FROM THE PASTOR’S DESK
Dear friends and members of our Balboa Union Church
Luke 24:39 “Touch me and see.”
The disciples could not believe the miracle of Easter. That is why Jesus says to them: “Touch me and see.” All our human experience tells us that what has died is dead; it is the toughest border for us as human beings to imagine crossing. But God is the Creator, and in Jesus He created something completely new.
This victory and miracle are reported five times in the New Testament. Not the operation of the miracle, nor are we told how it occurred. Instead, we receive testimonies of the results: Jesus met his disciples! The apostles and evangelists each give us different reports of Easter; but they all focus on the same thing: “The Lord is risen.” All five tell us the truth of a new reality!
Allow me to use this complicated expression, because in the tradition of our Western culture, truth is usually perceived as rational thought. Consequently, religion becomes “religious theology”: some opinions and nice ideas but little else. But Easter is not just a nice story. On Easter Sunday, Orthodox Christians greet one another with the statement, “Jesus is risen indeed!” It is the truth!
A mere idea can excite us, but we never can touch it. But the risen Christ is not just an idea; it is a new reality. On this fact, I can build my life. And beyond that, I find solace: the risen Christ is waiting for me.
Reverend Roland
THIS SUNDAY AT BALBOA UNION CHURCH
Worship Service at 10 a.m. – ALL ARE WELCOME!
Children’s Sunday School Teacher: Rev. Luis Veagra, Martha Oliva and Elizabeth Moreno
SPEAKER: Martha de Maduro
| First Testament Readingsand Psalm | Acts 3:12-19Psalm 4 |
| Epistle Reading | 1 John 3:1-7 |
| Gospel Reading | Luke 24:36-48 |
Other News
From Our Mission Committee
Missions Commitee is setting up a Community Center and we appreciate your donations of used but functional computer and office equipment such as desktop PC, laptop PC, printers, desks, chairs, tables and any other thing you think will be useful. bring it with you on Sunday or Let us know if you want us to pick it up.
We Thank you for your generosity and support.
Betsy Farah Moran
Chair of Mission Commitee
+ (507) 66124494
Thursday Evening – Men’s Group
David has asked us to remind all gentlemen in the Church that they are welcome to join the men’s group that gets together every Thursday, 5.00- 7.00 p.m., at the Tryp Hotel (Albrook). This is a time for fellowship and getting to know other members of our Church family.
Upcoming Events
BUC COUNCIL MEETING NEXT SATURDAY! April 25th
All members and friends are invited to come to the BUC office and participate in our monthly Council meeting. 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Ladies Afternoon Tea
In speaking with Betsy, we have discussed having the next afternoon tea at the Los Ríos home, to spend time with their 23 residents and get to know them. We will confirm details of the date in May for this afternoon tea. Please contact Beth and/or Betsy for further details or suggestions.