Dear Church Family, 
Several of you have shared with me reports that the precipitous decline in church attendance may be slowing.  Studies show that the percentage of folks declaring no religious affiliation (the “nones”) is leveling off among Gen Xers and Millennials.   If  so that may be good for our health. Susan Kelsey shared a study from the American Board of  Family Medicine showing a correlation between attendance at religious services and decline in heart related disease. “Religious attendance may be more effective than statins,” in living longer, the author wrote. 
I’m always happy to hear positive words about the practical importance of worship  and being part of a faith community.   My hope would be that the benefit would not only be longevity, but a deepening conscience and increased determination to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God.” (Micah 6:8)
We’re in the heart of Lent.  The sermon this Sunday is “The Good News in a Strange Wrapping” and the texts are Genesis 15:1-7 and Romans 3:9-26.  Purple remains the color of the  season. 
See  you in church.
Rich