Eastertide

Dear Friends,

      By the time you read this, we will likely already have celebrated the Feast of Christ’s Resurrection together.  But the new life of Easter is too big to fit into just one day and so it is the tradition of the Church to observe a season of Resurrection.  Sometimes called the Great Fifty Days, Eastertide begins on Easter and continues through the Day of Pentecost (“fiftieth” in Greek).

      Our manner of worship is quite different from what it was in Lent. White and gold are our colors. We begin the Eucharist by proclaiming the risen Lord. The Paschal candle, symbolizing the light of Christ, burns brightly at every service.  And “Alleluias” are abundant. We sing the Gloria once again, and a blessing is given before we are sent out into the world.

      In the spirit of celebration, we at All Saints’ also look forward to the upcoming visit of Bishop Susan, which is scheduled for early July. Her visit is a wonderful occasion for connection and conversation, and it is also a time for Baptisms, Confirmations, Receptions, and Reaffirmations. Baptism and Confirmation are more familiar to most of us, but Receptions and Reaffirmations may need a little more explanation. Reception is for those persons who were baptized into another Christian denomination and who now wish to be fully affiliated with the Episcopal Church. Reaffirmation is for those who are returning to the church after an absence or returning with renewed spiritual commitment and wish to publicly reaffirm their baptismal vows. If you would like to discuss any of these options, please contact the office or speak with me directly.

Peace and Joy,

Mtr Katherine