There are a number of thanks and congratulations that are in order, starting with the Triduum liturgies which so many helped to make beautiful and memorable.  I thank all who practiced and prepared for these liturgies, including our lectors, altar servers, ushers and of course, our combined choir under the direction of our talented organist Lynne Border.  I also appreciate Howard Shaffer for his clean-up efforts before and after our liturgies, Dave Witchger who prepared the Easter Fire, and Mary Lou George and all her helpers who made the Holy Thursday dinner a great gathering and meal.  I never take for granted our deacons who participated in the Triduum,especially Deacon Larry, Deacon John, and on Easter Sunday, Deacon Bill.  Finally, thank you to Carol Cruz and her decorating crew who made our altar area so attractive with the flowers and the beautiful gold drapery.

Congratulations to Caroline Eisenhauer and Jonathan Semmler who were named to the Youth Advisory Council for our Diocesan Youth Ministry.  To have two from one parish selected to help put on statewide High School and Junior High activities is tremendous and speaks of the character, enthusiasm and talent of these two exceptional people.  It also says a great deal, positively, about their parents, Ike and Sonja Eisenhauer and Mike and Susan Semmler who are the first teachers of their children in the ways of faith.

Finally, a Happy Mothers Day to all our mothers in the congregation.  I feel truly blessed to still have my mother and be close enough to celebrate Mothers Day with her.