Pastor’s Update, April 1

Hello Grace UMC!

Holy week is upon us and we find ourselves at the midpoint between the shouts of “Hosanna!” from last Sunday and the shouts of “Crucify Him!” that will be sent from the crowds on Friday. Much of the gospel narratives have Jesus cleansing the temple and flipping tables, teaching and having his authority questioned, and Judas Iscariot plotting his betrayal of Jesus. In Matthew’s gospel, Jesus is going toe-to-toe with the group of scribes and Pharisees who are seeking his arrest and death. So much leads to the moment of his arrest and I encourage you meditate upon those moments. It’s easy from our perspective to look on and say, “how could they do this to Jesus?” Consider what it might have been like to see it happen in-person. Would you have trusted this radical prophet who formed a whip in the temple and called himself the Son of God? Are you buying into his message of peace over power that ultimately leads to his demise? Take time to pray, meditate, study, and reflect during this holiest of weeks.I appreciate the work done by Resource UMC having folks reflect upon their holy week experiences, that you can read here. What would you add?

Worship This Week

As a reminder, there will be no Wednesday night supper or worship on April 1st, but we will have worship on Friday, April 3rd, at 6 pm. Before the service, feet washing will take place beginning at 5:30 pm. We will remember the Last Supper with Holy Communion and reflect upon the sacrifice of Christ for us all. Even when schedules get busy, please plan for this important moment in the life of the church. Then make plans to join us for Easter Sunday worship on April 5th at 10:00 am, where we’ll praise the resurrected Christ, take Holy Communion together, and celebrate through the gift of community!

3 Things to Know

1 The Chosen TV Series Group

You’re invited to something new at Grace! Starting April 8 at 5:00 pm, we’ll gather on Wednesday evenings for an 8-week group centered on the powerful series The Chosen. Each week, we’ll watch an episode together and spend time in relaxed, meaningful conversation as we reflect on the life and ministry of Jesus. Whether you’ve seen the series before or are brand new to it, this is a great opportunity to grow in faith, ask questions, and connect with others in community. Come as you are, no preparation needed. Just bring yourself and a friend or two! Dinner and childcare will also be provided. Please contact Pastor Taylor to RSVP or if you have any questions.

2. It’s Crafting Time!

A Come & Craft get together is on Saturday, April 11 starting at 9:00 am. Do you enjoy crafting and socializing? Have a project that you are working on and just can’t find the time to complete it? Then this is for you. Bring whatever you are working on and spend time with other like-minded crafters. This event is free of charge. Contact @Anne Roberts or @Sharon Fangsrud for additional information.

3. Serving Opportunity

We have an opportunity to support Probstfield Elementary by serving concessions during a fundraiser on Friday, April 24th. If you are available to help in the evening (detailed times coming soon), please contact Pastor Taylor or sign up at the Connection Center.

Word of Thanks

Thank you to everyone who helped with the Palms, Pancakes, and Pictures! Everything went so smoothly, and everyone had a wonderful time! A special shoutout to the Granings/Martins for setting up the photo booth, which will be available on Easter as well, and to Jerry and Diana Blomeke for prepping and running the kitchen!

Prayer Requests

*Update* The family of Sharon (aunt of Rachel B.) who has passed away following several medical challenges.
*New* Jean M. has been in the hospital following an illness. Her family is grateful for prayers and continued support.
*New* Kenzie B. (friend of Pastor Taylor and Kiersten) having complications from her pregnancy resulting in hospitalization.
*New* Heidi S. (daughter of Del Larson) traveling to Milwaukee with her family to see specialist for her daughter on Easter Sunday.
*New* Jerry facing medical challenges
*New* Rob facing medical challenges
*New* Jeff (son of Karen J.) having back surgery next week.
For those struggling with mental illness.
Lavonne (mom of Jill T.) doctors have discovered three masses. Prayers for upcoming appointments and treatment options.
Ashley (Sandy S.’ cousin’s daughter-in-law) They discovered she has MS caused by lesions in her brain they believe. Will be going to Mayo in April to try to have the lesions and scar tissue removed.
For those who face chronic conditions and are seeking answers and solutions.
Kayte (daughter of Jean and Russ W.) as she continues to recover from spinal surgery.
Carol Andvik asks prayers for Mary in the loss of her husband.
Candace asks prayers for her dad who found out he has stage 3 cancer, and it’s too big to remove.
Holly E., and her brother. He’s been dealing with alcohol addiction and Holly is his current caregiver. Prayers for both for recovery, endurance, and rest.
Abe and Dale in their roles as caregivers.
Pete for his health.
Jackson/Manning family following as they continue to rebuild following a house fire.
Emma (member of Grace Youth) and her treatment for Hashimoto’s.
Saleem who is battling stage 3 cancer and on his second round of chemotherapy treatments.
Kris (sister of Kay H.) who is struggling with autoimmune disease and flare up. Comfort, relief and right meds.
Annett (family of Jodi M.) who is dealing with some health issues.
Therese asks prayers for Jeffery’s life struggles and mental illness, for those who sit in sadness and depression, Kari and her struggles with her son, Mary Jo (sister), and her grandchildren.
Nancy Quarve asks prayers Hannah and Mike. They were married last June and now Hannah has cancer and Mike has lost his job.
Jaron, for his recovery and health issues.
Patrick (Nephew of Carol A.) who is dealing with addiction.
Megan (Niece of Anne and John R.) dealing with cancer recurrence.
Xavier from Grace Kids asks us to continue to pray for the family and friends of Adam A.
Trisha R. for continued healing and support.
Cheryl G. during her battle with cancer.