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This is probably my favorite week of the year. It begins with Palm Sunday, moves through Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, and takes us to Easter Day. It is a week filled with triumph, defeat, and triumph once again.

On Palm Sunday we gather for worship with our Choir’s presentations of the Easter cantata, with accompaniment by the chamber orchestra, and a reception hosted by the United Women in Faith in the Fellowship Hall between the two services. It has been a highlight for me to be able to sing each year, and this year is no exception. We are fortunate to have the leadership of Zach Marshall and Jamie Hollida, and the group of talented and dedicated members of the Spirit Singers here. There are many hours of rehearsals, and listening to the tracks and practicing by each one, that go into what is presented on Sunday morning. The cantata moves us through the events of Holy Week and into a foretaste of the celebration of Christ’s resurrection.

On Maundy Thursday will gather in the sanctuary as we remember the Last Supper that Jesus had with his disciples. We will share the sacrament of Communion together, and hear again the story of Jesus’ passion and death. It is always a powerful moment when the altar is stripped and draped in black cloths, and then we leave in silence.

Four years ago, I was in Israel, along with several members of our church family. It was powerful to be in the places that we will remember this week – the road to Jerusalem, the Mount of Olives, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Via Dolorosa, Calvary, the Church of the Holy Sepulcher and the Garden Tomb. I will picture each place as we read the story this week.

On Easter Sunday we will gather at 6:30 am with our mission and ministry partner, Shepherd of the Sea Lutheran Church, for our Sunrise Service on the beach at the Conch Café. Then we will hold our regular schedule of services as we celebrate once more the power of life over sin and death. Remember to bring flowers with you when you come to worship to decorate the cross. It is always a grand and glorious day.

I look forward to seeing you as we remember and celebrate together.

Blessings for the journey+
Pastor Mary Teasley