PASTORAL THOUGHTS...

For as in one body, we have many members, and not all the members have the same function, so we, who are many, are one body in Christ, and individually we are members one of another. Romans 12:4-5 Grace and Peace be to you from Our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! New beginnings are rampant this time of the year.

The Winter months are hopefully gone until next year. I say that with caution, as we had snowflakes just a couple of weeks ago. At last, the hyacinths, tulips, daffodils, and lilies are budding outside. The sun seems to shine just a bit brighter. It feels like a fresh start! The most important reason for us as people of faith is that through the life, death, and resurrection of our savior Jesus Christ, we celebrate this Easter, reminding us that God gives us a fresh start. In the church's life, it reminds us to share God's love with each other and the world. We are beginning this fresh start at St. Mark’ as I will begin ministry with you on the first day of Holy Week, Palm Sunday.

I am excited to be joining you, some for the first time. Please look at all the events coming up online and in person. We will continue to use our gifts, knowing the vitality of their functions, building the body of Christ, and enhancing the kingdom of God. Let us remind ourselves not just this Easter, but all the time that God's Spirit works in us too. God continues to invoke and challenge us to love God and each other. This reality leads us to ask ourselves, what can we, individually and collectively, do to build the church? We are all needed to make this body a beacon of God's love to all. I am excited about this new journey together in Christ.

Peace, Pastor Brian McClinton