Dear First Pres,
It was tremendous to launch our in-person services in the Sanctuary on Sunday. Thank you to all the folks who helped to facilitate it (ushers, Kingdom Kids leaders, tech crew, worship leaders, custodians, youth ministry leaders, etc.) One of our new commitments (solidified this last year) is to build a quality online Gospel presence to expand and deepen our reach. But, especially now that the pandemic’s end is in sight, our intention will always be to invite our online participants into the physical reality of the church body. I know some of you aren’t ready to join in large gatherings yet, but as soon as you are, I hope you will join us regularly on Sunday mornings and beyond.
We’re now a week and a half away from our Easter celebration, April 4. It’s going to be a grand time. First, at 9:00am will be our online-only service. Perhaps you’ve invited some folks to our in-person service who you know are unlikely to step foot on our campus. If that’s the case, encourage them to check out our online service. They can watch from the comfort and privacy of their own space. I just heard testimony this morning of a young man who came to faith in Christ while scrolling through Facebook. Praise God! Let’s pray that the Lord does the same thing through our online Easter service.
Then, at 10:00am, we will have cinnamon rolls, coffee, and hot chocolate available for the early birds. We’re asking everyone to enter the parking lot from Stanislaus or L street and park on the south side of the lot. Our worship space will be across from the Sanctuary (that’s the north side of the lot). Remember to bring your own lawn chairs and keep your eyes open for the opportunity to welcome newcomers. The outdoor service will start at 10:45am. Nursery and Preschool check in will be available before the service (on our main campus), and K - 3rd grade kids will be dismissed during the service for a special Kingdom Kids program. After the service we’ll have Ampersand ice cream available for anyone who would like to stick around and enjoy the fellowship.
Now that you have all the pertinent information. I encourage you to join me in praying for this special weekend. There are many who would not normally be open to coming to church, except on days like Easter and Christmas Eve. So, it’s such an important season for us to be inviting others to join us, and praying that the Lord will draw new believers unto Himself. Remember, we have in Jesus the ultimate Good News. We need not be ashamed of the fact that we belong to Him. Of course, many will reject our invitations, but some will accept. Who knows what the Lord might do once they are with us in worship? So, Beloved, pray, pray, and pray some more. Then boldly invite others to join us for a wonderful morning of celebration, proclamation, and fellowship.
Blessings,
Jeremy Vaccaro
P.S. Palm Sunday (March 28): 9:00am Classic in-person & online; 10:45am Modern in-person & online. Maundy Thursday (April 1): 7:00pm Communion service, in-person & online.
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