Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

We have just experienced a most unusual Holy Week and Easter.  These words of Jesus are even more precious to us now.  Many of us were stunned as we witnessed the sudden death of Bertha Wright in a tragic accident in front of our church on Palm Sunday.  We know that such events happen on our highways every day - but we do not expect  it to happen to one of our church family or that we will be the witnesses.

The reality of death in a week when the whole Christian church was remembering the tragic death of Jesus was made even more poignant this year.  Life is fragile - and fleeting - and precious.  Death would be bitter and meaningless without the promises of God’s forgiving and healing love,-- without the resurrection and eternal life of Christ.

Resurrection is the life that comes out of death, times of loss, confusion, and despair.  Most of us have had our personal moments of resurrection - times when we ourselves or those close to us have experienced healing, the return of life and hope, the joy of renewed strength.  We needed Easter this year!

Many of Bertha’s large family were able to gather with many of her friends in a funeral service that joyfully celebrated her life on Saturday, March 22.  This was a good thing - God can and does bring joy out of tragedy.  The family appreciates all who came, who sang, who helped serve a beautiful meal after the service.

Blessings, Joan

                                                *        *        *        *

In our Church Family...

Best Wishes to Alison Luthy and Jeff Cherry who will be married on April 5, 2008

 TURN RIGHT - USE THE LIGHT - Be safe!

One Great Hour of Sharing offering is still being received through April.  We are about half way to our goal of $1,000.  WE CAN MAKE IT!!!

Alarm System to be activated - To ensure the safety and security of our building, the Church Council wishes to have the security system activated as soon as possible.

On Sunday, April 20, immediately after the Church service, there will be a brief meeting at the main entrance (carport) to educate those folks who have keys on the use of the system.

If you have a key or feel that it is necessary for you to have a key, please be there.  It is important to know how to turn the system off and on and the code/codes to be used.  We do not want anyone generating a false alarm.

*          *          *          *

Graduation - Looking for graduates…our graduation reception will be held on May 25 following worship.   Do you have a 2008 graduate in your family?   Let the church office know by calling 410-228-4640 or e-mail: immanuelucc@bcctv.net

*          *          *          *

Celebrating 100 years - Elizabeth (Giese) Bosse was born in 1908, so she will celebrate her 100^th birthday on April 8, 2008.

She and her five siblings (Emma, Bertha, Louise, William and Margaret) grew up on a farm on Maple Dam Road.  Elizabeth’s family was very active in this church.

In 1948 she married Paul Bosse and moved to Easton.  They had two daughters (Jeanne Hechmer and Ann Shariff).  Elizabeth continued her work in the church at Immanuel Lutheran Church.

For those who would like to visit or send greetings, her address is:  Mrs. Elizabeth Bosse

Mallard Bay Center - Room 312
520 Glenburn Avenue
Cambridge, MD  21613