It was a sad farewell on Sunday, April 23 at the Lighthouse United Methodist Church of Boca Grande, as Rev. Martyn Atkins took his leave of us and heads back over the pond to England.
Rev. Martyn started at the church as the interim pastor on July 1 of last year. He and his wife, Helen, were sent here after he put in his resignation with the British Methodist Church system. His prestigious career includes appointment to Cliff College for postgraduate studies, being pastor in Methodist churches in the north of England for almost 10 years, as well as earning a Ph.D. from the University of Manchester.

On Saturday between 9 and 10:30 a.m. you’ll find that spring is not only in the air, it’s in the water too. Join Tonya and Steve Bramlage on a guided tour of the East side ponds to observe upland and aquatic plants to see how they thrive in a compact, dense environment. Wednesday, April 12 from 8 to 11 a.m. Ken Blackshaw will lead a social birding tour meeting at the kiosk area. Ken has been birding for nearly 70 years all over the world. He has written and edited numerous books, and was fortunate to have Edith Andrews as his mentor. Birders of all levels are encouraged. On Thursday, April 13 from 9 to 10 a.m. Maura Qualls and Ann Weaver will lead a monthly walking tour through the Lemon Creek Wildflower Preserve Butterfly Habitat meeting at the Members entrance area. Join them as they examine the many plants, flowers, and pollinators that are present in the garden.