Rev. Dr. Michelle Morris
Foolish Love… is Prodigal
The prodigal son story and the turn the other cheek teaching show that foolish love ignores offenses and just seeks to love, and love abundantly. Note: the definition of prodigal is wastefully extravagant. Prodigal is better applied to the father than the son in this story. Because this shares some of the themes of the previous week, this is a good time to reflect on the response of the older brother, which is too often our own response.
Holy Week Services
Mark your calendars for our Holy Week Services:
Maundy Thursday - service honoring the Last Supper - March 28 at 6 p.m. in the Sanctuary (childcare provided)
Good Friday - service recounting the crucifixion of Jesus - March 29 at 7 p.m. in the Sanctuary (childcare provided)
Easter, March 31 - Sunrise Service 7 a.m. on the front steps of the Sanctuary (or inside if raining); Gathering Service 9 a.m. in Hines Hall; Traditional Service 11 a.m. in the Sanctuary
DATES AT A GLANCE
Eggstravaganza - Sunday, March 24
Youth Glow Hunt - Sunday, March 24
Maundy Thursday - Thursday, March 28
Good Friday - Friday, March 29
Easter - Sunday, March 31
Ozark Mission Project Sign-Up Deadline - Monday, April 1
Women's Retreat - Friday-Saturday, April 12-13
Urgent Announcements
Office Closed Week of Spring Break
Due to continued staff shortages, the church office will be closed the week of Spring Break, March 18-22. Meetings and gatherings taking place at the church will still occur. Some staff will be available periodically to meet that week, but please contact the staff member you need directly to check availability.
Family ministries
Eggstravaganza
Join us on Palm Sunday at 10 a.m. to celebrate all things Easter! We will have crafts, a treat, petting zoo, and an Egg Hunt for all kids up through 5th grade. We are also collecting candy and eggs in bins around the church for use that morning.
Youth Glow Hunt
Youth grades 7-12 are invited to join us for our Glow Hunt from 7-8:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 24! Bring your own basket to find glowing eggs throughout the church and win a special prize if you find one of three GOLDEN eggs!
Ozark Mission Project Youth Mission Trip
This summer, June 9-14, we are planning to participate with Ozark Mission Project in Conway, Arkansas. During this week-long experience our students and adult chaperones will build relationships by participating in meaningful work projects that promote team-building and skill development. These projects include anything from building wheelchair ramps to porch construction. All current 6-12th grade students are invited to attend but must sign up by April 1. Sign up here!
Parents of Preschoolers (POPs) Small Group
We have a new small group for Parents of Preschoolers (POPs) that meets Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. in Room 116 (across from the offices). Anyone with children age birth to school age is welcome to come. The group will spend time in fellowship each Sunday, sharing the joys and frustrations of this stage of life together. POP on in!
community events
Eclipse Day and Earth Day
Mark your calendars now for two special events hosted by our church. On Monday, April 8 we will gather on the Green Space from noon to approximately 3 p.m. to share in food provided by the Goodman family (first come, first served), music, bubbles, etc. as we prepare to "watch" the Solar Eclipse (some eclipse glasses will be available). Then on Saturday, April 27 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. join our church and several area organizations for our Earth Day Fair. Learn more about how you can contribute to conservation efforts in our community and make a difference. And if you would like to volunteer for the fair, contact Johnna Kosnoff at
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announcements
Welcome Home for those New to our Community
Every third Sunday from 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m. we host an informal lunch gathering for all of those who are interested in learning more about our church. We alternate between hosting these at the church or at someone's home. This month's gathering on March 17 will be at the church in the Gathering Room.
All Are Welcome Guide
We have free "All Are Welcome" guides available outside the Sanctuary and the church office as well as online.
Register now for the Women's Retreat April 12-13
Sign up to attend Barbie and the Bible, our Spring Women's Retreat April 12-13.
Cost: $40 (includes snacks, breakfast, box lunch)
Friday night starts at 6 p.m. with snacks and fellowship. Then we'll watch Barbie and hear reflections from Pastor Michelle.
Saturday starts at 8 a.m. with breakfast, then Rev. Dawn Spragg (MS LPC) will share "Reflections from the Makeup Mirror," followed by lunch and a Crafty Shambles activity (additional charge).
Sign up here!
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