What a busy and exciting April! Thirteen members of the Council met on April 15th recapping the events of April and ongoing plans for May and beyond.

Easter programs were all well attended. Easter Sunday service saw over 130 attending. While it is not surprising to have a large gathering at Easter service the Council is encouraged by the numbers attending on regular Sundays, those reached by the Spirits Lifters, and continued numbers reaching the Church online. Many attended the Sunrise service and breakfast that followed. Many stayed for the 10 o’clock service. Pastor Brian’s ordination couldn’t have gone better. Helping Hands set up over 130 plates for the outstanding bunch and even seats in the overflow areas were filled. Thanks to all who made these activities possible.

In May the Church will host a new member orientation. What an exciting time in the life of the Church. We welcome those with an interest in the work of the Church. Young people are making plans for their Mission trip to Dexter, Maine. Vacation Bible School is moving forward with the planning stage and organizing painting parties. Memorial weekend the Spirit Lifters will deliver 46 bouquets and over 50 cards. A Praise Night is being organized for the 31st. All this and more. None of this is possible without many hands and the generosity afforded by the congregation.

One activity I’d like to share and would encourage your participation. It involves the roots of the Church, the formation of the Quaboag Plantation and the Town itself. On May 27th the Town will hold the annual Memorial Day remembrance. In 2017 the Church celebrated the 300th anniversary of the original meetinghouse. The Church is honored to have Pastor Brian taking the reins to lead the Town in prayer on the 27th, taking on a role Pastor John served for years. More pleasing was Brian’s outreach to the new chairperson leading the Memorial Day program. With the “changing of the guard” of sorts the Church provides a vital link to our shared past and the fulfillment of the Church’s mission “to bring a vision of hope to the community and beyond”.

On other matters in the work of the Church, the Church did experience some unexpected expenses. Beyond the planned inspection of the elevator the heating system needed attention. April was a good reminder of the need to stay on track with our pledges and offerings. While the Council has reserves it takes the continuing support of everyone. Also a reminder that there is an open “At Large” member position on the Council available. A great example of the work of an At Large member of the Council was the suggestion to improve the flow during Coffee Hour. Two months later access to the Coffee and snacks has improved. Thanks for everyone’s patience as new schemes are being evaluated.