I write to you this month with great joy in my heart from the robust gatherings during Holy Week. We saw a great many people come to our church during the week; some for the first time in many months and some for the first time ever. My family and I attended the 10am Rite II service on Sunday and had not seen that many people in the sanctuary in a long time. Easter Sunday has always been a special day of the year where we put on our best and brightest outfits to celebrate the rebirth of our spirituality together. We made sure to take the family photo in front of the great oak tree out front like we do every year – the tree and church remain, but the kids keep growing!
Returning to church and gathering to worship together is a great sign of progress in our spiritual community. Within the last 6 months, we have taken increasing steps to gather together in celebration and fellowship that have resulted in a fantastic opportunity to see old friends and see new faces. As part of those opportunities, we have also managed to get back on track with our main vision and principles in regard to fundraising for outreach and other giving opportunities. It always amazes me how quickly our St. Andrew’s family steps up to help those in need through giving of time, talent and treasure. I am reminded of a passage from Proverbs 11:25 that says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” Indeed, we all know the feeling in our hearts when we give and know that through giving, we are making the world a better place if even for one family or one child. Through our Outreach programs and even the efforts that go unseen by Reverend Ben and others that bring comfort to others, we as a community make a substantial difference in the lives of others. For all of that, I wanted to express my sincere gratitude and to remind you that there is a lot of need remaining and we are well set up to continue to address those needs however and wherever we can with your help.
Thank You and God Bless,
Jeff Herrera
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