Last week we were looking ahead, practically on the eve of a busy week. Busy in the story – the life and ministry – of Jesus, busy in the life of First United Methodist Bonita Springs. Now this newsletter arrives in the thick of it, the morning after our Maundy Thursday service, and I know many of you are looking ahead with anticipation to tonight and Sunday.
And me… I don’t have anything clever or pithy to say right now. Some might suggest I never do, but I could stand to get that feedback another time. Because right now I’m just excited about being a part of the rest of Holy Week with you.
So, here’s the thing: you are invited. Not just to come to church, but to immerse yourself in the powerful experiences offered by First Bonita tonight and Sunday morning. And I hope you’ll consider coming to each of them.
Tonight, beginning at 4:30 and serving until worship in the fellowship hall, we will share in First Bonita’s annual tradition of the Good Friday Fish Fry. For $15 you will eat very well, and while I can attest to there being good company and conversation in addition to the good food for those that stick around, if you need to get it to go that’s also available. All proceeds will go to
our summer fund.
Also tonight is the Good Friday worship service at 6:00 PM. And at the risk of giving away some of the sermon: you don’t get to resurrection without crucifixion, y’all. You don’t get to Easter without Good Friday. And while we will let you in Sunday even if we don’t see you Friday, I hope you will come and be a part of the service tonight as we contemplate the great sacrifice God makes for us.
Finally, Easter Sunday will be a wonderful celebration of resurrection and new life at 10 AM. The choir is ready with special music, we get to break out some of our beloved Easter hymns, and the floral cross will be in full, beautiful bloom. You are invited to bring flowers of your own to add to the cross, which makes for a beautiful photo opportunity.
I look forward to continuing our Holy Week together, by continuing our journey to the cross and the empty tomb. I’m grateful to share this season and celebration with you all and pray that the power of resurrection will shine into each of us and First Bonita in new and wonderful ways.
Grace and Peace,
Rev. Ben Richards
