Hallelujah! He is risen!

I am still smiling and quietly humming the songs from Easter morning. What a beautiful time of worship and fellowship! With 100 people in attendance, we truly raised the roof in praise. Thank you for being part of it—whether you joined us in person, online, or in prayer and spirit. I am deeply humbled by your love and support.

I am also filled with joy and gratitude that I will spend the next few years with you in this sacred space. It is a true blessing, and I promise to work diligently so that you feel blessed as well. I encourage you to carry the hope of Sunday into Monday—and into every day that follows. God’s promise remains: we are never alone. The joy we experienced on Sunday is always available to us through our relationship with the risen Christ and with one another. Even now, I feel a current of holy energy when I reflect on this past weekend.

We do have a few important family matters to discuss. Because these decisions affect our entire congregation, I am calling a Family Business Meeting on April 26th, immediately following the morning service. We will share a meal together and then discuss recent developments and future plans.

A key focus will be the need for committee members and volunteers to support our ministries and outreach. I would greatly appreciate your help in spreading the word and encouraging everyone to attend. If you are unable to join us in person but would like to participate, please email me at [email protected].

Let us come together for food, prayer, and honest, loving conversation about our church family. More details about lunch will be shared soon. In the meantime, please keep this meeting—and our church—in your prayers.

It was such a joy to welcome back Linda Anderson and Charlotte Holder this past Sunday. They have been missed, and it was wonderful to see them again. To all our visitors and those who join us from time to time, please know how much it means to see you as well.

I hold each of you in prayer, asking God to bless you with strength, wisdom, and health. We may not be a large congregation, but we are mighty in Christ, and God is moving among us in both seen and unseen ways. You won’t want to miss what God is doing at Saint Matthew.

If transportation is a concern, rides are available—just reach out, and we will be glad to arrange one for you. If you are unable to attend in person, you can worship with us online at saintmatthewumc.com by selecting “Videos.”

Please continue to keep Rev. Max and Jackie in your prayers as they grieve the loss of their dear friend, Rev. Harry C. Meisner, who passed away on Saturday, April 4, 2026. Max shared that he is deeply grieving while also giving thanks for their 60-year friendship. There are no service plans yet, but I know he would be comforted by your prayers, messages, or cards. We will also have a card available this Sunday for everyone to sign.

There are many others on our prayer list who need our continued support. Let us remain faithful in praying for one another and in serving God with love and compassion.

With deep love and respect,

Mary