PALM SUNDAY CELEBRATION

Today our worship committee started the Holy week with a special celebration with our congregation beginning the service on the front steps enjoying the sunshine after rain that we have been praying for came this week. The congregation marched into the sanctuary waving palm branches. The week celebrated the signing of our contract for the church building on Monday with a front page photo and wonderful story by Arlene Stephenson in the Cross Plains Review. Tom Adams told me that the Trustees have accepted the parsonage and now have to build a fence as required by the DS, build a driveway and work on the landscaping.

Carol Bennett asked for others to accompany her to the special Easter service at the Pioneer Baptist church in Abilene. Judy Porter then announced that the District Superintendent has appointed a new pastor for us beginning June 18. Rev. Helen Brock is now in the Waco District, but in 96-98 served the Rising Star/ May circuit. She has two Master's degrees, one from Perkins and has been a pastor for 20 years.

Rev. Senkel returned safely with Janice from delivering baby furniture to their expecting daughter in South Dakota and missed the snow. They are looking forward to becoming grandparents.

We had a large increase in attendance today and Rhonda promises surprises for the women meeting Wednesday, a special Maundy Service on Thursday at 6:30, and the Good Friday service will be at 8:30 with a great Easter service. Our worship committee and choir are the best. Today Lou couldn't come to church and for the first time watched the Abilene St. Paul services on TV. She came away saying we had a lot better music program here in Cross Plains. The Lord has blessed us with rain and a great church service. Hallelujah!