In the book of Acts, we see that even in the early church people struggled to live by the Spirit. Paul tells us that we are adopted into God's family. Being family means that we have a responsibility to love, care and provide for one another, despite our differences. Family is about providing a place for all people to be loved and to belong.

On Pentecost Sunday we celebrate the birthday of the church. Pentecost in Acts 2 begins a movement of uniting all people. We see God's vision of inclusion for all people from all nations. The Spirit that came upon the church then, is the same Spirit that is upon the church now. And God's vision then, is still God's vision for his church now.

On Mother's Day, Rev. Kirsten encourages us to see God as Mother. The Bible is filled with metaphors of God as feminine. Opening our hearts to know God in this way expands the ways we see God working in the Sacramental Moments of our lives each day. 

Our Music Minister, Kyle Gossett, shares his Story of Grace, ending our series "Abide." 

Jesus uses the analogy of a vine and branches to describe his relationship with us. The vine is the life source for the branches. He gives us instructions on how to stay tapped into that life source as we face life's struggles and hardships, and it's all about the love we share with others.   

Jesus gives his disciples a promise - that God will continue to be with them through the presence of the Holy Spirit. He abides with us. Even through difficult times and through our doubts, Jesus abides with us.

Mary spent so much time with Jesus, because unlike other people, he made her feel known and loved. She was there when he was crucified, and she was also first at the tomb to discover it was empty. Jesus then empowered her to be the first to proclaim his resurrection. What is he empowering you to do?

In our Easter Vigil service, we read Scriptures of the church's history. Throughout that history, humanity has often given up on God, but God never gives up on us. We read the story to remember who we are, and that we are called to go and be the Body of Christ in the world.

On Good Friday we stand at the foot of the cross and are reminded of the love of Jesus.  No matter where you come from or what you have done, Jesus' love is for you.