May 2013 CKUMC Crossword Puzzle

Pentecost ~ May 19
The term Pentecost comes from the Greek word, Pentekoste, the 50^th day after the Sabbath of Passover week (Leviticus 13:15-16 ). Pentecost was the occasion on which faithful Jews gathered to celebrate The Feast of Weeks (Deuteronomy 16:9-12 ), an annual Jewish festival at which first fruits were offered to God. On the Pentecost following Jesus death, resurrection, and ascension a miracle occurred—tongues of fire rested on the believers and they were filled with the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4 ). Emboldened by the power of the Holy Spirit, the disciples began to proclaim the gospel message that resulted in a worldwide harvest of new believers. Thus, Pentecost is also referred to as the “birthday” of the church. Pentecost and the following Sundays through November comprise the season of Pentecost. The appropriate liturgical color for Pentecost is red, symbolizing the presence of God and His power that is available to all who believe in him. Pentecost is a powerful reminder that we are called to carry the love and truth of God into the world not in our own strength but by the power of God’s Holy Spirit dwelling within us and working through us. In the spirit of Pentecost may renew our effort here at Cross Keys to go into the world and to make disciples of all nations in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19 ).

Memorial Day ~ May 27
Memorial Day is a special day set aside to remember those who served in the armed forces of our country and sacrificed their lives to defend our nation and to advance the cause of freedom. Their selfless devotion reminds us of Jesus’ great love on the cross where he sacrificed his life to set all people from sin, suffering and death. As we remember our fallen and their families, let us pray for a hastening of the day when Jesus will return in final triumph in victory over evil. Until then, may God strengthen us to carry his love and truth into the world.

“When Christ shall come with shout of acclamation
and take me home, what joy shall fill my heart.
Then I shall bow in humble adoration,
and there proclaim, my God, how great thou art.”
(How Great Thou Art, by Stuart K. Hine (1953)

Breakfast and Fellowship
Don’t pass up an opportunity to share fellowship and good eats at the Cross Keys UMC Variety breakfast. The next Variety Breakfast will be held on Saturday, June 1^st from 8:00 am to 11:00 am. The price of the Adult breakfast is $8.00 (all you can eat!) and $3.00 for children under 12.

Please note that the June breakfast will be the last breakfast served for the summer. Breakfasts will resume again in October.

Due to technical recording difficulties, the Sermon broadcasts are delayed until further notice. Hopefully it will be fixed soon.