From the Deacon's Bench
It has been a while since we have written and we have been quite busy through the Lenten season.
Thanks to Vickie Mancini we had a very successful bible study on the book of Philippians. We met on Sundays after church to read about and ponder Paul's letter to the Philippians. The theme of the study was JOY, not the usual topic during Lent but one that was very much appreciated by all who attended. Many thanks to Vickie for leading the group.
Palm Sunday was upon us before we knew it and we had a most powerful service led by Rev. Keene which began in the parlor with the blessing of the palms. The Passion was read by many members of the congregation. The music was lovely and we would like to thank Doug Shelburne for playing throughout Holy Week.
Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services were especially moving. Both ending in darkness and silence giving those who wished a time to sit and reflect on the life of our Savior, in His last days.
And at last, Easter morning! Alleluia, He is risen!! Rev. Keene did another fine job with a Joy-filled service. The altar was beautiful with all the different plants making it resemble an English garden. Thanks to all who donated plants. The children came dressed in their Easter finery and they all received a plant at the end of the service.
Melanie and Pam delivered some of the plants to our less mobile members. We know that those plants are very much appreciated by folks who love our church but can no longer get out to attend services.
On another note, we're sure by now that most of you have seen and heard our new piano. We are so fortunate to have been one of the beneficiaries of a program by Bushell Piano Movers as they celebrated being in business for 50 years. They gave away 50 pianos to non-profit organizations as a thank you for their many years of success. We know that Doug is very happy with this gift and the sound is heavenly. Once again, I would like to thank Leslie Kendall for bringing this program to our attention.
Lastly, we have not forgotten that we are still struggling with the question of finding a pastor. We, the Council and Deacons, have had talks regarding the next steps to take in this matter. We will be meeting jointly to discuss this issue and will let you know when we have come to some conclusion on the subject.
As always, we invite your opinions, so please feel free to contact any Deacon or Council member with your ideas.
Meanwhile, we continue to marvel at how much our congregation is willing to do to keep our church involved in its community outreach programs. Family Promise, the Food Pantry, the Women's Shelter and the Thrift Shop continue to thrive. Our numbers may be small but our spirit is mighty!
Signing off with continued hope for the future of our church,
Pam Dunham and Melanie Conner, Co-Chairs of the Deacons
|