Dear Friends,
Do you ever feel like instead of living life, life is coming at you? Do you feel like everyday living is a defensive sport? The day-to-day routine can seem to melt into one enormous obligation. But Jesus says, "Come to me all you who are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
Rest, quiet, solitude, silence. Not only are those practices that Jesus modeled and encouraged for us, they are imperative to our wholeness and well-being. The busyness of our lives denies us the peace and wisdom that comes from rest and renewal. We all know that, and yet it can be incredibly difficult to practice in real life. Come Sunday and receive encouragement and practical suggestions to embrace a new rhythm of keeping time with God - time fully engaged and time apart - just in time to put into practice over Spring Break.
Also looking ahead to the end of Alachua County Spring break, we will have only two services on Palm Sunday, April 14. The adult choirs are combining to offer a beautiful and meaningful cantata at both the 9:40 and 11:00 worship services. Inspired by Celtic music traditions and using folks songs, hymns and sacred songs, we'll hear the story of Christ's love and passion for us that took him all the way to the cross. We'll still have Sunday school for all ages at both 9:40 and 11:00, but there will be no 8:15 service on Palm Sunday.
Later that week, come participate in a traditional Seder meal on Thursday at 5:30 as we explore ways Jesus fulfilled and expanded our understanding of the ancient Jewish meal of the Passover. We'll tell the story and enjoy a delicious, full meal. This will be a great time for the whole family to celebrate together. Click here to register. You will need reservations.
Then, on Good Friday, we'll offer two services: at noon in the Chapel and at 7pm in the Memorial Garden. The Tenebrae Service (with the extinguishing of candles as the account of the passion and crucifixion is read) will be a powerful experience as we gather in the garden as the sun sets.
Finally, Easter Sunday, invite a friend and join us for one of four Easter services: 7:00 Sunrise in the Memorial Garden and 8:15, 9:40 and 11:00 in the Worship Center. I encourage you to start thinking now about who you will invite to join you for worship and then go to lunch with afterwards. Easter is a great day to invite a friend, neighbor or coworker to be a part of worship with Trinity.
See you Sunday as we get renewed for the week ahead.
Grace and Peace,
