|  In our worship this past weekend we heard of John's vision of a new heaven and a new earth...a vision of God's Easter world! This is a world where God is at work doing new things, all the time. We were especially privileged to hear from Pastor Valery from Haiti, who shared some stories of how God is doing new things in Haiti: in seminary education, in families (through Bible study, especially using Creole translations of the Bible, couples gaining a better appreciation of other and understanding of a God pleasing marriage) and among children, who are often given to wealthier families and are often abused and become as indentured servants. But that is showing signs of change also. Through the work of the Gospel, lives and attitudes are being made new...in Haiti and all around the world, including here among us.
At the end of worship Pastor Shelly mentioned that we will be at the annual Florida/Bahamas Synod Assembly in Orlando on Thursday, Friday and Saturday this week. (But back in time for church Saturday night.) At this assembly we'll be electing a new bishop for our synod, along with doing other business that shapes our life together here in the Florida Bahamas Synod. So, as we get to the end of this week, offer a prayer that all the voters be open to and guided by the Holy Spirit as we gather in Orlando and as a new bishop is elected. Attending the assembly from Our Savior will be Pastor Shelly, Ryan Hostler, Barbara and Martin Preuss and Sarah Lanyi, our voting members, and me. Also, I just want to add (and I feel like a proud Dad here) that Pastor Shelly and Ryan have had key roles in planning the worship for the assembly (especially Ryan, who will be leading much of the worship). So, not only are we very blessed to have them here at Our Savior, (yes, I'm the envy of many of my colleagues, and for good reason!) but the whole synod will be blessed as they share their gifts later this week. Now, as this week unfolds, may you be a part of God's new heaven and new earth, God's Easter world, as it unfolds among us and throughout God's creation. Peace and Joy, Pastor Jack Diehl + ____________________________________________________________ Our Savior is now collecting Old Cell Phones and Used Ink Jet Cartridges. The funds raised will be used to benefit the Fine Arts and Music programs. Please drop your items off in the office! ______________________________________________________ USHERS ARE NEEDED! Please visit our website to sign up for ushering at both the 8:30 and 11:00 a.m. service in May. http://www.oursaviorelca.com/usher-sign-up/ | 
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