Kindred in Christ,

As we enter Holy Week, a sacred journey of reflection and renewal, I want to personally invite you to join us for the services and events that will guide us through this transformative time. From the triumphant shouts of Palm Sunday to the quiet, sacred moments of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, and finally to the joyful resurrection on Easter, this week is an invitation to journey deeper into Christ’s life, death, and resurrection.

Palm Sunday – April 13^th, 11:00 AM

Our journey begins with the celebration of Palm Sunday, where we remember Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. On this day, the crowds shouted, “Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord!” Yet, as we wave our palms and sing “Hosanna,” we also remember that this moment marks the beginning of the final week of Christ’s life—the path of humility, resistance, and unwavering love.

This year, in my sermon titled “When Stones Find Their Voice” we will explore the powerful message of protest in Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. Drawing from Psalm 118 and the history of struggle for liberation, we’ll reflect on how Christ’s entry challenges us to stand in solidarity with the oppressed and excluded, even in the face of crucifying forces. We’ll also explore the unexpected ways God’s power shows up—in the humble figure of Jesus, riding on a donkey, not a warhorse.

Maundy Thursday – April 17^th, 7:00 PM

On Maundy Thursday, we will gather at Green Lake UMC for a Supper Church liturgy and Potluck—a service of intimate reflection, community, and the ritual of handwashing. We will share in the meal that Jesus shared with his disciples, remembering his command to “love one another as I have loved you.” We will also consider the radical humility of Christ, who washed the feet of his disciples, including the one who would betray him. This is a night of community, love, and service.

Good Friday – April 18^th, 7:00 PM

On Good Friday, we will gather at Woodland Park UMC to remember Jesus’ final hours and enter the mystery of the cross and God’s solidarity with the hurting. It is a night of somber contemplation, and reflecting on a love that will never let us go, even in the darkest moments.

Easter Sunday – April 20th, 10:00 AM (joint service)

We will celebrate Easter Sunday, at a special time at Green Lake UMC, in joy and hope remembering that Christ’s resurrection brings new life to all who seek to follow in his way. We’ll celebrate together with music, Communion, and the promise of new beginnings and an egg hunt for all ages.

As we walk this Holy Week together, I encourage you to reflect on the themes of grief, love, and resurrection. Christ’s life shows us that the way to new life is often through solidarity and humility. It is a week that challenges us to reflect deeply on our own journey, our commitment to justice, and how we are called to love one another as Christ has loved us.

I look forward to journeying this Holy Week with you all and seeing you at each of these sacred gatherings. Together, let us prepare our hearts for the great mystery of Easter.

Alongside you,

Rev. Paul Ortiz