As the Season of Lent draws to a close, we are invited once again into the sacred journey of Holy Week, which begins on Palm Sunday. Holy Week is a time to remember, to reflect, and to rejoice in the hope we have in Christ. These days hold space for both the depth of Jesus’ love and the joy of his resurrection, and we would love for you to be part of each step along the way as the Lord leads. Here are some opportunities coming up during Holy Week.
We begin with Palm Sunday on March 29, at 11:00 AM, as we remember Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. The crowds waved palms and shouted “Hosanna!” Yet, we know how quickly the tone of the week would change. Palm Sunday invites us to consider our own faith as well. Are we comfortable following Jesus only in moments of celebration, or are we willing to walk with him on the difficult road toward the cross? This Palm Sunday will also be memorable as we will celebrate the baptisms of Gracie Waters and Davis Waters! It’s going to be an excellent day in worship, and I hope you and a friend will join us.
On Thursday, April 2, at 6:30 PM, we will gather with our Disciples family at First Christian Church in Athens for a Maundy Thursday Service. This meaningful service commemorates the Last Supper, when Jesus shared bread and cup with his disciples and gave them a new commandment: to love one another. Maundy Thursday is a powerful moment in the story, one that calls us into humility, service, and love. Our new Regional Minister, Rev. Dr. Adam Harmon, will be our speaker, and we will enjoy a reception after the service to welcome him. If you would like to share some finger foods for the reception, please let me know. We will meet here at Union at 5:30 PM to carpool for the service.
As we move toward Easter, we also celebrate with joy and community. On Saturday, April 4, at 10:00 AM, children and families are invited to our Easter Egg Hunt here at Union. This is a wonderful opportunity to gather, laugh, and share in the excitement of new life and new beginnings. I hope you will invite a young family you know to join us.
Early on Easter morning, we will gather at 7:00 AM on April 5, for our Sunrise Service in the Parking Lot on the cemetery side of the church. There is something especially meaningful about greeting the dawn together, remembering the women who came to the tomb at first light and found it empty. Following the service, we will share breakfast. Biscuits will be provided, and you are invited to bring an additional side to share as we fellowship and celebrate together. Please note that we will not hold Sunday School on Easter morning.
Finally, we will come together for our Easter Worship Service at 11:00 AM, where we will proclaim the Good News: “The Lord is risen! He is risen, indeed.” Easter reminds us that death does not have the final word. Hope rises. Love wins. New life begins. Take a picture with the floral cross and enjoy the joy of Easter with the Union Family. Easter is a great time to invite friends and neighbors to join you for worship, and I hope you will!
Wherever you find yourself this season, whether full of faith, carrying questions, or simply longing for hope, you are welcome here at Union. Come walk this journey with us. Come and see the story of Jesus again, one that changes everything.