“Sheesh, Rector. I didn’t open the church newsletter for a lesson in the Second Law of Thermodynamics. Yet that is the headline you just threw at me. Stay in your lane, rector, and leave the science to people who know what they’re talking about.”

So, that headline IS the Second Law of Thermodynamics, but it is also a profoundly biblical truth. Everything in this fallen universe is infected with its own death and decay. It’s harsh, I know, but it’s the law. Blame Adam and Eve if you want to skirt responsibility; blame yourself if you’re more humble and honest.

 I was a bit too young to call it a full-blown spiritual crisis, but at the age of seven, it was as traumatic as it could be. It happened in school assembly and it happened more than once. In England, state schools are required to hold a daily act of worship, and so at the morning school assembly, we would have a prayer, a gentle little message about God or morality delivered by a teacher who may or may not have believed in God and who may or may not have had any kind of personal morality.

EYC meets at a different location on Wednesdays each week. Contact JR@stjohnsmontgomery.org for location and other info.

Join us for the latest Rector's Forum series, Bouncing Back, focused on what it means to live resilient Christian lives in an ever-changing and often challenging world. Togther, we will explore how our faith equips us to navigate setbacks, uncertainty, and growth with hope, courage, and trust in God's enduring presence. Through thoughtful conversation and reflection, we'll consider practical ways to cultivate spiritual resilience in our daily lives. 

The forum meets at 9:15 in the Library. All are welcome - come as you are and join the conversation.

Join us at the Holy Eucharist Service at 10:30 a.m. at St. John’s on May 3 for Youth Sunday, when our young people lead every part of worship. From readings to music to prayers to preaching, their voices guide the service in a meaningful, joyful celebration of faith and community. Everyone is invited to a hamburger and hot dog lunch after the service and water inflatables will be available for the kids...don't forget your swimsuits and towels! Please be aware this will be the last Sunday for children's Sunday School for the summer.

Join our new Ladies Bible Study at St. John’s beginning May 5. We will meet Tuesdays from 12–1 in the Parish Hall, exploring the Gospel of Mark together in fellowship, conversation, and faith. All are welcome. 

Contact Libby Beck at libfitz1@gmail.com for more information.

Honduras Mission Trip Opportunities – Summer 2026

Have you been thinking about joining St. Johns' mission trips to Honduras? Whether you’ve traveled before or are simply curious, you’re invited to take part in this meaningful ministry. Please feel free to share this opportunity with others who may be interested.

There are three participation options this summer:

• July 15–18 ($550): Help prepare medications alongside local church partners—an essential role that makes the clinics possible.

• July 18–25 ($1000): Serve in six medical clinics providing care to the community.

• July 14–25 ($1200): Participate in both preparation and clinic work for the full experience.

No medical background is required, and you do not need to speak Spanish—there is a place for everyone to serve.

The cost includes lodging, meals, and transportation within Honduras (airfare not included). Participants will receive travel guidelines for booking flights.

Passport reminder: You must have a valid passport that does not expire before January 2027.

If you’re interested or would like more information, please reach out to Kat Dailey by email or text (334-462-8628). A registration form will be shared soon—stay tuned!

This summer at St. John’s, we invite you to gather for a joyful, all-ages worship service beginning May 10 at 9:30 a.m. Designed especially for the rhythm of summer, this shorter, lively service offers a welcoming space for children, youth, and adults alike. Together we’ll share in music, prayer, Holy Communion, and an interactive message that engages hearts and minds of every age. Whether you’re a longtime member or visiting for the season, come experience a warm, meaningful way to worship as a community.

St. John’s is looking forward to a relaxed and joyful evening of fellowship at our S’more Fellowship in 2026! All parishioners are invited to join us on Saturday, May 16, starting at 4:30 p.m. in the church parking lot for a laid-back gathering filled with food, fun, and community.

Enjoy a classic s’mores station around the fire pit, a simple supper of hotdogs and chips, and Camp McDowell-style songs as we sing together. There will also be cornhole and free play for all ages, making this a perfect event for everyone in the parish family. Be sure to bring a lawn chair, come hungry, and settle in for a warm evening of connection and fellowship. We hope to see you there!

VBS Is on the Horizon...

Step back in time this summer at St. John’s for an unforgettable Vacation Bible School experience! From June 1–4, children are invited to journey to ancient Rome for “ROME: Paul and the Underground Church,” a vibrant marketplace-style VBS. Each day, participants will explore bustling shops, meet early Christians, and discover what life was like for Paul and the underground church as they shared the Good News in a challenging time.

Through hands-on activities, storytelling, music, and crafts, children will experience Scripture in a whole new way—immersing themselves in the sights, sounds, and spirit of the early Church. 

Click here to register your child for VBS

Click here to register as a volunteer for VBS

Job description:

Overview

We are seeking a passionate and dynamic Director of Children’s Christian Formation to lead and nurture the spiritual growth of our youngest members. This vital role involves designing engaging faith-based programs, fostering a welcoming environment for children and families, and inspiring a team of dedicated volunteers. The ideal candidate will be energetic, compassionate, and committed to creating meaningful experiences that cultivate children’s understanding of Christian teachings and values. As a leader in our community, you will play a key role in shaping the spiritual foundation for generations to come.

St. John’s is blessed with many opportunities to serve, and we invite you to share your time
and talents by joining one of our church guilds.
Guilds are at the heart of our parish life. They support our worship, care for our community, and
help us live out Christ’s call to love and serve.
Some of the Guilds and Committees in need of volunteers include:
● Altar Guild - contact Kitty Coleman or Chuck Moore
● Flower Guild - contact Jean Smyth
● Reception - contact Libby Beck
● Pastoral Care - contact Virginia Banister
No experience is required — training and guidance are provided. Whether you can serve
occasionally or regularly, there is a place for you.
Feel free to contact the committee chair with any questions or you may contact Christine Kline
by email at firefamily1991@gmail.com
Come serve. Come belong. Come grow in faith.

7:30 a.m.
Lector: Kathie Mangum
Usher/Greeter: Tracey Campbell
Altar Guild: Chuck Moore

10:30 a.m.

Acolytes: Nancy Bradford, Sam Snyder, Suzanne Holmes, Maggie Mantooth

Altar Guild:  Chuck Moore

Lector and Intercessor: John Morgan Longshore, Lawton McCollum, Helen Johnston, Thomas Lawlor

Eucharistic Ministers: Betsy Cannon, Reg McLane, Maria Pacheco, Radney Ramsey

Ushers/Greeters: Samuel Collier, John David Collier, Will Evans Clark

Flower Guild: Jean Smyth, Karen Westhauser

Flower Delivery Team: Jeanette Lynn, George Mathews, Stanley Marks

Videographer: Sam Collier

Instrumentalists: Robert Scott, flute; David Simpson, bassoon; Bob Hoit, clarinet; Robby Gibson, guitar

Your prayers are requested for the following parishioners:

Laura Brendle, Rick Durden, Marla Foster, Carolyn Fillmore, Emily Crump Johannes, Valinda Johnson, Carma Marks, Richard McCrory, Pat McDonald, Eddie McDowell, Martha Collier Mosely, Cameron Napier, Bud Nason, Elizabeth Potter, Shirley Price, Carrie Shaw, Sarah Spratling, Debbie Steindorff, Barbara Wallace

Prayers are also requested for these friends: Gail Alsobrook, Mac Burton, Phil Butler, Lizzy Dickens,  John Ferguson, Bob Geddie, Mark Grantham, Roger Holliday, Stephanie Holmes, Josie Lee, Martha Ellen Locke, Charles Lewis, Nicole Lusk, Margaret Moore, Skip Parks, Pat Patterson, Serge Ruffato, Ron Skoneki, Johnny Smith, Madera Spencer, Bill Stewart, Chandler Taylor, Connie Thomas, Katherine Weidner, Michael White, Frank Winkler, Ross Wisnewski, Sharon Carney Wright

Pastoral Care Team for May: Kitty Coleman, Mary Sommins, Mary Ward Wisnewski