A Magnificent Easter Sunday!!!

This Easter was just magnificent!

The Sanctuary was festooned with lilies.

The Choir was in rare form.

Steve's sermon was moving.

The weather was gorgeous.

The pews were packed.

And I got to spend the morning in worship with my wife (pictured here with her good friend, Janie - with whom she sits every Sunday when I can't be there with her).

A Group with a purpose, just not a name

When I arrived almost two years ago, I began working with all the functioning Committees. Church Growth and Development was one that talked about the need to retool, rebuild, refocus. Which is exactly what they did.

And then about a month ago, a decision was made that the existing committee, many having served for almost five years, would make way for a whole new group.

That new group met for the first time today, and here they are: Brian, Butch, Joann, Theresa, Katrina, Carlos, and Noel.

What they did today was important - a whole new beginning for the Southwest Conference and our efforts at growth, development, and revitalization. Expect to hear something more from them at the Annual Meeting.

They are very clear right now about their mission and purpose - but they don't yet have a name. Stay tuned for more info.

Palm Sunday at West Congregational

Since I was the narrator, speaking from directly behind the choir, I didn't get the best shot of them. In fact, all we see are their backs. But the Choir at West Congregational did an inspiring job performing their Easter Cantata yesterday. I am always amazed at this small gathering of women and the incredible sound they are able to produce. It was a joy to participate with them in this sacred service.

And here are the children carrying in the Palm Branches as the service began. I was also a little amazed watching this. In the Midwest, the children might come in with small fronds waving - here, entire branches! I was not used to this. It really added an aura of authenticity and drama that I was not accustomed to.

I am grateful to West Church for the invitation to join them, and for helping me get my Holy Week off to a blessed beginning.