Dear Friend,

Palm Sunday

Holy Week begins this weekend with Palm Sunday, the day we recall Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem. My sermon, "Songs of Loudest Praise," is based on John 12:12-16. John's version of this story is briefer than the other three gospels. It is a bit quieter, too. The disciples are confused; the crowd is there for another miracle or two, but a shadow is clouding the day. The reader knows the cross looms in the future for Jesus, but the crowds and the followers have no idea. 

Our worship service begins, like the parade back in Jesus' day 2000 years ago, with palms waving, people singing, and the congregation celebrating. But that same cloud from 2000 years ago is present as well. In the sermon, I'll look ahead and wonder with you, where are we in this story? Are we ready to follow Jesus in the name of love? Are we prepared to give ourselves to each other and the world in the name of grace? These are not easy questions to answer, nor is this journey to the empty tomb on Easter Sunday an easy one to embark upon. Like most things that matter, though, the journey begins when we take the first step. 

I'm looking forward to seeing you this Sunday. The Common Grace Band will lead us at the 9 am service in Grace Hall at First Community North. They fill the hall with great energy and wonderful music. The White Chapel Ringers will join the Cambridge Choir at the 10 am service. The anthems for the day are lovely. The Chancel Choir will lead us in worship at 11 am, and the Children's Choir will also sing. Palms will be given to children at all three services, and there will be palm processionals at the 10 and 11 am services. 

This Sunday, our ushers will hand out Easter postcards at the end of the service. We hope you will take two or three (or ten or eleven!) and use them to invite a friend, family member, or coworker to church with us on Easter Sunday. Many people become very interested in attending worship during this time of year. Someone you know probably just needs a little nudge, like a personal invite from you! You will receive an Easter postcard in the mail in the next few days. Put that one on your fridge or your mirror to remind you of the schedule for Holy Week.

Maundy Thursday, March 28, 7 pm

The Maundy Thursday service will begin at 7 pm in the sanctuary at First Community South. This poignantly beautiful service features several anthems by the Combined First Community Choirs, readings telling the story of the night Jesus is betrayed and arrested, and the service of Holy Communion. 

Good Friday, March 29, Noon

The Good Friday service begins at Noon in the sanctuary at First Community North. The Marble Cliff singers and string orchestra will lead this service as we hear again the terrible story of Jesus's death. It is not an easy one to participate in, but I find myself drawn to it every year, not just because I am a pastor but also because I've seen death and sorrow in my life. This service is the one time a year we acknowledge the pain and sadness so many of us face.

Easter Sunday, March 31

I'll have much more to say about Easter Sunday in a special Word from Glen next Friday afternoon, but I want you to know the schedule so you can make plans to attend.

• 6:30 am Easter Sunrise Service on the lawn at First Community South
• 9 am Easter Celebration in Grace Hall
• 10 am Easter Celebration in the sanctuary at First Community South
• 11 am Easter Celebration in the sanctuary at First Community North

The Gathering - Pastors on the Hot Seat

The Gathering will take a break next week but return on Wednesday, April 3 beginning at 5:30 pm with a complimentary supper, a brief worship service at 5:45, and opportunities for children, youth, and adults at 6. The adults will be invited to remain in Grace Hall for "Pastors on the Hot Seat!" All of your pastors, Mary Kate Buchanan, Jennifer Garvin, Sarah Kientz, Seth Stearns, and I, will be there to answer any question you have for us individually or collectively. I did this last fall and had a great time. It is a fun way to get to know your pastors better and learn something new about faith, theology, the Bible, and more.

A Prayer for You

Holy and Gracious God,

Bless the members and friends of First Community as we make our way to the celebration of Easter. Give us the courage we need to make the journey in the week ahead. Remind us, as we take the first step on Palm Sunday, that your unconditional love is an ever-present source of strength and renewal. Amen.

With love for you, your pastor,