Christ Our Hope Lutheran Church

P. O. Box 961690

Riverdale, Georgia 30296

(770) 997-7117 (770) 997-3312

Jeffrey M. Halenza, Pastor

April 3, 2020

Dear Member,

Attached is a sermon I wrote a number of years ago but did not preach in its entirety. Rather, I delivered an abridged version of it because it turned out to be rather lengthy and I was afraid too many eyes would be closed by the time I got to the “Amen”. At any rate, I wrote it to help people gain a better understanding of Palm Sunday and why things happened the way they did in the days that followed. I am passing along the full version because I hope it will give you a better sense of those days and how they speak to our days. Also, to be honest, the full sermon is better read than heard – the odds of nodding off are not so great!

Tomorrow we will email you a link to a video of a reading of the Passion Narrative I did. For years now, our tradition has been to read the story in parts on Palm Sunday with members assuming various roles, but that won’t be possible this year. I hope the reading will do instead.

I hate the fact that we won’t be together on Palm Sunday or Maundy Thursday or Good Friday or even Easter, Easter hurting the most. Recorded or live-streamed sermons and services serve a good purpose for sure but, still, it’s just not the same. Worship, for me, involves gathering with others in person, seeing each other, welcoming each other, talking with each other, communing together, praying together, singing together (well, kind of singing together). It’s hard to be apart and truly worship. And the special days, like Palm Sunday

and Easter, make it only harder. Needless to say, I miss seeing you and can’t wait for the day we can at last come together again!

Concerning announcements, here’s an update:

 Even though we won’t be able to serve at Calvary Refuge Center this month, we will provide the usual food items. We have attached the sign-up sheet listing what is needed and ask that you either email (coh@bellsouth.net) or call (770-997-7117) the church if you can provide any of the items. But please do not put yourself at risk shopping for any item. Do so only if you’re comfortable going to the stores.

 Redeemer Soup Kitchen does not currently need volunteers and so we will not serve in April. The staff is preparing box lunches which are served outside to those who need them. There may, however, be a need for a fill-in on a last minute basis and if you would be willing to serve in that way, please contact Sylvia McCullough (770-460-1001). You would not be in contact with anyone other than staff members.

 Since we won’t be able to hold an Easter service, there is no need for lilies. If you have already paid for a plant, we will reimburse you.

May the God who is a very present help in trouble continue to be your refuge and strength,

Pastor Halenza

JMH/nvn