April 30, 2022

This weekend is filled with important events and blessings, but before I tell you about them, let me share a bit of sad news. Ellie Covington is having to cease being our children's director due to family care concerns. Many of you are aware that Ellie's parents live in north Georgia and have had recent health issues. Ellie is often having to travel on weekends to check on them. She will need to be in a situation for the foreseeable future where she has the flexibility to go out of town. Please be praying for Ellie's parents and for Ellie as she travels and seeks to support her parents.

At 11:00 a.m. today, we will be celebrating the life of Asbury member Kelly Barrett, who made her transition on January 10th. We've waited a long time to celebrate Kelly's life, and we look forward to honoring Kelly's great life. Huxsie Scott will be participating in the service and singing the song, If They Could See Me Now. Bill and Karen Jahn will be in town for the service as Kelly was Bill's sister. The service will be at Asbury, A lunch/reception will follow. 

Then at 1:30 p.m. today, we will be celebrating the life of Peter deCordova. We've waited even longer to celebrate Peter's great life as he made his transition exactly a month before Kelly on December 10, 2021. Peter's service will be held at St. Peter's Episcopal Church at 3 Westridge Road—just outside the main gate to Skidaway Island. 

Today from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., the Thunderbolt Museum will be hosting a bazaar where folks have rented table space for their crafts and other items for sale. Wesley Oak/Asbury Memorial will have a booth set up as well with a variety of items to purchase, but mainly to represent our church as a place of welcome for all—to spread the joy! The Museum is right across the street from our Wesley Oak Campus at 2702 Mechanics Avenue. Rev. Lynn Drake says, "Come on by and enjoy the bazaar and spread the love of God to others!"

I mentioned the sad news about Ellie. More sad news...Susan and Randy Bolinger are moving to Indiana. This incredible couple has made a huge impact on the ministries at Asbury and have touched the lives of many people. We will truly miss them. We all have the opportunity to say "goodbye" to them at their home this evening from 6 – 8 pm Their address is: 771 Southbridge Blvd. If you are able, please bring an appetizer to share with others.

"JUST" NEHEMIAH ACTION THIS MONDAY  

We need your presence this Monday at the Civic Center. One time each year we gather with the larger faith community to speak out for change in our area. Join our JUST team leaders and support our choir at this annual event on Monday, May 2, 2022, at 6:15 pm at the Johnny Mercer Theatre in the Civic Center at 301 W. Oglethorpe Avenue, Savannah. Pre-event preparation for congregations will be followed by the public action at 7 pm. This is an in-person event and masks will be required. The issues of affordable housing and criminal justice reform are on the table and the fact sheets are posted on the wall outside of Holliday Hall. 

Rabbi Robert Haas and I have made a bet as to which of our congregations can get more people to the event. If more people from Temple Mickve Israel attend, I have to dress in costume and sing a song from the musical Fiddler on the Roof at one of their Saturday services. If we have more in attendance, Rabbi Haas (who is a huge Star Wars fan) has to preach a sermon at Asbury while wearing a Star Wars costume. Let's make it happen! 

With all that's going on, don't forget that we have designed a wonderful Service for the worship of God this Sunday. As part of the service, we will be celebrating Holy Communion. Those who Live Stream with us, please join us and have the elements with you at home (bread/cracker and juice/water). And with it being the first Sunday of the month, we will be having our BIG Coffee Hour after the service. If you are able, bring "goodies" to share with others. 

I look forward to seeing you sometime today at one or more of the events...and I especially look forward to seeing you tomorrow when we worship God and fellowship together!

Love,
Billy