8:00 and 10:00 services. The return of Scottie and departure of Roger will be especially poignant as we listen to this week's readings of the Good Shepherd and celebrate the loving, caring and nurturing of our Mothers, and also those men and women who love, nurture and care for us throughout our lives.  

Jesus, the Good Shepherd, taught us in his Beatitudes:  Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.  Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.  Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.  Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they will be filled.  Blessed are the merciful, for they shall be shown mercy.  Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.  Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the sons of God.  Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 

Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.  Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.  (Matthew 5:3-12)

Though CGS has taken an unexpected path this year, it has been blessed.  Parishioners have stepped up, filling roles and becoming more involved.  People have reconnected with the church and realized the importance of fellowship; Scottie has had time to strengthen, heal and grow, and Roger has become a dear friend and confidant.  Jesus told us that through struggles, blessing will come. He was right.

As we celebrate Mother's Day this Sunday, we remember that families come in all shapes and sizes.  Some have a mom and a dad, some only one or the other; others with step-parents, foster families, or even simply a loving person to hold a hand.   We will celebrate Mothers, but also all who teach, love, care and nurture us as a mother would.  I believe that we are blessed to have Scottie serve us "as a Mother loves her child," and in her absence, have Roger.  Happy Mother's Day to all who help someone - anyone - by loving, teaching, caring and nurturing.  Mother, father, or stranger...   

Please join us at either service.  Following both the 8:00 and 10:00 services, we will share fellowship with coffee and light snacks as we share conversations and best wishes with Scottie and Roger and remember the loving, caring, teaching and nurturing of our Good Shepherd.

Linda Hank