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Dear San Marco Church Family: I am currently fighting some symptoms of a cold, and I realize how much I take my good health for granted. This is a reminder to me that not feeling well impacts the way I see the world around me. I get grumpy and think I am entitled to feel good all the time. When this cold is over, I must remember that good health is a gift for which I need to be thankful every day! We celebrated Easter last Sunday, and now we are in the midst of the Easter season, constituting the 50 days between Easter and Pentecost. I have noticed that after Easter, many church communities become less energized, perhaps viewing Easter as the big event without asking how the reality of Easter changes us. (I have noticed this about myself as well). Are we more willing to take risks doing God’s work after celebrating Easter? Do we feel the liberating power of God’s presence as we reflect on the resurrection? These are good questions to ask ourselves during this season. When we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus, we embrace hope for the world. Regardless of how bleak the circumstances of our personal lives and the state of the world may seem, we trust in the power of God to bring life and beauty out of the ashes of our despair. Truly embracing and trusting this vision is liberating and inspiring. Our Florida Conference United Methodist Bishop, Tom Berlin, will preach at San Marco Church on April 26. This is a special opportunity, as the Bishop presides over several hundred churches and we are honored that he is coming to recognize our upcoming 140th anniversary as a church. Please plan to attend worship that day! That is also the day of the Strides for Pride 5K, and San Marco Church has a team participating. And because the run is at 8am, there will be plenty of time to make it to worship after the run! This Sunday we have the opportunity to hear a message from Brian Niece. Brian is the founder and artistic director of Lumen Rep. Theatre, and if you have attended any Lumen production, you know that Lumen produces thought provoking and challenging professional theatre. Brian is also a professor of philosophy and a former pastor. His messages reflect his depth and experience. I look forward to seeing you all Sunday. Serving communion at San Marco Church is a highlight of my week! Steve Hart
stevehart100@gmail.com
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