April 3, 2019

Dear Church of the Apostles,

Yesterday’s Gospel reading for the Daily Office was the account of Jesus feeding of the five thousand plus their families. (John 6:4-15) 

I often think about the scene of thousands sitting on the grass while Jesus talks and the disciples distribute bread and fish. I am sure that the scene was active with children squirming and making noise, men and women having side conversations about the Good News, and the occasional cough or sneeze from those who were under the weather. If there were such a thing as cell phones, I bet one or two would have sounded off at just the worst moment. 

None of this seems to bother Jesus. In fact, he seems to enjoy and embrace the signs and sounds of life, and responds with the gracious offer of bread both physically and spiritually. 

What a great example of hospitality for us to follow this Easter Sunday when we invite our friends and neighbors to join our church family at the Jacky Durrell Pavilion at Penfield Beach. 

I am so excited to be together and celebrate the resurrection of our King!

Please review the details of all our Holy week services here and plan to join us. Here are a few details to help you prepare for Easter on the beach.

  • I hope and pray that all who call Apostles their home church will come join us at 8 am for a “Sunrise” Service on the porch, stay for a continental breakfast, and join us for the Eucharistic Celebration at 10 am. (See below for details and times.)

  • There is no space to provide childcare on Easter Sunday. If you are the parents of littles or have friends who are parents of littles, please know that, like Jesus, we will all love to hear their voices and see their squirming. They are most welcome!

  • Amy will have activity bags for children to engage with during the service.

  • Invite you’re friends, neighbors, colleagues, family, and classmates to join us for any part or all of the morning. We expect and are totally comfortable with guests coming when they can and leaving when they must.

  • Will you help us provide breakfast? Sign-up sheets will be on the greeters table this Sunday for you to volunteer to bring food.

  • It is not too early to pray for spectacular weather. Keep an eye on the forecast and dress accordingly for the day. It may still be a little cool with the breeze coming off of the Sound.

I look forward to Easter on the beach with my Apostles’ family and meeting new friends!

Peace and Hope,
Brian+

Church of the Apostles