From Palms to Passion – The Last Sunday of Lent
We begin this week with a parade. Palms and clothing are laid before Jesus as he enters Jerusalem for the last time. Shouts of “Hosanna” and “Blessed is the Son of David” fill the air as Jesus passes by. The King of kings – who promises that the Kingdom of God is here – enters the Holy City.
But the shouts of “Hosanna” and “Blessed is he who come in the name of the Lord” fade. And throughout this week of preparation, Jesus demonstrates God’s love for God’s children. Jesus demonstrates servant hood and institutes the meal of grace and thanks.
And then the shouts that once praised Jesus become shouts of condemnation. “Crucify him!” “Release Barabbas!” “He’s not our King!” How could this happen? The excitement and awe of that entry turns bitter and violent.
We commemorate both the Palms and the Passion – the ministry and the sacrifice – on this last Sunday of Lent. We need to hear the whole story – all the pieces, whether exciting or brutal. Jesus’ story is our story. Before we can shout “Alleluia” on Easter, we must continue the journey and encounter love and suffering, grace and pain.
Come and worship with us at 8 AM or 10:15 AM. Sunday School continues for our 3 yr old – 8th grade students at 9:10. See you then.
Holy Week Worship:
Please join Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church as we worship and praise God together during this most Holy Week:
Maundy Thursday:
Soup and Bread Supper – 6:30 PM
Worship of Word & Sacrament – 7:30 PM
Good Friday:
Word & Meditation – Noon
Worship of the Word – 7:30 PM
Easter Vigil:
Ecumenical Worship – 7:30 PM
@ St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 85 Conestoga Lane
Easter Sunday:
Ecumenical Sunrise Worship – 7 AM
@ Lake Mohawk Country Club
Worship of Word & Sacrament – 8 AM & 10:15 AM
Easter Breakfast – 9 AM
Worship Assistant Changes:
Beginning April 6, a new ‘line-up’ (click on line-up for April Schedule) began that will combine some server slots and create new ones. We hope that you will help us by noting when you are scheduled and then, if needed, finding replacements. If you have been a reader, deacon, usher, greeter, acolyte, counter…or if you wish to be a part of this team, please contact Curtis Terry, nurture coordinator.
Save the Date – Annual Easter Egg Hunt:
The bunny has confirmed and we are excited to announce that Shepherd of the Hills will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt. We will gather at 1 PM in the sanctuary, do a little hunting in the yard, play some games, and help other kids know about friendship. This activity is free and open to the public.
We need some congregational helpin the form of hands and feet to assist with the hunt, activities, and refreshments. Email Pastor Tinaif you have time (or middle and high school kids) to spare!
We Need You…
for a spring indoor/outdoor cleanup! Saturday April 18 beginning at 8:30 until we are too tired – we will shape up the outdoor property and fine tune the inside. There are projects for all skill and age levels. Please bring your hammers, paint brushes, rakes, chain saws, and pruners. We will also be decorating the sanctuary for Easter Worship.
Contact the office to let us know if you’ll be able to help – you don’t have to commit a full day – we need an idea of what we should prioritize!
Easter Potluck Breakfast!
Easter morning is more than jelly beans and chocolate rabbits – its about fellowship and eggs and sweet rolls! Beginning at 9 AM, we will join for a potluck breakfast made up of your favorites. We humble ask that you let us know what your donation will be so that we can fill in the gaps. Amy Mateja is the coordinator for this activity. Please contact her to indicate your contribution or hands to set up, serve, or clean up.
February Financial Report:
Projected Actual V 2013
Revenue $ 17295 $21246 $18987
Expenses $ 22613 $31376 $21870
Net -$5318 -$10130 -$2883
Year to Date:
Projected Actual V2013
Revenue $36198 $40693 $39402
Expenses $43821 $57929 $46612
Net -$7623 -$17236 -$7210
What does this mean?
2. However, we are still falling short on the targeted giving (YTD almost $2000 short).
3. During February we overspent the budget by $8,800 and YTD by $14,100. Of that overage, $6.300 for February and $14.200 YTD represents electricity, heating and snow removal variances which were necessary. Who knew that we’d have a cold, snowy winter?
4. Because our expenses were increased due to a very snowy and cold winter, our cash reserve balance is decreasing rapidly. Since December, we have used almost $14,000 from our cash reserves. Please consider a special gift to help us make up those differences.
Pastor Tina 🙂