by Rev. Eric Folkerth

As we stand on the edge of Holy Week, I’m so grateful for these past few months at Kessler Park.

We’ve seen large groups flock to ministries like our “Wednesday Night Live” with children and our “Racial Justice Journey” for adults.

We’ve seen compassionate works of mission with our friends at Hillcrest House and Tyler Street Tower.

And we’ve had nice crowds at worship. We had 65 folks at our potluck last Sunday!

And we’ve heard of the exciting news of our Kessler Day School expansion.

And neighbors and members alike are already enjoying the playground expansion in preparation for the school expanding this Fall.

And so now we turn toward Holy Week, and we invite you to be present with us the whole week and to invite your friends.

Palm Sunday is the beginning. And due to poor planning on my part, I will not be with you. Some months ago I agreed to do the wedding for my oldest friend’s daughter. (I’ve known him since before we were born…and his Father has recently been visiting KPUMC)

I said “yes” immediately without really checking the date because my friend John is the brother I never had. Only a month ago did it dawn on me: This is Palm Sunday! So I apologize for the poor planning on my part.

That said, I believe you will enjoy our guest preacher Rev. John Mollett. John is a longtime member of the North Texas and Central Texas Conference. He currently works for Texas Methodist Foundation.

And…John Mollett lives just down the block on Turner. He might even walk to church Sunday, robe flung over his shoulder. So John knows our mission field well and is a big fan of North Oak Cliff.

Friends: even more than this update, I hope you will look forward to next week.

Information about our Holy Week services is elsewhere in this newsletter. But the point I want to make is this: There is a power with these “in person” Holy Week worship services that cannot be missed.

Experiencing the community of Thursday, the emptiness of Friday, allows us to fully celebrate the joy of New Life on Easter.

So plan now to be with us for our best Easter/Holy Week in several years.

Grace and Peace,

Eric