(from the April 2024 Christogram)
Alleluia! Christ is risen. He is risen Indeed. Alleluia!
With these words we join in the celebration of the ancient church that Jesus conquered death and the grave. The stench of death has given way to the aroma of lilies and life. Mourning has given way to rejoicing. The stillness of the tomb has given way to the motion of a Savior on the move, visiting and comforting those precious to him. Darkness has given way to light. The perishable has put on the imperishable. The mortal has put on immortality. Death has been swallowed up in victory (1 Corinthians 15:54). Jesus’ resurrection is God’s proof and guarantee of our eventual resurrection. Sorrow has been replaced with joy. Brokenness has been replaced by God’s perfect wholeness. Division has been replaced with union. Christ is risen from the dead, trampling down death by death, and upon those in the tombs bestowing life! (ancient liturgical verse).
Alleluia! Christ is risen. He is risen Indeed. Alleluia!
I am volunteering at Sun n Fun this year in the role of a chaplain.
At any time, Airport Chaplains are willing to lend an open ear to all people regardless of their religious background or world view. We offer mental, spiritual and social assistance to people who are going through a personal crisis, who are having problems at work or who just need somebody to talk to. Being available is our main duty. (From International Association of Civil Aviation Chaplains website)
In years past, I have served in a chaplain role with the Boy Scouts of America and provided chaplaincy services at our local scout reservation and for a large camporee. I was also credentialed and trained to serve as a chaplain as part of Federal Emergency Management Agency incident response. I am working to restore my official credentialing through the LCMS Office of Specialized Spiritual Care Ministry, which will involve completion of a virtual education course April 2nd through 4th Assisting Individuals in Crisis and Group Crisis Intervention, information helpful also in my day to day pastoral service to the saints of Lakeland.
At Sun n Fun I look forward to the opportunity to have spiritual conversations with a diverse group of people, praying for those whom I encounter.
Pastor Chris
