“This is the day that the Lord has made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it.”
— Psalm 118:24
Peace to you,
Hope you had a blessed weekend.
Indeed, this Sunday was a glorious and joyful day.
Nine United Methodist churches across the county gathered as one body to worship our God. What a privilege it is to belong to the body of Christ - the Church.
Though we are many and different in background, age, experience, and even perspective, we are one for one reason: Jesus Christ, the head of the Church.
We witnessed that unity in a beautiful way. We sang praises, danced before the God of our salvation, offered music with handbells, and shared in Holy Communion together.
You can watch the full service at this link:
https://www.facebook.com/GrantMemorialUMC/videos/1142086054730592
You can also enjoy these special offerings:
• “The Ash Grove” by the Houlton Community Handbell Choir: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fC33OlFWwcM
• “Praise” Worship Dance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AixmMvc1DZg
After worship, we shared a meal together, and Bishop Bickerton offered a presentation about where we are as the United Methodist Church and the New England Annual Conference. It was sobering, honest, and transparent, and at the same time, filled with resilient hope.
You can read a summary of his presentation here:
👉 https://highlight-of-the-week.blogspot.com/2026/05/bishop-bickertons-presentation-may-3.html
As I listened to the bishop's presentation, Jesus’ words came to mind:
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
There is a parallel between our personal lives and the life of the church. In this broken world, we will face struggles, suffering, and still die. The church, too, will face challenges. Many congregations may struggle, or some churches may even close.
But here is the good news: our hope does not rest on our strength, our numbers, or our performance. Our hope rests in Christ. The final victory is already secured. Christ’s Church will never die. It will prevail.
That is why we sing. That is why we praise God, the Rock of our salvation.
Let us be encouraged. Have a blessed week ahead.
In Christ's love,
Pastor Victor
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