My dear friends,
Our church’s Children’s Sunday is one of my favorite Sundays of the year. We also call is Sundae Sunday because the children serve ice cream sundaes during coffee hour on this traditional day. Children’s Sunday falls on June 13th this year, and after weeks of preparation, the children will lead the entire worship service that day.
Our dedicated team of Sunday school teachers, under the direction of Lisa Hellmuth, have added to our children’s biblical understanding throughout the past year. Watching the children grow in both size and faith has been especially satisfying as we work together to make our church a place of Christian nurturing for people of all ages, including all of the children in our care. On behalf of our entire congregation, I extend our thanks to all who have had a part in the growth of our children in this past year.
In these past few weeks, we have walked with Leanne Walt through her Ecclesiastical Council, one of her final steps before her ordination into ministry. We also heard and affirmed Peter Johnston’s call to enter seminary in the fall. And together, we are celebrating with Jane MacIntyre, our first Field Education student (2004-2005), who will be ordained at Christ Church United Church of Christ in Brockton, on Saturday, June 12th at 3:00 in the afternoon.
As we close up another academic year and enter into the Season of Pentecost in our church, I am especially grateful for my upcoming sabbatical. I have begun collecting books to read and places to visit during this time of renewal that you have given me.
I will keep you all in my prayers while I am at rest and ask you to keep me in yours. See you in September!
Have a wonderful summer!
Blessings and peace,
Rev. Dr. Mary Louise Gifford
