Candice's Comments

Kermit the Frog is credited with saying, “It isn’t easy being green.”

We finish the season of Easter (liturgical color white) on May 20, celebrate Pentecost Sunday on May 27 (liturgical color red) and move into the Season after Pentecost with green as the liturgical color. This green season lasts about 6 months. It’s rather like the green season we enjoy with flowers and vegetables. It is a time of growth, bearing the fruit of beautiful blooms and tasty produce.

The early church – like our congregation today – worked hard to be the community God called it to be. As individuals we each have gifts and a calling from God, and when we come together as the church, we have a broader mission in the world.

By following the teachings and practices of Christ, we become the people God has called us to be. Ephesians 4:25–5:2 delineates our calling:

• We are called to speak the truth to one another and be honest with each other.
• We are encouraged to not let the sun go down on our anger. At the same time, God understands our anger in unjust situations.
• We are called to give up greed and our over-consuming ways. We are encouraged to think of the consequences of our actions on the earth and environment.
• We are called to share what we have with the needy.
• We are called to say and do what is useful for building up the community.We are called to be kind to one another, forgive one another, and live as Christ lived. We should live in love.

 In the upcoming Season of Pentecost, may there be signs of green as we grow into the church God desires.

Growing Green with you,

Candice

P.S. Thank you for your prayers and support as Bill and I embark on our 40^th anniversary Alaskan cruise May 25–June 3. We will be remembering you in prayer as well. You are in good and faithful hands with Diana Collins Pallwitz, President of the Congregation, and Rod Green, Chair of the Elders.