Pentecost Sunday, May 23

Dear St. Paul's Congregation,

"Fall on us, Holy Spirit." This will be our prayer as we gather together on Sunday, May 23rd, to celebrate Pentecost, receive the Lord's Supper, and be challenged with the preaching of God's word. Our lectionary text this week is from Acts 2:1-21. I will expound on the meaning of the wind, fire and tongues that descended on Pentecost. The sermon will end with a special application that could have a huge impact on our community and the lives of others.

At the 8:30 service, the choir joins us for special music and we will end with "surround sound" of a favorite: In this Very Room. Pew communion will be served. At the 11:00 service, the worship team leads. Communion will be served at the front of the church, with the opportunity for individual prayer during the communion service.

This Sunday, we will also introduce Maria Rolland in both services as the new leader for the college ministry here at St. Paul's.

Yesterday, Ruby Mahaffie was placed on hospice, and it looks as if she will be meeting Jesus soon. That is exactly what she told me yesterday when we were together for prayer. Pray also for Leone Dierberg, who is in a lot of pain with shingles, and also for Betty Keely, Ralph Percival, and Pastor Stemler, who are recovering from surgery. Praise God for improvement in the condition of Pastor Al Frank, and for good health news for both Bob and Marlene Summers on their health conditions. Baby Ruth Yarbrough is still awaiting a heart transplant.

May the Holy Spirit, the Wise Advocate and Empowerer, be with us all!

Pastor Mark Friz