I want to begin this week with a word of celebration. Last week, as Lenora shared with you the news of her departure at the end of February in order for their family to be reunited sooner than originally anticipated, she also invited you to pray for her this week as she went before the Board of Ordained Ministry for her interview.
I am delighted to share with you that she passed with flying colors and has received a recommendation to be ordained as an Elder in Full Connection at this year's Florida Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church! As a current member of the Board, I had the privilege of being there on Tuesday when Lenora received the news. This marks the culmination of a journey of faithfulness and dedication to the call God placed on her heart more than a decade ago. I know you join me in celebrating this milestone in Lenora's journey as a pastor. You can mark your calendars for June 7 if you'd like to attend the worship service in Lakeland when Lenora and others from around our conference will be ordained. More details to come later.
My second word for you today is invitation. On Sunday, February 3, Trinity will host an event called the Cost of Poverty Experience (COPE), which will begin with lunch following the 11:00am worship service. About a year ago, I participated in my first COPE at our Faith Mission campus. It is a powerful experience that provides a small glimpse into the day-to-day realities for persons living in poverty and the many obstacles faced in trying to overcome their circumstances. It is an event that can foster greater empathy and understanding for their plight and encourage action on their behalf. I hope you will consider joining us for this important opportunity. You can go ahead and sign up here today.
Lastly, a word of inspiration...from Martin Luther King, Jr., who would have celebrated his 90th birthday earlier this week:
"Life's most persistent and urgent question is 'What are you doing for others?'"
