Grace and greetings to all,

                 I hope this Spring finds you well, enjoying the beauty of God's creation (and the mowing), while growing in your faith.  Beth and I are enjoying this time of year together and in our church family.

                 We have had so many wonderful ministries and activities going on and taking off over the last few months such that there is no way I can thank everyone for all you do.  Your church staff is working hard, and the many dedicated volunteers are serving diligently to further the work of the kingdom.  It is truly a blessing to be one of your pastors.

                  We have recently finished a study of Israel/Palestine under the leadership of Ruth Oelrich which was informational and challenging.  The course got me remembering a hope I have been nurturing for some time, and that is to return to the Holy Land for a pilgrimage and spiritual renewal.  It has been over ten years since I made the journey, and I remember how it enriched my faith and brought the Biblical world to life in my mind and imagination. 

                  Thus, I will host and information sharing session about a possible trip to the Holy Land in 2009.  If you have even a passing interest, let's meet Sunday, June 1 at 5:00 P.M. to discuss this possibility.  There are a number of options to chose from both regarding itinerary and time of year to travel.  Pilgrimage to sights where God has especially touched peoples lives has been a long Christian tradition, so let's explore this possibility together.  This information sharing time is open to everyone, not just church members so invited a friend.

                   I pray you will take a moment and look at the financial report in this newsletter.  I know prices are going up on many things,  but faithfulness to Christ and his church in spreading the good news has always been a priority of true disciples of Jesus.  I thank you for doing what you can to help us meet our mission goals and also reduce our indebtedness.

                   I know vacations will soon be coming for many, but I hope you will continue to make worship a priority in your life so that together we may grow in the grace and love of God.

                                                                                                             Peace,

                                                                                                             Pastor David Hawkins