Our own Opening Doors Class of Westminster is hosting a community forum on “Bringing God’s Word to Adults and Children with Mental Disabilities — How?” on Tuesday, April 30, at 6 p.m. After sharing a meal, community mental health leaders, as well as Opening Doors Class members, will present their strategies for engaging people with mental disabilities in the life of the church. Westminster members are welcome, along with those of other churches who would like to share their experiences. R.s.v.p. to David Strider, 434-996-0497 or
Alleluias in the Air
Last Saturday, an hour before the game against Auburn, I ventured out to Wegmans. Since having knee surgery on April 2, I hadn’t stepped out of the house on my own for four days, so I went grocery shopping. It was time to test my stiffening joints. As I made my way up and down aisles at tortoise-like-speed, I noticed folks stocking up for the big game: beer, chips, frozen pizza, salsa, pretzels, seltzer water, Special K, instant dinners, etc. Grocery carts filled with anticipation, hope, nerves, and junk food.
“You’ve only got a half hour to get home for the game,” the check-out clerk said to me, a bit downcast. “I have to work late.”
“No worries,” I consoled. “You can watch the Hoos play on Monday.”
The atmosphere inside the store felt like Christmas, like the Super Bowl, like Thanksgiving. There was definitely something in the air. As Holy Week and Easter approach, I think we experience similar feelings and expectations—minus the junk food. Holy Week brings with it palm branches waving, dinner with the disciples in an upper room, a search for meaning behind Jesus’ death on the cross, and joyful shouts of “He is Risen! He is Risen, Indeed!” Around this time of year, the air fills with the expectation of new life, new beginnings, life over death, and Resurrection.
Next week, on Maundy Thursday at 6:00, we will gather in the Fellowship Hall for a light supper and Communion. Then on Friday at 6:00, there will be a meditative Good Friday Service in the sanctuary. On Saturday, April 20, there is an Easter Lunch and Egg Hunt fundraiser sponsored by our J2A class–and on Easter Sunday? “Alleluia! He is Risen!” with services at 8:30 and 11 a.m. (Remember, The Lord’s Supper will only be served at the 8:30 service. At 11:00, we will renew our baptisms.)
Yes, next week, as Jesus’ story reaches its dramatic conclusion, our hearts and minds strain for answers our comprehension. The redbuds announce spring’s arrival. The white oaks sing their praises. The warming winds tell the story of seasonal change. And on Easter Sunday, the air fills with alleluias.
Blessings,
Ken
Women’s Retreat
Gather with other Westminster women of all ages at beautiful Graves Mountain for a weekend to explore “Grace: Mending What Is Broken.” Starting on Friday afternoon and running through Sunday morning, April 26-28, the retreat is a great way to reconnect with old friends and make some new ones. Register on Sunday morning in the Gathering Place or contact Heather Warren, .
Teachers’ Notes: April 7
This Week’s Offerings: April 7
Contemporary Theology .
Opening Doors welcomes all adults, especially those with mental and/or physical challenges, to sing, share fellowship and hear Bible stories. (Room 208)