*RESPONSE – Were You There? – #266

Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they crucified my Lord?

Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they nailed him to the tree?

Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?
Oh, sometimes it causes me to tremble, tremble, tremble.
Were you there when they laid him in the tomb?

Were you there when He rose up from the dead?
Were you there when He rose up from the dead?
Oh, sometimes I feel like shouting, glory, glory, glory!
Were you there when He rose up from the dead?

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Pat Winship

*HYMN – He Is Lord – #103

He is Lord, He is Lord!
He is risen from the dead and he is Lord!
Ev’ry knee shall bow, ev’ry tongue confess
That Jesus Christ is Lord.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 – im French

SPECIAL MUSIC – Was It a Morning Like This? – Croegaert
Valerie Waterman, Vocalist

GOD’S WORD – Mark 16:1-8 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – Thine Is the Glory – #281

Thine is the glory, Risen conquering Son!
Endless is the victr’y Thou or death has won!
Angels in bright raiment Rolled the stone away,
Kept the folded grave clothes Where Thy body lay.

Refrain:
Thine is the glory, Risen Conquering Son!
Endless is the victr’y Thou o’er death hast won!

Lo! Jesus meets us. Risen from the tomb,
Lovingly He greets us, Scatters fear and gloom.
Let His church with gladness Hymns of triumph sing,
For the Lord now liveth; Death has lost its sting. [Refrain]

No more we doubt Thee, Glorious Prince of Life!
Life is naught without Thee; Aid us in our strife;
Make us more than conqu’rors, Through thy deathless love;
Bring us safe through Jordan To Thy home above. (Refrain)

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Hallelujah! (from Messiah) – G. F. Handel

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