May 1st, 2026 | Rev. Rachel Williams

Dear Friends,

               It’s that time of year again-when people across our wonderful city pull out their crustacean-themed housewares, décor, and clothing to celebrate the start of the shrimping season with Shrimp Fest. If you had told me five years ago that I would have shrimp earrings dangling from my ears, I would be very surprised, but now I have TWO pairs to interchange. Whether you love the festive spirit of the parade and the festival or make plans every year to be conveniently out of town, there is no denying that Shrimp Fest makes its mark on this city, on downtown, and on Memorial each year.

               I hope that if you are in town you will join us in supporting our youth program either by volunteering with our booth to make quesadillas or selling parking spaces behind the Partin Center. Perhaps you’ll buy a quesadilla or two (or a dozen like my husband!). We’re cooking with locally-caught shrimp, and they’re sure to be as delicious as ever. You can purchase quesadillas while supplies last Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

If you head to Maxwell Hall after our single 10 am service in the sanctuary Sunday you can buy quesadillas with 100% of the profits going directly to the youth. This fundraiser helps our youth cover the costs of programming throughout the year, and it allows many to make mission trips, Warren W. Willis Camp, special events and retreats significantly cheaper. All of these are ways our students are able to grow stronger in their faith and deeper in their understanding of God’s love. It’s "shrimply the best time" of year. I hope to see you this weekend!

With Grace and Peace,

Pastor Rachel