So last week was Easter, and Christ is Risen! We heard the Resurrection story from the gospel of John, where Mary Magdalene is the first person in history to see the risen Jesus. Unlike Jesus’ male disciples, Mary did not flee at the horror of the crucifixion. And unlike Peter, she cannot leave the tomb. Consequently, she will become the first witness to Easter. And when Jesus tasks her to inform the other disciples of his coming, Mary Magdalene is made the first missionary.

This is another busy week! I remember being able to take the week after Christmas and Easter easy. Doesn’t quite happen that way anymore. But before I get into the events of this week, I want to celebrate and thank the many people who made the Holy Week a blessed experience...This past Monday was Earth Day and the focus for this year is ‘Protect Our Species.’

Last Sunday was interesting! I heard many comments, including an announcement made at church about ordering Easter Poinsettias, wishing one another Merry Palm Sunday and even reminding folks to bring their ice skates to the SONrise service. People said it was White Palm Sunday!