This Friday, more than 17 million people around the world will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with parades, parties and the color green. But there is more to St. Patrick’s Day than green beer and corn beef and cabbage. Born to a wealthy family in 387 AD, Maewyn Succat, better known as “Patrick” was recognized for his strong Christian faith and ministry. Patrick, who was never canonized by the Roman Catholic Church, is reported to have converted more than 135,000 people to Jesus Christ and assisted in establishing 300 churches.
Interesting Facts About St. Patrick
- Patrick was actually "British," born to a Christian family in the northernmost Roman colony of Britannia.
- At age 16, Patrick was captured by Irish raiders and spent several years as a slave in Ireland.
- Patrick had a dream in which God spoke to him saying, “Your ship is ready."
- Subsequently, Patrick returned to Ireland to tell people about Christ.
- The most well-known of Patrick’s illustrations is the shamrock, which he used s as a symbol of the Trinity.
Forgive me but since I detest green beer (or any other beer for that matter) and would rather hit myself in the head with a hammer than eat corned beef and cabbage, however I think there is an important lesson as the world celebrates St. Patrick’s Day. For me, it is what one person with a heart for Christ can do to change a nation and the world.
What if during these weeks of Lent, we too had the courage to share our belief in Christ with others, what if we too put Christ first in our lives, what if we too truly lived what we believe – we absolutely could have a lasting impact in changing the world.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day. Just saying!
St. Matthews Wednesday Night Youth Group
I had the privilege last Wednesday to join the middle and high school youth group at St. Matthews. My favorite daughter and the kids in the youth group asked me questions about my faith and my life. What a privilege it was to share what’s really important with them and what’s really imperative in my life. I came away thinking what a great group of young people. Under the leadership of Heidi Mongeau and some other awesome adults, lives are truly being changed. If you know of young people in middle and high school, invite them on Wednesday night at 6 p.m. It will change their lives.
Easter Egg Hunt
Just a reminder of our Easter Egg Hunt meeting this Wednesday, March 16 at 6:30 p.m. at St. Matts. If you would like to be a part of this year’s annual St. Matthews Easter Egg Hunt Team, which will take place on April 8th, please join us. For more information, contact Kristen Gondolfo
We are also in need of candy donations to fill the Easter eggs. There will be a basket near the help desk in our Welcome Center so that you can drop off your donations.
Share the Love on Sunday Mornings
Thanks to all who have shared “goodies” for our fellowship time after our morning worship service. It is exciting to see so many folks stay after the service for fellowship. If you would like to “share the love” by bringing special treats, please sign up with Kristen Gondolfo or on this link: http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0945a4ab2ea2f49-calling
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Congratulations to Jess and Jessie
Congratulations to Jess and Jessie Moody on the birth of their beautiful daughter Adalyn Grace Moody on February 6th. The Moody’s report that Adalyn is the “love of their lives” and are thankful to God for this special blessing. We look forward to welcoming Adalyn in worship real soon on Sunday mornings.
Speaking of young children, did you know that every Sunday we have a nursery staffed by great folks who love kids! For more information, see anyone at the help desk.
See you this Sunday at 8:45 as Pastor Steve continues our sermon series on James as we walk verse by verse this this awesome book. This week we will be studying James 5:1-12.
God bless,
Pastor Frank