October 13 -‘Imagine Together!’

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.
Alongside of each other, we continue going ahead on this amazing expedition “Imagine Together!”

WELCOME

PRELUDE    Prelude on “Rhosymedre”   – Wolford  

*CALL TO WORSHIP                                                                    
One:  Incline your ear to God! 
All:  We hope to hear good news. 
One:  Listen, so that you may live!
All:  We hope to have enough to share. 
One:  Imagine together!
All:  We imagine enough at every table. 

HYMN — We Come, O Christ, to You #289

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

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

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

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

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

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION    
God of inspiration and grace; sometimes we feel like we are spinning our wheels. Sometimes we feel like we are caught in short-term ups and downs.   At moments, we lose sight of your bigger picture, Dear God.  Remind us that you have always known us and that you know where we are right now.
Holy One, you bring healing to our lives where injuries have hardened our hearts.  You welcome us into community just when we are in danger of feeling isolated and alone. You provide patience and persistence, especially when change takes longer than we have imagined.
Faithful God, comfort us with rest and bless us with renewal this day, while you are giving us sacred glimpses of your amazing Realm to come.  Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — The Gift of Love  #126
Though I may speak with bravest fire,
And have the gift to all inspire,
And have not love, my words are vain,
As sounding brass, and hopeless gain

Though I may give all I possess,
And striving so my love profess,
But not be given by love within,
The profit soon turns strangely thin.

Come, Spirit, come, our hearts control,
Our spirits long to be made whole.
Let inward love guide every deed;
By this we worship, and are freed.

GOD’S WORD –  Isaiah 58:6-14 & Philippians 2:1-5

SPECIAL MUSIC    Thy Word  – Hayes

GOD’S WORD — Matthew 25:31-40 

MESSAGE     Jo Ann Moody                                                                 

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

HYMN   Give of Your Best to the Master   #422
Give of your best to the Master;
Give of the strength of your youth;
Throw your soul’s fresh, glowing ardor
Into the battle for truth.
Jesus has set the example,
Dauntless was He, young and brave;
Give Him your loyal devotion;
Give Him the best that you have.

Refrain:
Give of your best to the Master;
Give of the strength of your youth;
Clad in salvation’s full armor,
Join in the battle for truth.

Give of your best to the Master;
Give Him first place in your heart;
Give Him first place in your service;
Consecrate every part.
Give, and to you will be given;
God His beloved Son gave;
Gratefully seeking to serve Him,
Give Him the best that you have.

Give of your best to the Master;
Naught else is worthy His love;
He gave Himself for your ransom,
Gave up His glory above.
Laid down His life without murmur,
You from sin’s ruin to save;
Give Him your heart’s adoration,
Give Him the best that you have.

BENEDICTION    Pastor Dan      

POSTLUDE    Carillon    – Wolford

September 29 – ‘Imagine Together!’

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.

A heart-felt welcome to our guest witnessing steward, the Rev. Doni Driemeier-Showers. We are blessed that Doni is offering a personal faith message during worship today as our congregation sets out together on our autumn stewardship pilgrimage.

Everyone is invited to Fellowship Hall following worship for a special reception in celebration of and in thanksgiving for the ministry of our worship musician Bob Meinz.
Thank you so much, Bob, for your good-natured, extended service providing worship leadership among us!

WELCOME

PRELUDE –  Lord, I Want to Be a Christian   — arr. John Carter                  

*CALL TO WORSHIP  (Psalm 146, UCC Worship Ways adapted)    –  John Weiland 
One-Blessed are those whose hope is in God, the Maker of heaven and earth –
 ALL-for God keeps faith forever!
One-God executes justice for the oppressed and gives food for the hungry.
 ALL-God sets the prisoners free and opens the eyes of the blind!
One-God lifts up those who are bowed down.
ALL-God watches over the strangers and upholds the orphan and the widow.  
One-People of God, sing praises to the One who is your help –
 ALL-for God keeps faith forever!

*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 Eternal, you have gathered us together. We are here to praise you! As recipients of your blessings, we are inspired by you to become givers!  May we lavish your grace and your compassion on all people.  
 Spirit of the Living God, fall fresh on us. During this time of worship, teach us your ways, Christ Jesus. Lead us to continue learning and growing in faithfulness to you. We pray in your holy name, Jesus.  Amen.

*PRAISE 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:

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 13 – John Weiland

PRAYER OF CONFESSION AND TRANSFORMATION    Pastor Dan

We confess, O God, that the burdens which weigh us down also narrow our vision.  Fear of scarcity makes us focus on our own survival.  We regard strangers with suspicion, and we find it difficult to share.  We speak words that we regret, and we keep silent when we need to speak. Weariness and discouragement sap our energy and our faith.
We wonder how there could be good news that is not of our own making.   We, whom you call to be an Easter people, are in need of resurrection.  Amen.

 WORDS OF GOD’S LOVE AND ASSURANCE    Pastor Dan
In the person of Jesus,
God invites us to discover the freedom and new life that God offers:
God’s forgiveness heals us.
God’s grace dispels our weariness and discouragement.
God’s love clears our vision.
God’s compassion lifts our burdens. 
Thanks be to God!  Amen.

SPECIAL MUSIC – As the Deer  

GOD’S WORD  – John 11

SERMON – Rev. Driemeier-Showers                   

PRAYERS OF THE CHURCH –  Rev. Driemeier-Showers            
Pastoral Prayer concluding with the Lord’s Prayer (debts… debtors)

*HYMN – Live Into Hope – worship booklet, p. 65

Live into hope of captives freed,
Of sight regained, the end of greed.
Th’ oppressed shall be the first to see
The year of God’s own jubilee!

Live into hope! The blind shall see
With insight and with clarity,
Removing shades of pride and fear,
A vision of our God brought near.

Live into hope of liberty,
The right to speak, the right to be,
The right to have one’s daily bread,
To hear God’s word and thus be fed.

Live into hope of captives freed,
From chains of fear or want or greed.
God now proclaims our full release
To faith and hope and joy and peace.

*BENEDICTION –  Rev. Driemeier-Showers

*POSTLUDE – Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee  — arr. Matt Limbaugh

September 1 — Be Love!

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! A blessed Labor Day weekend to all.

As is our custom on the first Sunday of every month, today we gather around God’s table for communion. If you are worshipping with us from home, please collect the elements so we may celebrate together. All are welcome.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — Amazing Grace

*CALL TO WORSHIP — Pat Winship
One: Come, people of God.
All: This is the Sabbath Day, and we are drawn to God.
One: Come, and receive all that God longs to teach us.
All: It is a blessing to learn from God.
One: God’s grace is pouring into our lives.
All: The image of God is within each one of us.
One: We are here to touch the hem of Christ’s grace;
All: To let go of our worries and to be cleansed of our sins;
One: To savor hope and to linger in mystery.
All: We are here to touch God, and to be touched by God.

*HYMN — Jesu, Jesu, Fill Us with Your Love — worship booklet, p. 57

Refrain:
Jesu, Jesu fill us with your love,
Show us how to serve the neighbors we have from you.

Knelt at the feet of his friends, silently washing their feet,
Jesu you acted as servant to them. Refrain

Neighbors are rich and poor, varied in color and race,
Neighbors are near and far away. Refrain

These are the ones we should serve, these are the ones we should love;
All these are neighbors to us and to you. Refrain

Loving puts us on your knees, showing our faith by our deeds,
Serving the neighbors we have from you. Refrain

Kneeling at the feet of our friends, silently washing their feet,
This is the way we should live with you. Refrain

*CALLING ON GOD IN PRAYER — Pat Winship
Loving God, we rejoice to be with you and with one another today. You are the God who redeems and who makes all things new! In this life, we experience fullness of life in a wide range of circumstances. This range of experiences extends from ‘blessing’ to ‘tragedy;’ from ‘joy beyond measure’ to ‘despair seemingly deeper that we can endure.’
Faithful God, you are the One who sustains us through all of the plateaus, the peaks, the depths, and everything in between! Through your grace and power, you bless people with bold, life-giving trust in you.
Compassionate and Ever-Present God, you are our refuge and strength; a very present help in all situations. Come, now, O Holy One; come to life within us and among us as we worship you. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — Reach Out and Touch — #505

Reach out and touch a soul that is hungry;
Reach out and torch a spirit in despair;
Reach out and touch a life torn and dirty,
A man who is lonely If you care!

Reach out and touch that neighbor who hates you;
Reach out and touch that stranger who meets you;
Reach out and touch the brother who needs you;
Reach out and let the smile of God touch thru you.

Reach out and touch a friend who is weary;
Reach out and touch a seeker unaware;
Reach out and touch, tho’ touching means losing
A part of your own self If you dare!

Reach out and give your love to the loveless;
Reach out and make a home for the homeless;
Reach out and shed God’s light in the darkness;
Reach out and let the smile of God touch thro’ you.

GOD’S WORD — James 1:19-25 — Pat Winship

SPECIAL MUSIC — His Eye Is on the Sparrow

GOD’S WORD — Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9 and Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN — We Come As Guests Invited — #258

We come as guests invited When Jesus bids us dine,
HIs friends on earth united To share the bread and wine;
The bread of life is broken, The wine is freely poured
For us, in solemn token Of Christ our dying Lord.

We eat and drink, receiving From Christ the grace we need,
An in our hearts believing On Him by faith we feed;
With wonder and thanksgiving For love that knows no end,
We find in Jesus living OUr ever-present friend.

One bread is ours for sharing, One single, fruited vine,
Our fellowship declaring Renewed in bread and wine-
Renewed, sustained and given By token, sing and word,
The pledge and seal of heaven, The love of Christ our Lord.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire to receive the bread and the cup are welcome. Cups in the outer circle on the communion tray contain grape juice. Other cups contain wine.

*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 — God Sends Us — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — It Is Well with My Soul

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

July 7 — Sent with Power

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. This morning, we praise God for our nation’s Independence Day, celebrated annually on July 4th. We are grateful for God’s gifts to us of our homeland and our freedom. We are abundantly blessed! We celebrate that God is the God of all nations.

All are welcome, as is our custom, at Christ’s table today.If you are worshipping with us from home, please gather the elements of communion before we begin so we may celebrate together.

WELCOME

PRELUDE — God Bless America

*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.

*HYMNS — Patriotic Hymn Sing

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.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — In This Very Room — #125

In this very room
There’s quite enough love
For one like me
And in this very room
There’s quite enough joy
For one like me
And there’s quite enough hope
And quite enough power
To chase away any gloom
For Jesus, Lord Jesus
Is in this very room

In this very room
There’s quite enough love
For all of us
And in this very room
There’s quite enough joy
For all of us
And there’s quitе enough hope
And quite еnough power
To chase away any gloom
For Jesus, Lord Jesus
Is in this very room

In this very room
There’s quite enough love
For all the world
And in this very room
There’s quite enough joy
For all the world
And there’s quite enough hope
And quite enough power
To chase away any gloom
For Jesus, Lord Jesus
Is in this very room

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 48 — Rod Hertenstein

SPECIAL MUSIC — Be Not Afraid

GOD’S WORD — Mark 6:1-13 — Pastor Dan

SERMON — Pastor Dan

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

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

Let us talents and tongues employ,
reaching out with a shout of joy:
bread is broken, the wine is poured,
Christ is spoken and seen and heard.
Jesus lives again; earth can breathe again.
Pass the Word around: loaves abound

Christ is able to make us one,
at his table he set the tone,
teaching people to live to bless,
love in word and in deed express.
Jesus lives again; earth can breathe again.
Pass the Word around: loaves abound!

Jesus calls us in, sends us out
bearing fruit in a world of doubt,
gives us love to tell, bread to share:
God (Immanuel) everywhere!
Jesus lives again; earth can breathe again.
Pass the Word around: loaves abound!

THE JOYFUL FEAST — The Sacrament of Holy Communion — 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 — I Sing a Song of the Saints of God — worship book, 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 — Praise the Lord with Drums and Cymbals — Karg-Elert

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    

March 29 — Good Friday

Our worship is in memory of the sacrificial, self-giving love offered to all on the cross by Jesus Christ.

SILENT REFLECTION — Crucifixion of Christ — #645

PRELUDE

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: We come now to the hill at Calvary.
All: The love of God leads to the Cross.
One: The Servant Messiah summons us.
All: Despised and rejected; Jesus is a man of sorrows, acquainted with all our griefs.
One: The Anointed One of God, whom we have grown to love dearly, is being crucified.
All: We are in disbelief.
One: How can Jesus be dying?
All: Truly, Jesus is the Son of God.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Everlasting God, we need you. You respond to the cries of your children from all walks of life. This day, though; Christ Jesus, you are the One crying out. Help us to hear your cries; to see what you see; to feel what you feel. We are saved by your sacrifice. On this unforgettable Friday, may we be moved by the sorrows of betrayal, denial, cruelty, and condemnation that you endure for us. Your suffering and death are agony. On this day, we remember your excruciating pain, dying on the cross for all people. Our souls ache with grief and guilt over your crucifixion, Jesus.
You are aware of our need for your grace. We worship you. Lamb of God, you take away the sin of the world. Amen.

*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

CALL TO CONFESSION
One: God longs for us to come to God; to be truthful; and to confess our sin. God desires to free us from guilt and fear. Let us pray together.
All: God of steadfast love, we keep ourselves busy with pursuits that do not satisfy. We exhaust ourselves trying to fill our emptiness with activities and possessions that drain our energies rather than give life. Before you now, O God, we confess that we do not know how to live; and we are afraid to die. We readily excuse our own sin, but, at the same time, we are quick to condemn wrongdoing we see in others. Help us to own up to our sin and to repent. Forgive us when we do not do what you ask of us. Eternal God, we are sorry for failing you. Forgive us, Christ Jesus; we pray in your name. Amen.

SILENCE

*ASSURANCE OF GOD’S FORGIVENESS

*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.

GOD’S WORD — Isaiah 52:13-53:12

*HYMN — 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?

Christ on the Cross

The third hour
Luke 23:34
“Father, forgive them; for they know not what they are doing.”

The fourth hour
John 19:26-27
“Woman, behold your son… Behold your mother.”

The fifth hour
Luke 23:43
“Truly, truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.”

The sixth hour
John 19:28
“I thirst.”

The seventh hour
Matthew 27:46
“My God! My God! Why have you forsaken me?”

The eighth hour
Luke 23:46
“Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.”

The ninth hour
John 19:30
“It is finished.”

SOLO — Tis Finished — Valerie Waterman, Soloist

+ Depart in silence +

March 24 — Palm Sunday

Hosanna! Hosanna in the highest!

WELCOME

PRELUDE — He Is Exalted

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Hosanna to the King of kings!
All: Let all who follow Christ sing God’s praises!
One: John the Baptist says, “One is coming who is greater than me.”
All: Blessed is the One who comes in the name of God!
One: Look, he’s riding on a donkey. Here comes the Savior!
All: Let every knee bow before Jesus.
One: Let every tongue welcome him,
All: “Hosanna in the highest!”

*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!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of joyful moments; this morning, we recall the excitement felt by people welcoming Jesus along the road to Jerusalem. What a moment! Today, we find ourselves swept up in the party atmosphere of that wonderful parade. Even now, we can feel your mighty grace and love. We want to cut loose in ways that honor and praise you, Jesus. Your amazing love reaches out and includes everyone.
Your goodness challenges all people to rise up and walk in your ways. Hosanna! Reign over us, Holy Jesus. Come; and live among us. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE — Lord, Be Glorified — #528

In my life, Lord be glorified, be glorified.
In my life, Lord be glorified today.

In your church, Lord, be glorified, be glorified.
In your church, Lord, be glorified today.

GOD’S WORD — Psalm 118:1-2, 19-29

*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.

GOD’S WORD — Philippians 2:5-11

SPECIAL MUSIC — Lord, I Lift Your Name on High

GOD’S WORD — Mark 11:1-11

SERMON — Pastor Dan

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE AND THE LOR’DS PRAYER — Pastor Dan

*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!

*BENEDICTION — Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE — Majesty, Worship His Majesty

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

 

February 14 – Ash Wednesday

Ash Wednesday begins the Season of Lent, which is a 40-day spiritual journey to Resurrection Day.

SILENT REFLECTION – Christ, My Every Need – #425

PRELUDE – Be Still, My Soul

*CALL TO WORSHIP
Gather the people. Prepare a holy meeting.
Today, we acknowledge the fragility and preciousness of life.
Gather the people. Return to God with our whole mind, body, and spirit.
We rend our hearts not our clothes. We open ourselves to the pain of
the world with compassion and grace in the way of Jesus.
Gather the people. Seek the Holy One, who is alive within us.
We offer to God our sacrifice of praise. Earth to earth, ashes to ashes,
dust to dust; we are here to worship.

*HYMN – Just As I Am – #387

Just as I am, without one plea,
But that thy blood was shed for me,
And that thou biddest me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, and waiting not
To rid my soul of one dark blot.
To Thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come! I come!

Just as I am, though tossed about
With many a conflict, many a doubt,
Fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind;
Sight, riches, healing of the mind,
Yea, all I need in Thee I find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, thou wilt receive,
Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because Thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
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 – Joel 2:1-6, 10-13

CALL TO CONFESSION and PRAYER OF CONFESSION
One: God is merciful to all who confess their sins.
All: God is summoning us this day, “Return to me with all your heart.”
One: The Spirit of God is calling, “Turn away from evil. Turn toward me.”
All: So then, let us turn to God and confess our sins.
One: Let us prayer together.
All: Mighty and Merciful God, we come to you in prayer. We confess our need for your help. Our failures confront us, and our disconnections from you and from our neighbors diminish us. Cleanse us of all guilt and shame. Forgive us for our sin. Draw us near to you, God of grace; so that we may accept your forgiveness and be renewed. This we pray in your holy name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

SILENCE – Pastor Dan

*ASSURANCE OF PARDON – Pastor Dan

*RESPONSE – Cleanse Me – #410

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 Spirit, revival comes from Thee;
Send a revival – start the work in me.
Thy Word declares Though will supply our need;
For blessings now, O Lord, I humbly plead.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 51:1-4, 6-10 – Pastor Dan

THE IMPOSITION OF ASHES

PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING

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

Here, O my Lord, I see Thee face to face;
Here would I touch and handle things unseen;
Here grasp with firmer hand th’eternal grace,
And all my weariness upon Thee lean.

Here would I feed upon the Bread of God;
Here drink with Thee the royal wine of heav’n;
Here would I lay aside each earthly load;
Here taste afresh the calm of sin forgiv’n.

I have no help but Thine; nor do I need
Another arm save Thine to lean upon;
It is enough, my Lord, enough indeed;
My strength is in Thy might, Thy might alone.

Mine is the sin, but Thine the righteousness;
Mine is the guilt, but Thine the cleansing blood.
Here is my robe, my refuge, and my peace;
They blood, Thy righteousness, O Lord, my God.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION

THE LORD’S PRAYER (debts… debtors)

*HYMN – Take My Life and Let It Be – #436

Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in endless praise,
let them flow in endless praise.

Take my feet and let them be Swift and beautiful for Thee;
Take my voice and let me sing,
Always only, for my King,
Always, only, for my King.

Take my lips and let them be Filled with messages for Thee;
Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold,
Not a mite would I withhold.

Take my love, my God I pour At Thy feet its treasure store;
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Near to the Heart of God

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