At Shepherd’s Grove, we were blessed with an outstanding Holy Week this Easter thanks to the tireless work of our staff and congregation. Beginning on Palm Sunday and ending with Easter Sunday, the time was filled with anticipation and excitement, to reflect upon the most important week of the year.
The celebration began when our own Voices of Hope Children’s Choir graced the stage on Palm Sunday, waving palm branches over the procession, followed by a dynamic flow of vocal arrangements. Added to our already robust musical offerings was the powerful sound of bagpipes. What an amazing gift!
Good Friday at Shepherd’s Grove was interwoven with moving words of Scripture during our Modern service, followed by the gift of Handel’s Messiah, performed by the Hour of Power Choir and conducted by our very own Don Neuen. Both services were well attended by our congregants and supporters of Don’s recent retirement. It was an exciting event as we have not had Messiah performed in over three years, and it was both a meaningful and fitting farewell to Don.
We were overjoyed by the massive amount of attendees at our Easter Sunday services — hundreds of dapper, beaming individuals gathered in the sanctuary to
participate in the rejoicing of Jesus’ resurrection. As people arrived, our volunteers greeted them, smiling and holding encouragement signs with phrases like “You look amazing today!” and “We’re so glad you’re here!.” Our service included a special appearance from Hour of Power favorite Daniel Rodriguez, who performed “Easter Song” alongside the Hour of Power Orchestra. Pastor Bobby gave a compelling sermon, encouraging us to abandon our fears and welcome joy in our lives. After he spoke, he invited newcomers and regular churchgoers alike to be baptized as Christians, and accept or reaffirm Jesus into their lives. Donuts and coffee were served between services, often from the hands of the pastoral staff themselves.
All of us at Shepherd’s Grove want to thank you, our church family for making Holy Week a success. We are blessed to have so many friendly locals, warm-hearted volunteers, and talented performers to share their kindness in a beautiful variety of ways. We are excited for what Eastertide will bring next!
