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April 2, 2026
Three of the five most important days in the Christian year are today, tomorrow, and Sunday (with Christmas and Pentecost being the other two). In a series of days unlike any other in our year because they represent days unlike any other in the history of the world, we come together to remember and honor Jesus’ sacrifice and love.
It begins this evening with a 6 PM Foot Washing Service at the St. John’s Outdoor Chapel (west end of the campus, between the Scout Hut and the cemetery). Recalling Jesus washing his disciples’ feet and responding to his command that we do what he our Lord and Teacher has done (John 13), we offer this brief and powerful service. Called to wash and to be washed, all are invited to participate. If it’s new to you and you would prefer to simply watch that part of the service, you’re welcome to do that, as well.
After the foot washing, at 7 PM tonight, we will be in The Sanctuary for the Maundy Thursday service. It will continue our reflections on Jesus’ humble service and allow us to commemorate the Last Supper that Jesus shared with his disciples prior to his crucifixion.
The commemoration of the Great Three Days (Triduum) continues on Good Friday at 7 PM when will gather for a Service of Darkness or Tenebrae. This year's service is based on the Stations of the Cross. The readings and music will move us from Jesus praying in the garden to his arrest, (sham) trial, crucifixion, and burial. The emotional and meaningful service, along with the darkened setting, require this service to be in-person only.
Before the Good Friday service, you can honor Jesus’ example and command to serve by joining the Community Garden Team in planting seeds and setting plants in the ground. The project will begin this Friday, April 3 at 9 AM in the Field of Faith and is the next step in putting Aden Perry’s raised bed Eagle Scout project into action.
After that (or before the Good Friday service), support the United Methodist Men in their mission work by enjoying their Fish Fry. The meals are available in the Family Life Center on Friday from 11 AM to 1 PM and 5 PM to 6:45 PM. Tickets are $15.
Saturday is silent at the church in honor of the full day Jesus spent in tomb, followed by a boisterous Sunday when we celebrate his defeat of sin and death. We will begin with the Easter Sunrise service at 6:30 AM at the Seawall Cross. Remember to bring a chair.
We will continue with Easter worship services in The Harbor and The Sanctuary at their normal times (8:45 AM and 11 AM). The children will have their normal Sunday morning schedule, including a butterfly release during Children’s Church and Sunday School. The youth and adult Sunday School classes will not meet and there will not be Youth Group Sunday evening.
Filled with joy (and a little tired), we will exhale on Easter Monday - the church offices will be closed on both Good Friday, April 3 and Easter Monday, April 6.
Other important notes:
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Vacation Bible School and Summer Camp registrations are still open.
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Rollie Hanna Breakfast will resume Wednesday, April 8 at 8:30 AM in the Family Life Center. The guest speaker will be Rev. Mark Ale, one of the members of Belin’s Clergy Cabinet. We will get to know him better and learn about his spiritual journey.
- We will honor Oliver’s Lodge immediately following the 11 AM worship services on Sunday, April 12. We will hear from speakers about Oliver’s Lodge, give thanks for this landmark, and enjoy a taste of some of the Inlet cuisine enjoyed at Oliver’s Lodge over the years.
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Beginners’ Calligraphy Class will begin on Tuesday, April 14 at 5:30 PM in the FLC. For more information contact Lara Blackwell (larab@belinumc.org; 843.357.5175).
- Spring Women’s Selah will gather on Thursday, April 16 at 6 PM in the FLC. Bring a salad or dessert to share with a faithful group of ladies from the community.
May God bless you with a very meaningful Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday, and with much Easter joy,
Will
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