Grace and peace to all of you, especially as we live in the middle of the unknown.
This time has been difficult for many people. For some, there have been questions about their jobs and what that means as things have been shut down. For others, they have concerns about their health and what would happen if they contract Covid-19. For all of us, we have been forced to change our normal routines and learn how to do things in new ways. Some days, I find it even easier to see how God is at work in our world, while other days it is much harder.
This Sunday will be the third Easter that I have celebrated with you as your pastor. Two years ago this past Sunday, we gathered for my installation and our commitment to redevelopment. At that point, none of us knew how differently we would be celebrating this year, yet we will celebrate the promises of the Resurrection, because Christ is Risen, even if we don’t feel like it.
It has now been four weeks since we have been able to gather together for worship and other activities at church. In this time, I have heard great stories about members who have received calls to check in from others, some they knew well and others they barely know. I have received responses and questions from people who have engaged with Bible Study and Lectio Divina videos, some of whom have not come to Bible Study before. A handful of people have stepped out of their comfort zones and created videos to share for Palm Sunday worship. We have had former members connect again as well as new people who we do not yet know!
This is an exciting time to be the church, when we are faced with such need in the world, as well as such a hunger for hope, a hunger for the Resurrection story.
Thank you to all who have continued to give your offerings to the church during this time. It is important so that we can continue this ministry and be able to respond to other needs as they arise. We continue to have building expenses and we have committed to retaining our staff at their normal wages. It is through your generosity that we are able to do these things and know that we will continue to thrive and serve God in this time and place.
Right now, the best way to make your offering to Risen Lord is through Tithe.ly, our online giving platform. You can use your bank account or a credit card to make a donation. A generous partner has offered to give an extra $50 for every person who sets us a new monthly recurring donation during this time, up to $500. Help us to take advantage of this gift! If you need help to set this up, feel free to reach out to Cindy, our administrative assistant. You can also still mail a check to the church if you prefer.
As we enter into Holy Week together, continue to watch our website for worship and reflections for Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. You can always reach out if you have prayer requests or any needs to me by phone or email.
In the abiding hope of the Risen Lord,
Pastor Lecia