Dear Church Family,
               I’m sending the Good Word early this week to remind you of the National Day of Prayer gathering on the Falls Village Green at noon on Thursday, May 5.  I encourage you to attend. This is the 70th anniversary of the law signed by Harry Truman establishing the National Day.  Each year the President issues a proclamation urging Americans of all  faiths to join together on one day in a non-partisan public event to call on God for guidance  in a spirit of humility and trust.  There will be both guided  and free form prayer for the community and its schools, the nation and its government and military, and the world, for peace in these troubled times.
               Former Selectman Chuck Lewis coordinates the local effort.  Clerk Dick Heinz and the Rev. Terry Ryan from our congregation will assist.  Unfortunately, I will miss this year because of long scheduled dental surgery, but I’ll be praying from the dental chair! 
               Sunday is a day when we honor mothers, and indeed all women who have played important roles in our life, even as we remember those for whom this family day is tough.  The sermon is “What Time is it?” and the texts are Acts 9:36-43 and John 2:1-11.  We’ll begin the service singing one of the most beautiful of all hymns on love, “Love Divine, All Loves Excelling.”  It has special meaning for us as it was sung at our wedding. 
               See you in church.
Peace and Joy,
Rich