Dear Church Family,
A number of you know I have been struggling with unexplained health issues for some time.  I have deeply appreciated  your concern and prayers.  I’ve been through a number of tests and finally last week had an evaluation with the Movement Disorders Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital in Boston.  It has been determined that I have Parkinson’s Disease, complicated by neuropathy in my lower limbs and arthritic stenosis in my lower back.
It was not a diagnosis I wanted, but just getting a definitive assessment is helpful.  We can begin some appropriate therapies, which promise good results.  I have a strong trust that God gives us strength sufficient for our needs.  Although the doctors are clear they cannot predict the course of the disease or the effectiveness of the treatments, I am hopeful, and optimistic about continuing to serve the church.  I do continue to covet your prayers.
I’m looking forward to celebrating Pentecost this Sunday. This is often known as the birthday of the church when the Holy Spirit came upon the gathered disciples to empower it for ministry.  The spirit was described as descending on the church like a rushing wind and tongues of fire. Plan to wear something red, the color of the day, symbolizing the tongues of fire.
The sermon is “The Human Spirit and the Holy Spirit.”  The texts are Psalm 104:24-33 and Acts 2:1-21.  It is also communion Sunday.
See you in church.
Peace and Joy,
Rich