Music for this Sunday reflects the jarring nature of the Palm Sunday service. We begin the service in the Parish Hall, where we receive palms and celebrate the triumphal arrival of Jesus to Jerusalem. Drumming sends us outside, waving palms, and then singing "All glory, laud, and honor" once we reach the church. We remain joyous through the sequence hymn of "Ride on, King Jesus." The Passion Gospel brings this joyfulness to an abrupt halt, as we hear about the betrayal and death of Jesus. The Parish Choir will sing Bob Chilcott's arrangement of "God so loved the world," and the service ends with a Brahms chorale, "O world, I must now leave thee."

 

 A beautiful wall of stones graces our worship.  It speaks of love and commitment, of solidarity and sacrifice.  It promises endurance and encourages us to approach the altar in peace.  It reminds us of the world outside, the traditions of our ancestors, and the potential of future generations.  Bless us, O Lord, as we work towards Your promise for our parish through the Living Stones Capital Campaign.  Help us to acknowledge fear and uncertainty, step forward in faith together, and build on the success of our predecessors.  Be with us Lord, as we pledge to sustain this place, increase your work within us and unite us in Your purpose for this community.  Amen.