Peace to you, church family,
This Sunday we celebrate Pentecost Sunday. Pentecost comes 50 days after Easter. It was the day when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples. It was also the day the church was born.
Among the many works of the Holy Spirit, one of the most beautiful is community building. Wherever the Spirit is at work, Christ’s community is formed, strengthened, and spread like wildfire.
The Holy Spirit is still at work today. Personally, I experience the Spirit especially through our small groups, our Life-Together Groups. Small group ministry has truly been the backbone of our church family. Over the past 12 years, we have journeyed through many books of the Bible together, along with topical studies and devotional books. Through these groups, new members become family, and church members are equipped to grow and serve as leaders.
Currently, four Life-Together Groups (including WOW) are still going strong. Hodgdon, Houlton, and WOW recently completed our New Testament Survey, while Mars Hill has just one final session remaining.
Some members have been with me for all 12 years. Others joined only this year. Yet what amazes me is how deeply connected we have become. It feels as though we have known one another for a very long time because we have shared life together in honest and meaningful ways. One member recently shared that, at first, she was afraid to open up about her life. But now, she feels safe. She feels known and loved. I believe that is the work of the Holy Spirit.
This Sunday, we will celebrate Pentecost in special ways across our churches:
At Hodgdon, Rob will share how the Holy Spirit enables us to seek God’s wisdom (James 1:2–6), while Paula will offer her wonderful Pentecost children’s message for all of us.
At Mars Hill, we will taste and see God’s beloved community as we celebrate Holy Communion together.
At Houlton, we will celebrate Children and Youth Sunday, recognizing our Sunday School children, youth, teachers, and graduating seniors, followed by a church picnic on the lawn. You are warmly invited!
If you would like, you are also invited to wear something red, a reminder of the fire and presence of the Holy Spirit.
I have attached the service bulletins and the Houlton worship service link for your reference: Houlton Worship Service Link
Have a blessed Memorial Day weekend. We look forward to seeing you on Sunday.
Love you all,
Pastor Victor
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