In these weeks following Easter, we are learning alongside our church school students how the good news of Jesus’ resurrection begins to spread. As more and more see the risen Messiah, their doubt changes to belief and they share the story of Easter. Through the faithful teaching of the disciples, some people who are least likely to be a part of this movement, come to follow in the hope of Jesus’ ministry and teachings.
As we continue to explore the still-unfolding story of how the Good News spreads in the years following Jesus’ resurrection, this Sunday we’ll hear the story of a Roman jail guard who, upon hearing and experiencing a bit of the Good News himself, immediately puts it into practice, doing his part to live and share God’s love. Love and justice is contagious, and folks are still catching the bug today!
We also have the honor this Sunday of welcoming guest choir Charm City Sings, on tour from their home city of Baltimore! Charm City Sings is a vibrant community chorus with the mission to connect Baltimore through song. Originally founded in 2022 with 29 singers, they have grown into a dynamic organization with three choirs and over 275 members. While their mission is music, the foundation of Charm City Sings is to strengthen community through joyful and meaningful connections; contributing to Baltimore’s heritage as a world-class city for the arts. I’ll let their bulk of their program be a surprise for Sunday morning, but here’s a hint: brush up on your Highwomen and Carter Family (or Nitty Gritty Dirt Band) if you want to sing along!
Our Stewardship season also begins this Sunday, the time of year when we celebrate the fruits of our shared ministry over the past year, thank God for the spiritual and material resources we’ve been given, and prayerfully plan how we each can contribute to the ministry and mission of United Parish in the year to come, with our time, talent, and treasure. Pledge packets will be available to take home on Sunday, with the remainder mailed out early next week.
Lots going on, lots to celebrate, and lots to sink our spiritual teeth into – join us at 11am this Sunday in the sanctuary and online to pray, sing, celebrate, and ponder together. See you there!
In faith,
Amy
image credit: Paul and Silas in Prison, painting by Paul Oman
