What's going on at Church of the Cross?  Check out the following headlines adapted from The Reporter, our monthly newsletter.  For news about our United Methodist Youth Fellowship, see this month's Youth activities page.

• Holy Week schedule

Palm Sunday, March 16
Children will enjoy the traditional palm processional in both services and an Easter egg hunt between services.

Maundy Thursday, March 20
Worship at 7:30 p.m.  Holy Communion will be celebrated as we remember Jesus’ last supper with his disciples.

Easter Sunday, March 23
7:30 a.m. — Our youth will lead us in a Sonrise Service that includes an Easter drama.
8:30 a.m. — Breakfast will be served in the Social Room. This year pancakes and egg casserole will be added to the menu.
9:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.— Celebrate our Risen Lord at worship and Sunday school.

• Children's activities for Palm Sunday

Palm Sunday is a very special day for our children for two reasons. The first is that they are reenacting the story of Christ’s entry into Jerusalem. Our children get to play a very special part in this—they get to march into the sanctuary waving their palm branches. This takes place at both services, so please plan on having your child at both services that day.

Palm Sunday is also the day of our Easter Egg Hunt. We will be having the hunt between services. After the first service, quickly pick your children up from their classes and take them to their age-appropriate hunting spots. (Please read sign posted that day for where each child is to meet for the Palm Procession and for the Egg Hunt.) After the hunt, please take your children back to the meeting spot so we can get ready for the second service.

• Lenten Bible study offered

Continuing through Palm Sunday, we will offer an evening Bible study led by Dick Wright. We will meet in the parlor from 6:00 p.m. until 7:30. We will be discussing the parables of Jesus and their application to our lives today.

• Student from Africa University coming

In June and July, three students from Africa University will be coming to the Dayton area. Church of the Cross has agreed to mentor one of the students. His name is Sylvain Illunga, age 39. He is married and the father of five.  Home for Sylvain is in Ruashi, DRC (Congo) and his emphasis is on evangelism, preaching, and pastoral care. Sylvain speaks five languages:  Kiluba, Swahili, French, Bemba, and English. He is excited to gain a better understanding with others in ministry and learn how the gospel is shared in the United States.

Pastor John will share with Sylvain how he does his work and have Sylvain accompany him on pastoral visits, attend work area meetings and Church Council. Sylvain will also experience the West Ohio Annual Conference with Church of the Cross, June 8-12.

• Seven Last Words of Christ

An ecumenical choir from all over the Miami Valley will present “The Seven Last Words of Christ” by DuBois. One performance will be music only on Palm Sunday, March 16th, at 7:00. This will be held at Community U.M. Church, 339 Meyer Ave. at Burkhart Rd. One performance will be the full Good Friday Service from 12:00-3:00 p.m. on March 21st. This service will include seven different pastors and will be at the East Dayton Church of the Brethren, 3520 E. Third Street. All are welcome.

• Becky Grinstead trains for Leukemia fundraiser

On June 1 Becky will participate in the Lake Tahoe 100 Mile Bike Ride in honor of Abby and her aunt Karen. Abby is the daughter of my longtime friend Joy Fasnacht. Abby was diagnosed with leukemia when she was 2 years old. She went through two years of treatment and has two more years to go before she will be declared cancer-free. Joy’s sister Karen was diagnosed with hairy cell leukemia this past summer. This type of leukemia is considered chronic—treatable but not curable. Abby and her family will be there when Becky crosses the finish line.

Becky's goal is to raise $4,000. No pledge amount is too small. Donations are tax-deductible. Donations need to be received by March 27, 2008. You can donate online at her website:  http://www.active.com/donate/tntsoh/tntsohBGrinst or send her a check made out to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

• Holy Land potluck

Many thanks for your prayers and support as 25 of our members toured Jordan and Israel February 17-26. It was a fabulous experience that brought the scriptures to life. We are anxious to share our experiences with you.

Plan to join us for a carry-in lunch on April 6 in the Social Room. After lunch, the travelers will share their stories and pictures from their trip.  The lunch will follow the 11:00 service (approx. 12:15). Please bring a dish to share. Meat, beverages and table service will be provided.
 

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