Palm Sunday and Holy Week

Dear People of God,

   This weekend the church marks the start of the holiest week in the church year with the commemoration of "Palm Sunday". And as much as history has tried to romanticize Jesus' entry into Jerusalem, Scripture reveals that it was a calculated, well-planned public demonstration designed to unveil the true King: not Caesar, not Herod, but God, the champion of justice and mercy. In his actions during the last week of his earthly life, Jesus acts and speaks out of a sense of calling – he can do no other – without obsessing over the consequences. In his writings, Paul calls us to be imitators of the one who enters Jerusalem – not to die on a cross, but to have the courage to pursue justice and mercy in the face of pain and evil, regardless of the consequences. Are you up to it? I hope and pray that you are!

   In Christ's peace,

            Gary

 

New Members

We will receive new members into our fellowship this weekend during worship on Saturday evening and at 10:30 a.m. Sunday. A reception will follow both services for you to greet our newest members.

 

Palms

Palm fronds will be handed out at all three services, and a special processional will begin the 10:30 a.m. Sunday service. Children are asked to gather in the narthex immediately after Sunday School, at 10:15 a.m.

 

Holy Week Schedule

 

Tuesday, April 19, 6:00 p.m. – The Lutheran Course, at St. Paul (Wayne Ave.). Dinner is served at 6:00 p.m., followed by our discussion at 6:45 p.m.

 

Thursday, April 21, 6:30 p.m. – Maundy Thursday Worship, at Our Savior, featuring prayers and anointing for healing, and the celebration of Holy Communion.

 

Friday, April 22, 6:30 p.m. – Good Friday Worship, at St. Paul (Wayne Ave.), featuring the "stations of the cross".

 

Saturday, April 23, 5:30 p.m. – Prayer Service in the chapel, featuring spoken, sung and silent prayers, and the celebration of Holy Communion.

 

Sunday, April 24, 8:15 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. – Celebration of the Resurrection! Let your "Alleluias" rise to the rafters!

 

Easter Egg Hunt

Saturday, April 16, 2:00 p.m. at the church, featuring The Hunt, along with games, face painting, activities and crafts, and CANDY!!!