This Sunday
April 27, 2025
Greetings Friends,
Alleluia, Christ is Risen, He is Risen indeed! As we prepare for the second Sunday of Easter, it is my prayer that you have experienced a meaningful Easter with us and invite you to return as we continue our joyous celebration as we journey together this Easter season.
This Sunday, Dr. Karl Lampley will discuss the Resurrection Story of Thomas, the disciple who refuses to believe in the Resurrection until he sees Jesus for himself along with the signs of Jesus' crucifixion. Jesus reminds us today that blessed are those who do not see the physical Jesus with our own eyes and yet still believe in the Resurrection. One week after Easter, the message will encourage us to live the Resurrection each day with certainty in believing rather than doubt, disbelief, unbelief, and faithlessness. We are also reminded that God will prove his existence and the power of Jesus' Resurrection to each one of us if we ask and believe in faith.
Please also look at all the invitations below; I want to draw your attention specifically to the following invitations:
- 2025 Kumi Quest – Saturday, May 3, for the in-person walk or bike ride here in Castro Valley followed by our church tradition where Chef Chuck will serve up a fabulous lunch here at our church. Join us as we continue our partnership with our siblings at Chinese Community UMC in supporting Kumi Christian Visionary School in Kumi, Uganda where the need is great.
- Buena Vista UMC (BVUMC) Spring Festival Bazaar – Sunday, May 4, where there will be food available (I suggest pre-order as they sell out quickly) and a panel that will address the crisis in the immigrant community in addition to a film screening of Academy Award Winning “No Other Land.”
- Our Mother’s Day High Tea & Boutique – Saturday, May 10, where you can celebrate that special person at our Mother’s Day High Tea Fundraiser.
- FESCO Spring Benefit Sale – Friday & Sat., May 30 & May 31, 9 am – 5pm, at our church.
Peace & Blessings,
Pastor Akesa