"Green Lit To Go... And Grow"“ In Southern California, the cycle of destruction and renewal is tragically too familiar: after a fire, new life emerges. The vivid green of fresh growth contrasts sharply with the charred landscape - a dramatic image of an innocent sprout entering a harsh, dangerous world. Similarly, the Holy Infant, Jesus, who is the light of the world, is born into our darkness. And then, grown-up Jesus, despite the apparent triumph of evil at the cross, rises the third day triumphant over sin, death, and the devil's schemes, demonstrating His divine victory over the powers of darkness. Even death, once a wild, untamed enemy, is domesticated into a dormitory for believers until Christ's return. Pentecost Sunday, commemorating the descent of tongues of fire upon the disciples, manifests the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit. This same Spirit, bestowed in Holy Baptism, emboldens believers to publicly affirm their faith - like Marshall and Blake, our latest confirmands recently did. As they join the communing fellowship here at Peace, their faith is now sustained through the Holy Supper, as well through God’s Word. The entire Church on earth, nourished by the continual sprouting up of God's Word everywhere, enters a season of growth this summer —the "Green Season" of the Church Year. Pentecost's fiery tongues signal the green light to "Go and Grow." Summer invites participation in Bible studies and regular attendance at our 10AM Divine Services, where believers find spiritual sustenance. For those unable to attend physically, our new "Dial-A-Podcast" offers access to sermons by simply dialing (805) 500-7552. Try it out! If you are homebound and would like to arrange a home visit with Pastor Mike or an Elder, please call our regular office #: 482-3313. As we delve deeper into God’s Word and partake of His Sacraments this summer, let’s also labor together in the fellowship of the Spirit Who gifts each one of us in a unique way to contribute to the overall growth of the Body of Christ. For that is what we are. Bodies must exercise themselves to grow. Jesus joyously embraced all the work that the Father gave Him, may God grant us such eager spirits to also joyously embrace the opportunities of the season. Growing… and going with you, Pastor Mike