A Message from Pastor Kaji
Dear Church:
This Sunday, we will observe All Saints – a truly holy and special service. Indeed, it is one of my very favorite observations because it is an opportunity for us to remember our beloved departed.
Our text this week comes from Matthew, and it’s an often overlooked section of Jesus’ crucifixion narrative. As you prepare for Sunday, and as you think of ways you might commemorate the people you have lost, I invite you to pay attention to what happens just after Jesus takes his last breath. The imagery is beautiful and…haunting.
I can’t wait to worship with you!
Pax,
Pastor Kaji
SCRIPTURE
Matthew 27:50-56 (Year A, p. 516):
Matthew 27:50-56 (Year A, p. 516):
50 Jesus cried again with a loud voice and relinquished his spirit. 51 Then, look! The curtain of the temple was torn from top to bottom in two. And the earth was shaken, and the rocks were split. 52 And the tombs were opened, and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised. 53 Then after his resurrection they came out of the tombs and entered the holy city and appeared to many. 54 Now when the centurion and those with him, who were standing guard over Jesus, saw the earthquake and what took place, they were terrified and said, “Truly this man was God’s Son!”
55 Now there were many women there, from a distance watching; they had followed Jesus from Galilee and had ministered to him. 56 Among them were Mary the Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
55 Now there were many women there, from a distance watching; they had followed Jesus from Galilee and had ministered to him. 56 Among them were Mary the Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.