We gather for a Worship Service in-person at the Chapel (2700 W 14th Street) on Sunday, April 7, 2024 – continuing, despite doubts and scars, to encounter the resurrection story on this Second Sunday of Easter.

To join us at the Chapel, buzz Zion Church (Bob Bucklew) from the Directory at the front of the 2700 Building on the campus of San Sofia apartments or enter from the accessible ramp from the rear parking lot. When you arrive, call Bob at 216-375-5323 to open the parking lot gate.

As it is our tradition on the first Sunday of the month-and in this season of Eastertide, we will share in Holy Communion. The bread and cup will be provided for us around the table at the Chapel.. All are welcome!

The Sunday Bulletin is attached in PDF format. You may use it as a devotional during the week.

To Patti Augustine and the family of Deborah Shields – With Deepest Sympathy: Patti and Family, the members and friends of Zion United Church of Christ, Cleveland offer our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to you following the death of your loved one and family member, Deborah. We are so sorry for your loss. In this difficult and challenging time, please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers – and that we keep you close to our hearts.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Total Solar Eclipse – Monday, April 8, 2024

On Monday, April 8, 2024, Cleveland will be in the path of totality for a total solar eclipse crossing North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, completely blocking the face of the Sun. The sky will darken as if it were dawn or dusk.

It’s a rare event. The last time there was a total solar eclipse in Ohio was in 1806. And while there will be another total eclipse in the U.S. on Aug. 23, 2044, you’ll have to travel to see it because there won’t be another one visible in Cleveland and NE Ohio until 2444.

2024 Total Solar Eclipse Timeline in Cleveland

• Eclipse starts: 1:59 p.m. EDT
• Totality begins: 3:13 p.m. EDT
• Maximum totality: 3:15 p.m. EDT
• Totality ends: 3:17 p.m. EDT
• Eclipse ends: 4:28 p.m. EDT

Safe Viewing: Only look at the eclipse through a special-purpose solar filter. Safe eclipse glasses should comply with ISO 12312-2 international standard. Homemade filters or ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, are unsafe. For more on safe viewing: https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/ohio.org/uploads/pdfs/solar_eclipse_safety_tips_one_pager.pdf. Cleveland Public Libraries are giving the glasses away free (limit 5 per person) – while supplies last. Eclipse glasses can also be recycled at Cleveland Public Libraries.

Check out the Sunday Bulletin Reflection: “An Eclipse Is Evidence of Things Unseen” – Astronomy teaches us to see the light in the world’s darkness. By Luke Leisman, APRIL 4, 2024 – or online on Christianity Today – https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2024/april-web-only/eclipse-is-evidence-of-things-unseen.html

OWLS CLEVELAND (Older, Wiser, Livelier Seniors)

Wednesday, April 10th, 2024, 11:30am – 1:30pm at Zion United Church of Christ – 2700 W. 14th Street. We will Welcome Spring with speakers covering Trees, Plants, and Container Gardening. We will plant herbs, have door prizes and favors. RSVP 216-310-6810 to be included in the free lunch. Hope to see you there.

The Focus Scripture Reading is John 20:19-31

John’s account of the resurrection continues in these verses of chapter 20. On the evening of the same day that the tomb was found empty, the disciples had gathered together in fear of some of the religious leaders (we must be careful to read and interpret John’s account, knowing that the disciples, Jesus, and the writer of John were all Jewish as well). Jesus appeared before them, the first appearance to the disciples after the resurrection besides Mary—except Thomas wasn’t with them. It’s important to follow Thomas’ story. Back in chapter 11, he is ready to go to Jerusalem to die with Jesus. However, by chapter 14, Thomas is unsure of what Jesus is saying. When Jesus tells them they know the way, Thomas argues they do not know the way. Jesus then tells them that he is the way, the truth, and the life. Thomas started off as a strong, faithful disciple, but grew uncertain and questioned what Jesus said. And it’s only after a second appearance that Thomas believes. Jesus then declares that those who have not seen but have come to believe are blessed—an indication to the reader/listener who has not seen the risen Christ that it is more blessed to believe without seeing.

Sermon/Reflection: “Struggle is Central to Post-Easter Life” by the Rev. Scott Rosenstein, based on the reading of John 20:19-31.

Please join us this Easter season to give thanks to God and to seek the companionship of Christ in-person at Zion Chapel.

Easter Blessings,
Pastor Scott Rosenstein
216-273-7561 – church
216-577-1514 – mobile

Bulletin Cover Image:
The Doubt of St. Thomas
By He Qi, China/USA
Global Christian Worship
https://globalworship.tumblr.com/search/Doubting+Thomas