January 8 – Possibilities

Happy New Year from Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ! We are thrilled to have you with us, and hope you will join us in person. Our sanctuary is open and we are ready to welcome families to worship with us. Reach out if you have any questions.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head – Martin

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: How majestic is God’s name in all the earth!
All: Be glad, and celebrate!
One: Come; hear God’s Word for our day.
All: God’s Word is truth.
One: Let the truth set you free.
All: God’s word offers strength.
One: The Messiah that God promised is here!
All: Come and behold him; born the king of angels.

*HYMN – We Three Kings of Orient Are – #220

We three kings of Orient are;
Bearing gifts we traverse afar,
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.

Refrain:
O star of wonder, star of night,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy perfect light.

Born a King on Bethlehem’s plain,
Gold I bring to crown Him again,
King forever, ceasing never,
Over us all to reign. [Refrain]

Frankincense to offer have I;
Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, all men raising,
Worship Him, God on high. [Refrain]

Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume
Breathes a life of gathering gloom;
Sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,
Sealed in the stone-cold tomb. [Refrain]

Glorious now behold Him arise;
King and God and sacrifice:
Alleluia, Alleluia,
Peals through the earth and skies. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
Everlasting God; you come to life in this world as holy light, desiring to be known by humankind. During the year ahead, open our eyes and our ears and our hearts to recognize you living among us. Day by day, you are creating and leading us along the way to fullness of life. You came to earth through human childbirth. You did not send someone else. You came yourself! You were born as a little baby who grew up in a small town. We are grateful that you often come in quietly reassuring ways that do not call attention to yourself. We praise you for your abundant love, Jesus. Thank you for teaching us to live as disciples of your grace. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – The First Noel (Verse 1) – #205

The first Noel the angel did say
Was to certain poor shepherds in fields as they lay,
In fields where they lay keeping their sheep,
On a cold winter’s night that was so deep.

Refrain:
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 60:1-6

SPECIAL MUSIC – What Child Is This? – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – Matthew 2:1-12

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – The Star Carol – #201

Long years ago on a deep winter night,
High in the heav’ns a star shone bright,
While in a manger a wee Baby lay,
Sweetly asleep on a bed of hay.

Jesus, the Lord was that Baby so small,
Laid down to sleep in a humble stall;
Then came the star and it stood overhead,
Shedding its light ’round His little bed.

Dear Baby Jesus how tiny Thou art,
I’ll make a place for Thee in my heart.
And when the stars in the heavens I see,
Ever and always I think of Thee.

PRAYERS OF THE PEOPLE – Pastor Dan

*HYMN – As With Gladness Men of Old – #219

As with gladness men of old
Did the guiding star behold,
As with joy they hailed its light,
Leading onward, beaming bright,
So, most gracious Lord, may we
Evermore be led by Thee.

As with joyful steps they sped,
To that lowly manger bed,
There to bend the knee before
Him, whom heav’n and earth adore,
So may we with willing feet
Ever seek thy mercy seat.

As they offered gifts most rare
At the manger, rude and bare,
So may we with holy joy,
Pure and free from sin’s alloy,
All our costliest treasures bring,
Christ, to Thee, our heav’nly King.

Holy Jesus, ev’ry day
Keep us in the narrow way;
And, when earthly things are past,
Bring our ransomed souls at last
Where they need no star to guide,
Where no clouds Thy glory hide.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Now Thank We All Our God – Kauffmann

December 25 – Christmas – Christ is Born!

May God bless today’s worship as we celebrate God’s Christmas gift to the world–the Promised Messiah. Merry Christmas from all of us at Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ.

As always, you are more than welcome to join us at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Christmas morning, at Ivy Chapel. You may also watch our worship services anytime on YouTube.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Selected Christmas Music – Kathryn Kuntzman, Cello

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Sing of God’s glory!
All: Shout praises to God, all the earth!
One: Celebrate!
All: Let’s rejoice; for God is our life and our salvation! Christ is born!

*HYMN – O Come, All Ye Faithful – #188

O come, all ye faithful,
joyful and triumphant!
O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem!
Come and behold Him,
born the King of angels.

Refrain:
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
O come, let us adore Him,
Christ the Lord!

God from true God, and
Light of Light begotten,
Lo , He abhors not the Virgin’s womb;
Very God, begotten, not created

Refrain

Sing, choirs of angels,
sing in exultation,
O sing, all ye citizens of heav’n above!
Glory to God, all glory in the highest: [Refrain]

Yea, Lord, we greet Thee,
born this happy morning;
Jesus, to Thee be all glory giv’n!
Word of the Father, now in flesh appearing: [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of light, we praise you for giving us the gift of Jesus Christ! We are here in your sanctuary filled with wonder and delight that you have come to humankind as a newborn child! Thank you, God, for being with us on this day of birth and rebirth. We are grateful for and humbled by your presence among us this Christmas morning.
Gracious, Joyful Spirit; you fill our hearts with renewed hope and joy. We worship you, for you bless souls everywhere with the Light of Christ. Glory to you in the highest, O God! Amen.

LIGHTING OF THE ADVENT CANDLES AND THE CHRIST CANDLE

*RESPONSE – Away in a Manger – #213

Away in a manger, no crib for a bed,
The little Lord Jesus laid down His sweet head.
The stars in the sky looked down where He lay,
The little Lord Jesus asleep on the hay.

The cattle are lowing, the baby awakes,
But little Lord Jesus, no crying He makes.
I love Thee, Lord Jesus; look down from the sky,
And stay by my cradle till morning is nigh.

Be near me, Lord Jesus; I ask Thee to stay
Close by me forever, and love me, I pray.
Bless all the dear children in Thy tender care,
And take us to heaven to live with Thee there.

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 98:1-4 • Isaiah 9:2-7

CHRIST IS BORN

RESPONSIVE READING – THE SAVIOR’S ADVENT – #639, Luke 2:8-20

CHRISTMAS CAROL SING – We will sing the first TWO verses of each selected carol.
Enter your requests into the YouTube chat and we’ll try to get to you, too.

*RESPONSIVE PRAYER

Voice One: Radiant Child, On this Christmas day, we pray for peace to fill us,
as the waters renew a dry and desolate landscape
Voice Two: How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of the messenger who announces peace!
Voice One: Radiant Child, on this Christmas day, we pray for hope to guide us forward,
making a way where the path is rocky.
Voice Two: All the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God!
Voice One: Radiant Child, on this Christmas Day, we pray for joy to uplift us, carrying us on the swift currents of laughter and community.
Voice Two: Listen! Your sentinels lift up their voices; together they shout for joy!
Voice One: Radiant Child, on this Christmas Day, we pray for love to surround us, as the comforting and loving embrace of a trusted friend.
Voice Two: For the Lord has comforted his people; he has redeemed Jerusalem.
Voice One: Peace, Hope, Joy and Love!
May they fill, guide, uplift, and surround us now and always. Amen!

*HYMN – Joy to the World! – #194

Joy to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let ev’ry heart prepare him room
And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n and nature sing,
And heav’n, and heav’n and nature sing.

Joy to the earth, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ,
While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and plains,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat the sounding joy,
Repeat, repeat the sounding joy.

No more let sins and sorrows grow
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make his blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders of His love.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Joy to the World – Hustad

September 18 Livestream – Prayerful Living

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. All are welcome to join us on our prayerful journey through life. Join us in person every Sunday at 10, or for virtual worship on our YouTube page.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude – J. S. Bach

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Come one! Come all!
All: God is great and greatly to be praised!
One: Some things God alone can see.
All: God is great and greatly to be praised!
One: Enter into the joy of your Master.
All: Come, one and all!

*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!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God, you genuinely delight in creation. We are grateful for this morning. It is a joy to be with you on this day of life that you have given! Our prayer is an invitation for you to visit this faith community today, God. Make your Church out of us. Fill our hearts with desire to become your servants. As Jesus Christ, you have shown us that focusing on you brings life. Lead us as we continue learning to give away the gifts which you so abundantly are giving us.
Grand and Gracious God, you are beyond all that we can ask or imagine. May the hearts of people everywhere delight in you. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Holy Ground – #83

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

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 113

SPECIAL MUSIC – Come Build a Church (Vocal Ensemble) – Medema

GOD’S WORD – Luke 16:1-13

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – Something for Jesus – #441

Savior, Thy dying love Thou gavest me,
Nor should I aught withhold, Dear Lord, from Thee:
In love my soul would bow, My heart fulfill its vow,
Some off’ring bring Thee now, Something for Thee.

At the blest mercy seat, Pleading for me,
My feeble faith looks up, Jesus, to Thee:
Help me the cross to bear, Thy wondrous love declare,
Some song to raise, or pray’r, Something for Thee.

Give me a faithful heart, Likeness to Thee,
That each departing day Henceforth may see
Some work of love begun, Some deed of kindness done,
Some wand’rer sought and won, Something for Thee.

All that I am and have, Thy gifts so free,
In joy, in grief, thro’ life, Dear Lord, for Thee!
And when Thy face I see, My ransom’d soul shall be,
Thro’ all eternity, Something for Thee.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Toccata on How Firm a Foundation – Young

August 21 Livestream – The ABCs of Kindness

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

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

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

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Suscepit Israel – Titelouze

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

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

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

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

*HYMN – Draw Me Nearer – #412

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

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

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

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

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

*RESPONSE – This Is the Day – #84

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

CHILDREN’S MESSAGE – Dottie Foster

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

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

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

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

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

SPECIAL MUSIC – Wonderful Words of Life – Hamilton

GOD’S WORD – Luke 13:10-17

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

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

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

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

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

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

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

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

Aug. 14 Livestream – Restore Us

Thank you for being with us today. Let’s rejoice and worship God together!

Feel free to join us in person at 10 a.m. on Sunday, or visit our YouTube page for virtual worship. We will post a link directly to this week’s worship once the service begins.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Et Misericordia Ejus – Titelouze

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Come, worship God who moves us to rejoice!
All: We have God to thank for every blessing that we enjoy.
One: Come, worship Christ Jesus.
All: Jesus is our all in all!
One: Come, worship God who teaches us to give and to serve.
All: Let us follow Christ’s way of life.
One: This world is God’s world.
All: This world is a place of abundance and possibility!

*HYMN – Rejoice, the Lord Is King – #282

Rejoice, the Lord is King: Your Lord and King adore!
Rejoice, give thanks and sing, And triumph evermore.
Lift up your heart, Lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Jesus, the Savior, reigns, The God of truth and love;
When He has purged our stains, He took His seat above;
Lift up your heart, Lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

His kingdom cannot fail, He rules o’er earth and heav’n;
The keys of death and hell Are to our Jesus giv’n:
Lift up your heart, Lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

Rejoice in glorious hope! Our Lord and Judge shall come
And take His servants up To their eternal home:
Lift up your heart, Lift up your voice!
Rejoice, again I say, rejoice!

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of promise and possibility; you greet us here once again. We have come to this sacred place to be reminded of your holy love for all people and of your persistent invitation to follow you. We are like vines which you plant, water and protect. We know in our hearts that we need and desire your presence in our lives, Christ Jesus.
O God Eternal and Ever-new; we are listening for your Voice. Speak to us. Breathe new life into us. Fill us with your Spirit. Lead us to put into action daring ‘possibilities’ that you envision for us as your church! Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – I Love You, Lord – #228

I love You, Lord, and I lift my voice to worship You;
O my soul, rejoice!
Take joy, my King, in what You hear;
May it be a sweet, sweet sound in Your ear.

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 5:1-7

SPECIAL MUSIC – Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen – arr. Hayes

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*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.
All glory and praise To the Lamb that was slain,
Who hath borne all our sins, and hath cleansed every stain.
Revive us again; fill each heart with Thy love;
May each soul be rekindled with fire from above.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Toccata – Young

CCLI License #456361

Question about Ivy Chapel? Do not hesitate to reach out to us anytime.

July 10 Livestream – Caring Neighbors

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC! God loves all people. Whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here. We are all neighbors on this journey together.

We are thrilled to have you with us. You may join us any Sunday at 10 a.m. as we gather in our sanctuary, or for virtual worship on YouTube.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Prelude – J. S. Bach

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: This is the day the Lord has made!
All: We rejoice, for God is awesome!
One: God made the very foundations of the earth!
All: God’s power is beyond human understanding!
One: We do know this – God’s love and mercy are eternal gifts.
All: Praise God for all of life’s blessings!

*HYMN – All Things Bright and Beautiful – #65

All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And all things wise and wonderful;
The Lord God made them all.

Each little flow’r that opens,
Each little bird that sings,
He made their glowing colors,
He made their tiny wings. 

All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And all things wise and wonderful;
The Lord God made them all.

The purple-headed mountain,
The river running by,
The sunset, and the morning
That brightens up the sky. 

All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And all things wise and wonderful;
The Lord God made them all.

The cold wind in the winter,
The pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruits in the garden:
He made them, every one. 

All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And all things wise and wonderful;
The Lord God made them all.

He gave us eyes to see them,
And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty,
Who has made all things well.

All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
And all things wise and wonderful;
The Lord God made them all.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of all; you are among us as we celebrate this morning! We are deeply grateful for this opportunity to worship you.
We praise you, God, as the One who gathers people and who shapes us into communities of faith. Thanks to you, human hearts are filled with hope and joy. Here, in your sanctuary, we are at home. As we worship, you reassure us that wherever we are, you are with us.
Life leads us in many directions and to many different places. We are blessed that you are with us in all situations. We can always be ourselves with you; for you are a Genuine and Loving God.
During this worship, God, we ask that you draw us away from all earthly concerns and free us to exalt you. No one can compare with you. There is no God other than you. Your Living Water cleanses, and your Living Word heals. Come, Christ Jesus; wash over us. Speak to us, and bless us with ears to hear your voice. Amen.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – The Bond of Love (Verses 1 and 2) – #123We 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, ev’ry one,
Let us feel His love begun;
Let us join our hand that the world will know
We are one in the bond of love

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 25:1-10

*HYMN – Lonely Voices – #526

Lonely voices crying in the city,
Lonely voices sounding like a child.
Lonely voices come from busy people,
Too disturbed to stop a little while.
Lonely voices fill my dreams,
Lonely voices haunt my memory.

Lonely faces looking for the sunrise,
Just to find another busy day.
Lonely faces all around the city,
Though afraid, they’re too ashamed to pray.
Lonely faces do I see,
Lonely faces haunt my memory.

Lonely eyes, I see them in the subway,
Burdened by the worries of the day;
Lives of leisure, yet they’re so unhappy,
Tired of foolish roles they try to play.
Lonely people do I see,
Lonely people haunt my memory.

Abundant life Christ came to truly give man,
But so few His gift of grace receive.
Lonely people live in every city,
Those who face a dark and lonely grave.
Lonely faces do I see,
Lonely voices calling out to me.

GOD’S WORD – Colossians 1:1-14

SPECIAL MUSIC – What a Friend We Have in Jesus – arr. Tornquist

GOD’S WORD – Luke 10:25-37

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – 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 may see.

Refrain

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Oh, Be Joyful in the Lord – Wolford

June 5 Livestream – Pentecost

Today is Pentecost, the 50th day after Easter Sunday. It commemorates the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers who were celebrating the Festival of Weeks in Jerusalem. It is often celebrated as the beginning of the Christian church’s mission to the world.

You may join us at 10 a.m. in our sanctuary at 620 N. Woods Mill Road in Chesterfield, or online via YouTube.

PRELUDE – Rock of Ages – Hustad

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Receive with joy God’s gift of the Holy Spirit.
All: The winds of God are blowing among us.
One: How amazing is the power of God!
All: The breath of God fills people with life and hope!
One: God calls us to be dreamers and prophets.
All: Christ offers us a vision of a world overflowing with God’s grace.

*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.

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.”

If you say He saved you from your sin,
Now you’re weak, you’re bound and cannot enter in,
You can make it right if you will yield,
You’ll enjoy the Holy Spirit that we feel.

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
God of wind and fire; we are grateful to you for this day, and we are thrilled to be here for worship. We are filled with joy by what we are about to celebrate.
God, you are “Mystery” with a capital “M.” You are the Creator, who gives life to all living things. You are the Christ, who loves us so deeply that you give your life for us. You are the Spirit, who ages ago moved over the waters of creation; and who forever stirs in each human heart and soul.
You are the Author and the Master of all holy mysteries. Lead us to respond faithfully as you call us into ever-new beginnings. Guide us on this life-long journey toward hope, wonder and amazement. Amen.

*RESPONSE – Spirit of the Living God – #150

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 104:24-34, 35b – Pastor Dan

MISSION MOMENT – Our Church’s Wider Mission – Bill Biedenstein, Missouri Mid-South Conference, UCC

GOD’S WORD – Romans 8:14-17 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – I’m Bound for the Kingdom – Wolaver

GOD’S WORD – Acts 2:1-21 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

*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.

THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY COMMUNION
All who desire the bread and the cup are welcome to receive the gifts of God.

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

*HYMN – Breathe on Me, Breath of God – #139

Breathe on me, Breath of God,
fill me with life anew,
that I may love the way you love,
and do what you would do.

Breathe on me, Breath of God,
until my heart is pure,
until my will is one with yours,
to do and to endure.

Breathe on me, Breath of God,
so shall I never die,
but live with you the perfect life
for all eternity.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan

*POSTLUDE – Recessional – Wolford

May 22 Livestream – God’s Goodness

Welcome to Ivy Chapel UCC. We are thrilled you have you with us today, whether you plan to worship with us in our sanctuary or virtually on our YouTube channel.

WELCOME

PRELUDE – Consolation – Wolford

*CALL TO WORSHIP
One: Come to praise your Creator.
All: God lives!
One: Call on God for guidance.
All: God saves.
One: Hope in God, who created you.
All: God provides.
One: Live out your faith in God.
All: God gives us tasks to do and the strength to do them.

*HYMN – All Things Bright and Beautiful – #65

Refrain:
All things bright and beautiful,
all creatures great and small,
all things wise and wonderful,
the Lord God made them all.

Each little flow’r that opens,
each little bird that sings,
God made their glowing colors,
God made their tiny wings. [Refrain]

The purple-headed mountain,
the river running by,
the sunset, and the morning
that brightens up the sky; [Refrain]

The cold wind in the winter,
the pleasant summer sun,
the ripe fruits in the garden,
God made them, ev’ry one. [Refrain]

God gave us eyes to see them,
and lips that we might tell
how great is God Almighty,
who has made all things well. [Refrain]

*PRAYER OF INVOCATION
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, God. Your intimate contact with us is non-stop.
Still-Creating God, 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.

*PRAISE RESPONSE – Change My Heart, O God Ivy worship booklet, p. 33

GOD’S WORD – Psalm 68:1-10 – Pastor Dan

SPECIAL MUSIC – I Love You, Lord – Hayes

GOD’S WORD – John 14:1, 18-21, 25-29 – Pastor Dan

SERMON – Pastor Dan

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

*HYMN – Peace Like a River – #360

I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river in my soul.
I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river,
I’ve got peace like a river in my soul.

I’ve got love like a river,
I’ve got love like a river,
I’ve got love like a river in my soul.
I’ve got love like a river,
I’ve got love like a river,
I’ve got love like a river in my soul

I’ve got joy like a river,
I’ve got joy like a river,
I’ve got joy like a river in my soul.
I’ve got joy like a river,
I’ve got joy like a river,
I’ve got joy like a river in my soul.

*BENEDICTION – Pastor Dan
From this worship, may we go into the world to live as Christ’s servant disciples.

*POSTLUDE – Come, Christians, Join to Sing – Hustad

April 3 Livestream – Fifth Sunday of Lent – A New Thing

Thank you for joining us in this, the fifth Sunday of Lent.

WELCOME

 PRELUDE – When I Survey the Wondrous Cross – Hobby

*CALL TO WORSHIP                                                                 

    One: We gather in the presence of God.
    All:  We gather to worship God.

    One:  We are not meeting by ourselves.

    All:  We gather with many ancestors. 
    One:  With Moses and Aaron;                                                                                                                        

    All:  With Sarah and Abraham
One:  With Mary and Joseph;                                                                            

    All:  With women of faith, and with fishermen;

    One:  With tax collectors  –  Zacchaeus and Matthew;

    All:  With converts  –  Nathaniel, Nicodemus and Paul;

    One:  With saints of every persuasion, from every generation;                                                                                                   

    All:  Let us declare God’s praises together!

*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 to Thee
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                                                       

       Life-Saving God; above all, you make our spirits soar like no one else!  You give us sanctuary from a frightening and exhausting outside world. As Mary did long ago in Bethany, we come to worship you, Blessed Jesus. Our joy in response to all that you give moves us to offer you our praises.  

       If we get a little carried away, it’s because your abundant love changes everything. That’s what happened back when Mary anointed you. Like her, we are grateful beyond words for a chance to be close to you, Jesus. Come alive within us now. Cleanse us; change us; lead us, we pray.  Amen. 

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

            Oh, how He loves you and me,

Oh, how He loves you and me.

He gave His life, what more could He give;

Oh, how He loves you,

Oh, how He loves me,

Oh, how He loves you and me.

Jesus to Calv’ry did go,

His love for mankind to show.

What He did there, brought hope from despair.

Oh, how He loves you,

Oh, how He loves me,

Oh, how He loves you and me.

GOD’S WORD – Isaiah 43:15-2 – Pastor Dan

 SPECIAL MUSIC – Were You There? – Leavitt

 GOD’S WORD – John 12:1-8 – Pastor Dan 

 SERMON – Pastor Dan 

*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      

As the United Church of Christ, we celebrate “open” communion. All who desire the bread and the cup are welcome to receive God’s gifts at this communion table.

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

*HYMN – Are Ye Able? Said the Master – #507

            “Are ye able,” said the Master,

“To be crucified with me?”

“Yea,” the sturdy dreamers answered,

“To the death we follow Thee

Refrain:

Lord, we are able.  Our spirits are Thine.

Remold them, make us, Like Thee, divine.

Thy guiding radiance Above us shall be

A beacon to God, To love, and loyalty.

Are ye able to remember,

When a thief lifts up his eyes,

That his pardoned soul is worthy

Of a place in paradise? [Refrain]

 Are ye able when the shadows

Close around you with the sod,

To believe that spirit triumphs,

To commend your soul to God? [Refrain]

“Are ye able?” Still the Master

Whispers down eternity,

And heroic spirits answer

Now, as then, in Galilee. [Refrain]

*SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan             

*POSTLUDE – Iste Confessor – Tallis

March 27 Livestream – 4th Sunday of Lent – Lost and Found

Welcome to Ivy Chapel United Church of Christ. Our 40-day soul-searching journey continues. Thank you, Bob Meinz for serving as our worship musician today.

Please feel free to join us in person, or live at 10 a.m. on the Ivy Chapel YouTube channel.

WELCOME

 PRELUDE – Brethren, We Have Met to Worship – arr. Penny Rodriguez                      

*CALLING ONE ANOTHER TO WORSHIP                                                                     

       One: By God’s mercy,        

       All:   We are delivered from distress.

       One:  By God’s mercy,

       All:  We are extravagantly welcomed home! 

       One:  By God’s mercy,

       All:  We are cleansed, healed, made whole.

       One:  We are amazed by God’s unconditional, steadfast love!

       All:  As God’s people, let us rejoice and praise God together!

*HYMN – Just As I Am – #387

*OPENING PRAYER                                                          

        Welcoming God, we need you. Apart from you, life lacks meaning. We come seeking what money cannot buy. We come seeking what you alone provide – nourishment for our souls.  

        Welcoming God, your love for your children endures forever. Even if we squander all that you have given, still your eyes light up as soon as you see us approaching.  Immediately, you rejoice! You embrace us, celebrating nothing more than that we are alive. Crying tears of joy, you throw your arms around us; joyfully giving thanks, “O my child, you’re home! Welcome home!”

         Welcoming God, we are astonished by your boundless love. Come now; teach us to love as you love – spontaneously and extravagantly! May we throw our arms open wide, joyously offering your love.  Amen.

*RESPONSE – Where the Spirit of the Lord Is – #142

 MISSION MOMENT – One Great Hour of Sharing – “Love Remains”

 GOD’S WORD – Psalm 32:1-7, 11 – Pastor Dan          

 SPECIAL MUSIC – Wonderful Words of Life – arr. William Ringham  

 GOD’S WORD – Luke 15:1-3, 11b-32 – Pastor Dan 

 SERMON – Pastor Dan 

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

*HYMN – The Master Has Come – #502

*SENDING OUT – Pastor Dan 

*POSTLUDE – God Be with You till We Meet Again – improvised  

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