Now that Jesus has entered the city, we are walking with him into the most sacred days of our shared faith. Palm branches have been laid down, cloaks spread out, and hosannas shouted—but now, the road turns. Holy Week calls us not just to remember but to recommit.

As clergy, we are entrusted with leading communities through this week's mystery and meaning: from the intimacy of the upper room to the agony of the garden, to the final breath on the cross, and finally to the quiet, trembling hope of dawn at the tomb. This is no small calling, and we do not carry it alone.

In our covenantal life together—as expressed in the Manual on Ministry—we are reminded that ordained ministry is not about individual performance but shared, Spirit-led witness. We are called to serve in Christ’s name and on behalf of the Church for the sake of the world in God’s love. Holy Week is the very heart of that calling.

These days, we live out the fullness of what it means to be a representative minister: priestly and prophetic, public and pastoral. We preach, we preside, we pray—and we often carry burdens no one sees. Let this be the week that we not only guide others through the story but also allow ourselves to be held by it. Remember: Christ did not walk alone. Neither do we.

So, take a breath. Find silence where you can. Lean on the covenants that sustain you—with your Association, congregation, colleagues, and God. As you pour yourselves out in foot washing, cross-bearing, and table-setting, know this: resurrection is real. And it comes for you, too—blessings and strength for the days ahead.

In covenant and hope,

Dr.Derrick