Registration deadline is April 1^st (just about when you are reading this). I'm sure since we're the hosts, we can register a day or two later, but need to do so real soon! Copies of the registration form (and the four easy ways to register) and a more detailed description of the workshops are on the bulletin board in the upstairs hallway going in to the Vestry.

Any questions, please call me at 934-6591. Blessings for a happy Eastertide!

Shalom,

Ken

There are a number of things we 'expect' in our lives; the light of day each morning, a child's innocence and God's patience. We also expect much from our church, don't we? Every Sunday morning our Pastors, Choir, Sunday School Teachers, Ushers and Greeters are ready to implement God's work in a clean inviting sanctuary. Many members make this happen through their time, talents and tithes. The church is one body and we all have a responsibility in some way to further Christ's teachings. Our tithes, or pledges, are especially important. Pilgrim UCC committees provide the sights, sounds and programs so vital to our spiritual journey. For those of you, who completed a pledge card, thank you. The committee's budget is established with these funds. The church building is also maintained with this budget. For those of you, who give weekly in the collection plate, thank you. Please consider converting this cash to a pledge card, won't you? It's never too late. Think of what the extra budget dollars could be spent on. As always, those who give their time and talents are the bedrock of our church. Next time you are absorbing the weekly worship experience, take solace that you are a vital part of our church and there is always a place for your time, talent and tithes

Did you know that each time the church property has snow plowing, sanding and walkways shoveled, that it costs over $400?

Did you know that members of Pilgrim Church contributed over $5,000 for tsunami relief?

On March 13^th, Outreach Sunday, Peg Drisko-Johnson, representing the Pine Street Inn, spoke to a gathering after church, giving us a better understanding of just what Pine Street is and does. About 30 of our members have joined a group that helps to serve an evening meal on the second Friday of each month. It isn't just a commitment of time. Peg made the point that most of their guests are not only homeless, they lead a dreadfully lonely life. So, although the brief one-on-one contact that comes from adding a spoonful of potatoes to a plate may seem insignificant, it isn't. An exchange that may consist of momentary eye contact and a conversation as brief as 'more gravy'' can be a bright spot in an otherwise dreary, demeaning life without home and family. Rarely does the expression 'there but for the grace of God go I' take on more meaning. And the rewards are priceless: When you hear 'Thank you' or 'God bless you' spoken with sincerity, and often a smile, you know that in a small way, you are doing God's work.. If you would like to take part, give Pat Wiedner a call. She will be glad to add your name to our list so that you can share the experience.

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AFS is currently recruiting families to host foreign students who will attend Duxbury High School next year. For over 50 years, this international exchange organization has worked toward a more just and peaceful world by providing international and intercultural learning experiences to individuals, families, schools, and communities. By bringing an AFS student into your home, you and your family, will be working toward a more just and peaceful world.

Hosting is a way for all kinds of families ? two parent families with small children, teens, or no children living at home, as well as single parents, grandparents, and people who do not have children ? to have a global experience without leaving home. Host families are expected to include visiting students in their daily activities, and provide meals and a bed along with the kind of support you would typically give your own child. You probably know that families often discover they have received more than they have given; they treasure deep connections that last a lifetime.

For more information about hosting with AFS, phone AFS Support Volunteer Debbie Gallaher, 781-834-0708, or Judy Weyland, 781-934-6608.

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