Dear Partners in Mission:

“So they took branches of palm trees and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord— the King of Israel!” -John 12

Last Sunday morning I joined my family for Palm Sunday. Like many of you we gathered outside the sanctuary, heard the processional gospel, and processed into the sanctuary singing “All Glory Laud and Honor.” The liturgy ending with the reading of the passion narrative. In our setting 10 individuals lended their voices to the dramatic reading. Alternating to give us different timbre and pacing. As I heard the story again I wondered at what a counter-cultural event this was. In a world of multi-media performance, screens and interaction, here was an assembly simply listening as sacred scripture was read, for an extended period of time. What a powerful experience and I am so grateful for those who coordinated our worship liturgy that day. Particularly knowing how much work they have ahead of them this week.

Our rostered and lay leaders have a big week ahead of them. One that they have no doubt been engaged in months of preparations for. It takes a multitude of people to make liturgy happen. Our pastors and deacons of course have much to do but also ,usic and worship teams, office staff, volunteers tending the altar, custodians cleaning, kitchen workers preparing the Easter breakfast, youth stuffing Easter Eggs. The list can go on as long as you want. The point is so many are working this week to make this happen and for that I give thanks and encourage you to offer your support to your leaders and gratitude.

In the midst of this on Saturday, March 30, we will gather as family and synod to remember and give thanks for the life of the Rev. Mel Hammer. This will take place at Our Redeemer-Grand Prairie at 2pm. Rostered leaders are invited to vest. I was asked recently what liturgical color those vestments should be since the funeral is on the afternoon of Holy Saturday. Can we wear white or should it still be purple? My response was the same when we set the date, we will wear white, the color of Easter and we will celebrate the resurrection. A reminder that our traditions, our rituals, are to help us mark time and create meaning. But resurrection comes whenever the gospel is proclaimed in its truth and purity.

So lets mark the time this week. Do the ritual and experience the power of sacred scripture and song. Go to dark Gethsemane and feel the tempters power. For all who will labor to help our communities experience this I give thanks. We need to do that work so when it comes time to rejoice on Easter we know God’s gift given to us in life over death.

Happy Easter!!!

Bishop Gronberg