Happy Easter!

Dear Bethesda Family,

Happy Easter!

How wonderful to begin our 50-day celebration of Easter with time to reflect on the awesome beauty of our church and our community as we revel in the message that Jesus Christ rose from the dead.

The Hospitality Guild organized and managed that amazing champagne and jellybean reception after the Easter Vigil with more than 350 people to celebrate. Thank you, Hospitality Guild!

And did you see those flowers?! They took my breath away. I always look forward to a fresh view when I’m in the church on Saturday to make final preparations for the evening and morning services. It’s hard to stop taking photos long enough to get back on the organ bench for more preparation time! Thank you, Flower Guild!

And, during the services, Acolytes, Crucifers, Ushers, Ambassadors, Lay Readers, Bethesda Choir, Thurifer, Eucharistic Ministers, clergy, guest instrumentalists, and congregation all joined together in one voice to offer our best in praise and worship, grateful for redemption, community, beauty, and life. The church, Parish Hall, and Garth were all overflowing on Easter Day, with more than 2500 happy people at our combined Easter services.

I hope you will share the joy of the Easter message, and of the community at Bethesda, far and wide. It’s too wonderful not to invite people to be part of it. He is risen, Alleluia!

Happy Easter,

Stuart.