Dear Peace Members and Friends,
This is Memorial Day weekend. Memorial Day was officially declared a national holiday in 1971, but, in practice, dates back to shortly after the Civil War. It is a time to remember and honor those who have died in service to their country (All Saints in November is the church’s commemoration of all those who have died). Memorial Day is also a time to allow the stories about the sacrifices of our fellow citizens to keep us from making war an abstraction. We are grateful for those who have served their country and for the freedoms we enjoy because of that service and sacrifice. Let Memorial Day also be an opportunity to renew our sense of commitment to working for a just and peaceful world.
This Sunday is the Sixth Sunday of Easter (9:30am worship). Throughout this Easter season, our Scripture is describing lives and life in light of the resurrection of Jesus. Even though we, as Christians, entrust our deaths to the promise of life eternal with Christ, we are raised with Christ—now. According to Philippians 3, we know the power of his resurrection. What does that mean? What does that kind of life look like?
On Sunday, Stephen will help us answer those questions. I wonder if you’ve ever looked at someone and that person’s eyes, their whole being, and said, “Your face is like the face of an angel.” And angel is a being who has seen the glory of God. Well, that’s how Stephen is described. I’ll say more about Stephen, living the resurrection, and our lives in a message, “Seeing the Glory.” We’ll continue to sing Easter hymns, have a children’s message, and share in Holy Communion. A good, good Sunday ahead!
A reminder: the Service and Mission Committee has announced a January mission trip for next January to Robin’s Nest, an orphanage in Jamaica. There will be an informational meeting next Sunday, June 1st, at 11:00am. Join us to hear more about this opportunity for life and growth and service to others!
If you’re traveling this weekend, a blessed weekend to all of you!
God’s Grace and Peace to all of you!
Mark