When I first met Wisam Salsaa, my Holy Land guide and olive wood artist who crafted the model of Jerusalem that is on display in the office reception area, I asked him when his family had become Christians. Wisam is a Palestinian Catholic, who lives in Beit Sahour, a suburb of Bethlehem. Beit Sahour means “Place of the Night Watch,” and is so named because tradition associates this area with the location where the angel appeared to the shepherd’s who were watching over the flocks when Jesus was born.

In response to my question, Wisam said, “At Pentecost.” I innocently asked, “Which one?” And he said, “The first one!” Yes, the Salsaa family has preserved, cherished, and passed down a memory of having been among the 3000 believers that were baptized on that day in Jerusalem when the Church was born! Pentecost is not just a holy day for the Church; it is a holy day for Wisam and his family.

Here at St. Luke’s we always seek to make Pentecost a memorable day, and this year is no exception. In fact, this year is shaping up to be the most memorable ever! You will not want to miss being here on Sunday for worship and for the celebration events that begin at 10:30 a.m. (See event information).

Wear red. Red is the color of the day because it represents the fire of the Holy Spirit, but you can also feel free to wear orange or yellow (also good “fire” colors). Whatever you wear, make it comfortable for enjoying all the outdoor activities. The scripture is found in Acts 2, and although we will not be reading the entire chapter on Sunday, I encourage you to do so, because the whole story is inspiring.

And speaking of the Church, the Florida United Methodist Annual Conference begins meeting on Wednesday, June 11 in Lakeland. Many St. Lukers are serving as delegates, volunteers, and group workshop leaders. Please remember the Conference in your prayers.

Speaking of keeping things in your prayers, Jayne Andrews, Director of Children and Family Ministries has been diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in her kidney.  She will have surgery to remove the tumor on Tuesday, June 10.  Her prognosis is good and the doctor feels she will make a full recovery.  She is now on leave and should return to work mid to late summer.  Feel free to send cards and notes to Jayne’s attention at the church address and we will make sure she gets them.  Please keep the Andrews family in your prayers.

Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday. Remember, it’s not STLUKES without U!

Bill

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