Dear Peace members and friends of Peace,
This Sunday is The Holy Trinity (worship at 9:30). Pastor Joe writes, “in mainline Protestantism, the first Sunday after Pentecost is commonly celebrated as Holy Trinity Sunday. Whereas Pentecost Sunday (last Sunday) sees us celebrate the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, this day proclaims the gift of that Spirit: faith in God who is three-in-one—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit; Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. This holy mystery is the foundation of our faith and of our creeds:
‘I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, God’s only Son, our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried; he descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again; he ascended into heaven, he is seated at the right hand of the Father, and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.’
We celebrate this doctrine because, despite there being thousands of different Christian denominations across the world, it unites us in faith.
Further, the Holy Trinity reminds us that God is a God of relationship—just as God shares in relationship within the Trinity, God brings us into relationship as well, as we also share in relationship with one another. I’ll say more in a message entitled, ‘In Relationship.’”
We’ll hear a Children’s Message, say the Apostles’ Creed together, and we’ll share in the Lord’s Supper.
VEAP is celebrating their 50th anniversary with special monthly challenges. This is the final weekend of the May challenge which focuses on baby items: diapers of any size (newborn to pull-ups), non-expired baby formula, baby wipes, and baby food. Your contributions for our littlest ones are much appreciated at VEAP!
Last, this is Memorial Day weekend. In the words of Pastor Mark, 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 our country. We are grateful for those who have served our country and for the freedoms we enjoy today because of that service and sacrifice.
We look forward to seeing you on Sunday or, if you are traveling, we wish you safe and joyous travels!
–Daina Sivanich