May 3, 2024
Dear Peace members and friends,
A happy May to you all! In spite of the rain, I hope you’re enjoying the green, green, green of creation around us coming to life once again.
On Sunday, we continue celebrating the good news of Easter. This season of the church year reminds us that the resurrection of Christ does not only have to do with what happens after we die but, first of all, it has to do with the way we live right now. So in worship, we will continue our sermon series, “Living the Resurrection.” We will tell still another Easter story and be reminded that the Risen Christ continues to open our lives to life and to others around us. We’ll share in the Lord’s Supper, hear a children’s message from Pastor Joe, share in the Lord’s Supper, and sing more Easter hymns. The celebration of Easter continues!
In Adult Education following worship and fellowship in the Parish Hall, we’ll discuss, “How My Mind Has Changed”: St. Paul said it: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect (Romans 12:1-2).” On this last Sunday of Adult Education before the summer break, we will talk together about how our minds have changed. Join us!
On behalf of the Service and Mission Committee, I pass on a big thank-you to all of you who support with your offering life-giving ministry to others and those who participated in packing baby kits in partnership with Lutheran World Relief. We packed 146 packets containing some basics: soap, towels, blankets, t-shirts, and socks for infants and toddlers. Thanks be to you and thanks be to God!
A last word: beginning last night and continuing into tomorrow, the congregations of the Minneapolis Area Synod will be meeting in Ramsey for our annual assembly. Along with the other Peace delegates, Marcia Craig, Tammy Devine, and Pastor Joe, I’ll be attending this gathering. Of particular note this year, the synod will be electing a new bishop. Keep the assembly and the congregations gathered in your prayers!
See you Sunday!
Mark