NEWSLETTER
Thursday, April 14, 2022
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Resurrect!
It is time, hopefully late on Saturday, to insert the Easter message into our sign at the corner of Loop and Lamy. It is one word: Resurrect! There may be some who think the exclamation point is supposed to be an “I” and that somehow the “on” was broken off. Some years ago, when the worship commission was discussing an insert for the season, the word “Resurrection” was being tossed about. In her customarily thoughtful way, Mary Delancy suggested that we use the command to action, “Resurrect!” rather than the descriptive noun “Resurrection.” The meaning is that resurrection does not occur in a vacuum. Rather it is a product of an active process in which we all must play our part. Dr. Gaddy was inspired to craft the Easter worship around that theme. His sermon title was simple and straightforward: Resurrect!
The women who went to the tomb on the third day were all followers of Jesus and had actively and diligently worked to achieve the goals he had set forth in his ministry. They knew the value and necessity of this very hard work. They knew that most good things would not just happen on their own. Because of the brutality of the way of life in their day, the unjust ways in which those in power treated its citizens, and the fear that their power might be usurped by this upstart, their beloved Rabbi had been killed. Though in deep mourning, they nevertheless persisted in their duties, bravely showing their support at the crucifixion, when Jesus’ followers were in danger of the same fate, as well as going to the tomb to anoint his body which was the custom of the day. They never gave up hope or vision.
In that day women were not considered to be reliable witnesses. So, who would believe a tale about what they found, beginning with an open empty tomb? They, however, knew their scripture at least as well as their male counterparts. They lived into the story of Job, who suffered greatly yet proclaimed, “I know that my redeemer lives and on the earth shall stand in the end.” They likely knew that some would think them hysterical if they came back proclaiming what they had seen and that an angel had appeared announcing that “He is not here; he is risen!” Undaunted and, no doubt delirious with joy, upon hearing this news, the first thing that came to mind was to spread the word and go forth to make Jesus’ resurrection a reality. There was still work to be done.
Our world seems to be falling apart, perhaps in ways most of us living today have never experienced. Is it a time to sit around and mourn? Should we throw up our hands or sit on them while injustice, senseless killing, oppression of others perceived to be different, and the madness of genocide at the hands of a madman are the order of the day? I believe these brave women are sending us a message from that empty tomb. It is what Mary (our Mary Delancy) was saying to the worship commission. “Get up off your hands and put them to work. Don’t just think that if you wait long enough some miraculous thing will happen to restore order. It likely will not happen unless we do this work.”
We are entering a season that gives hope of new life. After our period of discernment that we call Lent, our command is clear. Go…do justice…love mercy…walk humbly with God…Resurrect!
God give us peace in our time.
D H
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Join us for Worship
Easter Sunday April 17, 2022
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Dr. Darrell Cluck preaches
"Daughters of Delirium
or
Sisters of Surety"
The skeptics this week are the disciples of Jesus. When the women tell of the empty tomb, they scoff at them. The Greek word translated "idle tale" might better be translated "delirium." Were the women out of their minds? Is the resurrection a figment of the over active imagination of grieving women, or the solid foundation of our faith? What does the victory of life over death say to our world so riddled with the threat of death? The followers of Jesus today have Good News for such a world as ours? How will a death-weary world hear this word of life?
Click the photo to view our Sunday service
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EASTER SUNDAY
APRIL 17, 2022
Introit: Festival Introit For Easter Day
This setting by Hal Hopson and based on a tune you will hear in the Preludes, was written by Heinrich Schutz(1585-1672). On this Easter Sunday we bring back the Alleluias. The tune is O filii et filiae.
Opening Hymn: Christ the Lord is Risen Today
The unknown author of Lyra Davidica wanted music with more movement and spirit than found in the grave, slow-paced psalm tunes, with one note to a syllable, Easter Hymn was among the first of a new popular style. On the final verse, a descant by Hal Hopson is added. Listen for the sopranos soaring above the melody.
Gospel Acclamation for Easter
D.H. arranged the music announcing our gospel reading using the hymn Tune BURLEIGH. You will recognize the tune for this acclamation and response.
Voluntary: O Had l Jubal’s Lyre
One of our choral scholars, Sarah Talmage, will sing this joyful aria from Handel’s Joshua. This oratorio was written in 1747.
Anthem: Christ is Risen
This short anthem was written in 1966, Jan Sanborn used the text from Romans 6: 9-10. We celebrate Easter with the words “ Christ is Risen! Alleluia.
Communion Anthem: The Call
From Five Mystical Songs by English composer, Raloh Vaughan Williams and using the hymn text by George Herbert, D.H. arranged this beautiful anthem for the Northminster choir. So wonderfully set as a communion anthem, the text simply reminds us that our Christ is the Way, the truth and the Life.
Closing Hymn: Jesus Christ is Risen Today
In 1749, an English translation of this 14c Latin hymn dropped all but the first stanza of the original. Most hymnbooks have used that 1749 version. In this new translation the original Latin verses of the medieval text are restored, thus bringing to life the original Easter narrative. The hymn is set to the tune, LLANFAIR, written by Robert Williams in 1817.
Christ is Risen Indeed,
See you Sunday, Debi
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The Prayers of the People |
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We pray alongside.....
The oppression and suffering of the innocents in war torn countries.
Our Pastor Search Committee as they continue our search for our next pastor.
Those with unspoken prayer requests.
Sister of Tim Jaquess (Sammy) upcoming brain surgery.
Carol Ann Tubbs sister, Patty Bewick, dealing with multiple serious medical conditions.
Janet Dawson, at home recovering from surgery.
Judy Eddington, dealing with a serious medical condition.
Lola Wheeler recovering from an ankle replacement surgery.
Our Brothers and Sisters in Cuba experiencing severe economic hardships, food shortages, and lack of medical equipment to administer Covid-19 vaccines.
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The Celebrations of the People |
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We celebrate alongside.....
Charles Creech (15th), and Charlotte Eich (18th), as they celebrates their birthdays.
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Ella Mayfield Does It AGAIN!
After winning top honors at the Regional National History Day for her paper “Freedom Abroad, Servitude Within: The Hypocrisy of the Declaration of Independence”, Ella competed at the state level last Saturday at the World War II Museum in New Orleans. Ella won FIRST PLACE at the state history day competition and a scholarship to spend a week working and learning at the National WWII museum in NOLA with the student leadership program! Ella is one of our youth and a senior at West Ouachita High School. We are so proud of you, Ella! Congratulations!
Read Ella's award winning essay by clicking on the green buttons to the left.
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If you would like to share something in the newsletter, please call the church office or email office@northmin.org.
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April Mission Trunk Emphasis:
The Food Bank of NELA
Needs: Peanut Butter (plastic jars only), Beans (dry or canned), Canned Meats/Seafood (tuna, salmon, chicken, ham), Meals in a box/can (chili, mac & cheese, stew), Rice and Pasta (box or bag), Boxed Cereal, Canned fruits and vegetables, Canned soups, Pop-Top food items (spaghetti-o’s, soups) . PLEASE NO GLASS CONTAINERS. Other needs: Paper products (toilet paper, paper towels), Personal care items (deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrushes, bath soap).
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Remaining Easter Activities |
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Friday at Noon:
Lunch Meditations conclude
If you have not participated in the daily lunch meditations during this Holy Week, you have truly missed a blessing! Great food and fellowship along with thought provoking short meditations. Please plan to join us tomorrow at noon - 1pm for our last gathering.
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TONIGHT: MAUNDY THURSDAY
In Remembrance
Northminster Church and the Columbarium Commission cordially invite you to a Wine and Water reception at 5 p.m. tonight in the Northminster Columbarium & Gardens.
The reception will take place before the start of the 6 p.m. Maundy Thursday service.
A columbarium is a permanent place for the inurnment of cremated remains. The term is derived from the Latin word, columba (dove). Originally, columbarium was used to describe the nest holes, or dovecote, for housing doves and pigeons. The niches that comprise a columbarium resemble a dovecote, hence the name.
The Northminster Columbarium & Gardens is
a peaceful space where the cremated remains of deceased members and immediate family can be inurned, as well as a convenient spot for loved ones to visit.
The columbarium is located in the gated area on the church's east wing. We look forward to seeing you at the reception.
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GOOD FRIDAY
On Friday, April 15 at 7pm the Northminster Choir and Friends will present John Rutter's Requiem as we recognize Good Friday.
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Time to Revitalize!
Easter means new life: new life in nature as long dormant plants spring into bloom, new life for individuals as potential long suppressed is released, new life in the world as the power of life over death is made manifest, and new life for the church as her mission makes new life a tangible hope. Easter happens when nature, individuals, the world, and the church are transformed by God’s rule, reign, and realm.
Our church is no exception. We are an Easter people constantly in need of revitalization. We do a great job of worship, of accepting all people, and of providing a loving community. However, do those outside the church in our city and region know what we offer at Northminster? How can those who need us find us? Are we the best kept secret in town? Do we hesitate to share the Good News of God’s inclusive love because we do not want to be perceived as pushy or like those other Baptists? What if we could develop a church-wide strategy for recruiting new members, reactivating inactive members, and retaining the members we have?
The Coordinating Council has authorized the formation of a Task Force focused on reaching out to those who need a church like ours. We know we are not the church for everybody, but we are the church for many who are alienated from their church of origin or who have never found a church open and accepting enough for them for find a sense of belonging. Utilizing a unified vision in personal, print, electronic, and social media communications, we can extend the ministry of the church to those who need our ministry and need to be a part of our ministry.
If you would like to be a part of such a group with such a purpose, please let us know. You can e-mail or text Darrell Cluck with your interest: cluckiator@aol.com, 318-537-1009. Together we can work toward a strong, healthy future for Northminster.
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Youth Assistance Needed
Once again Northminster Youth have begun meeting each Sunday at 5pm and this effort is lead by Beth Mayfield. The group has many exciting plans upcoming along with Baptist Youth Camp July 3-8. Beth is requesting help with leading and guiding the youth as they transition to adulthood. If you think this is a ministry you could add to, please contact Beth Mayfield at beth@mayfieldconstruction.net or her phone 348-2529.
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Northminster COVID Precautions
We continue to follow state and CDC guidelines and accordingly recommend that if you are at high risk for severe illness - talk to your healthcare provider about whether you need to wear a mask and take other precautions; stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines; and get tested if you have symptoms. The Coordinating Council recommends that immune compromised and unvaccinated individuals, and anyone experiencing cold or other illness symptoms continue to wear masks during our services.
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Northminster Book Club
Our next book is, Conjure Women by Afia Atakora. Book Club will meet Thursday, May 12 at 6pm at the home of Debi Chandler, 2005 Stuart Ave., Monroe for potluck and discussion. If you would like to join the Book Club, contact Debi at chandler@ulm.edu
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The 2022 Alliance Annual Gathering
A Virtual Experience
April 22-24, 2022
On Jan. 31, the Alliance announced that the 2022 Annual Gathering will be held 100% virtually. To read more about this decision, click here.
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About the Gathering Theme
For a thousand years, western Christianity has seen the cross through the lens of substitutionary atonement—that Jesus died in our place and reconciled sinful humanity to God. The Annual Gathering seeks to re-examine this theology and explore new atonement ideas through panels, workshops, and worship. The gathering is also an opportunity to enjoy a weekend of rejuvenating fellowship with like-minded followers of the way of Christ.
The planning team is still finalizing changes to the schedule which will be made public soon. Continue to check the website for the most up-to-date information.
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Given to the Glory of God
During the Lenten season the altar remains shrouded with no floral arrangement. Upon the arrival of Easter and the Eastertide season, the flowers will once again grace our altar.
If you would like to give flowers in memory or in honor of someone, please contact the church office. Approximate cost is $100.
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Upcoming Events
This Sunday
9:00 am - Choir Practice
10:00 am - Sunday School for Children (K-5),
Youth, and Adults
10:45 am - Preludes
11:00 am - Sunday Morning Liturgy
5:00 pm - Youth
Wednesdays
6:30 pm - Choir practice
Extra Choir Rehearsal and Performance:
Tonight, April 14 at 6:45 Dress Rehearsal
Friday, April 15 at 7pm John Rutter's Requiem
Sunday, April 24 at 3pm: ULM Vocal Student's Concert in the sanctuary
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Pulpit Supply Schedule
April
17 - Dr. Darrell Cluck
24 - Dr. Darrell Cluck
May
1 - Dr. Carl Gregg
8 - Dr. Scott Stearman
15 - Dr. Darrell Cluck
22 - Rev. Mark Windham
29 - Dr. Darrell Cluck
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Palm Sunday and Easter Egg Hunt |
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Of Interest in the Community |
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ULM VOCAL STUDENTS TO PRESENT
CONCERT AT NORTHMINSTER
ULM vocal students Jenny Smith and Preston Anderson will present a concert in the Northminster sanctuary on Sunday, April 24 beginning at 3 pm. Jenny, a soprano, was the female lead in the recent highly successful ULM production She Loves Me. Preston, a tenor, is a Northminster choral scholar and was one of the male leads in She Loves Me. Jenny and Preston have been accepted into a prestigious opera immersion program set for July in Italy. As a part of the program students live with Italian families, learn some of the Italian language in which many operas are written and performed and receive intensive coaching by opera professionals.
The purpose of the concert is to give Jenny and Preston positive performing experience and also hopefully to raise a little spending money for them for their month in Italy. They each have scholarships, but extra money is needed. The concert is free, but donations are encouraged to help Jenny and Preston with their expenses.
The music Jenny and Preston will present at the concert will include selections from their vocal recitals and the stage, including She Loves Me. So please put this date on your calendar and plan to attend to support Jenny and Preston.
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BLEND: THE BIGGEST PARTY ON THE RIVER
The Granddaddy of arts fundraising events in northeast Louisiana is returning, but in a new space and with a brand new vibe! Blend of the Bayou has enjoyed immense success since its beginning in 1997 and is the foundation for our new event, BLEND. Imagine an event where the classic Blend of the Bayou is "blended" with our popular North Delta Food & Wine Festival, while paying homage to many classic Blend of the Bayou elements we all know and love!
BLEND will be held this year in Downtown Monroe at the River Market on Sunday, May 1, 2022 from 3pm to 7pm, in cooperation with the City of Monroe. This block party on the river featuring local men and women who cook, local favorite restaurant chefs, live music, drinks by local sponsors and a silent auction of area artists' works is set to be the top fundraising event of the year. Awards will be given to “Best of Blend – Restaurant” & “Best of Blend – Home Cook”. Ticket proceeds benefit the Arts Council of Northeast Louisiana's programs and services.
TICKETS ARE ON SALE NOW! General Admission tickets are $65 and VIP tickets are $100. Our 318Club and above members will receive a special discount on their ticket purchase (limits apply). To receive that discount code, please call 318.397.6717 OR email abigail@nelaarts.org. Visit the link below to purchase yours!
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If you have found a space of community, or healing, or hope at Northminster and believe in the work we are doing, please consider supporting us financially so that we will be able to continue creating spaces like this in all the days to come.
To support Northminster financially, you can click here, or scan the QR code with the camera on your phone.
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Northminster Church is located at:
2701 Lamy Lane
Monroe, LA 71201
318-388-3717
office@northmin.org
Temporary Church Office Hours:
Tues -Thurs 9am to 4 pm
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