Memorial Day is a sacred day where we reflect upon the deep sacrifices made by those who have served our country. This solemn day is honored during an extended weekend in May that concurrently marks the unofficial beginning of summer. Here on Long Island, we are fortunate to have our local leaders preparing our parks and beaches to welcome visitors so they may enjoy the season’s sun and fun. Among our government officials’ most significant concerns is public safety. They are now hiring workers to protect our beaches and pools. We are thankful for these dedicated lifesavers. 

The Jones Beach Lifeguard Corps proudly protects swimmers along the shores of Jones Beach State Park and Robert Moses, Sunken Meadow, Heckscher, Wildwood, Orient Point, Hither Hills, and Montauk Downs. Each year, before these 50-100 elite lifeguards man the stands along the shorelines, they undergo rigorous training. The qualifying procedure requires each applicant to complete a 100-yard pool swim in less than 75 seconds, conduct a cross-chest carry of a manikin for a 25-yard swim in less than 70 seconds, finish a ¾-mile time endurance run in six minutes or less, and complete and approximate 350–400-yard swim on prescribed open water, run-swim-run course without stopping. 

 Additionally, the Town of Oyster Bay also requires rigorous training to protect the lives of those entering our local waterways and pools. The town demands applicants are 16-years of age or older, and they must possess a current Nassau County Department of Health Lifeguard certification and an acceptable current CPR/AED certification. About one-third of the three hundred town lifeguards serve at the various community pools, including over twenty assigned to our Plainview-Old Bethpage Community Park pool.

We give thanks to those who train and ensure our safety during the summer season. Please remember to share your appreciation as you visit our beaches and swimming pools. 

However, before you go for a dip to cool off, we remind you to give thanks to our ultimate live saver, our Lord, and Savior, Jesus Christ. This Sunday, June 5, we invite you to celebrate the Holy Spirit, the saving power promised by Jesus, on the Day of Pentecost. We invite you to join us for worship for our 8:00 AM, 10:15 AM, and 6:00 PM liturgies.  

Blessings, 

Pastor Marc