Joyful Late-Spring Worship and Fellowship

As Eastertide came to a close and we prayed our way toward the day of Pentecost, the 9:15 family service has been full of life and Spirit. Laughter, music, movement, and heartfelt prayers have shaped our time together. Here are a few images that capture the depth of joyful late-spring worship on recent Sunday mornings.

Bishop Nedi Rivera joyfully danced her way down the sanctuary aisle as the service came to a close, a living embodiment of celebration and grace. Her movement echoed the energy of the community gathered—lively, welcoming, and deeply connected. As the resonant sound of the gong marked the dismissal, the sanctuary was filled with a sense of joyful sending: a people renewed and ready to live out their faith in the world.

During the service, we also had the joy of commissioning Aaron Leonard’s discernment committee. As Aaron continues to explore a possible call to ordained ministry, this faithful team will walk alongside him in prayer, reflection, and spiritual companionship. We give thanks for their “yes” to this sacred journey.

We were also blessed to formally welcome 20 new members into the life of our congregation. Standing at the front of the church, they were surrounded with warm smiles, applause, and heartfelt prayers.

This was a Sunday full of milestones and momentum—grounded in gratitude, lifted by hope, and danced into the future.

That same Spirit-filled energy reached a joyful crescendo on Pentecost Sunday, June 8. We celebrated with the choir’s final Sunday before their summer break, lifting our hearts in song one last time for the season. We honored Education for Ministry graduates and gave thanks for their deep commitment to learning and spiritual growth. And we were inspired by the preaching of EfM mentor and licensed lay preacher Lois Brown, who offered a word of wisdom and encouragement. It was a day that brought together music, learning, leadership, and the unmistakable presence of the Holy Spirit—a powerful reminder that the life of this church is vibrant, growing, and full of grace.

After the service, the celebration continued as so many parishioners came together to make the BBQ potluck a joyful success. The tables were filled with delicious food and warm conversation, and Hannaford Hall was buzzing with life—a true feast of community, laughter, and belonging. Pentecost reminded us not only of the Spirit’s power, but of the deep joy that comes from being church together.

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