Third Sunday of Easter

Dear Middletown Reformed Church Family and Friends,

Eastertide blessings to you, beloved of God

I’m back from visiting my family in Florida and I had a relaxing and restful time. I got to read, watch movies, visit a Florida wildlife refuge, walk on the beach, and eat a lot of yummy food lovingly made by my sister. Oh, the color of the ocean down there and the smell of fresh salt air! Just divine. Many thanks to the Consistory for giving me this time off to rejuvenate my body and soul, and to Dan for leading worship and preaching while I was away.

And now, I am looking forward to being back in worship with you this Third Sunday of Easter! We have very special music planned for worship with our friends Sarah Hanvey, vocals and Brian Kolins, drums. I am preaching from Acts 6.1 - 7.2a, 44-60 — the story of Stephen and the early church — and my sermon title is Speaking Truth to Power. In addition, we will come to God’s table of wide-open-welcome and grace and celebrate the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. After worship, come up the hill to the Education Building for our First Sunday brunch prepared by our amazing Kitchen Crew. 

Don’t forget to get your reservations in for our Italian Dinner for Pride on May 10, 6-8PM in partnership with the Community Church of Keyport. Cost for adults is $18; for children twelve and under, $5. All proceeds help to defray the costs of marching in the Asbury Park Pride Parade on June 1. Menu includes: eggplant parmesan; sausage and peppers; lasagna; chicken tetrazzini;  spaghetti and meatballs; pasta primavera; salad; focaccia; and desserts.

Keep following Jesus, beloved. I will see you on Sunday!

With gratitude for the privilege of being your pastor and the holy call of loving you,

Pastor Trish