Last month I attended a Circuit Forum meeting of the pastors that make up our circuit in the Pacific Southwest District of the LCMS. As we gathered in the Fellowship Hall at Shepherd of the Hills in Prescott, we took time to share with each other some of the exciting things happening at our congregations.
When it was my turn I told my brother pastors how God has blessed the music ministry of our congregation. I praise God for the growth we seen this year in our Adult choir and Bells. We are blessed with great leadership from Lori Gray and Ginny McDuffee and the commitment from singers and players is to be praised. Both the children’s choir and the Sunday school choir have earned kudos from the congregation. I think folks would love to see the kids sing every week. I know this grandfather would! And now we have our Worship Ensemble to bless us as well. It is truly a multi-generational musical group! In just a short time they have really jelled and have added much to our worship. And, of course, what would we do without Pat Herman and her endless fount of energy? She has given much to our music ministry and we are the better for it.
I also shared about the many blessings Life in Christ has received from our deaf ministry. It’s been a slow process and I really have to commend the leaders of that ministry for persevering during this entire process. The joy and enthusiasm from our deaf worshippers and our signers is infectious. Taking time at the end of Wednesday worship services to learn how to sign a phrase has been lots of fun. I know you join me in thanking the Lord for opening this door of opportunity to the deaf community.
We have been blessed with so much and, in turn, we have so much to share with our friends and community. Please consider inviting someone to come to Easter worship with you. We’ll have three services – 6:30, 8:30 and 10:30 am. Easter breakfast will be served at 7:30 am and a puppet show and egg hunt begins at 9:30 am. There will be a beehive of activity on our campus as we gather together to celebrate Jesus’ power and victory over death and the devil. Don’t miss your opportunity to cry out, HE IS RISEN! HE IS RISEN INDEED!
