Some people might like winter. I do not count myself among them. I see the appeal of skiing, and don't get me wrong, I love having my woodstove cooking away while watching the snow falling outside. But combining the short days, the bitter cold, being cooped up inside... And when considering the miserable stretch of single digit days we had this year? I can't remember checking the weather forecast this obsessively, just scanning for daytime temperature highs of greater than 40 degrees. There's just so much more that spring and summer have to offer.
That said, I think we are entering my favorite time of year. Patches of grass are starting to peek out from under the snow. Days are slowly getting longer and warmer. We're starting to get our baby animals for the kids' 4H projects. I've been thinking about all the summertime projects that'll probably go another year without doing. Just the hope of spring after a miserable and dark winter causes my heart to sing.
They say "Timing is everything," and even with this tough winter we just had, I found myself asking, "Ok, God, when's this all going to stop? Haven't we had enough of this harsh winter? When will You send the warm?" And it's here that I'm reminded of God's sovereignty: that by nature of His almighty and overarching power, He chooses the timing for all things in whichever way He pleases (Psalm 115:3). Perhaps it's His way of teaching us patience. Perhaps it's to teach us resilience. Maybe it's to teach us greater appreciation and thankfulness for heat, fossil fuels, and HVAC and plumbing technicians. Whatever God's reasoning, this season lasted for precisely as long as God intended.
And especially as we are currently in the Lenten season (the forty days leading up to Easter), my thoughts often turn to the disciples of Jesus. He foretold them of His own death and resurrection, and it still surprised them that He would be betrayed, arrested, and murdered. How hopeless and powerless they must have felt, not only while it was going on, but especially all day Good Friday and that Saturday! You know they had to have been asking each other many questions. Why did He come and teach us all these things just to be killed? What purpose would the Son of God have with dying? What does this mean for us? Will we be pursued and killed, too? We believed He was God, why didn't He stop it?
Flip over to Romans 5:6-8 with me. Paul pulls everything together into coherence for us. It says there that "...while we were still hopeless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly." And down in verse 8: God demonstrates His love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
So back up with me for a second. We must remember that God establishes the material and moral frameworks for the universe, even writing it on our hearts and consciences (Romans 2:14-15). Because God is a holy God and is all-perfect (Matt 5:48), anything that we say, think or do which is contrary to God's standard (also called sin) is cosmic treason. So when we say that the payment we receive for sin is death (Romans 6:23), we really shouldn't be surprised at the severity of the punishment: even the United States carries the death penalty for treason. And while we don’t know the “why” behind His timing, we know the “why” behind why He came: Jesus came for imperfect people like you and me. God Himself came to earth to live the perfect life we couldn't, just so He could endure the punishment we deserved. And He shows us that the amount that He loves us is the distance between the nails through His outstretched hands.
The season of darkness and hopelessness felt by pre-resurrection humanity isn't too different than the one that we all feel apart from God, too. But in perfect timing, the Son rose and the world was filled with the light of a new and different spring season. Jesus not only took the punishment for us, but He rose from the dead to demonstrate His power over our sin and death itself. Through that one act of righteousness, there resulted justification of life to all (Romans 5:18).
One thing I do want to encourage you with, my dear reader, is to not lose sight of the Easter season. Spring and the hope of warm weather and new life is exciting! And while it's not sinful to acknowledge the baby animals or the greening of the grass or flowers during Easter, we might not give the proper focus where it’s due in the coming weeks. Remember that Jesus died in His own perfect timing, but then rose again in the same perfect timing. We can know that the justice intended for us has been satisfied, and we can be comforted in the spring of new life in Him.
Tim Leidy
Saturday, June 20 to Saturday, June 27
Registration Deadline: April 1
Join us on our Mission Trip to the Dominican Republic this summer where we will be serving alongside Carlos and Kimberly Verhulst, who lead La Mesa Ministry. They are long-term missionaries with Serge, a global missions organization headquartered in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania.
Our team will serve the local community through evangelism and Bible studies, assist Kimberly at their bakery, and participate in construction projects while training local residents in practical skills we are able to provide.
All food, lodging, translators, and in-country transportation will be provided.
Participants must be at least 12 years old. Youth ages 12–15 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Youth ages 16–17 must be accompanied by an adult chaperone.
Space is limited. Sign-up now to register or for more information! Pastor Darren will be leading the team.
Beginning March 1st, join us for a 12-week Sunday morning seminar on the foundations of discipleship, where we will learn how to help one another follow the Lord Jesus and grow into His likeness. Together we will explore the practices and joys of disciple-making—from Bible study and prayer to evangelism, accountability, and caring for those who are hurting—so that we might more faithfully pursue the fullness of Christ together.
Mark your calendar! Our annual Leidy’s Church Auction will be held on Saturday evening, April 25 — and we’re officially collecting items.
This year, the auction has a meaningful purpose:
10% of proceeds will go directly to missions, supporting the work beyond our walls.
The remaining proceeds will help us finish the parsonage project, which is nearing completion.
Every donated item helps move both of those goals forward. Now’s the time to start thinking about what you can contribute.
Consider donating:
Gift baskets or themed bundles
Handmade items
Vacation stays or experiences
Professional services
Tools, equipment, or specialty items
Practical, everyday goods
If someone would bid on it, we’ll auction it. Items may be dropped off at the church office during regular hours. Our very organized team will store everything safely until auction week.
Let’s finish the parsonage strong and bless our mission partners in the process. We are so grateful for your support of the ministry and mission of Immanuel Leidy’s Church.
Start gathering — and we’ll see you on April 25!
Leidy's Church is excited to offer spring soccer for children PreK4 - 3rd grade in the Indian Valley and surrounding communities through our partnership with Upwards Sports. If you are looking for a local recreational soccer program for your kids with healthy competition and equal playing time, come check it out!
What to expect:
1 practice per week beginning Monday, April 6
1 game per week (Saturday) beginning April 18 & going through May 23
Co-ed participation with equal playing time
Devotionals at games and practice
To participate register on-line at Upward Sports.
If you are interested in coaching, contact Jake Niederhaus at jpeniederhaus@gmail.com.
Calling ALL ladies, YES, ALL! Please join us on Tuesday, March 3rd at 6PM in the Fellowship Hall for our annual Ladies of Leidy's Potluck Dinner. Come enjoy delightfully warm fellowship as well as a variety of homemade dishes (maybe some new recipes to share also?). A brief business meeting will follow our dinner. Please see the sign-up sheet that is posted in the Narthex by the elevator or you may sign up online via Church Center (Select calendar/Ladies of Leidy's Pot Luck Dinner/sign up). Mark your calendar and hope to see you there!
A fellowship ministry for widows to connect and be encouraged. We meet in one another’s homes on the third Tuesday evening of the month at 6:30 pm. If you would like to join us, please contact Donna at weissdonna42@gmail.com or Verna at gvbowman@comcast.net.
Where: Leidy's Church Sanctuary
When: 7:00PM Good Friday - 7:00AM Easter Sunday, April 3 - April 5
How: Sign up for a time that works best for you.
This is an opportunity to fix our eyes on Christ—His atoning death on the cross and His victorious resurrection. As we come together in awe of His sacrifice, we remember that by His wounds, we are healed, and in His resurrection, we have new life.
Join us as we pray from the cross to the empty tomb - Good Friday evening to Early Easter Sunday Morning, 36 hours of non-stop prayer. A sacred time set apart to seek the Lord.
We encourage you to commit to at least one hour of prayer. We are hoping to fill each time slot. Come as you are able. Thank you!
The Consistory met on February 4 at 7:03PM. The meeting opened with prayer and a devotional reflection on Christian brotherhood, mentorship, and the importance of spiritual accountability among men led by Brandon Kehs.
Previous meeting minutes were approved unanimously.
Old Church/HUB Property
Consistory discussed the future of the Old Church/HUB property. A committee has been formed to prepare a detailed report for review in March, with the goal of finalizing recommendations in April.
Financial Overview
• Total assets: Just over $1.3 million
• Equities: Approximately $600,000
• CDs: Approximately $235,000
• Liabilities (accounts payable): Approximately $31,000
January giving exceeded budget by $16,000. Nearly half of February’s operating expenses were received during the first week of the month.
Capital Planning
Long-term facility planning was reviewed. Major building components such as roofing, HVAC systems, and flooring are projected to reach end-of-life around 2035, requiring proactive financial preparation.
Ministry Updates
• Upward Sports: Leadership continues to move forward with minimal startup cost.
• Technology: Gradual improvements are being made, with positive feedback noted.
The meeting adjourned at 9:52 PM following closing prayer.
Mark your calendars now for the kid’s Spring Musical “The Fab Four Kids Show” which takes place on Saturday, March 14th at 6pm and Sunday, March 15th at 4pm. The stars of the Fab Four Kid’s Show teach kids about the four Gospels through music and fun!
On this particular day the regular producer can’t make it and the agency sends in a sub that doesn’t understand what their show is all about: The Bible! Come see what they can teach us and this new producer. The show is full of unforgettable songs, big energy and the joyful chaos of live children’s ministry. The show is free so this is the perfect place to invite friends, neighbors and co-workers to hear solid Gospel truth presented by some really cute kids!
Question 53: What do you believe concerning “the Holy Spirit”?
Answer: First, that, with the Father and the Son, He is equally eternal God; second, that God’s Spirit is also given to me, preparing me through a true faith to share in Christ and all His benefits, that He comforts me and will abide with me forever.
Question 54: What do you believe concerning “the holy catholic church”?
Answer: I believe that, from the beginning to the end of the world, and from among the whole human race, the Son of God, by His Spirit and His Word, gathers, protects, and preserves for Himself, in the unity of the true faith, a congregation chosen for eternal life. Moreover, I believe that I am and forever will remain a living member of it.
Question 55: What do you understand by “the communion of saints”?
Answer: First, that believers one and all, as partakers of the Lord Christ, and all His treasures and gifts, shall share in one fellowship. Second, that each one ought to know that he is obliged to use his gifts freely and with joy for the benefit and welfare of other members.
Question 56: What do you believe concerning “the forgiveness of sins”?
Answer: That, for the sake of Christ’s reconciling work, God will no more remember my sins or the sinfulness with which I have to struggle all my life long; but that He graciously imparts to me the righteousness of Christ so that I may never come into condemnation.
Question 57: What comfort does “the resurrection of the body” give you?
Answer: That after this life my soul shall be immediately taken up to Christ, its Head, and that this flesh of mine, raised by the power of Christ, shall be reunited with my soul, and be conformed to the glorious body of Christ.
Question 58: What comfort does the article concerning “the life everlasting” give you?
Answer: That, since I now feel in my heart the beginning of eternal joy, I shall possess, after this life, perfect blessedness, which no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man conceived, and thereby praise God forever.
On Saturday, March 21st at 1:00PM join us in the Fellowship Hall for an afternoon of fellowship, testimony, good food, and celebration of what God is doing through Love Cradle International to bring hope to vulnerable children and families.
Love Cradle Mission: We exist to bring God’s love and care to children and families around the world. Love Cradle International is committed to caring for children and families globally, with primary outreach in Ukraine and the USA.
This special event will feature:
Tasty meal including traditional Ukrainian dishes
Live music
Fundraising to support children, families, and orphans in Ukraine
If you can help in any way, we would sincerely appreciate any help with kitchen support, food preparation, setting up tables, cleaning up after the banquet, or donating desserts. If God puts a tug on your heart in any of these areas, please let us know.
Please RSVP by March 17 by texting 267-777-2711 or Email: lovecradleint@lovecradleint.org
We look forward to celebrating with you and sharing in God’s faithfulness!
It’s time to change our clocks. This is the bad one, the one where we lose an hour. So, on the evening of March 7th – when you get home from wherever you went that night – go straight to bed. And set your clock ahead one hour. Then, you can awaken on Sunday morning and be able to arrive at Leidy’s Church in a timely fashion! It’s time to Spring Forward!
1 Dottie Lahl, Doug Lindner, Rodney Shoemaker
2 Harvey Shoemaker
3 Diane Gehman, Brandon Kehs
4 Juliana Kapusta
5 Oaklie Hager
6 Gina Shoemaker, Evan Ward
10 Isaac Kehs
14 Graham Vogelzang
17 Irv Kulp, Irina Yagilnicky
22 Georgia Kowalski
24 Cassy Olszyk, Thelma Spitzkopf, Tony Wilwert
26 Ruthie Reinford
27 Barb Gehman, Charlie Kretschmer
28 Vangie Niederhaus, Clinton Radcliff
29 Emma Coale, Laurie Plank
30 Sherman Focht, Marlene Hughes
31 Meghann Permar
6 John & Fern Vasey
