EASTER WAS GLORIOUS!

Greetings in the Name of the Risen Lord,

EASTER WAS GLORIOUS! I have never seen more cooperation, work behind the scenes, and a willingness to serve than the work that was put into the Holy Week and Easter services.

Maundy Thursday Communion was meaningful as we commemorated the Last Supper of Jesus. I was impressed with the number of people involved in the service and the amount of work that went into making the experience of the love of Christ through the celebration of Holy Communion.

The Good Friday service made the suffering and sacrifice of Christ so real. As we heard the hammer strike the nails at the end of the service, I was reminded of how much God loves us.

Easter was a glorious celebration of our Savior’s gift of life. Everything was so organized; it would be impossible to count the number of volunteers that made the day so glorious and smooth. Volunteers were everywhere helping everyone find a place. The greeters were at every corner of the building, the ushers were at their best, the decorations were just right, and the choir, worship leaders, and praise band were better than ever.  

I want to say thank you to everyone that made this a special experience for our church. And finally, thanks to our staff for all the extra hours they spent making sure the message of the resurrected Christ was heard. You are truly willing to do whatever it takes out of your love for our Lord.

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Stonebridge United Methodist Church is building a reputation as a church with members who care. The message of Christ’s love is surging out our doors and into the community. We are truly "...a joyful community where we strive to live and love like Jesus".

One final word... beginning April 21, I will be preaching a three-week series on the secret to a joy-filled life. Based on Philippians 4:8, we will explore the words of the Apostle Paul as he teaches us a way to change our mindset away from the things that steal life. Our goal will be to learn the practice of experiencing joy in all things. This passage has changed my way of thinking, and I hope and pray it will do the same for you.

God bless. Invite someone to worship - the best days are ahead.

Pastor John Allen

I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.  Philippians 1:3-6