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Pentecost is often called the birthday of the Church, and that’s true enough. But birthdays are about beginnings, not endings—and Pentecost was never meant to stay trapped in the first century like a candle on an old cake. Pentecost is not a memory. It’s the season we live in now. The Season of the Spirit. The long stretch of ordinary days made extraordinary because God refuses to leave us to our own devices.  So what does it mean to live in the Season of the Spirit? In the Gospel of John, Jesus gives his friends a promise that is both tender and disruptive: “I will send the Holy Spirit to you.” Not a ghostly idea, not a theological footnote, but a presence. A Comforter. An Advocate. Someone who has your back when the world leans hard against you. Jesus tells them the Spirit will open their eyes and ears, not by giving them a whole new set of teachings, but by deepening the ones they already have. The Spirit doesn’t replace Jesus—he reveals him. Jesus is essentially saying: You’re not ready yet, but you will be. You don’t understand yet, but you will. And you won’t get there alone. The Spirit will walk with you. The Spirit will open your mind. The Spirit will make the words of Jesus come alive—not as information, but as transformation. And then John adds the part we often skip over: this way of life won’t be easy. Following Jesus into a world that resists justice, mercy, and truth never is. You will meet resistance when you stand against injustice. You will feel pressure when you speak up for the vulnerable. You will be stretched, pressed, and sometimes misunderstood. But you will not be alone. Pentecost is the reminder—and the ongoing reality—that God’s presence is not behind us in a story, but beside us in the struggle. The Spirit is not a one-day miracle. The Spirit is the daily breath of a God who refuses to give up on us. So yes, the Spirit is in the churches, right? We all know that. But is the Holy Spirit limited to churches? Let me address that in a larger context. Is the Holy Spirit limited to four walls? God is in the church, not the four walls. That is important, and where we have Sunday services, we do funerals, weddings and special events, and so much more, so I do not want to downplay the message of the buildings and grounds of our churches. You all know my message here. The Spirit is in the world. The Spirit is waiting for us in the halls of justice. The Spirit is waiting for us in the public places, food distribution, hospitals and prisons. And wherever God’s children are hurting, and we want to bring healing love to all God’s people. The world is in tatters. All you have to do is read the papers, listen to the news in the mornings, and realize God has work for us to do. But do not tell me it’s not exciting. However the challenge, God’s work is never dull. The Spirit shares this message from John. Jesus said: You have heard my words, you have observed my teaching, and now I am sending a Comforter and mentor to prepare you for this anointing that has been called Pentecost. Open your heart. Open your mind. Open your ears. There’s something happening here, right here where you live and work and minister. Listen to the voice. Listen for directions. As Buffalo Springfield observed the need to stand up for justice: “Something’s happening here. What it is ain’t exactly clear… Stop, children, what’s that sound? Everybody look what’s goin’ ’round.” And in the evening, we can take out Psalm 127 and send a prayer, with this Psalmist’s promise at the end of our day: Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain to build it. Unless the Lord keeps the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is in vain that you rise up early and go late to rest, eating the bread of sorrow; for He gives His beloved sleep. And here is where it all comes together: If Pentecost is now— if the Spirit is loose in the world— if God is already ahead of us in the places where justice is needed and mercy is scarce— then our work is simply to follow the Spirit into the world by day and entrust the world back to God by night. So may our prayer contain words like: Spirit, lead me. And now let me sleep, for the work is in your hands. For so You give Your beloved sleep.

A global moment of reflection, prayer, and peace St. Barnabas Episcopal Church observed World Labyrinth Day by opening the outdoor labyrinth for visitors throughout the day, including the shared “Walk as One” moment at 1:00 PM. Located just south of the church, the labyrinth offers a quiet place to walk, pause, reflect, and pray. Some visitors came for a few minutes, while others spent more time in the center, allowing the stillness of the desert setting to guide their experience. “You do not have to know the right words or follow a certain tradition,” Fr. David Madsen said. “The labyrinth welcomes anyone seeking peace, clarity, or a moment to breathe.” Unlike a maze, the labyrinth has one path to the center and one path back out. Its 11-circuit design is modeled after the labyrinth at Chartres Cathedral in France. “The labyrinth offers a quiet way to pause, pray, and listen for the presence of God in the stillness,” Madsen said.  World Labyrinth Day is observed around the world each year as people walk with a shared intention for peace. At St. Barnabas, the day offered a simple and meaningful opportunity to slow down, release burdens, and return to daily life with a centered spirit.

The Timeless Path The labyrinth is ancient, but it never grows old. Its winding path, carried across centuries, awaits each new set of footsteps to bring it to life again. This journey connects the present to the past, inviting walkers to participate in a tradition that has endured through countless generations. Labyrinths Through History Labyrinths have appeared on cave walls and cathedral floors, in stories and in stones. They survive in the quiet memory of pilgrims who walked when they could not travel, trusting that God can be found not only in faraway places but in the turning of an ordinary path. Each labyrinth, whether carved in rock or laid in tile, represents a spiritual journey shared by many throughout history. The Nature of the Labyrinth A labyrinth is not a puzzle to be solved. There are no tricks or dead ends—just a way inward and a way out. Its design reflects the spiritual journey: circling, returning, opening, and never quite the same twice. Walking the labyrinth mirrors the unfolding of inner life, gently guiding the walker toward deeper understanding. Reasons for Walking People walk labyrinths for many reasons: to grieve, to listen, to breathe, to lay something down, or to pick something up again. Some carry a question, others a burden, and some walk with empty hands, discovering that emptiness itself can be enough. The motivations are as varied as the individuals who walk, each finding their own meaning in the journey. The Experience of Walking Step by step, the body slows, the mind softens, and the heart begins to speak. The center holds the walker for a moment before the path leads them home. The act of walking the labyrinth creates space for reflection and renewal, allowing the journey to shape both the traveler and the destination. A Personal Encounter Though the labyrinth is old, each encounter is new. The path remains ancient, yet every prayer and intention brought to it is unique to the individual. The labyrinth offers a timeless space for spiritual practice, welcoming all who seek its quiet wisdom.

Community Art Workshop Near Borrego Springs A new Creative Workshop in Salton City is bringing families together each week, just a short drive from Borrego Springs. The first gathering welcomed nearly a dozen children, offering a simple but meaningful space for creativity, connection, and community. Hosted in partnership with Rostros y Corazon Vamos Juntos and supported by St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Borrego Springs, the workshop is part of a growing effort to expand outreach and provide opportunities for families across the region. A Weekly Space for Creativity The workshop takes place every Friday from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at 2198 Cleveland Ave in Salton City. Open to all ages, the program is designed to be welcoming, accessible, and family-friendly. Participants can take part in hands-on creative activities while spending time together in a supportive environment. The goal is simple—create a space where kids and families can gather, express themselves, and build community. Growing Community Participation The strong turnout during the first session reflects interest from local families and highlights the need for consistent, community-based activities in the area. Organizers hope to continue building participation in the coming weeks. How to Support Community members can support the workshop by spreading the word or donating new art supplies. Donations help ensure the program can continue to grow and reach more families. To donate supplies or get involved, contact: info@stbarnabasborregosprings.org Financial donations can be made here: https://www.gotoborregosprings.com/rostros-y-corazon-vamos-juntos The Creative Workshop continues every Friday evening in Salton City, offering a new opportunity for families in and around Borrego Springs to come together through art.

Today, the President of the United States posted on social media a threat to kill an entire civilization. I hope and pray that this threat does not materialize. Such a threat of wanton destruction of a civilization violates every Christian principle, including the long tradition of “just war” theory in Christian theology. We follow a Lord who commanded us to love others as he has loved us. Threats to civilians and civilian infrastructure are serious failures of obedience to the Lord of love. In such a time, it is tempting to feel powerless. Most of us do not believe we can influence the president’s state of mind or intentions directly. There are, however, steps we can take in these moments. One action you may choose to take is to contact your elected representatives and urge them to pursue peace and restraint, using a website such as https://democracy.io , which lets you look up and message your representatives directly. And I believe that prayer is effective. I therefore ask you to join me in prayer for peace, that the violence in Iran does not escalate to a level that poses a serious threat to civilians or a civilization. Below are several petitions from the Great Litany, which we often pray on the first Sunday in Lent, followed by one of my favorite prayers from the Book of Common Prayer. Though it is Easter season, it is always a good time to pray these prayers. Let us pray. That it may please thee so to rule the hearts of thy servants, the President of the United States, and all others in authority, that they may do justice, and love mercy, and walk in the ways of truth, We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. That it may please thee to make wars to cease in all the world; to give to all nations unity, peace, and concord; and to bestow freedom upon all peoples; We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. That it may please thee to support, help, and comfort all who are in danger, necessity, and tribulation, We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. That it may please thee to have mercy upon all mankind, We beseech thee to hear us, good Lord. O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.  In Christ, The Rt. Rev. Susan Brown Snook

The annual Easter Sunrise Service in Borrego Springs took place on Easter morning behind the United Methodist Church on Church Lane. Hosted by the Borrego Ministers Association, the outdoor service brought together local congregations, residents, and visitors for a shared Easter celebration at sunrise. Members of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church participated in the service as part of the Borrego Ministers Association. Annual Easter Sunrise Service in Borrego Springs The Easter Sunrise Service is a long-standing Borrego Springs tradition held each Easter morning behind the United Methodist Church and hosted by the Borrego Ministers Association. St. Barnabas Took Part in the Service Members of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church participated in the service alongside others from the Borrego Ministers Association and the community. A Community Gathering at Sunrise Residents and visitors gathered early, bringing chairs and dressing for the cool desert morning. The annual service continues to reflect community participation and cooperation among local churches in Borrego Springs. Easter Message from St. Barnabas  “Christ is risen. Indeed he is risen. Happy Easter from the priests and people of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church. May you experience the new life and joy of the Risen Lord.” Fathers David Madsen and Michael Plekon

A low-cost spay and neuter clinic will take place on Monday, May 4, 2026, at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church.  Animal Action League will provide low-cost spay and neuter services for cats and dogs. Available services also include vaccinations and microchipping. These services help reduce unwanted litters while supporting the long-term health, safety, and identification of pets in the Borrego Springs area. To make an appointment, call the Animal Action League office at (760) 366-1100 for English or (760) 366-1105 for Spanish. Location: St. Barnabas Episcopal Church.

A community Fasola (shape-note) sing was held March 29 at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Borrego Springs. Singers gathered in the church, where the acoustics supported unaccompanied group singing. Shape-note singing, also known as Sacred Harp, is a participatory a cappella tradition. Singers sit or stand in a hollow square by vocal part, and songs are led one at a time by participants from the group. Music is sung first on the syllables fa, sol, la, mi, then with lyrics. The March 29 sing followed standard practice. Attendees brought tunebooks and called songs by page number. Leaders stood in the center to set tempo and conduct. No instruments were used. The group included both experienced singers and newcomers. The format allowed anyone present to join, regardless of musical background. Reach out if you are interested in attending the next event!

Most Christians, except for the Eastern Orthodox, will celebrate Easter on April 5 this year. For an increasing number, Easter has to do with chocolate or real rabbits, an Easter egg hunt, maybe even dyeing of eggs—but why? Easter is the feast of the Christian year, bigger than Christmas, because without the raising of Jesus from death what would be the point of Christmas? As I say that, I remember that Christmas is about gifts, trees. Lights, family and feasting. Oh yes and the baby Jesus. Again today, many would ask in all honesty, what’s so important about a baby’s birth over 2000 years ago. Easter is an old English name for the spring goddess. It is the result of those who brought Christianity to what is now England wanting to use the language and culture of that place. UK. In many languages, the word for Easter is one or another variation of Pascha , which in turn is the Greek for Pesach or Passover, the great Jewish festival of the passing over from slavery and death under the Egyptians to freedom and new life. God did all this, so the first Christians continued the name for Jesus’ passing over from death to life. But then as now, the Easter experience starts with Jesus and extends to all of us. The icon or image of the Resurrection, called the “harrowing of hell” in earlier times, shows Jesus leading Adam and Eve and all their children—you and me—out of the realm of death to new life forever with God. This we confess each Sunday, in the Creed, in the eucharistic prayer and in taking the bread and cup of the Eucharist—the bread of life and cup of salvation. Perhaps more than any other feature of Jesus’ good news it was this promise and gift of life always with God, new life, that attracted so many in the ancient world. What about now, today? Other religious traditions such as Judaism and Islam also revere one God and believe that God wants us to be with him, and with each other, past death. It is a deep, basic yearning in the human heart. Death is certain, like taxes, right? And aging, and illness. Yet we don’t throw the gift of life, of love and family and friends, of learning and celebrating away just because there is an end for each of us. Too bad if you doomscroll your days and nights away. Is it not better to at least wager a belief that God will stick to his promise. The new archbishop of Canterbury, Sarah Mullaly, said this in her sermon as she was installed on the feast of the Annunciation, March 25. God always has something new to offer us, God is full of surprises. Just as the teenage girl Mary of Nazareth, despite fear and panic at God’s messenger Gabriel and the news that she would have a son who would save the world—that’s some news!—Mary held on to the faith, the trust that God would make good on his promises. Mary was there and asked her son to help out the host family when the wine ran out at a wedding in Cana. She followed him around Palestine as he healed and taught and gathered his friends to have a meal every night—where our Eucharist comes from. She was strong enough, though breaking apart inside, to see him suffer and die on the cross. But also be one of the women who came to the tomb only to find it empty. Tradition says Jesus first appeared to her when he was raised. He was in the end a good son!  Against what their eyes and ears told them, Jesus’ mother and friends saw that he kept his promise to be with them, to always live with them. This is the heart of Easter. Not a magic trick of a dead body being revived. Rather Easter is the hope that God has that we all live forever with him and with each other. No matter how bad the news around us, no matter how disappointing our political leaders may be. No matter the sad things we all have to face—sickness and loss—in family and friends, God said he would always be with us, as one of us. Christ is risen!