Our story is Easter Resurrection from Matthew

After the Sabbath, as the first light of the new week dawned, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to keep vigil at the tomb. Suddenly the earth reeled and rocked under their feet as God's angel came down from heaven, came right up to where they were standing. He rolled back the stone and then sat on it. Shafts of lightning blazed from him. His garments shimmered snow-white. The guards at the tomb were scared to death. They were so frightened, they couldn't move.

The angel spoke to the women: "There is nothing to fear here. I know you're looking for Jesus, the One they nailed to the cross. He is not here. He was raised, just as he said. Come and look at the place where he was placed. Now, get on your way quickly and tell his disciples, 'He is risen from the dead. He is going on ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there.' That's the message."

The women, deep in wonder and full of joy, lost no time in leaving the tomb. They ran to tell the disciples. Then Jesus met them, stopping them in their tracks. "Good morning!" he said. They fell to their knees, embraced his feet, and worshiped him. Jesus said, "You're holding on to me for dear life! Don't be frightened like that. Go tell my brothers that they are to go to Galilee, and that I'll meet them there."                    --  Matthew 28:1-10

On Sunday, May 8^th, Dan Anderson will introduce is to the great outdoors of Chautauqua County - and how his faith has been strengthened through the outdoors.

Sunday, May 15^th, Shauna Anderson and Deacon Cathy Smith will speak at the forum about their recent trip to Africa for HOSPICE.

Come one, come all to help us pay tribute to the wonderful women of St. Luke's.  Please join us, and bring your families, for a brunch after the 10:00 service on May 8th, which features a medley of breakfast casseroles, fresh fruit, sweet rolls, orange juice, mimosas and coffee.  There is no need to make a reservation and there is no cost, so come let us honor the women in our midst.  No reservations are required; everyone is welcome, and there is no cost.

Gentlemen of St. Luke's:

Additionally for the Men of St. Luke's we will enjoy a day of nature with outside work "Paul Bunyan" style. Bring saws, gloves, and a desire to 'lay up wood' for God's service.  Firewood will be distributed to those in need of it. We meet for our morning Eucharist, then enjoy a leisurely lunch.  All are welcome to attend.  Even if you choose not to actively participate in preparing the firewood, come to give us moral support and advice! You can enjoy lunch, the Eucharist, the beautiful surroundings and an  opportunity spend time with the guys!

There are so many faith-related topics out there to be researched, dissected and discussed.  Have you ever wanted to just "go at" some research on a topic that intrigues you and then be able to share that research and discuss it?  Have you been wondering how using your faith could help change the world - or at least your view of it? St. Luke's may have just the right opportunity for you.   On Saturday, June 11 from 10:00 - 12:00 there will be an introductory/organizational meeting that would invite and engage such discussion.  The purpose of this meeting is to establish some of the guidelines and to brainstorm about topics for discussion.  Sound interesting?  Be sure to attend the planning session. Any questions or comments, please be sure to speak with Jim Holton, Clyde Card, Paul Johnson or Barbara Bumsted.

The Right Rev. R. William Franklin, our new Bishop of the Diocese of Western New York, will make his first official visit to St. Luke's on Sunday, July 17 for a service of confirmation at 10:00 am.  Along with our J2A students, this is also an opportunity for others in the parish to be confirmed, received or to reaffirm their baptism.  The first class will be held on Sunday, May 15 immediately after the 10:00 am service.  Mother Susan will be teaching these classes.  A lifelong Episcopalian, Mother Susan has been involved in the Episcopal Church at the local, diocesan and national levels and brings a lifetime of knowledge and experience.  You are welcome to attend the classes even if you are not intending to be confirmed or received, or if you are just thinking about it.  We strive to be a "no guilt, no pressure" community.  Please let us know if you are interested in attending, and if you will need child care.  Lunch will be provided. 

Have you heard the buzz about "Love Wins?"  It is a new book by evangelical pastor Rob Bell and is subtitled, "A Book About Heaven, Hell, and the Fate of Every Person Who Ever Lived." Rob Bell addresses one of the most controversial issues of faith-the afterlife-arguing, would a loving God send people to eternal torment forever...? With searing insight, Bell puts hell on trial, and his message is decidedly hopeful-eternal life doesn't start when we die; it starts right now. And ultimately, Love Wins.  We'll be meeting four Tuesday nights beginning June 7^th.  You can buy the book online or at most book stores.

Summer Youth Camp schedule  

Senior High Conference -- June 26 through July 2 

LakeChautauquaLutheranCenter

Junior High Camp -- August 7-13

DunkirkConferenceCenter

Sleep Away Camp (3rd - 6th grades) -- August 14-17

LakeChautauquaLutheranCenter  

Please visit www.eyouthwny.org for more information.

Registrations with health forms are available on line at www.eyouthwny.org  or at the church office.

Through a generous gift from the Thrift Shop, scholarships are available to St. Luke's members for church camp.  Speak to Fr. Eric if you are interested.

REMEMBER the Thrift Shop as you empty your closets to make room for your new spring arrivals!  The Thrift Shop also continues to accept winter items at this time, along with those spring and summer items you're clearing out.  Items that are clean and in good condition, without need of repair, along with small household items are welcome at St. Luke's Thrift Shop!