"The people say that the sun dances on this day
in joy for a risen Saviour." Alexander Carmichael

Easter 2008

Dear People of St. John’s:

This has been a very hard winter. Church attendance has been low because of the weather; ice on this Sunday, snow on that Wednesday. The possibility of celebrating Easter with snow on the ground seems absurd! All of us are ready for a change. But even in the midst of the harshness of winter, blessings abound. The wonderful Great Lakes will benefit enormously from all the snow; winter recreation areas that are so dependent on tourism have had a strong year. God’s earthly creation has had a grand time of resurrection even as we the people pray for a "dancing sun."

The themes of death and resurrection prevail at this time of year. As we prepare to enter into Holy Week and Easter, we will hear one story after another woven with the ideas of death and resurrection until we emerge into the victorious celebration of Jesus’ resurrection. Even if there is snow on the ground, we will sing Alleluias until we can’t sing anymore.

This is an exciting year for us as we join together to baptize two adults and one child at the Easter Vigil. Dan Harber and Chris Shaheen are the adult baptismal candidates. Chris’ son Lukas will also be baptized. The Easter Vigil on Saturday evening, March 22 will be a fabulous service as we move from darkness to light right within one service and welcome these three new people into the body of the faithful. Come hear the stories, come share the joy of these new Christians.

No matter where we are in our faith journey or our lives, being together for Holy Week and Easter will enrich us and strengthen our faith. I look forward to sharing these special days with all of you. Alleluia! The Lord is risen indeed!

With Faith in the Risen Christ,