| 04-03-2025 This Sunday is the Fifth Sunday in Lent. We move to the Gospel of John 12:1-8 where we see Mary of Bethany, in a display of extravagant love and devotion, anoint Jesus’ feet with a pound of expensive nard perfume, then wipes them with her hair. Judas, who is about to betray Jesus, is concerned with the perceived waste suggesting selling it to help the poor instead. Jesus defends Mary, stating that the poor will always be with them, but he will not. This passage takes place six days before Passover, in Bethany, where Jesus had recently raised Lazarus from the dead. The title of my message is “Jesus Anointed at Bethany.” I found myself awakened last night around 12:30 to the sound of thunder as storms made their way through our area. The winds and driving rain did manage to take down some trees in our area. Some were still without power this afternoon and we pray all power will be back on soon. I am running a little late as I started my day in Cincinnati this morning and have now made my way back to this computer to finish my thoughts and reminders of the busy season that we are in. In between the visits that were before me this week, my mind has been focused on Saturday and the Celebration of Life service for Michaela “Mikie” Dougherty. I ask you to continue to life Kari, Kevin and all Mikie’s family in your prayers. Mikie is another example of one whom, even though some of us did not know for what some would say was a very long time, she shared her love through her presence and her gift of art to make a difference in our lives the three plus years she was with us. My mother was one who was a regular recipient of almost weekly gifts that decorated and brightened her day in the nursing home she resided. Most of us just have to look around our rooms to see the very gifts she gave each person. This will most certainly allow us to remember her and keep her close in our hearts. I will also be officiating a wedding on Saturday evening in Darrtown. This is a first for me to have a funeral and wedding on the same day. Even though they are two completely different events, both do celebrate life. It is a privilege to be able to be part of both celebrations. The Living Forward group will be meeting Wednesday, April 16th at 1:00 at Asian Lantern on Main Street in Hamilton. All widows and widowers are welcome to attend. If you plan to attend, please let Carla Baker know by Monday the 14th. Her contact information is in the church directory. Thank you to all who brought treats for our Fifth Sunday Potluck last Sunday. We enjoyed Sandy’s biscuits and gravy along with all the wonderful additions including desserts. Our next time for this wonderful event is June 29th. Order forms for Easter lilies will be in the worship bulletin this Sunday April 6 and on the table by the kitchen. Cost is $22 each. If you will not be at church and wish to sponsor a lily, please mail your check by April 8 to the church at 2943 Hamilton Cleves Road, Hamilton, OH 45013. Donations will be acknowledged on Easter Sunday; please also enclose information on how your listing as donor should read, along with names of those you may be memorializing or honoring. Thanks to all who help beautify our sanctuary on this most joyful Sunday of the church year. Our Ross Community UMC Spring Family Dinner is going to be Thursday May 8th, 2025, at 6:15 PM. All are invited, including family and friends. The dinner cost is $20 per person and $10.00 for children. We will be having a raffle with proceeds going to our Linda Estep Scholarship Fund. We are looking for pre-registration, so we know how many to prepare for. You are welcome to pay at the door on the night of the event. Application forms for scholarships through the RCUMC Women’s Group are now available in the church office and on the table in the narthex. Graduating seniors and current college students with a connection to our congregation are encouraged to apply. Please contact Judy Creasy if you have questions or need more information. The Women’s Group raises funds in support of this program throughout the year, including through Terri Lynn candy sales and the Spring and Christmas dinner events. This is an ideal time to place a Terri Lynn order for sweet treats for your Easter celebrations—information and forms are available in the narthex. Deadline for returning scholarship forms are April 26th. Easter Sunday is April 20th. During Holy Week, Ross Community UMC will host the service on Maundy Thursday, April 17. Good Friday, April 18 will be hosted by Darrtown UMC. All are welcome to join either service as we allow Holy Week to help us prepare for Easter morning. Both will begin at 7:00 p.m. Church Sign Wisdom: “ “The will of God will not take us where the grace of God cannot sustain us.” May God’s light surround you; God’s love enfold you; God’s power protect you, and God’s presence watch over you, now and always. Blessings, Pastor Chris Next update 04-10-2025. |
ROSS COMMUNITY UNITED METHODIST
2943 Hamilton Cleves Road Hamilton 45013-----513-868-2923
