I’m back.
It was a peaceful, contemplative Lenten season at Shepherd as we praised, prayed, and learned about praying from Jesus. I have heard from several members that our Wednesday night gatherings were soothing and calming oases in the midst of hectic weeks. That was music to my ears. It was what I hoped would be the case. Prayer is so vital for us. We cannot overdo it! There is power and peace to experience as we set aside time to quietly focus on God and pray. As a follow up, keep in mind that we have a group that meets every Tuesday for prayer here at the church.
During Holy Week services I was surprised at the packed house for the Maundy Thursday service. People were sitting out in the lobby! Of course, when you have 109 kids taking their first communion those numbers shouldn’t be too surprising. Congratulations to all those kids and their families. Mom and Dad, keep up the good work of raising that child in that baptismal covenant. Easter was an amazing experience and I want to thank all the volunteers who went out of their way to make the evening and morning services hospitable , organized and joy-filled. We had over 2300 this weekend hear the Easter gospel.
So, what’s coming up at church? As many of you are aware, Shepherd took its first vote on January 31st to sever ties with the ELCA. It passed overwhelmingly. Every now and then I will have someone ask me, “Now, why did we do that?” There are a number of theological issues that played into this decision. Mainly, it revolves around biblical authority and how we read and use Scripture. If you are interested in reviewing these concerns I invite you to go to our website and look at the literature that explains our differences with the ELCA. Anyway, that vote was the first step. Our constitution also requires that we invite the bishop to have conversation with us (April 15th, Thursday at 7pm) and then hold a second vote next month. That vote is scheduled for May 16th at 12:30.
My appeal to you is ……Don’t forget and don’t assume. To get this completed, we again need a 2/3 majority of the voting members present at the meeting, to ratify the resolution. We also voted on January 31st to join the LCMC (Lutheran Congregations in Mission) which I am very enthused about. Zach and I will be attending a national meeting the end of April and we are eager to be a part of the mission.
Looking for…….
Did you know that we’re starting up some new ministry opportunities at Bethlehem Lutheran on the Midway? If you’re looking for a fun ministry that makes a difference stop at our kiosk and let us get you connected.
Finally, we are presently looking for someone (or ones) to step into leading our “Loaves and Fishes” ministry. Nancy Fesler and Kathy Fagerness have faithfully tending this ministry for a long time and are ready to hand the baton to another servant. They’ll be glad to train you in. And the most important news item of all?
He is risen! He is risen indeed!
Steve