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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, On March 20-23, we reach the heart of the Christian liturgical calendar. It comes upon us quickly this year! These central days have come to b known as the Three Days, recalling Jesus' own words to his disciples that he would be handed over to death, and that "after three days he will rise again" (Mark 10:34). The Three Days encompass the time from Maundy Thursday evening through the evening of Easter Day. In particular, the services of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Vigil of Easter (Holy Saturday) unfold in a single movement, as the church makes the passage with Christ through death into life. Again this year, we will observe the three successive services at 7:30 p.m. on the respective evenings of Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Vigil of Easter. I am thankful to Pastor Pancoast for his work last year in introducing the Vigil of Easter and tailoring it to the character of the congregation, especially its youth ministries. We will be doing the same this year as we involve a number of people in telling the biblical stories that give apt background for how we understand and appreciate the power of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Let us come to these worship experiences with reverent hearts. This is not a cafeteria of experiences, but rather the comprehensive core of the Christian message within what we call Holy Week. Please do all you can o carve out ample time in your own schedule for the heart of the liturgical calendar. All of us worship planners will do al we can to make sure the gospel is proclaimed well and the sacraments administered according to that gospel. If you have never been to THE (mid) WAY Connection, or if you haven't been in a while, let me encourage and challenge you to join us these three Wednesday nights during Advent to prepare a place for the Christ child. This is a wonderful time for new beginnings as we gather in community for worship and are sent as bearers of Christ. I urge you to pray that God will continue to bless our thanksgiving of praise. I also encourage you to share your insights and concerns with a member of the Worship and Music Committee. See you in worship, Pastor Dan Whitener
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