From The Pastor – May 2019

Lord, you have been our sanctuary in all generations.  Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

Psalm 90

The work of restoration of our magnificent windows is underway! This began, as you would expect, in the sanctuary. What I most appreciate about our sanctuary and building is that the beauty of the edifice is, in effect, a window into the depth of spirit and dedication to
service to our community of those for whom it has been a sanctuary for generations. As we have been preparing for this project with regular minute-for-mission conversations, we have learned fascinating information about the symbology depicted in the windows. The symbols themselves tell a lot about who we are, what kind of faith we have inherited from those who have gone before us. The four windows between the chapel and sanctuary tell us the story of the four Gospel writers. Paul V.P. (see the Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John window article) has answered some questions, like why are the letters reversed on one window, but there are also a few mysteries left…what is the symbol on the “youth” window? Preparation for Easter has been particularly meaningful for me this year. The worship services have been filled with music that have lead us deeper into the awe and reverence of the God-person we call Jesus. The Easter message was first received by the women who went to the tomb. Finding the tomb empty, the message was: go, leave the empty tomb for the living and bring the message of the Risen Christ. They carried that message, first to the disciples and then to the world. That message has come to us. It is our turn to experience the new found truth and then carry it to the world.

It is this reason we have these beautiful windows. They show as well as tell the Easter message. The lettering of the windows faces out. Because the message is for the world! These beautiful windows say with brilliant color that the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus is for the world.
This Easter work continues with our youth. They are currently preparing for the infamous
Triennium experience. For the uninitiated, Triennium is the worldwide gathering of youth. This gathering, held every three years, is filled with events. You will hear of a number of fundraisers that the youth are doing. Most of these fundraisers are focused on the whole community:
taco sale, grocery bagging, etc. This especially good idea not only helps raise funds from outside the church but also gets the word out that God is doing new things in the church and with the young people. SO, look ‘em up! They will be happy to see a familiar face.

Grace and peace,
Pastor Deters