In this Week's Update:

HopeSpring Update

Worship This Week

Upcoming Events

Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities

Upcoming Small Groups, Classes & Sign-ups

Upper Room Daily Devotional

A Note from Pastor Bill

Dear Family in Faith,

By now you know that both of our adopted elementary schools in the IMPACT ministry received "A" grades. Mollie Ray moved from an "F" school this time last year to an "A" grade in just one academic cycle. This astounding achievement was recognized by Orange County Public Schools Superintendent Ron Blocker when he chose to hold a press conference there a week ago to share the District FCAT results and school ratings. Celebration at Mollie Ray made front page news of The Orlando Sentinel.

Mr. Blocker, who leads the nation's 11th largest school district, lives with his wife in the Dr. Phillips community, and they are frequent attendees in worship with us. I received a letter from him this week and I want to share a portion of it with you.

"It is a beautiful thing to see a ministry in action. Your church, through some of its dedicated members, provided a great service to two of our most challenged schools and helped make a difference. Please consider this letter a sincere "thank you" for touching the lives of our children. ...The St. Luke's family is very special to me. With this outreach, your church is reflecting a sincere commitment to others. St. Luke's is a true community asset. With your involvement you have made a clear statement that our public schools belong to all of us. On behalf of everyone in Orange County Public Schools, I want to thank you for what you do, for the generosity with which you do it, and for the loving spirit that is alive in your work."

Yesterday I received notice that as it celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, Orlando/Orange County COMPACT has selected St. Luke's to receive its Community Partner Award. COMPACT is the longest continuing in-school mentoring program in the State of Florida. Learn more about COMPACT at www.compactinc.net. We will receive the award in September.

But the greatest reward is never a plaque or a trophy. The greatest rewards we receive as we give ourselves to others are the changes made in others' lives and the impact those changes make on us as we have confirmed for us the truth that when you give, you receive...often in greater measure than the gift. Thank you for all the ways you share God's love and hope in your lives.

This week in worship the story of David takes a tragic and sorrowful turn as his best friend Jonathan dies in battle. We will be taking time to consider how to live through loss. The text is David's moving lament, found in 2 Samuel 1. But you may want to read the sections in 1 Samuel that give the context of David's love for Jonathan and the ways in which Jonathan helped David during times when his life and safety were threatened. (1 Samuel 18:1-5, 19:1-7, 20:1-42) Then read about the death of Saul and his three sons, including Jonathan. (1 Samuel 31:1-13)

With faith, hope, and love,

Bill