The Desert of Compassion by Rachel M. Srubas

Jesus experienced forty days of testing and transformation in the rugged Judean desert. Whether disease, social injustice, personal loss, or other challenges have led you to the spiritual desert, it may seem doubtful that any good can come from hardship. Yet the arid wilderness of physical deprivation and soul-deep testing prepared Jesus to live a life of devotion, courage, and merciful service to others. “The Desert of Compassion” provides daily Lenten sustenance inspired by sacred Scripture, present-day teachings, and personal experience. The MSPC Worship Committee identified this devotional as a timely resource for our congregation. You might choose to use it in your small group(s) as a source of discussion.

Ash Wednesday

Wednesday, March 5 | 6:30pm
There will be an Ash Wednesday Service at 6:30pm in the sanctuary and drive-by ashes from 8:30am until 6:30 pm. Folks are invited to stop by the church to receive ashes at their convenience - ring the doorbell by the glass doors off the playground.

Wednesday Noon Prayer Gathering

Weekly Online - Every Wednesday at Noon
Join Matt for a brief reflection/reading from “Compassion in the Desert,” a time of silent prayer, and prayer for the world at noon every Wednesday during the season of Lent starting March 5th. Learn more about “Compassion in the Desert” below. Use the link in the Friday email to join us.

Do You Have a Story about Experiencing Compassion in the Wilderness?

You can help inspire your faith community by sharing your 3-5 minute story about a time you experienced God’s compassion. Type it up and email it to Matt (matt@maxpres.org) to be shared via our Friday email or other means. If you have any questions, contact Matt.

One Great Hour of Sharing Offering

Typically received during the season of Lent, each gift to One Great Hour of Sharing supports efforts to relieve hunger through the Presbyterian Hunger Program, promote development through the Presbyterian Committee on the Self-Development of People, and assist in areas of disaster through Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. All three programs work in different ways to serve individuals and communities in need. From initial disaster response to ongoing community development, their work fits together to provide people with safety, sustenance, and hope. Learn more: pcusa.org/special-offerings/one-great-hour-sharing

Maundy Thursday Service

Thursday, April 17, 2025, 7pm
Several special worship services happen as we approach Easter. One of them is the Maundy Thursday Service. At this service, we remember Jesus’ last meal with his disciples, that he washed his disciple’s feet, and his mandate (hence, Maundy) to love one another as Jesus loved his disciples. Many people find this contemplative service to be a spiritually meaningful experience.

Palm Sunday Worship

Sunday, April 13, 2025
The children will lead the procession, we’ll wave palms, and sing in celebration, remembering Christ’s triumphant entrance into the city of Jerusalem. All glory, laud, and honor to you, Redeemer, King, to whom the lips of children made sweet hosannas ring!

Egg Hunt and Brunch

Sunday, April 13, 2025 after worship
after worshipAll are invited to Palm Sunday Brunch in Fellowship Hall after worship on March 24. Following brunch, children of Maxwell (pre-K-5th grade) will get to “hunt” for Easter eggs that have been stuffed and hidden by our own MSPC youth.  What a great way to celebrate the gift of new life and the joys of springtime! Let’s worship together, enjoy brunch and hunt for eggs! Sign up for the brunch so we’ll have plenty.

Easter Sunday

Sunday, April 20, 2025
8:00 am - Outdoor Worship at Lexington Cemetery
10:30am - Easter Service with Communion

Easter Flowers and Memorials

On Easter the sanctuary will be decorated with beautiful spring flowers, e.g., tulips, Easter lilies, hyacinths, and azaleas. If you would like to give a flower as a memorial or in honor of someone special, please complete this form and return it with your check to the office by Sunday, April 13.  A gift of money (any amount) for outside plantings can also be made. Spring flowers are $10 each. Please fill out the form available at church or email Kate - kate@maxpres.org