Weekly Update

Hi GCN Family,

The revelation of Jesus that Apostle John saw in the book of Revelation sounds like strange imagery to our ears. However, the main message from the first chapter of the book of Revelation is this: The Resurrected Jesus is the Great High Priest, He is pure and purifies, He is the only firm foundation, He has the whole universe in His right hand, He is the Word at the beginning, and He is FOR you, not against you! And that same Jesus puts his right hand on you and says, “Do not be afraid!”

For those who follow Jesus, there really is nothing to fear. That doesn’t mean that we won’t fear. It just means that, in Christ, it really will all be ok.

On a week in with a couple memorial services, this is a good reminder. For Pam Wong and Jerry Way, they are experiencing the full glory and power and Presence of Jesus, face to face! We grieve with those who grieve, but we also rejoice with those who rejoice.

One more thing: Jump into the Bible Reading and Prayer Plan today! Here’s how: (1) Download the GCN Mobile App (iPhone/Apple) (Android/Google). (2) Scroll down to the “Bible Reading and Prayer Plan”. (3) Read through the book of Revelation (and a Psalm) with your church family throughout these next 5 weeks. It’s not too late. Let’s dig into God’s Word together!
 
Things to Know:

1. Serving is part of what it means to be a follower of Jesus. Plus, we need you. Take a moment and check out all the ways to serve around here! Some key areas where we need more volunteers: Facilities Care and Cleaning, Worship Team Musicians, A/V Techs and Livestream, Kids Ministry, First Impressions (Greeters). Let us know where you’d like to serve!
2. GCN Youth Spring Retreat is this weekend. God always uses that time to move in a big way in the lives of our students. Pray for the leaders and students who will be away this weekend at Spring Retreat.
3. Mother’s Day @ GCN. Sunday, May 11th is Mother’s Day. Really, this is an excuse for us to celebrate and honor all ladies of GCN. Plan to show up early that day. We’ll be serving fresh-baked cinnamon rolls (for everyone) and a gourmet coffee bar (for the ladies) that will include cold brew, add-ins, and all kinds of good things!
4. Spitler Prayer Garden Dedication. Sunday, June 8th. Mark the date. It’s Pentecost Sunday. After our morning worship service, we’ll picnic together and have a time of dedication around that Prayer Garden (next to the playground). We’re looking forward to honoring Ben and Kelly for their years of love and ministry here at GCN. God is good.
5. Eastern Nazarene College (ENC) has been our church’s home college for the past many decades. As many of you know, several months ago ENC’s Board of Trustees made the difficult decision to transition to closure. Officially, ENC’s last day as a college will be May 30, 2025. Attached to this email, you will find a letter from Dr. David Bowser, who both serves as our District Superintendent and the Chair of the ENC Board of Trustees. The letter outlines the process of decision-making that led to the closure, as well as plans for the coming days. Today, we thank God for the impact of ENC over the past 100+ years.

Much Love,

Pastor Brian