From Lay Minister Toviao Hopkins Beloved Friends in Christ, Christ is Risen! He has risen indeed! Hallejulah! As we continue to celebrate the joy of the Resurrection, our hearts are still filled with the light and promise that Easter morning brings. The stone has been rolled away, and in its place we find hope—renewed again and again in our lives, just as the world around us awakens in the fullness of spring. We see this renewal everywhere. The earth softens, seeds are planted, and new life begins to emerge. In much the same way, God is at work within each of us, planting seeds of faith, nurturing growth, and bringing forth new beginnings where we may not have expected them. Spring reminds us that God’s grace is never stagnant; it is always moving, always growing, always renewing. This is especially evident as we celebrate the gift of Confirmation within our church family. Watching our young people affirm their faith is a powerful reminder that the Spirit is alive and active among us. Their journey strengthens not only their own faith, but also encourages each of us to reflect on our own walk with Christ, to remember, renew, and rejoice in the promises made to us. At the same time, we find ourselves approaching the close of another school year. It is a season filled with both anticipation and reflection, of accomplishments, challenges overcome, and growth achieved. We give thanks for our students, teachers, and families, asking God’s continued guidance and blessing as they step into the summer months ahead. In all of these moments, the blooming of flowers, the planting of fields, the milestones of our youth, and the steady rhythm of daily life, we see God’s faithful presence. It is a sacred privilege to walk alongside you through these seasons. I would like to take a moment to express my deep gratitude and honor in serving as the lay minister for our two small, close-knit congregations. Your faith, kindness, and commitment to one another are a true reflection of Christ’s love. It is a blessing beyond words to share in your joys, support one another in challenges, and grow together in faith. May this Easter season continue to fill your hearts with hope. May the renewal of spring remind you of God’s endless grace. And may we all go forward, rooted in faith and blossoming in love. GIGGAT, Toviao LME