As we gathered together last week to celebrate the Risen Savior, I pray we were able to find the hope and joy by worshipping, praising and fellowshipping together. We had a sunrise service at 7 a.m. here at the Presbyterian Church. We invite you to come our way to experience a true worship experience.

A former pastor and friend, Bro. M. R. Bradley, is celebrating Easter with his Lord. Bro. Bradley went to heaven Saturday night, March 24. He is remembered here in so many ways. Personally, he and his wife Doris were my pastor and true friends during my times of joy and sadness. While my heart is sad for Doris, Phil and Pam and their families, I rejoice because I know where Bro. Bradley is today.

It is such a privilege to be among friends who are welcoming two new babies into our lives here. Sunday, March 29 was a special day for Kristen and Hunter Posey and Kaitlyn and Steven Bozeman. Their babies’ showers were well attended, the fellowship hall beautifully decorated, salad luncheon enjoyed by all and the sweet fellowship made for a time for rejoicing over a baby girl and a baby boy.

It is such a treat when people here report their activities. Thank you Doyle and Faye Stroud for the news about a special birthday celebration: You are invited to a 100th birthday celebration honoring Mrs. Velma Erwin Stroud and the Erwin Family Reunion on Sunday, April 12, 2015 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Union Church Presbyterian Church. Please bring your favorite dish and come prepared for a very enjoyable visit with family and friends. No gifts, please.

Prayers continue for Roger Dale Smith who is still in the Baptist Hospital and Mariania Smith who is to have ear surgery on April 17.

April 12 will be the time for Union Association Meeting to be held at Bethesda Baptist Church, Jefferson County at 2:30 p.m. Dr. David Michel will be the speaker.

As I am reminded every year at this time, the cross is heart of the gospel. I think Kyle Idleman sums up what I am feeling: “The cross that represented defeat, for a follower, it is the image of victory. The cross that represented guilt, for a follower, it is an image of grace. The cross that represented pain and suffering, for a follower, it is an image of healing and hope. The cross that represented death, for a follower, it is an image of life. The cross may not be attractive, but for a follower, it is beautiful.”

Have a happy week. He has risen indeed!

If you have any Union Church area news to report, contact Erlene Hudson at (601) 786-3079 or e-mail ehudsonb@aol.com.