Welcome  April 2020 Easter Newsletter 

PDF version: St Andrews Times Easter 2020 Newsletter

From the Minister’s computer to the St. Andrew’s Community Blessings and Peace. “I wish it need not have happened in my time,” said Frodo. “So do I,” said Gandalf, “and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”   The above is from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Lord of the Rings” trilo-gy. It is a favorite of mine. When tragedy strikes it is no doubt on everyone’s mind - why me, why now? We are indeed in such a time right now. All I can tell you is God is not punishing you or me or the entire world. And love - God - can be seen working through the world in people choosing to self-isolate, in medical facilities and places deemed as essential where workers put themselves at risk every day. Love can be seen in the truck drivers who continue to move products and equipment across this country, in the friend who sends you a message or calls to make sure you are ok and in all the other small acts of kindness you see daily. “All we have to decide is what to do with the time given us.” How often have you wished to have more time? More time with loved ones. More time to spend doing things you love. More time to get organized. More time … Does this give you that time? I hope it does. I hope you discover during these times, that life-saving physical distancing affords you the time to examine yourself, your life and your priorities. A plaque hanging in my kitchen says, “I need a day between Saturday and Sunday.” That was my life previous to six months ago. For the last six months my life has been nothing but Saturdays and Sundays. I believe things happen for a reason and not because God wanted it that way but because life happens that way. We can choose to be angry, upset, frustrated or we can choose to learn about our-selves, others and the world around us. Above all now, we need to stay physically isolated as much as possible and do whatever we can to stay active, healthy and content. I want you all to know I am fine. My final chemotherapy session is scheduled for 8 April and providing my platelets have recovered enough it will go according to plan. I will be “ringing the bell” around 2:00 pm. Your prayers, phone calls, and words of encouragement, food deliveries and rides to Pembroke have meant so much. Thank you. I wish you all good health and happiness as we journey through Holy Week and beyond in this challenging time. A Prayer for those who struggle Online worship Round the Table Donate to Mission and Service

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