2026-03-29 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

# St. John's United Church of Christ — March 29, 2026 > [!info] Recording > **YouTube:** [Sunday March 29th, 2026 – Sixth Sunday in Lent: Palm Sunday – Sacred Protest](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0) ## Liturgical Context ### Christian Liturgical Calendar Today is **Palm Sunday**, also known as **Passion Sunday** — the sixth and final Sunday in Lent and the gateway to **Holy Week**. Palm Sunday commemorates Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem, when crowds waved palm branches and shouted "Hosanna!" (Matthew 21:1-11). The day carries a dual character: celebration of Christ's arrival as king, and foreshadowing of the suffering to come. The liturgical color is **Red**, symbolizing the passion and the blood of martyrs, though some congregations use **Purple** to maintain the Lenten theme through Holy Week. This is **Lectionary Year A** (Matthew-focused). The liturgical year began on Advent 1, November 30, 2025. ### Jewish Calendar March 29, 2026 corresponds to **11 Nisan 5786** on the Hebrew calendar. Yesterday (March 28) was **Shabbat HaGadol** — the "Great Sabbath" immediately preceding Passover, traditionally marked by special teachings about the Passover laws. **Passover (Pesach)** begins at sundown on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 (15 Nisan). The proximity of Palm Sunday to Passover is not coincidental — Jesus' entry into Jerusalem was itself a Passover pilgrimage, and the events of Holy Week unfold against the backdrop of Passover preparation. ### Ecumenical & Global Observances Palm Sunday is observed across virtually all Christian traditions worldwide — Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Anglican, Protestant, and independent churches. Many traditions include palm processions, the reading of the Passion narrative, and the blessing of palms. In some Latin American and Filipino traditions, elaborate street processions mark the day. The ecumenical unity around this observance makes it one of the most universally celebrated Sundays in the Christian year. ### Lectionary Readings (Revised Common Lectionary) **Palm Sunday — Year A** **Liturgy of the Palms:** - **Gospel:** Matthew 21:1-11 **Liturgy of the Passion:** - **Old Testament:** Isaiah 50:4-9a - **Psalm:** Psalm 31:9-16 - **Epistle:** Philippians 2:5-11 - **Gospel:** Matthew 26:14—27:66 (or Matthew 27:11-54) **Today's bulletin uses:** Galatians 6:1-16 and Matthew 21:1-17 — a distinctive selection that pairs Paul's teaching on bearing one another's burdens and the new creation in Christ with Jesus' provocative entry and temple cleansing, framing Palm Sunday as an act of sacred protest. ### Narrative Lectionary (Year 4 – John) **NL436: The Crucified Messiah** — Palm/Passion Sunday - **Primary Text:** [[John 19#16b|John 19:16b-22]] — The sign above the cross proclaims the crucified king - **Optional Text:** [[John 12#12|John 12:12-27]] — Triumphal Entry - **Psalm:** [[Psalm 24]] - **Liturgical Color:** Scarlet/Purple - **NL Prayer of the Day:** "God of honor and celebration, together we cry, 'Hosanna!' to your son, who rode willingly and bravely into Jerusalem. Hear us as we celebrate your anointed one, Jesus Christ. Amen." - **NL Suggested Hymns:** "My Song Is Love Unknown" (ELW 343), "All Glory, Laud, and Honor" (ELW 344), "At the Name of Jesus" (ELW 416) - **NL Choral:** "Hosanna to the Son of David" — Luc Jakobs **Note:** St. John's used RCL Year A readings (Matthew 21:1-17 and Galatians 6:1-16) rather than the NL primary text (John 19:16b-22). However, the NL optional reading (John 12:12-27, Triumphal Entry) aligns thematically with the RCL Gospel. The NL suggested hymn "All Glory, Laud, and Honor" was used as the processional hymn. ### Connection to Today's Message The theme "Palm Sunday: Sacred Protest" reframes the triumphal entry not merely as celebration but as confrontation. Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a humble donkey — a deliberate contrast to Roman military processions — and immediately disrupts the temple economy. Paired with Galatians 6, which calls believers to bear burdens, resist empty religious show, and embrace the radical new creation, this service invites the congregation to see Palm Sunday as a call to holy disruption of unjust systems. The liturgy from *The Work of Imagination* reinforces this throughout. ## [Pre-Service Notes](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=0s) > [!note] Contemporary Worship Team Rehearsal (0:00–40:56) > The recording captures the contemporary worship team's pre-service sound check and rehearsal. Songs rehearsed included: > - **["Open the Eyes of My Heart"](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=8s)** — Michael W. Smith (multiple run-throughs with arrangement discussion, including an [acappella ending section](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=644s) and [full second run-through](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=747s)) > - **["How Great Is Our God"](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=970s)** — Chris Tomlin, Jesse Reeves, Ed Cash (rehearsed but not performed during the service) > - **[Combined run-through](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=1230s)** — Final rehearsal of the combined set > > The team discussed arrangement details — particularly the acappella ending for "Open the Eyes" and hand signals for when the solo singers should join together. There was also a [sound equipment discussion](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=186s) about a piece of equipment ordered through Amazon that required support from a third-party company; the issue was finally resolved on Tuesday after weeks of troubleshooting. Service begins at approximately [40:56](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2456s). ## Order of Worship ### [Gathering](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2456s) - **Gathering Song** — *(not performed as a separate gathering song; the contemporary worship team's "Open the Eyes of My Heart" served as the opening musical element)* - **[Unison Welcome](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2456s)** — "No matter who you are or where you are on life's journey, you are welcome here" - **[Announcements](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2486s):** - **Art Exhibition & Silent Auction** (Roxanne) — Final day of the St. John's Artistic Showcase. Display-only items may be taken home after coffee hour; silent auction items will be reviewed by Roxanne and Diana, winners contacted, and pieces picked up at the office. Roxanne noted it "far surpassed anything Diana or I envisioned." Beneficiary: **Chambersburg Food Pantry** (outreach of SCCAP) - **Palm Sunday palms** — Congregation invited to wave palms during processional hymn - **Maundy Thursday** — April 2, 6:30 pm in Fellowship Hall (reading and communion) - **Good Friday** — April 3, noon, community service at Central Presbyterian Church - More info in *News in the Pews* bulletin insert and April *Spirit* newsletter - **[Opening Song](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2645s)** — "Open the Eyes of My Heart" — Michael W. Smith (Contemporary Worship Team — full performance with acappella ending on final "holy, holy, holy" section) - *Note:* The contemporary worship team leads worship on a monthly rotation; the team intro at [44:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2645s) references this as the contemporary service "that we [do] each month." ### [Trinitarian Invocation](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2830s) > What a wonderful way to begin our worship today as we worship in the name of God — Creator, Christ, and Holy Spirit. Amen. ### [Call to Worship](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2842s) *from The Work of Imagination* Come into God's presence, you who imagine and you who seek, you who disrupt and you who repair. **By the Spirit, we gather in hope.** Come into God's saving grace, you who shout, "Hosanna," you who pray, "save us," you who wave branches to welcome Christ. **In Christ, we gather in celebration.** Come into God's presence, singing for joy and for justice; bringing prayer and worship, your most faithful acts of resistance. **To God be the glory! We gather to praise!** ### [Word](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2907s) - **[Processional Hymn](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2907s)** — "All Glory, Laud, and Honor" (No. 175) — *congregation waved palms during procession* - **[Opening Prayer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=3066s)** — *from The Work of Imagination* > God of palms and passion, you accompany us as we follow Jesus into Jerusalem and toward the cross. Preserve us in our rejoicing, forgive us in our betrayals, and empower us to name injustice. Grant us a vision of the cross that reveals to us Christ's unfailing commitment to the work and wonder of love. May our hearts overflow with such love and justice, and may our "hosannas" be our most fervent prayers for the salvation you promise us, through Christ our hope. Amen. - **[Passing of the Peace](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=3117s)** > As we walk through the wild wilderness of Lent, we imagine a world where all creation is at peace. We imagine a world without war, where creation flourishes and children are safe. Let these dreams of peace begin here as we share the peace of Christ with one another. May the peace of Christ be with you. **And also with you.** - **[Prayer for Illumination](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=3220s)** — *from The Work of Imagination* > God who breathes meaning and inspiration into our sacred scriptures, who crafts stories of redemption, liberation, and love, may these words help us imagine the world you intended. May we receive the challenge to join you in this holy work, bringing heaven to earth as we follow Jesus in love and justice. Amen. - **[Scripture Reading](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=3261s)** — Galatians 6:1-16 (Lector: Henry Hopper) - *Translation Note:* The reading was a distinctive contemporary paraphrase/adaptation — not a standard translation. Notable renderings include: "those of you who are grounded in the spirit should set that person right in a spirit of gentleness," "Don't delude yourself. God is not fooled," "It's those who want to cut a reputation by human standards, who push old religious laws and traditions, unable to endure the way of the suffering of Jesus, unwilling to give up or grow up from mindless tradition," and the striking closing: "Peace and mercy to all who follow the prince of peace by way of the via dolorosa." Likely sourced from *The Work of Imagination* liturgy or adapted for the Palm Sunday sacred protest theme. - **[Responsive Reading](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=3443s)** — "Palm Sunday" by Malcolm Guite - **[Anthem](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=3590s)** — "Crown the King with Praise" — by Douglas Nolan (Choir) - **[Children's Message](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=3733s)** — Roxanne Davenport — *Interactive "I am a follower of Jesus" chain game: kindness → joy → love → glory → justice → exuberance* - Roxanne connected Palm Sunday to following Jesus: "It starts out exuberant and fun and joyful. We know it's going to go downhill. That's okay. Today we are celebrating and today we are practicing following Jesus." - **[Children's Prayer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=4284s):** "Lord, give us the strength to follow you when it gets hard. Help us to rely on you and the Holy Spirit when we need it. Today it's easy, tomorrow may not be. Help us to be those followers and go out into the world and show that we are followers. In your son's name we pray. Amen." - *Children's Corner followed the Children's Message* - **[Scripture Reading](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=4325s)** — Matthew 21:1-17 - **[Sermon](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=4534s)** — Rev. Caroline E. Saxton — *"Sacred Protest"* ### [Response](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5266s) - **[Sharing of Joys and Concerns](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5266s)** — *(see detailed notes below)* - **[Prayers of the People](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6003s)** and the **[Lord's Prayer (Debts)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6101s)** - **[Invitation to Giving](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6137s)** > With thanks indeed for the gifts that God has given to us, we share a portion of our gifts today — continuing the work, the witness, the worship, and the love of church in the world. Our morning offering will now be received. - **[Offertory](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6228s)** — "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" (organ) - **[Offertory Response](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6309s)** — "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" v. 4 > Were the whole realm of nature mine, > that were a present far too small; > love so amazing, so divine, > demands my soul, my life, my all. - **[Prayer of Dedication](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6369s)** — *from The Work of Imagination* > Generous God, we bring our gifts before you and your church like tiny seeds from a dandelion. Send out these gifts on the mighty wind of your Spirit, bringing growth, bearing fruit, and nourishing both our faith community and our neighbors. May each gift of every size bloom with your holy imagination. Amen. ### [Sending](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6405s) - **[Hymn](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6405s)** — "Jesus Rode into the City" (insert) - **[Affirmation of Faith](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6662s)** — *adapted from The Work of Imagination* > Let us affirm our faith as we participate in the holy work of imagination. **We believe disruptions can be good. We believe that without justice, there is no peace. We believe Jesus disrupted the temple because he was bringing chaotic good into a situation of unjust order. We believe Jesus rode into Jerusalem to stir up good trouble — to confront the evil that kept people in bondage. We believe God calls us to have courage. We believe the strong must defend the weak. We believe truth must be spoken. We believe that protest is one language of oppressed people, and such voices should be amplified and protected. Amen.** - **[Charge & Benediction](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6720s)** — *from The Work of Imagination* > Beloved children of God, as you return to the wilderness of everyday life, may you find your way among those who are on the side of love and justice. Do not grow weary of doing what is good and right. Encourage each other. Support one another. Go out into the world with peace in your hearts to love and serve all. Amen. > > *Abide with us, that through this life of doubts and hope and pain, an Easter of unending joy we may at last attain.* - **[Postlude](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6788s)** (seated) ## Scripture and Sermon ### [Scripture Reading](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=3261s) Galatians 6:1-16 ![[Galatians 6#1]] ![[Galatians 6#2]] ![[Galatians 6#3]] ![[Galatians 6#4]] ![[Galatians 6#5]] ![[Galatians 6#6]] ![[Galatians 6#7]] ![[Galatians 6#8]] ![[Galatians 6#9]] ![[Galatians 6#10]] ![[Galatians 6#11]] ![[Galatians 6#12]] ![[Galatians 6#13]] ![[Galatians 6#14]] ![[Galatians 6#15]] ![[Galatians 6#16]] > [!info] Translation Note > Henry Hopper read this passage in a **contemporary pastoral paraphrase** that departs significantly from standard translations. Key distinctive renderings include: "Friends, even if one of you is caught doing something wrong" (v.1); "Don't delude yourself. God is not fooled" (v.7); "It's those who want to cut a reputation by human standards, who push old religious laws and traditions, unable to endure the way of the suffering of Jesus, unwilling to give up or grow up from mindless tradition" (vv.12-13); and the closing "Peace and mercy to all who follow the prince of peace by way of the via dolorosa" (v.16). The rendering blends elements reminiscent of **The Message** (Eugene Peterson), **The New Jerusalem Bible**, and possibly pastoral improvisation. The effect was to make Paul's warnings about empty religious observance and boasting feel immediate and contemporary — fitting the sermon's "sacred protest" theme. Compare with NRSVue for standard critical text. ### [Responsive Reading](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=3443s) "Palm Sunday" by Malcolm Guite Now to the gate of my Jerusalem, The seething holy city of my heart, The Saviour comes. But will I welcome him? **Oh, crowds of easy feelings make a start; They raise their hands, get caught up in the singing, And think the battle won.** Too soon they'll find the challenge, the reversal he is bringing Changes their tune. **I know what lies behind the surface flourish that so quickly fades; self-interest and fearful guardedness, the hardness of the heart, its barricades,** And at the core, the dreadful emptiness Of a perverted temple. **Jesus, come break my resistance and make me your home.** ### [Scripture Reading](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=4325s) Matthew 21:1-17 ![[Matthew 21#1]] ![[Matthew 21#2]] ![[Matthew 21#3]] ![[Matthew 21#4]] ![[Matthew 21#5]] ![[Matthew 21#6]] ![[Matthew 21#7]] ![[Matthew 21#8]] ![[Matthew 21#9]] ![[Matthew 21#10]] ![[Matthew 21#11]] ![[Matthew 21#12]] ![[Matthew 21#13]] ![[Matthew 21#14]] ![[Matthew 21#15]] ![[Matthew 21#16]] ![[Matthew 21#17]] ### [Sermon](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=4534s) Rev. Caroline E. Saxton — *"Sacred Protest"* #### Sermon Notes ##### [Pre-Sermon Prayer](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=4510s) > Spirit of the living God, fall afresh on us. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of all our hearts be acceptable to you, O God, for you are our rock and our redeemer. Amen. ##### [Introduction](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=4534s) Pastor Caroline opened by noting that during the Wednesday Lenten services, the congregation focused on the parables Jesus told in Matthew's gospel *during* Holy Week — after Palm Sunday had already happened. She acknowledged the timeline felt "a little off" since the congregation was only now entering Jerusalem with Jesus, and quoted Coldplay's "The Scientist": "Oh, take me back to the start." She invited the congregation to stay on the road a while longer, watching Jesus ride by, absorbing his teaching and healing, "knowing the pain that is to come, and recognizing the love and faith that sustains us now — especially now." The sermon's thesis: **Palm Sunday is a day of sacred protest.** ##### Main Points ###### [Point 1: Two Processions — Kingdom vs. Empire](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=4590s) Palm Sunday begins with a parade — but not Macy's or the Rose Parade. "This is a different kind of procession because God's kingdom is a different kind of kingdom. And Jesus is a different kind of king." Jesus plans his entry on a donkey, signaling that God's kingdom arrives not by force or spectacle but through "subversive courage, justice, and embodied love." Referencing *The Work of Imagination*: "He doesn't come with pomp and circumstance. He doesn't ride a warhorse. There's no fanfare, no royal welcome. He comes on the back of a donkey, a humble working animal." "Hosanna" means "Save us. Save now. Please save." Citing John Dominic Crossan and Marcus Borg's *The Last Week*, Pastor Caroline described two processions entering Jerusalem that day: from the east, Jesus rode a donkey down the Mount of Olives cheered by followers; from the west, Pontius Pilate entered with imperial cavalry and soldiers. "Jesus' procession proclaimed the kingdom of God. Pilate's proclaimed the power of empire." She drew the parallel to the present: "We are living in the midst of those processions. We're caught in the middle between the kingdom of God and the power of empire. And if it feels like the empire is striking back, exerting even more dominance and control like Pilate did — well, history repeats." Pilate's job was to "keep the peace" — maintain the status quo and put down rebellion. Crucifixion was not only brutal execution but public warning. "Which parade signifies safety and which parade carries risk?" ###### [Point 2: Sacred Protest — How Jesus Disrupts](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=4860s) "Jesus disrupts the status quo, and for some, disruption can feel like hope — and for others, it feels like a threat. We can dismiss Jesus or we can join him. Either way, we have a decision to make. What procession do we join? What vision do we let shape our lives?" In both Matthew and Galatians, expectations get in the way of seeing reality. Most expected a warrior. "But that's not who Jesus is. He doesn't come to harm but to heal. He doesn't come to dominate but to dignify." Pastor Caroline quoted Rev. Benjamin Kramer's powerful series of contrasts: > "We want the warhorse. Jesus rode a donkey. We want the eagle. The Holy Spirit descends as a dove. We want the militia. Jesus calls fishermen, tax collectors, women and children. We want the courtroom. Jesus sets a table. We want the gavel. Jesus washes feet. We want to take up swords. Jesus takes up a cross. We want the empire. Jesus brings the kingdom of God. We want the roaring lion. God comes as a slaughtered lamb. We keep trying to arm God. God keeps trying to disarm us." ###### [Point 3: Faith That Bears Fruit — Love Must Get Loud](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5060s) When Jesus entered the temple, he was unhappy with the exploitation — "worship that looks holy but does not bring justice. Because faith that only protects privilege is like a tree with no fruit." To bear good fruit, we need to know what kind: Paul lists the fruit of the Spirit in [[Galatians 5#22|Galatians 5:22-23]] — love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. "These are actions and attitudes, postures and practices that help us to love God and love our neighbors." "My friends, we are living in the shadow of oppression, with the threat of violence all around us. Too many of our neighbors live in fear. Too many of our neighbors are crying out for justice that is being denied. **Love cannot be quiet. Love must get loud. It must be louder than hate and destruction and violence.**" God is faithful in the broken places. Referencing [[Micah 6#8|Micah 6:8]]: "The Lord requires us to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God." "It only takes a spark to get a fire going. Jesus is the light of the world. And we can be sparks that carry his light forward. Be light. Be salt. Cry out. Stand up. Because we must bend the arc of the moral universe toward justice. It does not bend on its own." (Echoing Martin Luther King Jr.) "So take risks and find your place and plug in, and do not grow weary about doing what is good and right and true." ##### Illustrations/Stories - **Two Processions** (Crossan & Borg, *The Last Week*): Peasant procession from the east vs. imperial procession from the west — kingdom of God vs. power of empire - **Rev. Benjamin Kramer contrasts**: Extended series of "We want... Jesus..." inversions showing how God consistently chooses vulnerability over dominance - **Children's Message tie-in**: The "I am a follower of Jesus" chain game (kindness, joy, love, glory, justice, exuberance) mirrored the fruit of the Spirit theme in the sermon - **Coldplay reference**: "The Scientist" — "Take me back to the start" as entry point for revisiting the Palm Sunday narrative ##### Scripture Connections - **[[Matthew 21#1|Matthew 21:1-17]]** — Primary text: Triumphal entry, temple cleansing, children's hosannas - **[[Galatians 6#1|Galatians 6:1-16]]** — Bear one another's burdens; new creation; do not grow weary of doing good - **[[Galatians 5#22|Galatians 5:22-23]]** — Fruit of the Spirit (referenced by name during sermon) - **[[Micah 6#8]]** — Do justice, love kindness, walk humbly - **[[Psalm 8#2|Psalm 8:2]]** — "From the mouths of babies and infants" (quoted by Jesus in Matthew 21:16) - **[[Zechariah 9#9|Zechariah 9:9]]** — Implied: the king comes humble, riding on a donkey ##### Key Quotes - "Palm Sunday is a day of sacred protest." - "This is a different kind of procession because God's kingdom is a different kind of kingdom. And Jesus is a different kind of king." - "Hosanna means 'Save us. Save now. Please save.'" - "We are living in the midst of those processions. We're caught in the middle between the kingdom of God and the power of empire." - "Which parade signifies safety and which parade carries risk?" - "We keep trying to arm God. God keeps trying to disarm us." (Rev. Benjamin Kramer) - "Faith that only protects privilege is like a tree with no fruit." - "Love cannot be quiet. Love must get loud. It must be louder than hate and destruction and violence." - "Be light. Be salt. Cry out. Stand up." - "We must bend the arc of the moral universe toward justice. It does not bend on its own." - "Do not grow weary about doing what is good and right and true." #### Personal Reflections ##### What spoke to me: I shared during joys and concerns about the [pressure in my tech/community management work](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5480s) — being asked to turn relationships into profit, the squeeze of global politics and AI upending the industry, needing to consider new options as primary income. Pastor Caroline's response was affirming: "Relationships don't equate to money. They may not tangibly affect the bottom line, but they do affect our quality of life." The sermon's theme of sacred protest resonated deeply — the tension between empire's demands for measurable returns and the kingdom-work of caring for people. ##### Questions raised: - How do we practice sacred protest in systems that demand compliance as the price of employment? - The two-processions framework maps onto so many domains: what does it look like to choose the donkey procession in tech, in community management, in the open-source world? - "Faith that only protects privilege is like a tree with no fruit" — how does this apply to institutions (churches, companies, movements) that claim justice but protect their own structures? ##### Challenges/Convictions: - The Kramer contrasts hit hard: "We want the courtroom. Jesus sets a table. We want the gavel. Jesus washes feet." This inversion of power applies directly to how I think about authority structures — in the NAR, in corporate tech, in any system that confuses dominance with leadership. - "Love must get loud" is a call I feel acutely right now, both vocationally and in my research work. ##### Liturgical Context Reflections: - The proximity to Passover (begins April 1 sundown) adds layers — Jesus entering Jerusalem *as a Passover pilgrim* means his protest is embedded in liberation theology from the start. The Exodus narrative is the substrate. - The NL reading for this week (John 19:16b-22, the crucifixion sign "King of the Jews") provides an ironic counterpoint: the sacred protest of Palm Sunday leads directly to Rome's attempt to mock it on the cross. Pilate's sign is inadvertently truthful. - Malcolm Guite's responsive reading was devastatingly honest: "Self-interest and fearful guardedness, the hardness of the heart, its barricades, and at the core, the dreadful emptiness of a perverted temple." This is the inner work of Holy Week. #### Applications ##### This week I will: - [ ] Attend Maundy Thursday service (April 2, 6:30 pm, Fellowship Hall) - [ ] Attend Good Friday community service (April 3, noon, Central Presbyterian) - [ ] Sit with the two-processions framework and journal about where I'm caught between kingdom and empire in my own vocational life - [ ] Re-read Crossan & Borg, *The Last Week*, chapters on Palm Sunday and temple action ##### People to pray for: - **Sarah** — job loss, starting college April 6, kitchen fires - **John Widman** — hospital → ICU → Menno Haven rehab → nursing care; Nina in transition - **Virginia** — dental work affordability, pain management; abuse survivors and mental health - **Jen** — back injury, emotional struggle with dependence and asking for help - **Sharon Mayor** — triple surgery at Hershey Medical Center, April 6 - **Joanne Shu** — passed away Tuesday; service later in April; daughters Deb and Lisa - **Clyde & Sarah Sharaki** — safe in Hawaii amid flooding/mudslides - **Myself** — vocational discernment, tech industry pressures, community management work ##### Follow-up study: - Crossan & Borg, *The Last Week* (especially Palm Sunday and temple chapters) - Rev. Benjamin Kramer — find the full source of the "We want... Jesus..." contrasts - *The Work of Imagination* — Illustrated Ministry Lenten liturgy resources - Compare NL John 19:16b-22 with today's Matthew 21 reading for a crucifixion-entry dialogue #### Connections - [[2026-03-22]] — Previous Sunday: "Jesus Condemned" (NL435, John 19:1-16a) - [[Galatians 5]] — Fruit of the Spirit, referenced in sermon - [[Micah 6]] — "Do justice, love kindness, walk humbly" - [[2026-04-02]] — Maundy Thursday (upcoming) - [[2026-04-05]] — Easter Sunday (upcoming) ## [Joys and Concerns](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5266s) | Person | Request | Type | Timestamp | |--------|---------|------|-----------| | Sarah | Lost her job; caught mom's stove on fire twice; starting college April 6 | Concern/Joy | [88:16](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5296s) | | Lee (for John Widman family) | John in hospital, moving to ICU, then Menno Haven rehab, then nursing care; not returning to independent living | Concern | [89:11](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5351s) | | Aaron | Holy Week reflection; antidote to hatred and indifference is love; anger itself is not a sin | Reflection | [90:15](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5415s) | | Courtney | Tech/community management work under pressure; asked to turn relationships into profit; AI and global politics upending the sector; considering new options as primary income | Concern | [91:22](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5482s) | | Peg | Lenten offering: education for children, pediatric care, disaster relief | Joy/Gratitude | [93:28](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5608s) | | Pastor Caroline | Clyde & Sarah Sharaki safe in Hawaii amid flooding/mudslides; UCC disaster emergency funds directed there | Update | [94:23](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5663s) | | Virginia | Prayer for affordable dental work and pain relief; lift up abuse survivors and those with mental health challenges | Concern | [94:58](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5698s) | | Jen | Back injury ongoing; physical pain manageable but emotional/mental struggle with dependence and asking for help is jarring | Concern | [96:17](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5777s) | | Barbara | Joy of music and talents shared by the congregation | Joy | [98:04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5884s) | | Pastor Caroline | Sharon Mayor: surgery at Hershey Medical Center, April 6 — three surgeries at once; some apprehension | Concern | [98:33](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5913s) | | Pastor Caroline | Joanne Shu passed away Tuesday morning; service in late April; daughters Deb and Lisa | Memorial | [99:05](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=5945s) | **Pastoral response to Courtney's concern:** "You named some realities that most of us don't consider, but that we should. That relationships don't equate to money. They may not tangibly affect the bottom line, but they do affect our quality of life. And as you discern what direction to go in, may you feel supported and surrounded by a community that cares deeply about you and the work that you do. May God show you the way and point you in the path in which you are to go." --- ## Comprehensive Sermon Analysis ### 1. Sermon Summary - **Central Message:** Palm Sunday is a day of sacred protest. Jesus' entry into Jerusalem on a donkey was a deliberate subversion of imperial power, and his followers are called to choose between the procession of empire and the procession of God's kingdom. Both personal transformation (bearing fruit of the Spirit) and communal responsibility (sacred protest, bending the arc toward justice) are demanded. - **Liturgical/Thematic Focus:** Profoundly integrated with Palm Sunday, Holy Week, and the Lenten journey. The sermon connected the triumphal entry directly to the temple cleansing and the call to justice. The "sacred protest" framing elevated Palm Sunday beyond celebration into prophetic action. - **Score: 5/5** — Strongly integrated with lectionary, season, and congregational context ### 2. Preaching Style Assessment - **Primary Style(s):** Prophetic (justice-oriented) with Narrative (story-driven) and Topical (theme-based) elements. The two-processions framework provided narrative structure; the prophetic call to action drove the sermon's energy; the topical organization around "sacred protest" unified the message. - **Appropriateness:** Prophetic preaching is ideal for Palm Sunday, especially when framed as protest rather than mere celebration. The blend of styles kept the congregation engaged while building toward a clear call to action. - **Score: 5/5** — Clear, well-suited blend of styles perfectly matched to text and occasion ### 3. Storytelling and Illustration - **Stories/Analogies:** Two-processions image (Crossan/Borg) was the sermon's backbone. Kramer's extended contrasts were vivid and memorable. Coldplay reference was accessible. Children's message chain game connected to fruit of the Spirit. - **Inclusivity:** Sermon explicitly named those who are poor, sick, downtrodden. Kramer quote includes "fishermen, tax collectors, women and children." However, cited scholars (Crossan, Borg, Kramer) are predominantly white men. - **Balance:** Good balance of scholarly illustration with accessible imagery. - **Score: 4/5** — Effective and engaging; broader diversity of voices would strengthen ### 4. Intonation and Delivery - **Vocal Delivery:** Pastor Caroline moved effectively between conversational warmth (introduction, Coldplay reference) and prophetic intensity ("Love must get loud," "Be light. Be salt. Cry out. Stand up."). The Kramer quote was delivered with rhythmic punch. - **Tone:** Welcoming and inclusive throughout. The sermon invited rather than demanded. - **Pacing:** Good build from reflective opening to impassioned conclusion. The "which parade" question created effective pause. - **Score: 4/5** — Dynamic delivery with good tonal range ### 5. Content Structure - **Introduction:** Clear entry point through Lenten services context and Coldplay quote - **Body:** Three-part movement: (1) Two processions, (2) Sacred protest/Kramer contrasts, (3) Fruit-bearing faith and call to action - **Conclusion:** Strong call to action with multiple imperatives ("Be light. Be salt. Cry out. Stand up.") and final framing of Holy Week journey ahead - **Transitions:** Smooth movement between sections. The "which parade" question effectively bridged the historical to the present. - **Score: 4/5** — Strong structure with clear progression ### 6. Engagement and Application - **Congregation as Participants:** Children's message was highly interactive. Joys and concerns allowed deep congregational participation. Palm-waving during processional engaged the body. - **Marginalized Groups:** Explicit attention to the poor, sick, downtrodden, those crying out for justice. The sermon connected to current political realities without being partisan. - **Practical Applications:** "Find your place and plug in" and "do not grow weary" are actionable. Holy Week services offered as concrete next steps. - **Score: 4/5** — Strong engagement through multiple modalities ### 7. Scripture Handling - **Scriptures Referenced:** Matthew 21:1-17 (primary), Galatians 6:1-16, Galatians 5:22-23, Micah 6:8, Psalm 8:2, Zechariah 9:9 (implied) - **Exegetical Depth:** Good historical contextualization through the two-processions framework. The Passover pilgrimage context was implicit. The temple cleansing was connected to systemic injustice rather than personal piety. - **Scripture Function:** Text-driven for Matthew 21; Galatians served as thematic reinforcement. Scripture was used for equity and justice without proof-texting. - **Score: 4/5** — Good depth and responsible handling; could go deeper into Galatians 6 specifically ### 8. Logical Reasoning - **Strong Reasoning:** Effective use of historical parallel (two processions) as analogical argument. The "empire vs. kingdom" framework is logically coherent. Kramer's contrasts use systematic inversion to make a cumulative case. - **Potential Concerns:** The "empire is striking back" phrasing risks appeal to emotion without specific grounding. The sermon makes an implied political connection but doesn't name it explicitly, which is both a strength (avoids partisanship) and a limitation (could be more specific). - **Fallacies:** Minor appeal to emotion in the "too many of our neighbors" section, but grounded in observable reality rather than manipulation. No significant logical fallacies detected. - **Score: 4/5** — Strong reasoning with minor reliance on emotional appeal ### 9. References - **Theologians/Scholars:** John Dominic Crossan and Marcus Borg (*The Last Week*), Rev. Benjamin Kramer, *The Work of Imagination* (Illustrated Ministry) - **Marginalized Voices:** Not prominently featured among cited scholars. The sermon would benefit from womanist, Black theology, or Global South perspectives on Palm Sunday as protest. - **Historical/Secular References:** Coldplay ("The Scientist"), Martin Luther King Jr. (arc of the moral universe — implied but not attributed by name) - **Score: 3/5** — Good range of references but lacking diversity in scholarly voices ### 10. Quotes and Illustrative Stories - **Impactful Quotes:** Kramer's "We keep trying to arm God. God keeps trying to disarm us" was the sermon's most memorable line. "Love cannot be quiet. Love must get loud" serves as a rallying cry. "Faith that only protects privilege is like a tree with no fruit" was theologically sharp. - **Connection to Themes:** All quotes were tightly integrated with the sacred protest theme and biblical texts. - **Score: 4/5** — Several memorable, deeply connected quotes ### 11. Calls to Action - **Steps Offered:** "Be light. Be salt. Cry out. Stand up." "Find your place and plug in." "Do not grow weary." Attend Holy Week services. Bear the fruit of the Spirit in daily life. - **Justice Connection:** Calls were explicitly tied to justice, resistance to oppression, and communal action — not merely personal piety. - **Modalities:** Spoken imperatives, physical action (palm-waving), communal practice (joys/concerns, Lord's Prayer), upcoming services as concrete follow-through. - **Score: 4/5** — Clear, inclusive, multi-modal calls to action ### 12. Style Effectiveness Analysis - **Did the style communicate effectively?** Yes. The prophetic-narrative blend allowed historical grounding (two processions) to fuel present-day urgency (sacred protest). The congregation was visibly engaged. - **Alternative Style Impacts:** - *Fully Expository:* Would have deepened Galatians 6 treatment but lost the prophetic energy and two-processions narrative - *Inductive-Contemplative:* Could build more mystery around "which parade" but risk losing the prophetic urgency that Palm Sunday demands - *Narrative-First-Person:* A first-person account from someone in the crowd could have been powerful but would shift the sermon's scholarly-prophetic register - **Learning Styles Served:** Auditory (strong); interpersonal (joys/concerns, children's game); kinesthetic (palm-waving, procession); visual (limited — no projected images or visual aids) - **Score: 4/5** — Well-chosen and effective for this congregation and occasion ### 13. Side-by-Side Comparison: Prophetic-Narrative vs. Fully Exegetical | Aspect | This Sermon's Style (Prophetic-Narrative) | Fully Exegetical Version | |--------|-------------------------------------------|-------------------------| | Primary Style | Prophetic with narrative structure; theme-driven around "sacred protest" | Verse-by-verse through Matthew 21:1-17 with Galatians 6 cross-references | | Stories | Two-processions framework (Crossan/Borg), Kramer contrasts, Coldplay reference | Detailed historical background on Roman triumphal processions, donkey symbolism in Zechariah, temple economics | | Scripture Depth | Good contextual reading; Galatians 6 used thematically; Micah 6:8 as reinforcement | Deep dive into Greek vocabulary (ὡσαννά as Aramaic cry), Matthew's Zechariah quotation formula, temple-as-den-of-robbers Jeremiah allusion | | Application | "Be light. Be salt. Cry out. Stand up." — prophetic imperatives for present moment | Systematic application of each pericope section: entry (humility), cleansing (institutional reform), healing (accessibility), children's praise (unlikely voices) | | Emotional Register | Builds from reflective to impassioned; prophetic urgency in conclusion | More measured throughout; intellectual engagement rather than emotional crescendo | | Congregational Impact | Energizing; sends people out ready to act | Deepening; sends people out with richer understanding of the text | - **Score: 3/5** — The prophetic style was well-chosen but a deeper exegetical engagement with Galatians 6 (the actual epistolary reading) and with the specific details of Matthew's narrative would have enriched the sermon further ### Scoring Summary | Category | Score | |----------|-------| | 1. Sermon Summary | 5/5 | | 2. Preaching Style Assessment | 5/5 | | 3. Storytelling and Illustration | 4/5 | | 4. Intonation and Delivery | 4/5 | | 5. Content Structure | 4/5 | | 6. Engagement and Application | 4/5 | | 7. Scripture Handling | 4/5 | | 8. Logical Reasoning | 4/5 | | 9. References | 3/5 | | 10. Quotes and Illustrative Stories | 4/5 | | 11. Calls to Action | 4/5 | | 12. Style Effectiveness Analysis | 4/5 | | 13. Side-by-Side Comparison | 3/5 | | **Total** | **52/65** | **Overall Assessment:** A strong, prophetically-charged Palm Sunday sermon that effectively reframed the triumphal entry as sacred protest. Pastor Caroline's use of the two-processions framework (Crossan/Borg) gave the congregation a powerful lens for reading both the biblical text and their present moment. The Kramer contrasts were the sermon's rhetorical high point. The primary area for growth is diversifying the scholarly voices cited — womanist, Black, Latinx, and Global South theologians have rich traditions of reading Palm Sunday as resistance that would deepen this already strong prophetic message. The Galatians 6 reading, while referenced, was underutilized relative to the Matthew text; a deeper engagement with Paul's "new creation" language could have further grounded the "sacred protest" theme. --- ## Hymns ### [Hymn: All Glory, Laud, and Honor (No. 175)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=2907s) **Words:** Theodulph of Orleans, ca. 821; tr. John Mason Neale, 1854, alt. **Music:** Melchior Teschner, 1615 **Tune:** ST. THEODULPH (7.6.7.6 D) **Scripture References:** [[Matthew 21#8]], [[Matthew 21#9]]; [[Mark 11#8]], [[Mark 11#9]], [[Mark 11#10]]; [[Luke 19#36]], [[Luke 19#37]], [[Luke 19#38]] **Status:** Public Domain **Verse 1:** All glory, laud, and honor to Thee, Redeemer, King, to whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring. Thou art the King of Israel, Thou David's royal Son, who in the Lord's name comest, the King and blessed One! **Verse 2:** The company of angels are praising Thee on high; and we with all creation in chorus make reply. The people of the Hebrews with palms before Thee went; our praise and prayer and anthems before Thee we present. **Verse 3:** To Thee, before Thy passion, they sang their hymns of praise; to Thee, now high exalted, our melody we raise. Thou didst accept their praises; accept the praise we bring, who in all good delightest, Thou good and gracious King!W --- ### [Hymn: Jesus Rode into the City (Insert)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qZo5xCdmqJ0&t=6405s) **Words:** Carolyn Winfrey Gillette, 2023 **Music:** John Zundel, 1870 **Tune:** BEECHER **Dedication:** In honor of Gloria Crum's many years of service at St. John's United Church of Christ in Chambersburg, PA **Copyright:** Text © 2023 by Carolyn Winfrey Gillette. All rights reserved. (www.carolynshymns.com) *For personal devotional use only.* **Verse 1:** Jesus rode into the city, knowing all that was to come: He was faithful, prayerful, steady, when he reached Jerusalem. Crowds were cheering, shouting, singing, for they'd seen what he could do: He came bringing hope and healing and the gift of life made new. **Verse 2:** Jesus rode into the city, knowing all that was in store. Rulers often came with armies; Christ rode in, our humble Lord. Those who conquered sought to frighten, riding horses to impress; Jesus rode a beast of burden — lowly beast of gentleness. **Verse 3:** Jesus rode into the city, knowing conflict would increase, where he cared for those in need. People wanted someone mighty — not the humble Prince of Peace. At a time when much was changing, Jesus kept his focus strong; Jesus kept on loving, serving, showing mercy, pressing on. **Verse 4:** Jesus, at this celebration, we recall your sacrifice, There he gave us all instruction — how to be a loving church. There he taught us to give welcome, to seek justice, here on earth. **Verse 5:** Jesus rode into the city; knowing all that was in need, You were faithful to your mission; for the world, you gave your life. Now you call your church to follow — serving, loving, eyes on you. Now you lead your people onward; in these times, there's work to do. ## Worship Leadership | Role | Name | |------|------| | Pastor | Rev. Caroline E. Saxton | | Organist | Barbara Motichka | | Choir Director | Gary Crum | | Worship Team | Neath Ham, Courtney Robertson, Swann Kongkeattikul, Diana Kongkeattikul, Roxanne Davenport, and Chris Willman-Bunge | | Deacon in Charge | Mary Lee Yaukey | | Lector | Henry Hopper | | Children's Corner | Roxanne Davenport | | Media Coordinators | Calvin Frantz and Neath Ham | | Bulletin Cover | "Jerusalem Resident" © 2026 Illustrated Ministry | **The Flowers at the Foot of the Cross** are given to the Glory of God. **Nursery Note:** The "Nursery Nook in the Narthex" quiet area and infant/toddler space in the Parlor are available for children and families to use during worship. Age-appropriate activity bags are also available. ## Church News & Announcements ### This Week at St. John's **Today (March 29):** - Boy Scouts — Klondike Derby — Outside on Church Grounds - St. John's Artistic Showcase & Silent Auction continues until March 29 in the lobby **Bible Study on the Book of Esther**, Chapter 6, 8 pm, Zoom (link in Friday e-blast) ### Monday Afternoon Book Study We will read chapter 6 of Norman Wirzba's book "Love's Braided Dance: Hope in a Time of Crisis" for our discussion on Monday, March 30, 1:30 pm in Conference Room 111. Come and join the conversation! ### Bible and a Beer An opportunity to talk about our faith in public. Join us on the 3rd Monday of the month at the Trojan Diner at 6:30 pm. Our next gathering will be April 20th. ### Blueberry Bliss Spring Tea Tickets Saturday, April 25, 1:30 pm in Fellowship Hall. VIP Tickets are currently on sale. Tickets are $35, cash or check. ### CVAS Collection The Youth are once again helping St. John's Nursery School in their collection of items for the CVAS by creating wonderful animal displays and signs for the collection sites in the church. We will embark on a delivery of these items on April 11. ### Laser Tag By popular request, we are scheduling laser tag fun at Cluggy's on April 11. Cost is $15 for unlimited time; meet at church at 1:00 pm or Cluggy's at 1:15 pm. We'll plan to return to the church by 4:30 pm. Service hours are applicable and there is no age requirement. Arcade games, mini golf, etc. are at your own cost. See Roxanne for more information. ### Photo Directory and Contact Information Just a reminder we are in the final steps for completing our church directory. **All photos must be submitted by March 31 in order to be included in the updated directory.** Drop off photos to the church office or email photos: [email protected] or [email protected] ### Pancake Breakfast & Easter Egg Hunt Saturday, April 4 from 9-11 am in Fellowship Hall (the Egg Hunt is at 10 am). $8 for adults, $2 for children under 12. The egg hunt is free. A portion of the proceeds will go to support SCCAP. ### Holy Week at St. John's - **Maundy Thursday** — Thursday, April 2, 6:30 pm in Fellowship Hall - **UCCA Community Good Friday Service** — Friday, April 3, 12 pm at Central Presbyterian Church - **Easter Sunday** — April 5, at 10:00 am - **Easter Egg Hunt** — April 5, at 9:15 am, planned by Children and Youth Join us for these special services as we remember Christ's death and celebrate his resurrection! ### 2025 SJUCC Year End Financial Report Available upon request from the Church Office. This report is similar to what was shared at past mid-year Congregational Meetings. ### March/April Upper Room Devotionals Currently available at the Welcome Center. We suggest a donation of $1 for small print/$2 for large print copies. If you would like a copy mailed to you, please contact the church office. ### March First Fruits Will support organizations designated as part of the Lenten Projects. This year's recipients are African Mission Healthcare, the Peru School Project, and the United Church of Christ Disaster Emergency Fund. Via these offerings, we will support medical care in Africa, education in Peru, and support where individuals have been affected by natural disasters. ### Birthdays This Week - 03/30 — Neath Ham - 03/31 — Carolyn (Cookie) Miller - 04/01 — Rosemary Elder - 04/03 — Jayla Wheeler - 04/04 — Mabel Perry ## Vision & Mission **St. John's Mission:** To grow in love of God and neighbor. ## Calendar & Upcoming Events ### This Week | Date | Time | Event | Location | |------|------|-------|----------| | Mon, March 30 | 1:30 pm | Monday Afternoon Book Study | Conference Room 111 (Chapter 6) | | Mon, March 30 | 6:00 pm | Craft Night | Room 202 | | Mon, March 30 | 7:00 pm | Boy Scouts | Fellowship Hall | | Tue, March 31 | 5:30 pm | Yoga | Room 202 | | Tue, March 31 | 6:00 pm | Ladies' Bible Study | Zoom | | Tue, March 31 | 6:00 pm | Cub Scouts Raingutter Regatta | Fellowship Hall | | Wed, April 1 | 6:30 pm | Council Retreat | Conference Room 111/Zoom | | Thu, April 2 | 7:00 am | Men's Breakfast — Texas Lunch | | | Thu, April 2 | 6:00 pm | Bell Choir Practice | Bell Room 117 | | Thu, April 2 | 6:30 pm | Maundy Thursday Tenebrae Service | Fellowship Hall | | Thu, April 2 | 7:15 pm | Choir Rehearsal | Choir Room 103 | | Fri, April 3 | 12:00 pm | UCCA Community Good Friday Service | Central Presbyterian Church | | Sat, April 4 | 9:00-11:00 am | Pancake Breakfast | Fellowship Hall | | Sat, April 4 | 10:00 am | Easter Egg Hunt | Outside on Church Grounds | ### Sunday, April 5 — Easter Sunday | Time | Event | Location | |------|-------|----------| | 8:45 am | Caffeine Church School Class | Parlor Room 104 | | 8:45 am | Godly Play Class | Room 119 | | 8:45 am | SPARK! Elementary Church School Class | Room 115 | | 8:45 am | Teen Discussion Class | Room 206 | | 8:45 am | Wired Word Church School Class | Room 116 | | 8:45 am | Upper Room Church School Class | Conference Room 111 | | 9:15 am | Easter Egg Hunt | | | 10:00 am | Sunday Worship | Sanctuary | ### Upcoming - **April 11** — Laser Tag at Cluggy's ($15, meet at church 1:00 pm) - **April 11** — CVAS delivery - **April 20** — Bible and a Beer (Trojan Diner, 6:30 pm) - **April 25** — Blueberry Bliss Spring Tea (Fellowship Hall, 1:30 pm, $35) ## Worship Resources - *"The Work of Imagination"* Lenten liturgy & commentary © 2026 Illustrated Ministry - *"Palm Sunday"* by Malcolm Guite, included in *The Word in the Wilderness: A Poem a Day for Lent and Easter* by Malcolm Guite ## Staff Contact Information | Role | Name | Contact | |------|------|---------| | Pastor | The Rev. Caroline E. Saxton | [email protected] · (641) 260-1868 (cell) | | Office Administrator | Tonya Schwartz | [email protected] · (717) 263-8593 (office) | | Music Director | Gary Crum | | | Organist | Barbara Motichka | | | Director of Children & Youth | Roxanne Davenport | | | Pastor Emeritus | The Rev. Stephen W. Hoffman | |