God is our refuge and strength,
a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear though the earth gives way,
though the mountains be moved into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam,
though the mountains tremble at its swelling. (Psalm 46:1 – 3, ESV)
I’m getting really tired of this now. The self-isolation and social distancing. The daily press conferences with Dr. Shah and Dr. Fauci. The number of COVID-19 cases, the projections, oh the projections. Beds needed, beds available, ICU beds, ventilators, supplies. Did we flatten the curve enough, or will our health care system be overwhelmed? I’m frightened by the empty store shelves and people wearing masks. The empty streets and parking lots are startling, the lack of personal contact is depressing. I’m tired of talking on the phone, and I really don’t like Zoom meetings.
And yet, I can’t help but notice what’s happening around me. Spring is approaching; the morning birds are singing, the early flowers are showing, I’ve shed some of the layers I wear on my walks with Toma. God’s creation is awakening, and I sense the hope that comes with knowing that summer is not far behind.
And there’s more. I am reminded, in my reading of the Bible during Holy Week, of the trauma and darkness of Jesus’ betrayal, arrest, and crucifixion. But just ahead, right around the corner, is that glorious Easter morning. There’s that hope again – that promise of death’s defeat and the victory of God’s kingdom.
Just when I think that the world is falling apart, I can’t help but feel that God is sending me hints and signs that things will get better. As the Psalmist sings, “God is in the midst of the city; it shall not be moved; God will help it when the morning dawns” (Psalm 46:5). My hope, my faith is rekindled. I will get through this crisis, and you will too.
Let’s pray:
God of hope, continue to show us your presence in these days of trouble. Be our refuge and strength. Build our hope in your promise that you will always be our God. Remind us of your love for us through the saving grace of Jesus Christ resurrected. Our trust is in you. Amen.
Click on this link for a video meditation on the destiny of Jesus on the cross. No words are spoken, no text is displayed. You simply need to watch and listen.
It won't be long now. The morning birds are calling, and the spring flowers are starting to peek out and blossom. Pretty soon we'll hear the peepers. These flowers, from Christine Kilpeck's garden, remind us of God's beautiful, ever-renewing creation. Photos courtesy of Bob Kilpeck
No Neighbor Left Behind
Our next No Neighbor Left Behind meal is scheduled for Friday, April 24th. The menu includes tomato meat sauce with macaroni, vegetables, fruit and a roll.
This essential ministry is becoming even more important in the midst of the
current pandemic.
As usual, we’ll gather at the Main Street Church at 2:00 pm on the 24th to package meals for delivery to families along our routes, with extra servings set aside for a community meal at our Sedgwick distribution center.
Many thanks to all who contribute time, talent, food, and love to this ongoing ministry. Together, we are working to eliminate food insecurity on the Blue Hill peninsula, one delicious meal at a time.
If you would like to participate or contribute to the needs of this meal please contact:
Jean Gillette Baker passed away on April 3. She traveled the world as an army brat and an army wife, but Castine was home. Jean and John first visited Castine in 1949 with Jody and baby Jeb. Jean lived in Castine in 1952 - 1953 with Jody, Jeb, and baby Maggie, while her husband, John, served in Korea. With additions Robin, Barney, and Matt, the family enjoyed many Castine summers while John continued his army career. In 1982 Jean and John retired to their home on Main Street. Lynn Saunders Baker
Bible Study Returns! (via Zoom)
Join us Tuesday mornings at 9:00 am for a lively discussion on Bible readings from the Revised Common Lectionary. No experience neccessary. All opinions welcome.
Contact Pastor Tim for a Zoom invitation.
Click on the link above to see our Church Visit video.
Share the Good News
Click on the links below to share this newsletter with your family and friends.
Please feel free to send your announcements to Pastor Tim using the contact points below. If you’d rather not receive this weekly newsletter, please use the “unsubscribe” feature below. If you know someone who might benefit from this newsletter, let us know their email or US Mail address. And please let us know if there is someone who needs our prayers, offered individually or corporately in our worship together.
Trinitarian Congregational Parish of Castine PO Box 108 68 Main Street Castine, Maine 04421 (207) 326-9486 info@tcpoc.org
