Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus!
It is with joy that I write to you in the middle of Holy Week. When we gathered on Palm Sunday, the experience touched my emotions. I can’t begin to describe how powerful it was to see folks in the sanctuary waving palm branches. Added to this joy were the photos that I’ve seen of folks waving their palms in front of their computer screens. It was a great start to a week filled with opportunities (in-person and online) to celebrate the mystery of Jesus’s passion.
Holy Week Video Opportunity
On Sunday, I recorded a Bible Study video that teaches on the passion story from Luke’s Gospel. In in, I explore Luke’s narrative of the events leading up to the crucifixion. There are many unique aspects of Luke’s gospel that invite us to consider God’s work of restoration in the path Jesus walks to the cross. For those who have been reading my daily devotional (When the Path Get’s Rocky: A Lenten Journey of Sorrow and Joy) this Bible Study will provide further insight into some of the themes we have been covering this Lenten season. For those who have not followed the series, don’t worry, the video stands on its own. Grab your Bible, get something warm to drink, and enjoy!
Upcoming Holy Week Worship
On Maundy Thursday, we will gather at noon for an in-person worship in the sanctuary. At 7:00 p.m., worship will be livestreamed and in-person.
On Good Friday, I am offering a special ZOOM for children at 10:00 a.m. I am looking forward to sharing the story of God’s love found on the cross and in the empty tomb with children near and far thanks to the magic of ZOOM.
At noon, we gather for worship in the sanctuary for Good Friday worship. This solemn worship allows for reflection on Christ’s sacrifice and God’s plan of restoration.
At 7:00 p.m., our worship will be both in-person and livestreamed. Again, it is an opportunity for cross-centered contemplation.
On Easter Sunday, we have three worships planned.
At 6:00 a.m. we will gather outdoors around the fire pit for a Sunrise Celebration. This worship welcomes the new day and praises God for the new life that is ours in Christ. Should it rain, we will gather in the narthex. (in-person only)
At 8:00 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. we will have a full Festival Easter Celebration with joyous music. Here are the options available for you to participate in the way you feel most comfortable.
8:00 a.m.
Option A: In-Person in the sanctuary (masks are optional)
Option B: In-Person in the parking lot (worship in your car using FM radio)
9:30 a.m.
Option A: In-Person in the sanctuary (masks are optional)
Option B: In-Person in the parking lot (worship in your car using FM radio)
Option C: On-Livestream (log onto to our YouTube channel or through the St. James website).
I look forward to waving to you at whichever worship option you choice. I can’t wait to share in the excitement of shouting “Christ is Risen, Christ is Risen, Indeed”!
In Christ’s Light,
Pastor Walt