A note from Pastor Travis 3/20/25

The last update of my Fitbit has added an interesting feature. Now, on those few occasions where my step count and zone minutes have been higher than normal for several days in a row the app sends me a message reading that I am in danger of “overdoing it” and I need to take a day to rest and recover. 

I deeply appreciate this new feature. Historically, health apps have celebrated achievement but haven’t recognized the importance of taking a day or two for rest. However, over the last few years they have started to take a more holistic approach. They have begun to recognize the importance of balance to health. 

This wisdom has long been understood by the great religions of our world, including Christianity. Our tradition has always emphasized the importance of prayer, meditation, and a day of rest to a healthy spiritual life. 

Our congregation encourages this through our worship and our Lenten Study. At first the idea of studying may not sound like a way to rest. However, stepping away from our regular schedules in the middle of the week for fellowship, a simple meal, and conversation about our faith is a break from the pressures that push and pull us. 

We invite you to join us in study, worship, and prayer. Below you will find our Lenten schedule. 

Lenten Study –SOUP AND SPIRIT — Wednesday nights March 12th – April 9th, 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm.

If you didn’t join us last night, it is not too late to participate in the study. We will gather at 6:30 for soup and then a time of study and reflection at 7:00. The study will be hybrid, so you can join us in person or online. 

Sunday, April 13th- Ecumenical Palm Sunday

8:15am Complimentary Breakfast @ First Baptist Church, Main Street, Melrose

9:00am Walk to Ell Pond Gazebo 

9:15am Blessing of the Palms Service at Gazebo 

9:30am Depart for FUMC 

10:00am Worship at FUMC 

Thursday, April 17th – Maundy Thursday – 7pm Worship 

Friday, April 18th – Good Friday – 7pm Worship

Sunday, April 20th – Easter Sunday

6:00am Community Sunrise Service at Mt. Hood 

9:30am Easter Egg Hunt at FUMC 

10:00am Easter Sunday Worship at FUMC

 

Grace and Peace, 

Pastor Travis