This Sunday’s festival derives its name from the Jewish festival of Pentecost, observed fifty days after Passover. On the fiftieth day of Easter we celebrate the Holy Spirit as the power of God among us that heals, forgives, inspires, and unites. In the reading from Acts, images of wind and fire describe the Spirit poured out on disciples of all nations. In John’s gospel the risen Christ breathes the Spirit on his followers on Easter evening. In the one Spirit we are baptized into one body, and at the Lord’s table the Spirit unites us for witness in the world.

This Wednesday is our final Wednesday Faith Night of the spring. We gather for a simple, tasty meal beginning at 5:00 pm…then we gather for Campfire Worship at 6:00 pm. GA Youth then roll up their sleeves and join in The Amazing Race, a series of lessons and challenges organized by high school youth for their younger counterparts. Chancel choir rehearses at 7:30 pm. Join us!

As we continue to celebrate the fifty days of Easter, this Sunday’s gospel includes Jesus’ promise that he goes to prepare a place for his followers in his Father’s house. Our baptism commissions us to share Jesus’ mission in the world. As First Peter reminds us, we are a holy people, called to proclaim the one who called us out of darkness into light. In words and deeds we bear witness to the risen Christ—our way, our truth, our life.

Worship services are at 9:00 am and 11:15 am…join us.

This Sunday is sometimes called “Good Shepherd Sunday.” Jesus is called the “gate” of the sheep in today’s gospel. The risen Christ opens the way to abundant life. He anoints our heads with oil and guides us beside the still waters of our baptism. Each Sunday he spreads a feast before us in the midst of the world’s violence and war. We go forth to be signs of the resurrection and extend God’s tender care to all creation.

Worship is at 9:00 am and 11:00 am…Join us.