Happenings at Paxton Methodist

April 10, 2017 - Sunday was Palm Sunday. We had a small crowd at Paxton Methodist, but we were in a festive mood. Once again Roy and Judy at Sunshine Flowers provided palm fronds for our worship. We used our new portable speaker/sound system that we will use next Sunday at the Easter Sunrise Service. We “processed” with palms to the music of Donovan singing “Lord of the Dance.” Our Psalter Lesson was Psalm 31, and our affirmation of faith was The Apostles’ Creed. The Gospel Lesson was Matthew 21:1-11, which described Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. Today is the beginning of the most holy week in the Christian faith. Christmas might be the biggest holiday, but there would be no Christian faith without Easter.

Our Sunday School looked at John—Chapter 3 when Jesus and Nicodemus meet. Jesus speaks of the Kingdom—new life—being born again. Our time together at Sunday School goes by very quickly. We all missed Joe this morning, but Ben picked him up, and they were at the lake having a great time. Regardless of today’s catch, they certainly couldn’t have asked for better weather!

Last Monday, a group put on a program at Green Acres (now known as Focus Care of Center). Pastor Matt emceed, gave an Easter devotional and a prayer. After he left for a meeting, Hilda took over the MC duties. Minnie played piano for lots of group singing from Heavenly Highways, including Dorothy Bullock, a resident, leading “In the Garden.” Larry Terry played a number of old favorites on his fiddle and explained some things about his instrument. Nora sang “Were You There?” segueing into “Up from the Ground He Arose,” in her glorious voice. Fannie passed out sand dollars and read a poem showing their connection to Christianity. Sue read the second part of Dr. Seuss’ You’re Only Old Once. I know the residents appreciate the entertainment of these talented folks.

Gene and Joy announced that the Hutto Cemetery on their land will be dedicated as a historical location on Saturday, April 22, at 1PM. Gene is expecting a good crowd coming from all over. Easter Sunrise Service will be April 16th starting at 7:00 AM at the Watson home in downtown Paxton. “Whoever you are, in whatever faith you were born, whatever creed you profess; if you come to this house to find God you are welcome here.” Paxton United Methodist Church is an inviting church that takes to heart the idea of “Open Doors, Open Hearts, Open Minds.” Sunday School starts at 9:30 and Worship begins at 10:00. Our email address is paxtonumc@yahoo.com. If you would like the weekly email newsletter about Paxton Methodist you can send me your email address to the Paxton email address and I will add you to the list. God’s Speed!